Hotel Crown Hills Kokura

This hotel offers a budget-friendly option for travelers, with its most notable features being the presence of public baths and an impressive breakfast spread. It caters well to sightseers and value-conscious travelers looking to explore the city's attractions and culinary scene without overspending. The central location, while a bit of a walk from the main station, provides easy access to local markets and dining areas, making it convenient for those who enjoy exploring on foot. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's commitment to providing a good experience despite its age, often praising the efforts made to ensure comfort and satisfaction. To make the most of your stay, be sure to take advantage of the complimentary breakfast, which receives widespread praise for its variety and quality, and consider utilizing the public baths for relaxation after a day of exploring the city.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides several amenities that enhance the guest experience, most notably its public baths, which are a significant draw for many. While some guests found the changing rooms small or noted issues with water temperature and drainage, the opportunity to relax in a larger bath is widely appreciated. The availability of free Wi-Fi is a convenience, though some guests reported weak signals or connectivity issues at times. For those looking to explore, bicycle rentals are offered, adding a unique way to navigate the area. Other useful facilities include coin laundry machines, trouser presses on each floor, and a selection of manga available in the lobby for guest enjoyment. A welcome coffee service is also provided, offering a pleasant start to the day or a relaxing break.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is mixed. Many guests found the rooms to be adequately clean and appreciated the comfortable beds, ensuring a restful sleep. Some rooms are noted for being spacious for the price point, allowing ample room for luggage. However, a significant number of reviews mention the hotel's age, with observations of dated wallpaper, stains on bedding, and general wear and tear. Issues such as mold in bathrooms and a persistent tobacco smell in some rooms were reported. Noise from adjacent rooms due to thin walls was a concern for some, as were non-functional in-room amenities like broken refrigerators or lights. The absence of an in-room phone was also a point of inconvenience for several guests.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast consistently receives high praise, often described as a standout feature and excellent value. Guests appreciate the extensive buffet variety, which includes both Japanese and Western options. Highlights frequently mentioned are the all-you-can-eat seasoned cod roe and local specialties like stewed sardines. The inclusion of ramen and curry rice also adds to the diverse selection. While most found the food delicious and satisfying, a few guests noted that the menu could become repetitive for longer stays. In addition to breakfast, the hotel offers a complimentary nighttime rice porridge service, providing a comforting late-evening snack for guests.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is generally considered convenient, placing guests within walking distance of many key areas. It is approximately a 10 to 15-minute walk from the main train station, which some guests found a bit far, especially when carrying luggage or during unfavorable weather conditions. However, its proximity to the local market, numerous restaurants, and the city's entertainment district is highly valued, offering abundant dining and leisure options right outside the door. Convenience stores are also readily accessible nearby, providing essential items. For guests arriving by car, parking is available adjacent to the hotel, often at a reasonable daily rate, though some noted it could be full during peak times or more expensive at alternative nearby lots, requiring a bit of planning.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel receive mixed but generally positive feedback. Many guests commend their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness, noting that staff members were often quick to assist with requests and provide good hospitality. Specific instances of staff going above and beyond, such as assisting with phone repairs or room changes due to issues, are highlighted. However, some guests reported less positive interactions, describing certain staff members as unsmiling, unresponsive, or exhibiting a lack of professionalism during check-in or when addressing concerns. Despite these isolated incidents, the overall impression of the service is that the staff strive to be accommodating and polite.

Additional Information
Beyond the standard offerings, the hotel provides several thoughtful touches that enhance the guest experience and address various needs. Guests appreciate the option to select from various pillow types at the front desk, catering to individual comfort preferences and ensuring a more personalized sleep. The availability of extension cords in rooms is a practical feature, addressing modern charging needs for multiple devices. For those needing to freshen up their wardrobe, trouser presses are conveniently located on each floor, a useful amenity for business travelers. The hotel also offers umbrellas for loan, a thoughtful service during inclement weather, ensuring guests can explore comfortably regardless of the forecast. These small conveniences contribute significantly to a more comfortable and hassle-free stay.