When traveling in Japan, choosing the right accommodations is key to a comfortable and enjoyable trip. For those planning to explore the country by rental car, Route Inn Hotel is a business hotel chain worth considering. With a wide network of locations and car-friendly amenities, Hotel Route Inn caters well to the needs of driving tourists.
What is Route Inn Hotels and why do people choose to stay there?
Route Inn Hotel, one of Japan’s largest business hotel chains, offers a convenient and affordable option for travelers exploring Japan by car. While city hotels are typically near train stations, most regional properties are close to expressway interchanges. Route Inn locations generally feature spacious public baths with hot springs and free parking, along with complimentary breakfast buffets.
Although Route Inn tends to be less frequented by foreign tourists compared to city-center hotels, they are a solid choice for those renting a vehicle to explore Japan. However, it’s important to note that even the Kyoto location is situated in the city of Kameoka rather than central Kyoto. Despite this, Route Inn provides a consistent and reliable experience that represents excellent value for travelers with cars.
Top 10 highly rated Route Inn Hotels locations in Japan
While Route Inn Hotel may not be the most luxurious option, they provide reliable accommodations at reasonable prices. Here are 10 of their most highly rated properties across Japan:
A Premium Downtown Retreat
Located just 130m (2-minute walk) from Asakusabashi Station on the Toei Asakusa Line and 240m (4-minute walk) from JR Asakusabashi Station. Featuring separate men’s and women’s large public baths, a tower parking garage (20 spaces, fee applies, first-come-first-served), and free Wi-Fi.
Unwind in Spacious Comfort Near the Metro
Just a 2-minute walk from Toyocho Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line and a 5-minute drive from the Kiba Ramp on the Shuto Expressway No. 9 Fukagawa Line. Boasts a surprisingly large public bath, 23 parking spaces (fee applies), and excellent staff service.
Savor a Sumptuous Free Breakfast Spread
Conveniently located within a 5-minute walk from JR Oimachi Station, Rinkai Line Oimachi Station, and Tokyu Oimachi Station. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet with over 30 Japanese and Western dishes, catering to various preferences and featuring local specialties.
Riverside Simplicity Near Major Stations
Situated along the Nomigawa River, just a 4-minute walk from Keikyu Kamata Station and a 6-minute walk from JR Kamata Station. Offers the reliable Route Inn quality for a peaceful stay, with 6 paid parking spaces and a free breakfast buffet.
Relax in Kyoto’s Serene Countryside
The second Route Inn in Kyoto, located a 2-minute walk from Kameoka Station. Enjoy the town’s three major attractions: Hozugawa River Boat Ride, Sagano Romantic Train, and Yunohana Onsen. Rejuvenate in the natural hot spring and fuel up with a nutritious free breakfast buffet.
Gateway to Kansai from Kishiwada
Connected to Higashi-Kishiwada Station (4-minute walk) and easily accessible from Kansai Airport by car or train (20-minute train ride). Features 70 paid parking spaces, separate men’s and women’s large public baths, and a complimentary breakfast buffet.
Modern Comfort Next to LaLaport Izumi
Located just a 5-minute drive from the Kishiwada-Izumi IC and adjacent to the expansive Lalaport Izumi shopping mall. Offers 135 free parking spaces, separate men’s and women’s large public baths, and a free breakfast buffet. Kansai Airport is a 25-minute drive away.
Nagano’s Finest: Onsen and Local Flavors
Just a 3-minute walk from Nagano Electric Railway’s Shinshu-Nakano Station. Boasts 166 guest rooms, over 100 free parking spaces, spacious natural hot spring baths, and a breakfast buffet featuring local ingredients. Experience the unchanging spirit of Japanese hospitality.
Convenient Midpoint Between Tokyo and Narita
Situated a 9-minute walk from Chiba Newtown Chuo Station, halfway between central Tokyo and Narita International Airport. Offers 85 paid parking spaces in a multi-story garage, separate men’s and women’s large public baths, and a complimentary breakfast buffet.
Explore Fukuoka’s Vibrant Tenjin District
Located in the bustling Tenjin area, just 3 subway stops (5-minute ride) from Hakata. A 6-minute walk from Tenjin Station and a 10-minute walk from Nishitetsu Fukuoka Station. All rooms feature Wi-Fi and air purifiers with humidifiers. Savor a popular Japanese and Western breakfast buffet with about 30 dishes, including Hakata specialties like mentaiko (spicy cod roe) and game-ni (simmered chicken and vegetables).
Other recommended hotel chains similar to Route Inn
For those seeking alternatives to Route Inn Hotel, here are a couple other business hotel chains with similar offerings:
- Super Hotel: Known for their natural hot spring baths and health-conscious amenities like ion-generating humidifiers in rooms. Many locations offer free parking.
- Dormy Inn: Features public baths with natural hot spring water and complimentary ramen noodles available in the evenings. Parking available at most properties outside major cities.
Summary
For travelers exploring Japan by rental car, Route Inn offers a convenient and affordable lodging option, especially in regional locations near expressway interchanges. With the bonus of artificial hot spring baths and free parking at most properties, they cater well to the needs of road trippers. While not the fanciest accommodations, Hotel Route Inn provides a consistent no-frills experience that represents a solid value. Travelers seeking similar amenities can also consider chains like Super Hotel and Dormy Inn. With a little research, you’re sure to find the right hotel to make your Japan driving adventure a success.
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