Hotel Name (Rating): Shibuya Tokyu Rei Hotel (4-star)
Location: Tokyo, Shibuya
Distance from the Station: Approximately a 3-minute walk from the station exit
Recommended Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Accommodation Type: Standard Twin Room with 2 beds, requested for a quiet room
Accommodation Cost: Approximately 400,000 KRW (around 360 USD) for a 3-night stay with 2 people (about 180 USD per person)
Booking Platform: Agoda
Breakfast Inclusion: Not included
Surrounding Atmosphere: Right in the heart of the city
Overall Satisfaction: As a first-time traveler, I wanted to stay at a hotel near Shibuya Station to minimize the hassle. This hotel matched my criteria and the price was reasonable. Although I had heard about cases where the hotel did not receive reservations made through Agoda, I emailed the hotel separately for confirmation even after receiving the booking confirmation. I received a friendly response after about 3 hours, which made me feel at ease. I had some personal inquiries and emailed them again, but they kindly responded to my questions. Upon going down the escalator to the underground, a staff member approached me when I stood in front of the check-in machine. They requested my passport in English, and after handing it to them, they checked it, came back, and explained the check-in process with the machine. Although it was possible to set the language to Korean, I was able to communicate comfortably in English. (I had an issue with the passport verification, so I completed the check-in process by confirming my name). The staff members were extremely friendly! When I asked if it was possible to store my luggage after checking out at 10 am, they gave me a key-like item with a number. Later, when I returned the key, I was able to retrieve my luggage.
The only downside of the room was that although I had initially requested a quiet room when booking through Agoda, the hotel’s definition of a quiet room seemed to be a corner room. Despite being assigned a corner room, the view was of passing trains, which was a bit disturbing when the trains made noise early in the morning. The room directly above mine was occupied by Korean men, and I could sometimes hear them making noise and laughing early in the morning, so I assumed I was just unlucky.
The room was definitely small, and it was difficult to spread out my luggage on the floor, so on the last day, I just left it on the bed to pack. Although the narrowness of the room was not too inconvenient, I frequently bumped into the walls while showering in the bathroom, unintentionally causing noise.
Overall, I was very satisfied with the service and amenities provided. The proximity to the subway, friendly staff, and quick email response all left a positive impression. If I ever come back to Shibuya, I would consider staying here again. However, if you prefer a quiet room, it may be necessary to specifically request to avoid the train view room. Have a comfortable trip, everyone!
When staying at the Shibuya Tokyu Rei Hotel, you’ll find yourself right in the heart of Tokyo’s vibrant and bustling Shibuya neighborhood. With its convenient location, there are plenty of nearby attractions and activities to explore during your stay.
One iconic attraction that is not to be missed is the Shibuya Crossing, located just a short walk away from the hotel. Known as one of the busiest intersections in the world, this pedestrian scramble is a true spectacle, especially during rush hour. Take a moment to immerse yourself in the energy of Shibuya as you navigate through the crowd and witness the mesmerizing symphony of people crossing from all directions.
For a taste of Tokyo’s vibrant shopping scene, head over to the famous Shibuya 109 building. Packed with trendy fashion boutiques, this landmark is a mecca for fashion enthusiasts. Whether you are looking for the latest Japanese streetwear or unique accessories, you are sure to find something that catches your eye in this fashion-forward complex.
To delve into the local culture, a visit to Meiji Shrine is highly recommended. Located nearby in Yoyogi Park, this tranquil Shinto shrine offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush forested grounds, and if you’re lucky, you might even witness a traditional wedding ceremony taking place.
Food lovers will be spoilt for choice in Shibuya. The area is known for its diverse culinary scene, ensuring that there is something to satisfy every palate. From traditional Japanese izakayas to international cuisine, you’ll find a wide range of dining options within walking distance of the hotel. Don’t forget to try out some of the local street food such as takoyaki (octopus balls) or okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) at the nearby food stalls.
Lastly, for those seeking a taste of Tokyo’s nightlife, Shibuya offers a vibrant array of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Experience the electric atmosphere of Shibuya after dark as you explore the various entertainment options available. You can dance the night away at one of the many nightclubs or catch a live performance by local and international artists at music venues such as Club Quattro or Womb.
Overall, staying at the Shibuya Tokyu Rei Hotel provides the perfect base for exploring the dynamic district of Shibuya. From iconic landmarks to the bustling shopping scene and vibrant nightlife, there is no shortage of exciting activities to enjoy during your visit to Tokyo.