rulalenzka

Hi
Im plannning a trip in May for me and my 70 yr old mom. I've been to japan twice for business but not for 7 years. I stayed at the Okura and loved it but want to try somewhere new (to me). Where do you suggest we stay for max $350/night? We want a great location vis a vis sights, subway stations and street interest. A great staff is important. I like modern design if possible and not a place with a noise problem. Also looking for hotel suggestions in Matsue, Kanazawa and my last night- in Osaka. Thanks

laurieco

I stayed at the Mansions at Roppongi 3 years ago and absolutely loved it. It's now owned by Oakwood but it's the same place, an apartment hotel. In fact, we're going back to Japan in March/April and will be staying there again.

http://www.oakwood.com/serviced-apar...howDetail.html

KimJapan

For a start, so you can see how many options there really are for under $350.00/night, try using expedia.com...just for an idea.

For modern design and great service, somewhere like the Conrad or Mandarin Oriental would be great. For service, the Four Seasons (either one) is well known for great service.

Is your last night in Osaka just for the airport? If so, it's not necessary, as even in Osaka you are a good hour from KIX, and the airport train, Haruka, does not stop in Osaka Station. It does begin in Kyoto, so you'd be fine there. If in Osaka, the limousine bus is the best option to the airport, as the trains from Osaka station are slower and more crowded and most lack luggage space.

rulalenzka

Thanks Kim,
I did check expedia and other sites which is why Im asking. There are too many choices! Four seasons and mandarin are over $350. Last night in osaka is b/c we fly out of Itami airport ( not KIX). Its an 8AM flight so I wanted to be as close as possibe.

mrwunrfl

In Matsue I stayed that the Hotel Ichibata. It is in the city and faces the bay (or maybe it is a lake: Shinjiko). Nice enough hotel but a bit over-priced. The single room they gave me was tiny with no light. I complained and was given a double-double room with a view from the back of the hotel. Get a room with a view of the water, if you can, and watch the shinjimi fisherman in the morning.

I suppose you know that Matsue is near Izumo Taisha which is a big draw for weddings. The Ichibata is a tourist hotel and it caters to the wedding-goers. Had a very good Japanese dinner at the Japanese restaurant there, but breakfast there was not very good. Had Australian beef at the other restaurant; this was just ok.

Ichibata has an onsen bath.

You should look around a bit more for a place to stay in Matsue. Ichibata will do but you might be able to find a nice ryokan or other place with a more local flavor.

Matsue has a marvelous little castle. In the small building in front of the castle there is a lady who can give you a guided tour in English.

Matsue was the home of Lafcadio Hearn, so you might want to read his book "Kokoro" and you can see some of the sites related to his life.

Going to Izumo Taisha from Matsue is well worth the short trip.

mrwunrfl

btw, Rula, I love the red hair, must be the VO5

rulalenzka

I love when people recognize rula!
Do you think matsue is worth the troubke of getting there? I'll be coming bytrain from kanazawa.

mrwunrfl

I think it is worth the trouble to get to Matsue and visit there and Izumo Taisha.

I.T. was a place where a big western guy sticks out, so that when I was waiting for the bus from Izumo station that morning a police officer asked to see my passport. Maybe he thought I was a Russian sailor who jumped ship. Getting stopped for ID in Tokyo or Kyoto is not likely, and I tell the story just to emphasize that the area is remote - a good thing, imo.

If you like pottery, or more of the San-in region, then continue down the coast to Hagi.

mrwunrfl

I really need to take some time to explain things in my posts (e.g. in the thread about driving in Kanazawa where my one post was a bit cryptic). I'll have to add to this thread, later.