Akihabara Washington Hotel

This three-pearl hotel is housed inside a tall light-stone building, shared with a cellphone shop and a Denny's. It's a multi-purpose, utilitarian approach that isn't uncommon in Tokyo. Built in 2010, interiors have a fresh feel and modern, minimalist design scheme. The lobby is done with a all-business sleek finish that includes neutral colors, glossy dark wood floors, and simple furnishings. However, there's little in the way seating areas, and the hotel has no real communal space. As such, it's a quiet property, providing a peaceful respite from the busy streets outside. Atmosphere, though, is in short supply. The Akhibara Washington attracts a lot of business travelers due to its close proximity to major train lines, but many tourists also stay here. It's best suited to short-stay travelers. 

The hotel is located in Tokyo's central Chiyoda ward, on a busy street lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. It's a paradise for electronic and technology lovers. The hotel is a four-minute walk from Chuo Dori, the main shopping street, which is awash with big-name retailers, market stalls, and quirky cafes dedicated to Japanese anime and manga. Maid cafes are popular here, and worth a visit for the unique experience. JR Akihabara Station is opposite the hotel, making this a convenient choice for travelers exploring the city by train. Shopping and nightlife in Ginza and Roppongi are 15 to 20 minutes away by train, while Ueno Park (famous for its cherry blossoms) is a 25-minute walk from the hotel. The Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa is about a 20-minute train ride away, and Tokyo Imperial Palace is a 30-minute walk from the hotel. Narita International Airport is around an hour's drive away, while Haneda Airport takes roughly 20 minutes to reach by car.

All 369 guests rooms are tiny -- not a surprise in central Tokyo -- but they're clean and simply decorated with neutral-tone walls, gray carpeted floors, and minimal furnishings. Soft gray couches and small work desks open the space nicely, and long windows let in plenty of natural light. Most rooms lack views, but some have views of the city skyline over the Kanda River. Air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, mini-fridges, phones, free slippers, and free Wi-Fi come standard. The majority of rooms are Single Rooms (designed for business travelers), but Double and Twin Rooms are also available. The hotel offers a unique Train Room, equipped with a miniature railroad, and there's a dedicated Ladies Floor for women, which is secured by an access card. Bathrooms are clean, but small, with shower/tub combos, handheld showerheads, and toilets with special washlet features. Hairdryers and basic free toiletries are also provided. 

The Akihabara Washington Hotel is a budget property that focuses on basic facilities. It lacks a fitness center, spa, and full-service restaurant, though a daily breakfast buffet with Japanese and Western options is available for a fee. Alternatively, there's a Denny's attached to the hotel. The hotel offers guests a unique Moekei Maid wake-up call service, recorded by voice artists acting as maids. A small business center is located on the ground floor, and vending machines with alcohol, hot drinks, snacks, and cigarettes can be found throughout the hotel. Other services include a 24-hour front desk, currency exchange, free newspapers, and free Wi-Fi. Self-parking is available, but this costs extra.