Accommodation Name (Grade): Sakura Gicho Washington
Location: Sakura Gicho Station
Distance from the station: It is extremely close, it takes less than 5 minutes.
Rating given by me: ★ ★ ★ ★
Accommodation type: I initially booked a single room but was upgraded to a double room.
Accommodation cost: Approximately $20
Booking platform: Agoda
Breakfast included: Yes
Ambience around the accommodation: Very good
Overall satisfaction: First, let me begin by talking about the view. Even though I didn’t expect much from Yokohama, the neighborhood turned out to be really nice and the view from my room was absolutely amazing. It made me very happy.
Regarding the condition of the room, there isn’t much difference between them. I initially booked a single room and asked if I could have a room with a view during check-in. However, I was told that it couldn’t be guaranteed unless I paid an additional 2000 yen to upgrade to a double room. I decided to pay the extra amount without any regrets.
Furthermore, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that breakfast was included in my booking. The fruits were delicious, and I enjoyed having omelette and curry for breakfast. They also had a variety of beverages, and I grabbed a takeaway coffee on my way out. However, if you come later, they may run out of milk when making cappuccino or latte. Also, they recommend wearing gloves while using the food items.
The omelette had a rich and enjoyable flavor. It was my first time trying ochazuke (Japanese rice with tea poured over it), and it was really delicious. Additionally, the scrambled eggs were great.
Anyway, the breathtaking view made up for anything else that might have been lacking. The view was truly amazing. Although Yokohama didn’t offer many attractions that interested me personally, just strolling around the neighborhood was fulfilling and enjoyable. I would love to come here again, but I have a feeling it would be quite expensive to live here permanently, don’t you think? Many people were jogging, and the route from Sakura Gicho to Yokohama was a straight path, making it a pleasant walk.
Oh, and by the way, I got a bit frustrated with Google Maps. In the photo, the building on the left is the train station, and the one on the right is the Cross Gate Hotel. But because of Google Maps, I ended up going in the wrong direction. Just so you know, when you exit Sakura Gicho Station, cross the pedestrian crossing twice, and you will find the hotel right there.
Lastly, there were a couple of disappointing aspects. Firstly, the large towel shed a lot of lint. I wasn’t sure how to explain it, but the towel seemed to be falling apart. After using it to wipe my face and applying lotion, I noticed that my hands were covered in white dust and my face had a few particles, so I had to wash up and use a smaller towel, which was better. Secondly, the bedding was thin, and the sleepwear provided was a one-piece garment. In Tokyo, they provide sleepwear plus a hoodie, so I wore the hoodie to sleep but ended up feeling cold. The one-piece garment allowed the breeze to come in, and the bedding had some lint as well, so I was a bit disappointed.
Apart from these two issues, there are plenty of shopping malls in the vicinity, making it convenient for a quick meal. The view was also fantastic, and overall, I had a happy and enjoyable experience.
As an expert travel blogger, I would recommend a few nearby attractions and activities for tourists staying at Sakura Gicho Washington.
Firstly, Yokohama offers a range of attractions to explore. One must-visit destination is Yamashita Park, which is located along the waterfront. This park offers stunning views of the bay, beautiful gardens, and an iconic red brick warehouse. It’s a great place to relax, have a picnic, or take a leisurely stroll.
For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the Yokohama Chinatown is highly recommended. It is one of the largest Chinatowns in the world and offers a vibrant atmosphere with numerous shops, restaurants, and traditional Chinese architecture. Exploring the narrow streets filled with colorful decorations and enjoying authentic Chinese cuisine is a must-do experience.
Another popular attraction is the Yokohama Landmark Tower, which is the second tallest building in Japan. Visitors can take the high-speed elevator to the observation deck on the 69th floor and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the cityscape and the bay. It’s a fantastic spot for photography enthusiasts.
If you are a fan of shopping, the nearby shopping malls provide ample opportunities for retail therapy. The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is a trendy shopping complex located in a historic building, offering a variety of boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries. It’s a perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs and enjoy some local cuisine.
For those seeking a more tranquil experience, Sankeien Garden is a peaceful oasis in Yokohama. This traditional Japanese garden features beautiful landscapes, historic buildings, and seasonal flowers. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing walk and to immerse oneself in the beauty of nature.
Lastly, a visit to the Yokohama Cosmo World amusement park can add a touch of excitement to your stay. This park features a giant Ferris wheel, thrilling roller coasters, and various other attractions suitable for all ages. It’s a great option for families or those looking for some adrenaline-pumping fun.
Overall, staying at Sakura Gicho Washington allows easy access to a range of attractions and activities in Yokohama. Whether you’re interested in cultural exploration, shopping, scenic beauty, or amusement parks, there is something for everyone. Enjoy your stay and make the most of your time in this vibrant city.