As we all know, everything in Japan is expensive and hotels are definitely not an exception. Since it was still winter when I went to Japan, I ensured that my accommodation will be able to keep me warm. I also went for value since I was alone. Good thing I found Dotonbori Hotel which was I was able to book at JPY7,400 (Php3,700) per night for a single room- already cheap for Japan hotel standards.
Since it's really cheap, don't expect much [e.g., the room is small (at least the one I got) and so is the bathroom, the bed and linens are not as comfortable as a 5-star's]. However, it has all the basic stuff you want: a bed to sleep on, an ensuite bathroom, towels & toiletries, a good location, and an English-speaking receptionist. Just a tip, it has smoking and non-smoking floors so make sure you specify your preference.
Here's a better idea of what to expect after entering this hotel's facade:
Amenities
Free Use of Computers with Internet Access
Lobby Cafe
Vender Room: Vending machines for drinks (tea, juice, mineral water), liquor (beer, low-malt beer, shochu and soda water, whisky), and snacks are available at market prices on the 5th and 7th floors. Ice machines and microwave ovens are also provided for use free of charge.
There is also a coin laundry on the first floor. Inform the front desk if you'll use as the detergent is free.
Room - Basic but clean! Mineral water (one 500 ml plastic bottle) is provided free of charge in the refrigerator of each room.
Origami surprise that awaits you upon arrival
Bathroom/Toilet - It's actually a portable CR fitted inside your room. Small but high-tech! Goods Provided: Toothbrush set (with medicated toothpaste), razor (with shaving cream), hair brush, rinse, shampoo, body soap, body sponge, cotton pads, cotton buds, green tea, Japanese plum and kelp tea, and slippers (may take for home use). The hotel also provides a ladies’ set (cleansing sheet, washing foam, lotion, milky lotion, hair clip) for those ladies who request it.
Now you know why it's high-tech!
Hallway - Showed just to let you know what to expect. There are 2 trouser presses per floor (next to the elevator).
Breakfast - Are you wondering if a breakfast buffet is include in the cost? It's not. Breakfast is from 7:00 am to 10:00 am, with a wide variety of Japanese and Western dishes served buffet style. Included are home baked bread, dim sum dishes such as steamed dumplings, traditional menu of rice, miso soup, grilled fish, cooked dishes, salad, fruit, and various drinks. The breakfast hall is located on the basement floor, one floor below the frontdesk. Breakfast fee is regularly 1000 yen (tax and service charges included) per person. Breakfast tickets may be purchased the previous day in advance, for 900 yen. Can't say anything about it since I wasn't able to try it myself.
Recommendation:
If you're looking for a basic hotel at a very good location, Dotonbori is a good choice! The hotel is very near train stations and the Dotonbori area is a popular shopping, entertainment, and food destination.
Some details were taken from: http://www.dotonbori-h.co.jp/index.html
