Ana Crowne Plaza Okayama By Ihg

The hotel's most notable feature is its direct connection to Okayama Station via a covered walkway, offering unparalleled convenience for travelers. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional staff service, the comfort and cleanliness of the rooms, and the outstanding breakfast which often includes local specialties. The hotel is an ideal choice for business travelers due to its prime location and well-equipped rooms, and equally suitable for sightseers looking to explore the region with easy access to day trips. Families and couples also find it appealing, appreciating the comfortable accommodations and attentive service. To enhance your stay, consider requesting a room on a higher floor for impressive city or mountain views, and be mindful that the central heating/cooling system may not allow individual temperature adjustments.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities that enhance the guest experience, though some areas receive mixed feedback. Guests on upper floors appreciate access to a lounge which provides a pleasant space for relaxation and often includes complimentary drinks and snacks during specific hours. However, some guests note that the lounge has limited operating hours and there isn't always a dedicated area to hang out during the day outside of lounge times. While there is no swimming pool or gym, the hotel does provide free Wi-Fi throughout, which is consistently praised for its reliability. Some rooms are equipped with coffee makers, and ice machines are available on various floors for guest convenience. The hotel also offers currency exchange and a 24-hour reception.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and comfortable, contributing to a restful stay. Many reviews praise the comfortable beds and high-quality linens, ensuring a good night's sleep. While some guests describe rooms as spacious with great views from higher floors, others note that rooms can be small, particularly for those with a lot of luggage, and some bathrooms are described as old or tiny. In-room amenities often include a bathtub (sometimes with a view), and some rooms feature large windows offering panoramic city or mountain vistas. Noise levels are generally reported as quiet, even though the hotel is next to a train station, indicating good sound insulation. However, a recurring issue is the central heating/cooling system, which does not allow individual temperature control, leading to rooms sometimes being too warm, especially in winter.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options consistently receive high praise, particularly the breakfast buffet. Guests rave about the breakfast variety, which includes a rich selection of both Japanese and Western dishes, often featuring local Okayama specialties like barazushi, Hiruzen yakisoba, and Ujo curry. The omelette station is a popular highlight, offering freshly cooked eggs to order. Many guests enjoy the restaurant's atmosphere and the stunning views from the top-floor dining area, especially the "train view" of Shinkansen and local lines. Some guests also mention positive experiences with lunch and dinner at the on-site restaurants, noting the quality and seasonal ingredients. The bar on the top floor is also frequently mentioned for its pleasant ambiance and views, with some guests enjoying complimentary drinks during specific hours.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is overwhelmingly cited as a major advantage, being directly connected to JR Okayama Station via a covered walkway. This provides easy access to transportation, including Shinkansen and local trains, making it an excellent base for day trips to nearby areas like Kurashiki, Naoshima, and Hiroshima. Guests appreciate the convenience of being able to reach the hotel without needing an umbrella, even in the rain. The hotel is also within walking distance of major attractions like Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden (about 20 minutes), and close to shopping areas like AEON Mall and Takashimaya department store. While parking is available, some guests note it can be expensive or difficult to navigate due to the complex's layout. A convenience store is located right next door, adding to the accessibility.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive glowing reviews for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Guests frequently highlight the warm greetings from all staff members, from the lobby to the restaurants. The quick check-in process and the staff's willingness to go "above and beyond" to assist guests are common themes. Specific examples include staff helping with dinner reservations, providing assistance during medical emergencies, and offering thoughtful gestures like preparing written restaurant lists or providing umbrellas. Many guests commend the staff's attentive service and their ability to make guests feel welcome and valued. The bellboy service and housekeeping are also noted for their efficiency and pleasant demeanor, contributing to an overall positive and comfortable stay.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that while the hotel is generally well-maintained, some aspects of the room decor are described as a bit dated. For those with specific needs, it's noted that the hotel does not have a public bath or coin laundry facilities, which might be a consideration for longer stays. However, the hotel does offer a dry cleaning service during weekdays. Some guests appreciate the thoughtful inclusion of heated eye masks in the rooms for relaxation. The hotel also provides umbrellas in rooms, a practical touch for unexpected weather. For IHG members, the hotel often provides rewards program benefits such as room upgrades or complimentary drinks, enhancing the value of their stay.