In my scouting of budget-friendly Tokyo hotels, this straightforward choice near Ueno Station hits the sweet spot for convenience.
The location truly shines – you’re just a 3-minute shuffle from major transit connections and within easy striking distance of Ueno’s leafy park and the bustling Ameyoko market street.
While the rooms lean toward the basic side and could use some updating, they deliver the essentials with both Western and Japanese-style options available.
The downside? The hotel’s public baths are temporarily closed for renovation, which might disappoint travelers hoping for this traditional Japanese experience.
Plus, the on-site restaurant’s menu, though offering both Japanese and Western dishes, isn’t particularly memorable.
This place works especially well for practical travelers who prioritize location over luxury and want to maximize their Tokyo exploration time.
It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors who’ll appreciate the easy access to Ueno’s cultural sites and the straight shot to Akihabara’s electronics wonderland.
Budget-conscious solo travelers and couples will find the best value here, though families might want something with more space.
Good To Know
- Hotel Marutani is conveniently located with a 3-minute walk from Ueno Station and close proximity to major attractions like Ueno Park and Ameyoko market.
- The hotel offers a variety of room types, including Western-style and Japanese-style accommodations, catering to diverse guest preferences.
- On-site facilities include an in-house restaurant, 24-hour front desk, laundry services, and public baths, which are currently undergoing renovations.
- Guest reviews highlight the hotel’s excellent location and friendly staff, with an overall rating of 7.3 out of 10.
- The hotel’s policies allow for children of any age, but pets are not permitted, and only cash payments are accepted.
Location and Accessibility
Hotel Marutani is conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from Ueno Station, making it easily accessible for travelers.
From the hotel, guests can reach Ueno Park and the Ameyoko market within a 5-minute walk. The hotel is also situated a 20-minute walk from the bustling Akihabara district and a 15-minute train ride from the historic Asakusa area.
With its prime location, Hotel Marutani provides guests with a strategic base to explore the diverse attractions of Tokyo. The hotel’s strong 8.3 rating for location reflects its appeal to travelers seeking a well-connected accommodation in the heart of the city.
Room Types and Amenities
Hotel Marutani offers a variety of room options, including Western-style and Japanese-style accommodations.
Guests can choose from single, twin, triple, and Japanese-style rooms.
All rooms come equipped with essential amenities like a flat-screen TV, refrigerator, air purifier, and bathroom essentials.
Free internet access is available throughout the property.
Beyond the rooms, the hotel provides a range of services and facilities, such as a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, laundry services, and public baths.
Whether travelers prefer a Western or Japanese-style stay, Hotel Marutani caters to diverse preferences with its varied room options and convenient amenities.
Dining and Restaurant
Dining at Hotel Marutani is a convenient experience for guests. The hotel features an on-site restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The menu offers a mix of Japanese and Western dishes, catering to diverse tastes. Guests can enjoy their meals in the restaurant’s cozy and relaxed atmosphere.
The restaurant is open from 7 AM to 10 PM, making it easy for guests to fit dining into their schedules. While the restaurant isn’t open 24/7, its operating hours provide ample opportunities for guests to enjoy a meal without inconvenience.
Facilities and Services
The hotel offers a variety of facilities and services to meet guests’ needs. Non-smoking rooms and free WiFi are among the most popular amenities.
The 24-hour front desk is available for assistance, and laundry services are provided. Guests can enjoy the public baths on-site.
Additional services include luggage storage, vending machines, ironing, and dry cleaning for an extra charge.
The hotel is currently undergoing renovations to the public bath area, which will be completed by early July.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
Hotel guests have rated Hotel Marutani quite favorably, with an overall rating of 7.3 out of 10 based on 280 reviews.
The hotel’s strongest points include:
Excellent location, rated 8.3, with the hotel situated just a 3-minute walk from Ueno Station and close to popular attractions like Ueno Park and Ameyoko market.
Friendly and helpful staff, rated 8.8, providing a positive experience for guests.
Clean and comfortable rooms, rated 7.6 for cleanliness and 7.7 for comfort, meeting guests’ expectations.
However, the hotel’s free WiFi service received a lower rating of 4.6, which may be an area for improvement.
Policies and Check-in/Out
At Hotel Marutani, guests can check in from 2:00 PM and must check out by 12:00 PM.
Children of any age are welcome, though those 11 and older are charged as adults. Sadly, the hotel doesn’t offer cots or extra beds.
Guests must be at least 18 years old to check in. Pets aren’t allowed on the premises.
The hotel accepts cash payments only.
Guests should note that the public bath will be undergoing renovations from June 8, 2020, until early July, so its availability may be limited during this time.
Nearby Attractions
Located just a short 3-minute walk from Ueno Station, Hotel Marutani offers guests convenient access to several top attractions in the area.
Ueno Park, one of Tokyo’s most popular green spaces, is just a 5-minute walk away, offering visitors lush gardens, museums, and the chance to spot cherry blossoms in the spring.
The Ameyoko market, a bustling outdoor shopping district, is also a short 5-minute walk from the hotel, where guests can find a variety of goods, from fresh seafood to clothing.
Plus, the electric town of Akihabara is a 20-minute walk, perfect for those interested in the city’s thriving tech and anime culture.
Renovation and Updates
The hotel is currently undergoing renovations to its public bath facilities. The work began on June 8, 2020, and is expected to be completed by early July. During this time, guests will not have access to the public bath area. However, the hotel is committed to minimizing disruption and ensuring that all other services and amenities remain available.
| Renovation Details | ||
|---|---|---|
| Start Date | June 8, 2020 | |
| End Date | Early July | |
| Impacted Facility | Public Bath | |
| Availability | Unavailable | |
| Alternative | None provided |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Fitness Center or Gym On-Site?
The hotel does not have an on-site fitness center or gym. The amenities described in the overview do not include any fitness facilities for guests.
Does the Hotel Have Meeting or Event Spaces Available?
The hotel does not mention any meeting or event spaces in its overview. It seems to focus more on guest rooms and standard hotel amenities like a restaurant, public baths, and laundry services.
Are There Any Specific Dietary Options or Restrictions at the Restaurant?
The hotel’s restaurant offers limited dietary options. It serves Japanese cuisine but does not cater to specific dietary restrictions or requirements. Guests with special dietary needs should inquire about the available menu items upon check-in.
What Is the Hotel’s Cancellation and Refund Policy?
The hotel’s cancellation and refund policy allows for full refunds if canceled at least 7 days prior to check-in. Cancellations within 7 days may incur a penalty fee, while no-shows forfeit the entire booking.
Can the Hotel Arrange Transportation Services Like Taxis or Airport Shuttles?
The hotel can assist guests with arranging transportation services such as taxis or airport shuttles. However, these additional services may incur an extra charge and should be coordinated directly with the hotel staff.
The Sum Up
Hotel Marutani’s convenient location, versatile accommodations, and range of amenities make it a popular choice for travelers exploring Tokyo’s Ueno district. With easy access to major attractions and transport links, the hotel caters to diverse guest needs while maintaining clean facilities and friendly service, as evidenced by its positive reviews. Whether seeking a Western-style or traditional Japanese-style stay, Hotel Marutani offers a comfortable and well-situated option for a pleasant lodging experience.