Alpico Plaza Hotel

This hotel is highly regarded for its exceptional location, situated directly opposite Matsumoto Station and adjacent to the bus terminal, making it incredibly convenient for travelers. A standout feature frequently highlighted by guests is the complimentary shuttle service to a sister hotel, offering access to a relaxing onsen. The hotel also receives consistent praise for its delicious and varied breakfast offerings and the generally friendly and helpful staff. Its prime position makes it an ideal choice for sightseers looking to explore local attractions like Matsumoto Castle, business travelers needing easy transit access, and couples seeking a convenient base for a romantic getaway. To enhance your stay, guests recommend inquiring early about the onsen shuttle due to limited capacity and familiarizing yourself with the self-check-in machines upon arrival.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the practical amenities available, including strong Wi-Fi connectivity throughout the property. A welcome drink service is offered in the afternoon, allowing guests to enjoy complimentary soft drinks. For convenience, a selection of self-service amenities like toothbrushes and razors are provided in the lobby. The hotel also features a coin laundry facility and an ice maker, which are useful for longer stays. Some guests noted the presence of a microwave and water filter downstairs for communal use. While the air conditioning system is centrally controlled, some guests experienced issues with its effectiveness, occasional noise, or a lingering smell, suggesting the system may be older. Parking is available in an adjacent multi-storey car park with a height limit, offering in-and-out privileges, though some guests found the lack of a direct connection to the hotel inconvenient.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel generally maintains a good standard of cleanliness, with many guests finding their rooms well-kept despite the building's age. However, some guests reported specific issues such as a residual smoke smell in non-smoking rooms, occasional instances of hair on the floor, or a dirty shower curtain. Feedback on bed comfort is mixed, with some guests praising the soft and comfortable mattresses, while others found the beds or pillows either too soft or too firm. Room sizes also vary, with some guests describing them as spacious and adequate, while others found them to be on the smaller side, particularly for larger groups or with significant luggage. Noise levels are generally considered quiet, though a few guests noted occasional disturbances from upper floor toilets or the air conditioning unit. The bathrooms are often described as small and somewhat dated, with some guests mentioning a peculiar smell.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast consistently receives high praise from guests, often described as delicious, high-quality, and offering excellent variety. The buffet includes a range of options, with many highlighting local specialties such as Sanzoku-yaki, Oyaki, Shinshu Soba, and Tororo, alongside standard fare like miso soup and a good selection of bread. Guests appreciate the quality of the food, often noting it exceeds typical business hotel standards. The hotel's restaurant on the first floor serves as the primary dining area for breakfast and the welcome drink service. Additionally, the presence of a lively "Tsunagu Yokocho" (a collection of food stalls and a bar street) directly downstairs provides convenient on-site dining and evening entertainment options.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, being just a few minutes' walk from Matsumoto Station and the adjacent bus terminal, which offers direct routes to various destinations. This prime spot provides excellent accessibility for both train and bus travelers. Guests also appreciate its proximity to popular tourist attractions, with Matsumoto Castle and local museums being within comfortable walking distance. The surrounding area is well-equipped with amenities, including a large supermarket conveniently located next door, along with numerous convenience stores, eateries, and izakayas, ensuring guests have easy access to daily necessities and diverse dining options. Parking is available in the adjacent multi-storey car park, offering convenient access for those traveling by car.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff generally receive very positive feedback for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many guests commend their professional demeanor and willingness to assist with inquiries and requests, contributing to a pleasant stay. The check-in process is largely self-service via machines, which some guests found quick and efficient, while others experienced difficulties and wished for more direct staff assistance. Despite these occasional challenges, the staff are often noted for their efforts to ensure a smooth process. Specific services like luggage storage before check-in or after check-out are highly appreciated, as is the provision of the welcome drink and the self-service amenities in the lobby. Overall, the staff's commitment to guest satisfaction is a recurring theme in reviews.

Additional Information
A unique and highly valued offering is the complimentary onsen access at a sister hotel, Shoho, which includes a shuttle bus service. However, guests should be aware that the shuttle has limited capacity and specific timings, which can lead to missed opportunities if not booked or inquired about early. The onsen experience itself is generally praised, featuring an outdoor bath, but the time allocated for bathing can be quite brief due to the shuttle schedule. The hotel building, originally constructed in 1978, has undergone renovations, but some guests still perceive it as dated in certain areas. For in-room comfort, the provided pajamas are typically only a top, without bottoms. Guests appreciate the availability of two card keys for convenience, especially when traveling with companions. The adjacent supermarket and the on-site "Tsunagu Yokocho" (a collection of food stalls and a bar street) are frequently highlighted as beneficial additions to the guest experience.