DoubleTree by Hilton Naha Shuri Castle

This hotel is highly regarded for its attentive staff and the warm welcome cookie provided upon arrival, setting a pleasant tone for guests' stays. Many appreciate the spacious rooms and the diverse breakfast buffet, which consistently receives praise for its quality and variety. The location near Shuri Castle makes it a convenient base for sightseers and families looking to explore local attractions. While some aspects of the property show its age, the overall cleanliness and service contribute to a comfortable experience. For guests with cars, the ample parking is a significant advantage, as the hotel's setting often necessitates private transportation. To enhance your visit, consider renting a car for easier access to surrounding areas and be sure to arrive early for breakfast to enjoy the full selection before it gets busy.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently highlight the hotel's pool area, describing it as large, clean, and enjoyable for both adults and children, with some appreciating the option for a night swim. While a fitness center is mentioned, some guests noted a lack of a full gym facility. The availability of free Wi-Fi is generally appreciated, though some found the connection process cumbersome or experienced intermittent issues. The hotel also features efficient elevators and a rooftop bar that offers pleasant views and a good atmosphere for evening relaxation. However, some guests were disappointed by the occasional closure of the pool or limited operating hours for certain amenities, and some wished for a dedicated pool dehydrator for swimwear.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel generally receives positive remarks for its clean rooms and comfortable beds, ensuring a restful stay for most guests. Many rooms offer appealing city views, enhancing the overall ambiance. However, some guests reported issues such as a persistent ammonia smell or the presence of mold in the bathroom, indicating areas where maintenance could be improved. While some rooms have been renovated, others are described as dated, with older fixtures and occasional noise levels from adjacent rooms or the air conditioning unit. Some guests also noted minor cleaning oversights, such as dust or yellowed pillowcases, and found the bathrooms to be small or humid.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast experience is a consistent highlight, with guests praising the extensive breakfast variety that includes both Western and a wide array of Okinawan dishes such as soba, taco rice, and jimami tofu. The food quality is generally rated highly, and many appreciate the attentive staff in the dining area. While the main restaurant offers a good selection, some guests found the bar's offerings to be expensive or noted limited food options available late in the evening, as room service is not consistently provided. Some guests also mentioned that the breakfast area can become crowded, and a few experienced staff clearing plates prematurely.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is frequently discussed, being within walking distance of Shuri Castle and offering ample parking for guests. However, its setting on a hill means that uphill walks are common, and it is considered a remote location by many, with limited restaurants, shops, or nightlife nearby. Guests often recommend having a car for convenience, as public transportation options like bus stops or the monorail station can be a considerable distance away, making taxi services a frequent necessity. Some guests also noted that the roads leading to the hotel can experience congestion during peak hours.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Guests frequently commend their attentive service, quick check-in process, and willingness to be accommodating to requests, contributing significantly to a positive experience. Many reviewers highlighted the staff's excellent communication and their efforts to provide local information and assistance. However, a few guests reported isolated incidents of inconsistent service quality, including perceived unhelpfulness, issues with luggage handling, or a lack of proactive problem-solving, such as addressing room issues or coordinating taxi services efficiently.

Additional Information
Guests who are part of the rewards program benefits often appreciate the exclusive perks, such as special breakfast menus, welcome drinks, and priority seating, which enhance their stay. While the hotel has undergone renovation, some areas still show signs of its age, particularly in the older bathroom designs. It's important to note that the hotel does not feature a large communal public bath, and some guests were disappointed by the absence of a dedicated shuttle service to popular areas or the lack of a nearby convenience store, necessitating planning for necessities. Additionally, some guests reported unexpected pool closure during their visits, which was not always communicated in advance.