Mi-Kan Design Hotel 藏前駅

Lovely apartment-style hotel. I loved the design aesthetic (think modern urban minimalist)--some might not appreciate it, but I prefer concrete-style walls and simplicity. Beds were comfortable, we (2 adults + 10 year old+ 13 yo) slept great. The Japanese style soaking tub was amazing to relax in after a long flight. Shower /bathroom was great. All toiletries included, along with spare toothbrush / comb / etc if needed. Small fridge was helpful. The room we stayed in had a 'living room' area with low lying futon-style couch; then 4 mattresses essentially on the ground --this we were used to as 'Japanese style' rooms, but if you have bad knees or issues with low-lying mattresses, this may annoy you. Also, the sleeping area is all together--so not ideal if you're traveling with anyone wanting a separate / private sleeping area. There is a 7-11 (Japanese 7-11s are amazing) two doors down, subway is 5 minute walk, several cafes that are walkable. There is a running / walking path 1 block away (along the river). Note--we landed around 4:30am, we were here by 5:30am--we paid for the night BEFORE our arrival so room would be ready/waiting for us. There is NO front desk / luggage storage are at the hotel--you can store it at a subway stop if you are arriving before check-in (there are luggage storage area all over Tokyo, including most subway stops). Key pick up is from the mailbox at front door (they email you the code before you arrive, put in code by lining it up with the 12 o'clock position...you'll see what I mean). So this is more of an apartment rental than a hotel...as there is no lobby / staff on site / etc.

Beautiful, comfortable and spacious. Great location, close to everything but still a quiet getaway.

Nothing

Cleanliness, good communication, easy to find, close to transportation, ample amenities.

A little cramped (a bit different from photos), no option for luggage storage.

Overall, the property was as advertised — clean, and rooms were huge for Japanese hotel standards. Location in Kuramae was also excellent as it was right by the best shops and a short 15-20 minute walk from Akasaka. Much quieter, which I loved.

You can often hear neighbors and the hotel is totally contact-free. Usually this would be great but this also meant there was no luggage storage or forwarding after your stay easily, which is very common in Japan and I’d come to expect.