Toyoko Inn Kumamoto Ekimae

Exceptional customer service. After checking-in to the hotel around 4:00pm, I explained to the receptionist there that I had experienced a problem whilst sightseeing in Kumamoto earlier in the afternoon, but didn't know how I should address the problem. I had misplaced my 'Traveller's Notebook' which, whilst of no intrinsic value in itself, actually included a pocket with substantial sums in Japanese and Korean currencies as well as bank and credit cards. With nothing to indicate the owner of the notebook, I wasn't particularly confident about its' recovery. The receptionist quickly grasped the problem, and accompanied me to the nearest police office (Koban), which happened to be adjacent to the hotel, and explained my problem to them. I suspected I may have left the notebook on a public bench outside the Kumamoto Zoo and Botanical Garden, around 2:30pm. The police made a couple of calls and within minutes the missing notebook was located, and I was reunited with the notebook, cash and cards by 5:00pm. A lot of people deserve my thanks, but the role of the Toyoko Inn receptionist was instrumental in its' recovery.

The location couldn't have been better for travellers arriving by train - it was all but next door to the railway station. Simplest of check ins, beautifully clean room. The room was small, but most Japanese rooms are. After all, we are in the room mainly to sleep - the rest of the time sight-seeing. The breakfast was generous and varied We would certainly recommend.

I like the location, it's just right the corner of JR Kumamoto station; even with my big luggage, it takes no more than 7-10mins; depending on 1 traffic light we need to cross. And its very safe cos there is a small Police post beside the hotel. Check in very brief; they already have our reservation; and the hotel provides amenities at the lobby; so, you just take what you need. Breakfast was open air at the lobby, which serves quite a fair share of buffet of Japanese breakfast. I like the concept that the locals practice; after each meal; they would clean up the table for the next guests. Room is spacious and on my floor there is a vending machine for drinks as well.

The hotel is 5 min walking from JR Kumamoto station, and an easy starting point for every sightseeing in the city (easy to access public transportations). the room was as expected, with enough space for one person, and equipped with what you expect to find in an hotel like this in Japan. Toiletries are available at the reception. also good Japanese breakfast included in the price.

The location is very near to the station. The room we had was a double room, and the bed is firm and the duvet is warm. There is a coffee machine, ice machine, water dispenser in the lounge on the first floor. Breakfast was excellent, plenty of dishes to choose from and also bread. There are coin operated washing machines and dryers too on 1st floor. Overall, it is good value for money.