FLEXSTAY INN Iidabashi

With plain decor and simple furnishings, this no-nonsense hotel is ideal for travelers (including couples and business people) looking for minimalist rooms and an affordable base in the city. Outside, the brick building stands out with a bright green entrance sign and rows of manicured shrubs. Inside, the all-white color scheme has faded slightly, creating a dated atmosphere throughout the building. Basic black pleather sofas and armchairs are set up in front of a few vending machines in the low-ceilinged lobby. 

Located in central Tokyo, this budget hotel is well located for the city’s main public transport links. It’s a nine-minute walk from lidabashi station, which has access to Chuo, Namboku, Tozai, and Yurakucho metro lines. The hotel’s central location also makes it ideal for exploring by foot. The Printing Museum is a seven-minute walk from the hotel and Gallery Kawamura is a nine-minute walk. Nearby shrines include Tsukudo Hachiman (a five-minute walk) and Suwa (a seven-minute walk). By car, Koishikawa-Korakuen Garden, with its beautiful Japanese landscaping, is a four-minute drive away. The Imperial Palace, at the center of Kitanomaru Park, is an 11-minute drive away. Nippon Budokan sports center is a nine-minute drive away. Tokyo Tower with its breathtaking city views, is an 18-minute drive away. Tokyo Skytree is a 24-minute drive away. For those traveling for education or business, The University of Tokyo is a nine-minute drive away and Takushoku University is a seven-minute drive away. The hotel is at least 28 minutes drive from Haneda Airport and 60 minutes from Narita Airport, depending on traffic. 

These fuss-free rooms are simply decorated, very clean, and surprisingly spacious. Standard Double rooms span 20 square meters (215 square feet). Beds look fresh with dark wooden headboards and white linens. The decor is simple, but adequate furnishings are provided including a chest of drawers, bedside table, and a large work desk with a chair. On the chest of drawers there's a small television, and a hairdryer, alarm clock, and telephone are provided. Free Wi-Fi and power outlets are also available inside the capsule. A full-length mirror and small stool on wheels are useful additions. Small cupboards include wardrobe space with extra hangers, and a vacuum. Like most rooms in Japan, slippers are provided. A well-equipped kitchenette area has a sink, microwave, kettle, and mini-fridge. A small selection of bowls, cutlery, glasses, mugs, and kitchen utensils are provided, suiting guests who prefer to eat in their room. The bathroom has basic amenities including a small bathtub with a shower attachment, Japanese-style toilet, and a sink. Full-sized toiletries and white towels are provided. Smoking and non-smoking rooms are available. Some rooms have balconies with patio chairs overlooking the surrounding industrial landscape.

This is a no-frills hotel and the facilities reflect that. There is no on-site restaurant on the premises, but in-room kitchenettes allow guests to prepare food themselves. A telephone is available for guest use and there’s a prepaid calling card machine, plus snacks and drinks in the vending machines. A basket of toiletries, including moisturizer, is available at reception. A communal laundry room with several washing machines, seating and a sink, might be useful for guests on longer trips. Double lifts service each floor and there are public toilets in the main lobby. A trolley is available for transporting large amounts of luggage. DVD players and trouser presses can be rented from the hotel. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.