KOKO HOTEL Shimbashi Onarimon

so happy with Koko Shinbashi.

Without a doubt we will be returning to this amazing hotel on our next Japan trip - they exceeded every expectation and we felt so comfortable there we feel no need to shop around next time, when you find a rare gem you stick with it! Every single staff member we encountered over our two reservations (split in the middle when we left to Kansai for a few days) were delightful. Beyond respectful, helpful, and genuinely warm and welcoming. They went above and beyond to assist in any way possible, make our stays comfortable, and you genuinely felt like they were happy to be there, not just clocking in. While not all staff spoke English (nor should it be expected, it’s Japan!) we were pleasantly surprised that many did quite well. Those that weren’t as equipped with the language went above and beyond to communicate in a way that was comfortable and warm, and were incredibly patient and understanding. We felt very welcome as foreigners, not like a burden or a barrier, and staff were very genuine with their appreciation when we made an effort to communicate in Japanese. The hotel is spotlessly clean, far beyond what you’d reasonably expect from the price point. I’ve never stayed in a hotel so clean - no discoloration around the corners of baseboards or ceilings, no dust or dirt in dark places. Absolutely immaculately clean. And comfortable! Very comfortable! Yes, rooms are smaller than in the west, but quite frankly western hotel sizes are ridiculous and wasteful. There was plenty of room for us as a couple in a double room, including two backpacks, carryon rollers, a large checked size suitcase, and some bags of merchandise piling up over the trip. We never felt cramped or tight, and all the necessary amenities were absolutely there. The soundproofing is outstanding - we were shocked that despite construction outside our window, we never once heard a sound. It’s a peaceful retreat from the bustling Tokyo cityscape. The hotel provides comfortable pajamas, slippers, and just about any toiletries you may need - there’s even a hair iron/curler available from the front desk, which really helps keep your packing light/saves buying one with outlet differences. In the morning they provide light breakfast of rotating pastries which was appreciated and a good way to start the day with a snack, and the lobby lounge space is very inviting and comfortable. Drinks available around the clock, local snacks throughout the afternoon, and even books to check out! Things like the stamp rally show that the hotel cares to go beyond “just a hotel” and brings a fun, friendly atmosphere to your visit. Staff were extremely accommodating in accepting mail - not just luggage - on our behalf, free of charge, which was a huge deal for us as we had some packages to receive. They made everything so easy and never made us feel like a burden! The location may not be for everyone, but personally we loved it. It’s not “remote” or “out there” by any means, but isn’t in the center of crazy tourist hotspots either. There’s numerous convenient stations within walking distance (5-10 minutes tops depending on which) so you can get just about anywhere fairly fast. Just up the way by Shimbashi station it feels more bustling in the evenings, locals and tourists alike, but the blocks around the hotel were so peaceful and at times silent at night, which is a really amazing thing if you’ve spent the day in loud tourists hubs. Can’t think of a single complaint, we truly loved it here and you won’t regret it!

Large rooms and quick access to trains

An ordinary hotel with a nice amenity of free coffee and soda in lobby. Yet ruined by robotic, cold staff that are so frigid with guests that it ruins the experience. They badly need to show more warmth and humanity. Smile! Ask guests about their trips a bit! They’re borderline rude— especially the older male staff.