AZ Inn Higashi Omi Notogawa Ekimae

This hotel stands out for its exceptional location directly opposite the station, making it incredibly convenient for all guests. Its signature feature is the large public bath with a sauna, offering a relaxing retreat after a day of travel or work. Guests consistently highlight the complimentary breakfast, which boasts an impressive variety and quality of dishes. The hotel provides excellent value for money, appealing to business travelers seeking efficiency and comfort, solo travelers looking for convenience and amenities, and sightseers who appreciate easy access to nearby cities like Kyoto. To ensure a pleasant stay, guests sensitive to smoke should confirm a non-smoking room, and those preferring softer sleeping surfaces should be aware that beds are generally firm.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests highly praise the hotel's large public bath, which is consistently described as clean and spacious, providing a relaxing experience with its hot water and a dedicated sauna. Many appreciate the availability of massage chairs in the changing area, perfect for unwinding. The hotel offers reliable free Wi-Fi throughout, ensuring guests can stay connected. For convenience, there is an affordable coin laundry facility with automatic detergent dispensing, along with vending machines for drinks and snacks. A complimentary coffee server is available, allowing guests to enjoy hot beverages at their leisure. Security is enhanced by the use of card keys required to operate the elevator from the first floor, providing peace of mind for guests.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel generally maintains a high standard of cleanliness throughout its rooms, which are often described as tidy and well-kept. However, many guests note that the room size can be quite small or narrow, impacting overall comfort and movement. Feedback on bed comfort is mixed; while some find the firm beds conducive to a good night's sleep, others report them as too hard or even creaky. Noise levels are typically low, contributing to a peaceful stay, though a few guests have experienced minor disturbances from air conditioning units or occasional street noise. In-room amenities include power outlets, though their placement can sometimes be inconvenient, and small refrigerators. Bathrooms are clean, but the bathtubs can be cramped, and some toilets have been noted for a weak flush. A few non-smoking rooms have unfortunately retained a cigarette smell.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast is consistently highlighted as a major draw, with guests frequently praising its extensive variety and high food quality. Many reviews mention over 20 different items, offering a rich selection of both Japanese and Western dishes. Popular choices include flavorful curry, various preparations of rice, and diverse egg dishes such as scrambled eggs and omelets. Guests also enjoy the grilled fish, including salmon and mackerel, along with local produce for salads. While the overall experience is highly positive, a few guests have noted that some items might be cold, and the coffee quality could be improved. Despite occasional crowding during peak hours, the breakfast is widely considered a significant value-add to the stay.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent location directly opposite the station, making it exceptionally convenient for guests traveling by train. Its proximity to a large supermarket and a shopping mall is a significant advantage, providing easy access to daily necessities and dining options. Many guests appreciate its strategic position for exploring the wider region, with Kyoto accessible by rapid train in about 40 minutes. For those arriving by car, free parking is readily available with ample space, which is a considerable benefit. However, some guests have noted that the parking entrance can be a bit challenging to find initially, requiring careful attention to signage. Overall, the hotel's accessibility to both public transport and local amenities is a major highlight.

Staff & Service
Feedback regarding the staff and service is somewhat mixed, though many guests report positive experiences. Numerous reviews commend the friendly and helpful staff, particularly highlighting the attentiveness and willingness of male employees to assist with inquiries and requests. Guests appreciate their efforts to ensure a comfortable stay, including accommodating specific needs like changing rooms due to smoke odor. However, a significant number of reviews express dissatisfaction with the unpleasant or unresponsive service from some front desk staff, specifically mentioning certain female employees. These instances often involve a perceived lack of greetings, clear explanations during check-in and check-out, or a general unapproachable demeanor. Despite these inconsistencies, the hotel's commitment to guest satisfaction is evident in many positive interactions.

Additional Information
The hotel consistently receives high marks for its excellent cost-performance, offering a comprehensive experience at a reasonable rate that many find to be superior to other business hotels. Guests often appreciate the unique touch of trivia and knowledge posters displayed throughout the premises, adding an engaging and informative element to their stay. Occasionally, outdoor food stalls or "yatai" operate directly on the hotel grounds, providing convenient dining options like ramen and yakitori right at the doorstep. While rental bicycles are available for guest use, it is noted that they are well-used and best suited for short trips to nearby amenities rather than extensive cycling. The hotel also features dedicated smoking floors for guests who prefer them. Enhanced security is provided by the requirement of a card key to operate the elevators from the first floor, ensuring guest safety and privacy.