There are a couple of things you should know about the average budget accommodation in Japan. Rooms in economy hotels are significantly smaller compared to those in the US or Europe, typically ranging from approximately 130 to 200 square feet (about 12 to 19 square meters). This often results in limited space, sometimes barely enough to place luggage. Bathrooms in these accommodations usually feature a wet room design, and amenities like bidets and slippers are standard. Unlike many Western hotels, breakfast is not commonly included in the room price. Bearing these characteristics in mind, let’s explore how the Hyatt Centric Ginza distinguishes itself.
As a reminder, I am not affiliated with the hotel being reviewed. I did not receive any monetary or other incentives for providing this review. My opinions are solely based on my personal experience.
Location
Hyatt Centric Ginza, as the name implies, is located in the heart of Tokyo’s renowned Ginza district (銀座). For those unfamiliar, Ginza is an upscale shopping area famous for its luxury retail experience. It hosts flagship stores of prestigious international brands such as Seiko, Shiseido, and Mikimoto. The district is also known for its array of high-end department stores, exquisite restaurants, and charming cafes. With most major Japanese brands showcasing their flagship stores here, Ginza emerges as an ideal destination for those keen on travel shopping.
Ginza’s central location in Tokyo offers convenient access to several key attractions. The Tsukiji Fish Market, for instance, is just a 12-minute subway ride away. For those eager to witness the world-renowned Tuna auction at Toyosu Fish Market, which starts at 5 am, it’s a mere 12-minute taxi journey (subways and trains don’t operate this early). Additionally, Tokyo Station is within easy reach for travelers planning to use the Shinkansen (新幹線) for trips elsewhere in Japan (a 15-minute walk or a 7-minute subway ride). Other popular districts like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Akihabara are conveniently less than 30 minutes away by subway.
Room
While staying at the Hyatt Centric Ginza, we opted for a room with two twin beds. By Japanese standards, the room was quite spacious, comparable in size to a standard double room in the US.
Our stay at the Hyatt Centric Ginza was complemented by a well-appointed room, boasting a variety of amenities. The room featured a spacious wet room bathroom equipped with both a shower and a tub. The central island housed a mini fridge, a Nespresso coffee maker, and an electric kettle. Mugs, glasses, tea bags, and other condiments are also included. For convenience, we were provided with two complimentary reusable water bottles, refillable throughout the hotel. The room also offered added comforts such as robes, yukata, pajamas, and slippers for our use.
For entertainment, the room is equipped with a 50-inch ultra HD LCD TV and a portable Bose Bluetooth speaker.
Regarding the beds, they were on the firmer side, which suited our preference and was a welcome departure from the typically softer beds found in US hotels.
Food
During our stay, we didn’t have the opportunity to sample the food or drinks at Namiki667, the sole restaurant at the Hyatt. The menu appeared to lean more towards Western cuisine. However, the limited dining options within the hotel were not a concern. Tokyo is a culinary paradise, catering to all tastes and budgets. The city abounds with excellent food choices, the real challenge being the limited time to explore the vast array of culinary delights.
As a member of the World of Hyatt program, you also get a free drink at the Namiki667 bar every night. The hotel provides a list of drinks that are eligible during check-in.
Service
My experiences with hospitality in Japan have consistently been exceptional, and the Hyatt Centric Ginza was no exception. During our stay, my wife’s coat ripped, and the front desk was incredibly helpful in locating various nearby tailors for us. Their assistance was invaluable, especially since our proficiency in Japanese is limited.
Furthermore, the staff at the Hyatt were fluent in English, making communication effortless despite our limited Japanese. This level of service and support added significantly to the comfort and ease of our stay.
Facilities
The Hyatt Centric Ginza features a small gym, equipped with just a few exercise machines. For those who prioritize a well-appointed hotel gym, this might not meet your expectations. However, it’s worth noting that Ginza is home to two Gold’s Gym locations. If you have a Gold’s Gym membership, which typically allows access to their facilities worldwide, this could be a convenient alternative when staying at this hotel.
Beyond the small gym, the Hyatt Centric Ginza offers a delightful perk: complimentary snacks and drinks available 24/7 in the lobby for all guests. The selection includes a variety of beverages such as soda, green tea, coffee, milk, and fruit or vegetable juices. For snacks, guests can choose from crackers, candy, and assorted rice crackers. These refreshments are regularly replenished by the staff. It’s a convenient option to grab a quick drink and snack before embarking on a day full of sightseeing.
Overall Impression
Our stay at the Hyatt Centric Ginza was enjoyable, with the primary downside being the room rate. At approximately $450 per night, it stands on the pricier side, particularly given the wide range of accommodation options available in Tokyo. However, if you’re a member of the World of Hyatt program, redeeming free nights at this location, which starts at 21,000 points, offers significantly better value. Considering its unbeatable central location, this redemption option makes it a more appealing choice. I would certainly stay here again given the chance.
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