Rihga Royal Kokura

Almost 5 stars for me but deducting a score due to the pillows. Other than that, no major complaints here. Access is super easy to get to from Kokura station. I was a little concerned about the estimated 10 min walk but one of the elevated covered pathways leading to the hotel has moving walkways which helped a bit. The area felt relatively safe and the room provided was also great. I recall reserving one of the lower rate rooms and from my booking app it wasn’t clear if there would be a view at all but I was provided with a floor 20+ floors up with a nice view of the station. As a train fan it was great to see the local and bullet trains coming to and from the station. As far as the room goes, it was very quiet. I may have heard some road noise or noise from another guest but it only happened maybe once or twice. I’d say 99% of the time I was in the room I could only hear myself. The room is not the most modern but it still exceeded my expectations. One nice touch I don’t regularly see in other hotels at similar price range is a cover for the mini fridge. I didn’t understand the reason for it at first but it was enough to drown out the annoying hum most of these appliances emit. If this is standard at all Rihga hotels I may consider this one of my new favorite chains. Check in and check out were also wonderful. No issues from the staff and they were very friendly and helpful. Another highlight from this hotel is the water pressure and shower wand. It’s quite strong and will give a little kick back at full strength. It’s not strong enough for an effective massage like a western hotel but it’s a step up from the usual water pressure from other Japanese hotels. For goods, there’s a smaller Family Mart on the first floor next to the check in lobby. It also has limited hours so keep that in mind. Worst case if you need something after 1030PM, there is a Lawson outside of the 2nd floor entry doors. Overall great stay for a great price. I would’ve liked softer pillows but everything else about this hotel made it more than worth it.

I stayed in this hotel for 2 nights. It's location is perfect, with a bridge connecting to the Jr station. So convenient to visit other places for sightseeing. The hotel seems to be the tallest building in the area so even my room isn't at higher floor the view is stunning. Room size is big in japan. Soundproofing is excellent and I enjoy the quiet moment inside my room. My room rate includes breakfast and I visited the restaurant at it's open time. Out of my surprise on the first day it is full of people with a queue outside. Having said that, I only waited for 3-5 minutes to be seated. All the other guests are polite. Food variety is ok but the choice is almost the same everyday. Still I enjoy the food and the quiet moment in my breakfast. I like the coffee, and enjoy making my udon. And not forget to mention the staff in the restaurant are nice and hardworking. Overall I appreciate to have the chance to stay in this hotel and I am satisfied. If I need to point out something I don't like, is the staff in the reception isn't really welcoming, and she just abruptly turn her back to me after giving me my room card. Another point is the shampoo and soap have too much fragrance and hardly find them in other japan hotels. Suggest to change to other brands