Andon Ryokan

Housed in an ultra-modern five-story structure of steel and glass, this two-pearl ryokan-style property is located on a residential Tokyo street. Designed by a local architect, the facade is meant to resemble a traditional Japanese lantern when lit from the inside -- an “andon” -- hence the hotel's name. Interiors are stark, with metallic-looking walls, some of which are covered in interesting murals inspired by Japanese prints. The owner (who lives on the top floor) has displayed her collection of Japanese furniture, jewelry, and ceramics in specially designed cases in the stairwell. The small lobby area is busy and crowded with a glass table and chairs, as well as many brochures and notices on the walls. This is a popular place to stay with young tourists traveling solo, as well as couples and groups on a budget, which contribute to the youth hostel-like atmosphere.

Andon Ryokan is located in a residential neighborhood in Tokyo's Taito-ku district, within walking distance of both the Minowabashi subway station on the Arakawa line, and the Minowa station on the Hibiya line. There are a few small businesses in the neighborhood, including local stores and restaurants.

• Seven-minute walk to Minowa subway station
• Nine-minute walk to Minowabashi subway station
• 12 minutes to Senso-ji temple by public transit
• 14 minutes to Asakusa district by public transit
• 17 minutes to Ueno Park by public transit
• 25 minutes to Tokyo station by public transit
• 25 minutes to Tokyo Skytree by public transit
• 38 minutes to Tokyo Imperial Palace by public transit
• 45 minutes to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden by public transit
• 53 minutes to Tokyo Haneda International Airport by public transit
• 55 minutes to Meiji Shrine by public transit
• One hour to Narita International Airport by public transit

The guest rooms at Andon Ryokan are spotless and done up in traditional Japanese style: Floors are covered in tatami mats (of woven straw), and the beds are futon mattresses that are folded when not in use. Rooms (single, double, and twin) are tiny, measuring a cramped 75 square feet, with little space left for luggage storage. The white walls are bare, giving the rooms a stark and empty look. Each room has a window, a small folding table, and a small shelf next to the door with an old television, DVD player, phone, and lamp. All rooms are also equipped with air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi. Slippers are provided and robes and towels are available on request. There are no en-suite bathrooms, but shared toilets and shower facilities are located in the hallways. The shower stalls are small, but have Shiseido shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, and other handy toiletries like toothbrushes, razors, and cotton swabs. Hairdryers, irons, and ironing boards are also available.

For a budget hotel, Andon Ryokan has several extra services on offer. Guests can choose from a variety of Western and Japanese breakfast options served in the communal kitchen for an extra fee. Free coffee and tea are available throughout the day. The hot tub is located on the fifth floor and is free for guest use, with the possibility of reserving in advance. Guests are also free to use the common kitchen and the coin laundry, which has two washing machines and a dryer. The rooftop terrace offers views of the Tokyo Skytree and a picnic table. Other services available to guests include bicycle rentals and activities like demonstrations in Ikebana (flower arranging) and the Japanese tea ceremony, as well as sake tasting, origami, and sushi making. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, and there's a computer in the lobby area that guests are free to use. The hotel does not have an elevator, but there is one that's used for luggage.