Folks, let’s talk about this little gem in Tokyo. Picture yourself stepping into a slice of old Japan right in the heart of the bustling city. That’s what you get at the Annex Katsutaro Ryokan. We found it’s a stone’s throw from Sendagi Subway Station, making it a breeze to zip around town.
Now, don’t expect luxury here. You’ll be sleeping on futons laid out on tatami mats – authentic, yes, but maybe not for everyone’s back. And if you’re a light sleeper, bring earplugs. The walls are thin, so you might hear your neighbors’ late-night chats.
But here’s the kicker: despite these quirks, we think it’s a great deal. The staff are as friendly as can be, and you’re just a hop, skip, and a jump from Ueno Park and its famous zoo. Plus, there’s an American restaurant right in the building if you need a break from sushi.
So, who’s this place perfect for? Budget-conscious travelers who want to enjoy Japanese culture without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for those who prioritize location and experience over fancy amenities. If you’re up for an adventure and want to feel like a local, this could be your Tokyo home base.
Good To Know
- The Annex Katsutaro Ryokan is a traditional Japanese-style accommodation located within a 2-minute walk from Sendagi Subway Station.
- The ryokan offers air-conditioned rooms with tatami floors, futon bedding, and attached bathrooms, as well as free Wi-Fi.
- Guests can easily access popular attractions like Tenno-ji Temple, Ueno Zoo, and Ueno Park, all within a 10-minute walk.
- The ryokan has an on-site American cuisine restaurant and vending machines, catering to guest convenience.
- While the ryokan is highly rated for its location, staff, and value, some guests have noted issues with soundproofing and cleanliness.
Location and Accessibility
The Annex Katsutaro Ryokan enjoys an excellent location, earning a rating of 9.4/10 from 763 reviews.
It’s conveniently located just a 2-minute walk from Sendagi Subway Station, providing easy access to the city’s attractions.
The ryokan is also near the Tenno-ji Temple, just a 3-minute walk away, and the Ueno Zoo and Ueno Park, which are a 10-minute walk.
Guests can reach the JR Nippori Station, which offers direct access to Akihabara and Tokyo Station, in an 8-minute walk.
With its prime position in the charming Yanaka neighborhood, the Annex Katsutaro Ryokan offers guests a truly immersive Japanese experience.
Room Amenities and Facilities
Guests can expect a traditional Japanese-style accommodation at the Annex Katsutaro Ryokan. The rooms feature tatami flooring and futon bedding, creating an authentic atmosphere.
Air conditioning, a TV, and a refrigerator are standard amenities, and each room has an attached bathroom with a bathtub. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
The ryokan also offers non-smoking rooms, family rooms, and facilities for disabled guests. Additional conveniences include laundry facilities, luggage storage, heating, and elevator access.
While the rooms are generally praised for their comfort, some guests have noted issues with soundproofing and cleanliness.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
How do guests rate the Annex Katsutaro Ryokan overall?
With an impressive overall rating of 8.9/10, this traditional Japanese ryokan has earned the "fabulous" distinction from its guests.
The staff receives particularly high praise at 9.5/10, and the cleanliness and comfort of the rooms are also well-received at 9.2/10 and 9.1/10, respectively.
Guests highlight the convenient location, comfortable accommodations, and friendly staff as the highlights of their stay.
While some guests note mixed feedback on the room soundproofing and cleanliness, the ryokan generally provides excellent value for money according to its 9.1/10 rating in this category.
Dining and Onsite Offerings
On-site, the ryokan offers an American cuisine restaurant for guests to enjoy. Vending machines are also available for beverages. While the ryokan does not have its own parking facilities, it is situated close to a variety of restaurants and shops in the neighboring area.
| Onsite Offerings | Details |
|---|---|
| Restaurant | Serves American cuisine |
| Vending Machines | Offer beverages |
| Parking | Not available on-site |
| Nearby Amenities | Restaurants and shops in the neighborhood |
Policies and House Rules
The Annex Katsutaro Ryokan has a few important policies and house rules for guests to be aware of.
Check-in is from 15:00 to 22:00, and check-out is from 07:00 to 10:00.
Cancellation policies vary by accommodation type.
Smoking and pets aren’t allowed, and parties/events are prohibited.
Guests must provide advance notice for any check-in time changes.
Children of any age are welcome, but cots and extra beds are unavailable.
Neighborhood Highlights
The Annex Katsutaro Ryokan enjoys an excellent location, with its proximity to several popular attractions. A 2-minute walk leads guests to the Sendagi Subway Station, providing easy access to the rest of Tokyo. The famous Tenno-ji Temple is just a 3-minute walk away, while the Ueno Zoo and Ueno Park can be reached within a 10-minute stroll. For those seeking connections to other parts of the city, the JR Nippori Station is an 8-minute walk from the ryokan, offering direct access to Akihabara and Tokyo Station.
| Attraction | Distance |
|---|---|
| Sendagi Subway Station | 2 minutes |
| Tenno-ji Temple | 3 minutes |
| Ueno Zoo and Ueno Park | 10 minutes |
| JR Nippori Station | 8 minutes |
| Akihabara | Direct access |
| Tokyo Station | Direct access |
Accommodation Types
Annex Katsutaro Ryokan offers traditional Japanese-style accommodations, featuring tatami-mat flooring and futon bedding.
The air-conditioned rooms come equipped with a TV, fridge, and an attached bathroom with a bathtub. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
The ryokan caters to various needs, providing non-smoking rooms, family rooms, and facilities for disabled guests.
Laundry facilities, luggage storage, heating, and elevator access are additional amenities available.
While the rooms are generally praised for their comfort, some guests have noted mixed feedback on soundproofing and cleanliness.
Booking and Cancellation
Guests can book their stay at Annex Katsutaro Ryokan through various online platforms.
Check-in time is from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and check-out is from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
The cancellation policy varies by accommodation type, so guests should review the details when making their reservation.
Smoking and pets aren’t allowed, and parties or events are prohibited.
Guests must provide advance notice for any changes to their check-in time.
Children of all ages are welcome, but cots and extra beds are unavailable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need to Bring My Own Towels and Toiletries?
No, you don’t need to bring your own towels and toiletries. The accommodation provides these amenities for guests, so you can travel light and focus on enjoying your stay.
Can I Store My Luggage Before Check-In or After Check-Out?
The Annex Katsutaro Ryokan offers luggage storage services for guests before check-in and after check-out. Guests can store their luggage securely on-site, allowing them to explore the area without having to carry their belongings.
Are There Any Dining Options Nearby the Hotel?
Nearby the hotel, there are several dining options available. The hotel has an on-site restaurant serving American cuisine. Plus, the neighborhood is home to a variety of restaurants and shops that guests can explore.
How Can I Get to the Hotel From the Nearest Airport?
To reach the hotel from the nearest airport, guests can take the subway. The Sendagi Subway Station is just a 2-minute walk away, providing direct access to the hotel. Alternatively, a taxi ride from the airport is also an option.
Is There a Designated Smoking Area on the Premises?
Annex Katsutaro Ryokan does not allow smoking anywhere on the premises. The property has a strict no-smoking policy to maintain a clean and comfortable environment for all guests.
The Sum Up
The Annex Katsutaro Ryokan offers travelers an authentic Japanese experience in the heart of Tokyo’s historic Yanaka district. With its convenient location, traditional-style rooms, and dedicated staff, the ryokan promises a memorable stay. Guests can enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the area and easily access the city’s top attractions. The ryokan’s exceptional reviews and range of amenities make it an ideal choice for those seeking a genuine taste of Japanese hospitality.