Accommodation Name (Rating): Premium Outlet Hotel (Premium Outlet Hotel)
Location: Ueno
Distance from the Station: 10m
My Recommendation Score: ★★★ (out of 5)
Accommodation Type: Economy Single Bed
Accommodation Cost: $288 (8 nights) (including Kakao discount)
Booking Site: Agoda
Breakfast Included: Complimentary breakfast
Surrounding Atmosphere: Conveniently located near Ueno Park and close to Keisei Ueno Station, making transportation easy.
Overall Satisfaction Description: During my visit to Tokyo after a long time, I was looking for an affordable and well-located hotel. I found this business hotel which seemed a bit outdated but acceptable. Based on its location, it gives the impression of being a hotel exclusively for Skyliner passengers.
Check-in was smooth, as they provided a card similar to a business card that included the room password. This means that during check-out, you only need to return the card without any further verification, allowing for a quick check-out.
Advantages:
1. The location is excellent, right in front of Keisei Ueno Station, providing easy access to places like Ameyoko Market and Ueno Park.
2. Although I received a discount for my reservation, the regular price is also affordable, making it a decent choice.
3. There is one family bath available that can be used on a first-come, first-served basis without prior reservation.
4. The breakfast desserts are delicious, and it seems they bring leftovers from nearby establishments.
Disadvantages:
1. The hotel has a curfew from midnight to 5 am, so if you plan to go out late or do late-night shopping, you need to be cautious. If you happen to be late, you can call the hotel, and the staff will come to open the door.
2. The soundproofing of the rooms is not effective during the night or early morning. It can get noisy due to people intoxicated or car noises. It is advisable for those who are sensitive to noise to avoid this. However, I found it tolerable during weekends.
3. There wasn’t much variety in the breakfast selection except for bread, eggs, and curry rice. I read on a Japanese website that there would be salad and fruit, but they were not available. Consequently, I ended up eating outside for most of my meals.
In terms of service and facilities, there were no issues according to the standards of a business hotel. However, due to the curfew, I personally wouldn’t consider staying here unless it’s for an excellent deal. Nevertheless, I do recommend it for travelers who need an early morning departure to the airport.
(Note: The cost of accommodation mentioned is in Korean Won. The converted cost in USD is approximately $288 for 8 nights.)
If you’re staying at the Premium Outlet Hotel in Ueno, there are several tourist attractions and activities nearby that I would recommend exploring during your stay.
Firstly, Ueno Park is within close proximity to the hotel. This sprawling park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. It is home to several museums and cultural institutions, such as the Tokyo National Museum, which houses a vast collection of Japanese art and artifacts. The Ueno Zoo is also located in the park and is a great place to visit, especially if you’re traveling with children. It is one of the oldest zoos in Japan and is known for its wide variety of animals.
Ameyoko Market is another must-visit attraction that is conveniently located near the hotel. This bustling street market offers a vibrant atmosphere and is a great place to shop for bargains. From fresh produce to clothing, accessories, and electronics, you can find a wide range of products at affordable prices here. Additionally, there are numerous food stalls and restaurants where you can sample delicious local street food.
For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the nearby Senso-ji Temple is highly recommended. This ancient Buddhist temple is Tokyo’s oldest and is a significant cultural landmark. Its iconic red gate, known as the Kaminarimon Gate, is a popular spot for taking photos. Inside the temple grounds, you can explore various halls and pagodas, as well as browse through the Nakamise Shopping Street which leads up to the temple.
If you’re looking to experience the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo, the area of Asakusa is worth visiting. It is easily accessible from the hotel by train or a short taxi ride. Asakusa offers a wide range of bars, izakayas (Japanese-style pubs), and restaurants. You can enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine, sip on sake, and indulge in the lively atmosphere of this entertainment district.
Lastly, if you’re interested in shopping, a visit to the nearby Akihabara district is a must. Known as the electronics and anime mecca of Tokyo, Akihabara is a haven for tech enthusiasts and anime fans. Here, you can explore countless electronics stores, anime and manga shops, and even themed cafes. It’s a unique and vibrant neighborhood that truly captures the essence of Tokyo’s pop culture.
Overall, staying at the Premium Outlet Hotel in Ueno provides convenient access to a variety of tourist attractions and activities. Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, or experiencing local culture, there is something for everyone in the surrounding area.