Toyoko Inn Hiroshima Ekimae Ohashi Minami

This hotel offers a highly convenient stay, primarily distinguished by its exceptional proximity to Hiroshima Station and the inclusion of a complimentary breakfast. Guests consistently highlight its prime location, making it an ideal choice for sightseers eager to explore the city's attractions, business travelers needing quick access to transport links, and even families who appreciate the value of a free breakfast and policies that accommodate children. The hotel consistently receives praise for its overall cleanliness, comfortable accommodations, and the friendly, helpful demeanor of its staff, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. While the breakfast is a significant draw, some guests note the small dining area and occasional elevator wait times. For a smoother experience, guests are advised to consider using the underground passage from Hiroshima Station for direct access and to utilize the convenient takeaway option for breakfast, especially during peak hours, to enjoy it in the comfort of their room.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's facilities are generally functional, though one recurring point of feedback centers on the single elevator. Many guests report significant wait times, particularly during busy periods like morning check-out or breakfast, which can be inconvenient for those in a hurry or with mobility challenges. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi throughout the property, which guests find reliable for staying connected. Rooms are equipped with essential amenities such as a personal refrigerator and a safety deposit box, adding to guest convenience. While the hotel does not feature extensive recreational facilities, the presence of ice machines and vending machines on the first floor is appreciated for quick access to drinks and snacks. Some guests also noted the availability of a laundromat, which is useful for longer stays.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be very clean and well-maintained, contributing to a pleasant stay. However, the room size is a frequent topic of discussion; many describe them as compact, typical for Japanese standards, though some found them just adequate for two people with luggage. Feedback on beds is mixed, with many guests finding them quite hard, while others reported a comfortable sleep. All rooms are equipped with essential toiletries, and guests appreciate the consistent availability of hot water and the presence of a bathtub in the bathrooms. Some guests experienced issues with air conditioning filters needing cleaning, affecting its efficiency, though others found the cooling effective. Noise levels can vary; some guests noted drainage sounds from adjacent rooms or street noise, particularly from higher floors facing the river, though overall, the rooms are considered quiet enough for rest.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast is a significant highlight for many guests, often described as delicious and a great way to start the day. It typically features a Japanese style menu, offering a variety of traditional dishes. While some guests praise the multiple options available, others feel the selection could be more diverse. A common point of feedback is the breakfast venue, which is often described as small and can become very crowded, especially during peak hours. This can lead to a less relaxed dining experience and, occasionally, items being depleted without immediate replenishment. To mitigate this, the hotel thoughtfully provides takeaway bento boxes and lidded containers for soup, allowing guests to enjoy their meal in the comfort of their room, a feature particularly appreciated by families and those in a rush.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent and highly convenient central location, making it a major draw for guests. It is situated just a short walk, typically 5 to 7 minutes, from Hiroshima Station, providing easy access to Shinkansen and airport bus connections. The Matobacho tram station is also very close by, offering convenient public transport links to various city attractions, including the Peace Memorial Park and other downtown areas. Guests appreciate being within walking distance of numerous restaurants, bars, and shopping districts, enhancing their evening options. For those traveling by car, parking is available, though it can be expensive, and guests are advised to inquire about affiliated parking options or nearby alternatives, as some have experienced issues with pricing or availability at the designated partner lot. The hotel's proximity to Mazda Stadium is also a plus for sports fans.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness and helpfulness, significantly enhancing the guest experience. Many reviews highlight their polite demeanor and willingness to assist with various requests, from providing directions to calling taxis. The check-in process, often managed through automated machines, is generally smooth, with staff readily available to offer assistance and guidance when needed. Guests particularly appreciate the hotel's policy of luggage storage, allowing them to leave their bags both before check-in and after check-out at no additional cost, which is highly convenient for exploring the city unencumbered. While some guests noted that room cleaning is typically on request for longer stays, the overall attentive service provided by the front desk and other personnel contributes to a welcoming and positive atmosphere.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of several specific policies and features that impact their stay. The hotel operates with an eco-conscious concept, which means that daily room cleaning and waste disposal are typically performed only upon request for multi-night stays. Instead, fresh towels are often left on the door handle. While some guests appreciate this environmental consideration, others found the lack of automatic daily service inconvenient. The hotel also offers smoking rooms, and guests booking these should be prepared for a strong residual cigarette smell, as some reviews indicate that even with deodorizing efforts, the odor can persist. Furthermore, the self check-in machines are a prominent feature of the arrival process; while generally efficient, staff are always on hand to assist guests who may be unfamiliar with the automated system, ensuring a smooth start to their stay.