Four Points Flex by Sheraton Morioka

The hotel offers a straightforward and clean stay, particularly appealing to solo travelers and business guests seeking a functional base near the station. Its signature feature is its convenient location just a short walk from the main transport hub, providing easy access for those on the go. Guests frequently highlight the hotel's overall cleanliness and the helpfulness of its staff, contributing to a generally positive experience. While some find the rooms compact and amenities basic, many appreciate the reasonable value for a quick overnight stay or a simple stopover. For a smoother experience, it is advisable to complete any dining or shopping before arriving at the hotel, as immediate surroundings have limited options. Additionally, guests sensitive to noise should be aware of potential sound transfer between rooms, and it's recommended to clarify amenity availability upon check-in, as some items may not be standard in the room. This hotel is ideal for those prioritizing practicality and proximity over extensive luxury.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of basic amenities designed for a no-frills stay. Guests note the presence of an electric kettle in rooms, though some express disappointment that proper glasses are not provided, requiring the use of flimsy paper cups from the ice machine. While Wi-Fi is generally available throughout the property, some guests experienced weak or non-existent signals within their rooms, necessitating use in the corridor. Most rooms are equipped with USB outlets, which is a modern convenience. However, the TVs are often described as small, akin to computer monitors, and the desks are also noted to be quite compact. Some guests found the provided duvet to be thin, leading to concerns about warmth. There is no convenience store directly within the hotel, which some guests found inconvenient. Overall, the facilities are functional but minimal, reflecting the hotel's focus on cost-effectiveness.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally praise the hotel's cleanliness, noting that rooms are well-kept and tidy upon arrival. The room size is frequently described as compact or small, typical for a business hotel, though some found it appropriately sized for their needs. Many appreciate the provision of fluffy pillows and the overall good condition of the bathroom facilities, including the toilet. However, some guests reported issues with noise levels, specifically hearing shower and toilet flushing sounds from adjacent rooms, as well as footsteps from upper floors, which could disturb sleep. A few reviews mentioned a strong room smell or bed smell, which was unpleasant. The duvet is often described as thin, impacting comfort for some. Additionally, specific concerns included a toilet lid that doesn't stay open and a bidet with strange operation. Despite these points, the overall impression of cleanliness remains positive.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options primarily revolve around breakfast, which is served at the Nagahama Coffee shop located within the hotel on the second floor. Most guests who opted for the breakfast package found the coffee to be of good quality and appreciated the option to take one drink to go. While some described the breakfast as satisfying and a good start to the day, others felt it was a bit lacking in variety or offered poor value for the cost, especially when compared to a buffet. It typically consists of a fixed morning set rather than an all-you-can-eat buffet. Despite mixed opinions on the overall value, the convenience of having a cafe on-site for breakfast is generally appreciated, and the availability of a drink refill or take-out option adds a nice touch to the experience.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a highly convenient location, situated just a 3 to 5-minute walk from Morioka Station, specifically on the West Exit side. This area is noted for being a quiet area, away from the main entertainment district, which some guests appreciate for a peaceful stay. However, this also means there are notably few restaurants or convenience stores in the immediate vicinity, leading many guests to advise completing dining and shopping before returning to the hotel. For those arriving by car, there is no affiliated hotel parking; instead, a coin parking lot is available right next door. While this parking is generally cheaper than the station's, its entrance can be challenging to locate. The hotel is also conveniently close to a highway interchange, making it accessible for drivers.

Staff & Service
The hotel generally receives positive feedback for its friendly staff and helpful service. Many guests highlight the politeness and attentiveness of the front desk team, with specific instances of staff assisting with local information, such as bus schedules. The check-in process is often described as smooth, especially for those utilizing the hotel's app. Guests also appreciate the staff's accommodating nature, including their willingness to handle last-minute reservation changes. However, some reviews mention isolated incidents of less satisfactory service, such as trainee staff being difficult to understand or appearing slow during check-in. A few guests also reported instances where staff were perceived as unhelpful or even argumentative when asked for local directions, contrasting with the otherwise positive experiences.

Additional Information
This hotel is a rebranded property, having previously operated under a different name, and it maintains a distinct no-frills experience focused on providing a basic, functional stay. Guests should be aware that the hotel is designed for practicality, often described as suitable primarily for sleeping, with some comparing its simplicity to a high school dorm. A notable minimal amenities policy means items like tea bags, shavers, and even toothbrushes are not standard in rooms; toothbrushes, for instance, are available upon request at the front desk, aligning with an environmental policy. On a positive note, the hotel has recently introduced double beds, making it more suitable for two guests. Additionally, the staff has been commended for providing a wheelchair loan to guests in need, showcasing a helpful approach to specific guest requirements.