Perched right at the northern exit of Himeji’s bullet train station, this business-focused hotel delivers solid value with no surprises. I found the rooms spotless but snug – typical of Japan’s budget-friendly chains. At just over a mile from Himeji’s magnificent castle (a must-see UNESCO site), the location hits the sweet spot for sightseeing.
On the downside, the standard rooms feel quite cramped by Western standards, and the included breakfast sticks to basic Japanese items that might leave some travelers wanting more variety.
Yet for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize convenience and cleanliness over spaciousness, this place makes perfect sense. It’s especially well-suited for solo travelers or couples planning to spend their days exploring rather than lounging in their rooms. The helpful front desk staff, reliable WiFi, and proximity to both the station and castle more than justify the reasonable rates. The 24-hour reception and straightforward access to Kobe Airport add extra practicality for those managing early or late travel times.
Best for: Independent travelers wanting a clean, no-frills base with excellent transport connections and easy castle access.
This hotel features in our top 26 hotel picks in Himeji.
Good To Know
- The Toyoko Inn is located 1.2 miles from Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, providing easy access to this historic attraction.
- The hotel is situated near the JR Himeji Station, allowing for convenient travel to nearby destinations like Omiya Hachiman Shrine and Kobe Airport.
- The hotel offers a range of room types, including single, queen, twin, and economy double, catering to various guest needs.
- Amenities at the Toyoko Inn include free WiFi, on-site parking, a 24-hour front desk, and vending machines for drinks and snacks.
- The hotel is rated 7.7 out of 10 overall, with high ratings for staff friendliness, cleanliness, comfort, and value for money.
Hotel Overview and Location
The Toyoko Inn Himeji-eki Shinkansen Kita-guchi is situated just a short 1.2-mile distance from the renowned Himeji Castle, making it an ideal accommodation choice for visitors exploring the area.
Located in Nishiekimaecho 52-2, Himeji, the hotel has easy access to JR Himeji Station, allowing guests to conveniently explore nearby attractions like Omiya Hachiman Shrine, 21 miles away, and Kobe Airport, 42 miles away.
With its strategic location, the Toyoko Inn provides guests with a comfortable and accessible base to discover the historical and cultural gems of Himeji and the surrounding region.
Ratings and Guest Reviews
According to the information provided, over 1,796 guests have reviewed the Toyoko Inn Himeji-eki Shinkansen Kita-guchi, resulting in an overall rating of 7.7 out of 10, which is considered "Good."
Reviewers have particularly praised the hotel’s friendly staff, receiving an 8.4 rating, as well as its cleanliness and comfort, both earning an 8.4 rating.
The hotel’s facilities also received a solid 8.1 rating, while its value for money was rated 8.2.
Amenities and Services
Toyoko Inn Himeji-eki Shinkansen Kita-guchi provides guests with a range of convenient amenities and services.
The hotel offers free WiFi throughout the property, so travelers can stay connected. Guests can park their vehicles on-site for ¥1,000 per day.
Plus, the hotel features a 24-hour front desk, ensuring assistance is always available. The property also boasts a vending machine for drinks, catering to guests’ refreshment needs.
With these thoughtful amenities, Toyoko Inn Himeji-eki Shinkansen Kita-guchi aims to make guests’ stays comfortable and hassle-free.
Amenities and Services:
- Free WiFi throughout the hotel
- Private parking available for ¥1,000 per day
- 24-hour front desk for assistance
Room Types and Policies
Visitors to Toyoko Inn Himeji-eki Shinkansen Kita-guchi can choose from a variety of room types to suit their needs. The hotel offers single, queen, twin, and economy double rooms, all of which are available in both smoking and non-smoking options.
Check-in is from 4:00 PM to 11:30 PM, while check-out is required by 10:00 AM. Cancellation policies vary by room type, so guests should review the details when booking.
The hotel welcomes children of all ages, but those 13 and older are charged as adults. Pets, however, aren’t allowed.
Housekeeping is provided every 4 nights, and a room change is required every 7 nights.
Child and Pet Policy
The hotel welcomes children of all ages, though those 13 and older are charged as adults.
Unfortunately, pets aren’t permitted on the premises.
However, the hotel offers the following conveniences for families:
- Cots and cribs are available upon request at no extra charge.
- The hotel provides a children’s play area and activities to keep young guests entertained.
- Babysitting services can be arranged through the front desk for an additional fee.
Ultimately, the Toyoko Inn Himeji Station Shinkansen North Entrance strives to accommodate guests of all ages and ensure a comfortable stay for the whole family.
Housekeeping and Group Bookings
Housekeeping services are provided every 4 nights, and a room change is required every 7 nights. For group bookings, different policies apply for reservations of more than 10 rooms. The hotel offers a range of options to accommodate larger parties.
| Group Size | Reservation Policy |
|---|---|
| 1-10 Rooms | Standard Policies Apply |
| 11-20 Rooms | Special Group Rates Available |
| 21-50 Rooms | Advanced Booking Required |
| 51-100 Rooms | Group Coordinator Assigned |
| 100+ Rooms | Custom Contract Negotiation |
Guests can contact the hotel directly to discuss specific group booking needs and receive personalized assistance.
Nearby Attractions
Conveniently located just 1.2 miles from the iconic Himeji Castle, the Toyoko Inn Himeji-eki Shinkansen Kita-guchi offers easy access to some of the area’s top attractions.
Guests can explore:
- Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its impressive 14th-century architecture and stunning views.
- Nearby gardens and parks, such as Koko-en Garden, which features beautifully manicured landscapes and traditional Japanese aesthetics.
- A variety of local restaurants and eateries, providing visitors a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine.
With its prime location and proximity to these must-see destinations, the Toyoko Inn Himeji Station is an ideal choice for travelers seeking to enjoy the rich culture and history of Himeji.
Airport Accessibility
Although the Toyoko Inn Himeji-eki Shinkansen Kita-guchi is not located directly adjacent to any major airports, it still offers convenient access to several regional airports in the Kobe and Osaka areas. The nearest airport is Kobe Airport, located 33.3 miles away. Kansai International Airport and Itami Airport are also accessible, situated 41.6 miles and 42.6 miles from the hotel, respectively. Guests can easily reach these airports by train, bus, or taxi, ensuring a smooth start or end to their journeys. The table below outlines the key airport details for the Toyoko Inn’s location.
| Airport | Distance (miles) | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Kobe | 33.3 | 60 minutes |
| Kansai | 41.6 | 90 minutes |
| Itami | 42.6 | 90 minutes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Fitness Center or Spa at the Hotel?
The hotel does not have a fitness center or spa. The amenities are focused on providing a comfortable stay with free WiFi, private parking, and a breakfast buffet.
Do They Offer Any Currency Exchange Services?
The hotel doesn’t offer currency exchange services. According to the information provided, the hotel’s amenities and services include free WiFi, private parking, and a 24-hour front desk, but no currency exchange facility is mentioned.
What Time Is Check-In and Check-Out?
The check-in time is from 4:00 PM to 11:30 PM, and the check-out time is until 10:00 AM. These standard hotel policies allow guests to conveniently access their rooms and depart on time.
Can I Store My Luggage Before/After Checking In/Out?
The hotel offers a luggage storage service for guests to use before check-in or after check-out. Guests can leave their bags at the front desk for no additional charge while they explore the area.
Is There a Shuttle Service From the Nearby Airports?
The hotel doesn’t offer a shuttle service from nearby airports. Guests will need to take public transportation or arrange for private transportation to get to the hotel from the closest airports, which are 33-42 miles away.
The Sum Up
The Toyoko Inn Himeji-eki Shinkansen Kita-guchi offers a convenient, comfortable, and well-reviewed stay near Himeji Castle. Its proximity to the train station, modern amenities, and excellent value make it an ideal choice for exploring the Hyogo prefecture. With a 7.7 overall rating from over 1,700 reviews, this hotel consistently delivers a quality experience for both business and leisure travelers.