Unbelievable Japan Hotel Deal: Marugame-Ekimae-Odori APA Hotel Steals the Show!
Unbelievable Japan Hotel Deal: Marugame-Ekimae-Odori APA Hotel - Or, How I Survived (and Maybe Thrived) on a Budget in Shikoku!
Okay, hold up. Let's talk about the APA Hotel Marugame-Ekimae-Odori, shall we? Because, honestly, I'm still processing it. I stumbled on this place while planning a budget trip to Shikoku, and the price… well, let's just say it was practically criminal. I'm talking, like, "steal-your-lunch-money-and-then-give-you-a-discount-on-a-futon" kind of cheap. This is my review:
Accessibility & Safety First (Because, You Know, Human Needs):
Right off the bat, accessibility was surprisingly decent. I saw elevators (thank GOD), which is a massive win for a clumsy traveler like myself. Information on full wheelchair accessibility is lacking, but the lobby appeared easy to navigate so it is a win. Cleanliness? HUGE. The APA is a maniac about cleanliness. We're talking "daily disinfection in common areas" kind of maniac. And hey, even the rooms get sanitized between stays? Wow! The "Anti-viral cleaning products" make you feel safe. They also have hand sanitizers EVERYWHERE. Plus, the staff is "trained in safety protocol," which is reassuring, even if I didn't see them practicing the Heimlich maneuver.
The "Cashless payment service" may be a little confusing at first, but hey, Japan is embracing the future! Another aspect: "Physical distancing of at least 1 meter".
Rooms: Small, But Mighty (and Surprisingly Cozy!)
Okay, let’s be honest. The rooms are compact. Like, "can-reach-the-fridge-from-the-bed" compact. But here's the thing: they're smart. They've packed everything you need into that tiny space. A super-efficient bathroom, a comfortable bed, and surprisingly decent Wi-Fi – Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! – which, let’s be real, is practically a lifeline in the modern age. There is "complimentary tea" and "free bottled water". You can have views from a "high floor"! I used the "wake-up service" -- it worked. And I do appreciate a good "blackout curtains", because the "reading light" is also available! Now I love that you can open a "window that opens!".
My biggest room issue? The walls, probably. They're thin. I mean, I knew what my neighbor's morning cough sounded like. It was a sound of a thousand battles and a rough night. So in the morning I could have some "coffee/tea maker" in a room. I loved it.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: The Culinary Adventure (or, Lack Thereof):
Food wise…..here is where things get… interesting. Okay, the "Asian breakfast" option, the "Buffet in restaurant" option… they were there. But, let's say, the culinary landscape was… efficient. The "Asian cuisine in restaurant" wasn't mind-blowing, but you could certainly get your fill. They had a "bottle of water" near you, and a "salad". If you're looking to expand your culinary horizons, explore Marugame itself. There is a bar!
My experience? I mostly relied on the 24-hour "convenience store" down the street. Which brings me to the snack bar. In the hotel. It was perfect.
Services & Conveniences: Efficiency is King (and Queen!)
This hotel runs on efficiency. "Daily housekeeping" keeps things spotless. The "Concierge" was always helpful, even if he looked a little bewildered by my attempts to speak Japanese. "Luggage storage" was a lifesaver when I arrived early. The "Laundry service" was a godsend. They have a "gift/souvenir shop" and "currency exchange".
"Elevator"? A must.
My Favorite Convenience? The "Contactless check-in/out." Total game changer. After a brutal flight, it was the easiest way to avoid human interaction. I just needed the key, then I was good to go!
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Limited, But Focused
Alright, the "spa" is not a luxurious experience. There is a "fitness center", and a "sauna". Otherwise, it's a "spa/sauna" so don't expect a tranquil oasis. I did, however, love the "foot bath"!
Getting Around: Easy Peasy
The location is amazing. It's right near the station, making it easy to explore Shikoku by train. "Airport transfer" is available, but I didn't use it. They also have a "car park [free of charge]"!
For the Kids (or, You Know, Not Really):
"Babysitting service"? "Kids meal"? Nope. Let's just say the APA Hotel is not exactly designed for little adventurers.
In conclusion: Did I love it? Was it a splurge?
No. Did I enjoy it? Absolutely! The APA Hotel Marugame-Ekimae-Odori is not luxurious. It's not the Four Seasons. But it's clean, efficient, and unbelievably affordable. It's a perfect home base for exploring Shikoku on a budget.
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Okay, buckle up buttercups. We're going to Japan. Specifically, that concrete block they call an APA Hotel in Marugame, right next to the station. Let's be honest, it's not the Ritz, but hey, it's Japan. And I'll tell you what, the sheer act of existing in Japan is enough of a sensory overload to make up for any lack of chandelier-swinging glamour. This is going to be a wild ride, so hold on tight.
APA Hotel Marugame-Ekimae-Odori: My (MESSY) Itinerary - AKA Survive and Thrive in the Land of the Rising Sun (and Tiny Hotel Rooms)
Pre-Trip Panic (and Pack-athon):
- Weeks Before: Okay, let's just say I may or may not have spent three straight nights watching YouTube videos on how to survive Tokyo. Surviving a theme park, surviving rush hour, surviving the vending machines… Are we going to war?! Honestly, the planning stage is the most anxiety-inducing part. Packing? Don't even get me started. I'm a chronic over-packer. My suitcase is currently a chaotic vortex of "might need this someday" and "definitely don't understand how to roll clothes properly."
- Days Before: Panic levels rise. Currency exchange? Check. Pocket Wi-Fi sorted? Check. The absolute terror that I'll somehow forget my passport? Ongoing. Frequent, panicked checks of the passport location. Note to self: Buy one of those neck wallets. Look like a total dork, but at least you'll remember the darn thing!
Day 1: Arrival - Oh, the Intricacies of Japanese Toilets!
- Morning: Arrived. Exhausted. Jet lag is a cruel mistress. The flight was…long. I spent about seven hours staring at the back on a tiny seat. I felt like if someone touched me I would have fallen to the ground. The airport was an experience in itself. So many people, so many Japanese! I love Japanese.
- Afternoon: Train to Marugame. That's a whole other story, but for now… the APA Hotel. Okay, the room. It's… compact. Let's call it cozy. Cramped. Tiny. But clean! And the view… is of another building. But the toilet! Oh, the toilet. Heated seat? Check. Bidet? Check. A whole control panel of buttons I couldn't decipher? Double-check. I spent a good ten minutes just staring at it, terrified of accidentally launching myself into orbit. The Japanese are geniuses, and I’m a Neanderthal.
- Evening: Found some local udon (noodle) place. AMAZING. Like, legitimately the best noodles I've ever had. I had some weird issue with the menu, but the lady pointed at a picture and I just went with it. That's the spirit of this trip, I reckon. Now, the real question… How long can I fight off sleep before collapsing?
Day 2: Marugame Castle and Humble Beginnings of Enlightenment
- Morning: Marugame Castle! It's… cool. Smaller than I expected, but the stone walls are impressive. It was a beautiful day and the views were to die for. Did some photo taking. Some light exercise. I'm not going to lie, I was exhausted after a bit. My legs are definitely not used to this.
- Afternoon: Walked around and decided to explore the shops, and maybe eat again. I'm always hungry. Found a tiny tea shop. The tea was amazing and relaxing. I started to feel less stressed, more present. It was kind of… inspiring! Is that what it's like to be enlightened? Probably not, but it was nice to take it easy.
- Evening: Attempted to find a restaurant. I failed. But the people are so polite in Japan! I even used some Japanese, and I'm really bad at it, and everyone was super nice and helpful. I found a small place, sat down, ordered some food, and ate everything.
Day 3: Naoshima Island - Art, Air Conditioning, and Almost Dying of Meltdown.
- Morning: Travel to Naoshima Island! This was the thing I was most excited about. The ferry was fine, calm, and the views fantastic. Got to Naoshima Island, and started our day with the Chichu Art Museum. The art was incredible, but the air conditioning was even more impressive. I want to live there.
- Afternoon: This is where things got interesting. We went outside to see the Benesse House, which looked great. The area was more open air, and the heat was killer. I felt like I was going to die. No air conditioning. Walking. Heat. The sun. And no water! The vending machines were a lifesaver. I looked at everyone with pure envy.
- Evening: Back to Marugame, exhausted, sunburnt, and slightly traumatized. The heat was intense. I needed some relaxing, so I found a small local bar. Some local people kept trying to talk to me, but all I could remember were the basic phrases from my terrible Japanese skills. We made it work though. It was a great conclusion to a very crazy day.
Day 4: Marugame's Last Stand (and Souvenir Shopping)
- Morning: Final breakfast. The breakfast buffet at the APA was actually pretty decent, considering. But my mind was still on the toilet, the room, and the bed.
- Afternoon: Souvenir shopping. I need gifts! I went to the local market and went wild! Found some great stuff, but also got lost in the labyrinthine aisles and almost punched something. It was all worth it though.
- Evening: One last udon dinner. Reflecting on the trip. What a rollercoaster!. From the terrifying toilet, to the beauty of the art, and the heat. It's been an experience. I didn't expect any of it. Tomorrow, it's back on the train.
Day 5: Departure - Homeward Bound (and Jet Lag Re-Enter)
- Morning: Last glimpse of the APA Hotel. Goodbye tiny room! Goodbye weird toilet! Back to reality. The train ride to the airport… Long.
- Afternoon: Flight home. The long flight. The movies. The food. And the inevitable post-travel blues.
- Evening: Home, and tired.
Concluding Thoughts (and More Rambling):
Japan is a paradox. It's exhausting and exhilarating, confusing and captivating, tiny and overwhelming. Staying at an APA Hotel in Marugame is a vibe. I am very, very glad I did it. The trip wasn't perfect. I messed up directions, ate things I couldn't identify, and probably offended someone at some point. But this is my adventure! And I'm grateful. I'll always have a story about the Japanese toilets.
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OMG! The Marugame APA Hotel Deal – You MUST Hear About This Mess!
Okay, spill the beans! What's this "steal" everyone keeps raving about?
Alright, alright, settle down, people! It's the Marugame-Ekimae-Odori APA Hotel, and frankly, the deal's bonkers. Think… ridiculously cheap. Like, "spent more on my ramen last night" cheap. I saw someone post, "Basically, they're paying *you* to stay there, you're just covering the laundry." (Okay, maybe a slight exaggeration… but you get the drift.) Seriously, it’s a ridiculously good deal, making it the perfect launchpad for all sorts of adventures!
Is it… actually *comfortable* though? Because, you know… cheap hotels often have questionable charm.
Look, I have to be brutally honest. APA hotels in general – well, they're efficient. Think "capsule hotel, but with a slightly larger capsule." The rooms are… compact. Very, very Japanese compact. You'll be intimately acquainted with the walls. My first thought on stepping inside? "Alright, let's Tetris this luggage situation." The bathroom? Tiny, but functional. But, and this is a big BUT: it's clean. Spotlessly, obsessively clean. And for the price? You can't complain. (Unless you’re a giant. Then, well, good luck.)
Anecdote time! One time, I dropped a coin and spent a solid ten minutes crouched on the floor, inspecting every nook and cranny, searching for it. Found it! ...And realized I could STILL see the hotel floor from the window! The room was small, but hey - it was mine!
What's the *catch*? There's *always* a catch, right?
Okay, yes, there's *some kind of* catch. Mostly, it's the *experience* of a budget hotel. You're not getting luxury. You're getting a clean, efficient space to crash after a long day of exploring. Also, as I mentioned, the rooms are small. And you might not have room to swing a cat (not that I condone swinging cats!). Also, the breakfast *might* be basic. Think “bread, jam, and maybe some questionable scrambled eggs" basic. But honestly, for the price, it's hard to be picky. You’re basically renting a bed for almost nothing!
Here's a real-world example: I booked a room, expecting the breakfast buffet. Nope. Just a sad little selection. Did I die? No! I went to the Lawson across the street for some onigiri and a delicious iced coffee. Problem solved!
Is the location any good? Is it near anything interesting?
The "Ekimae-Odori" part in its name? That means "in front of the station road.” Which in itself is great! It's literally right by the Marugame Station. Super convenient for getting around. You can easily explore regional destinations like Kan-onji City and beyond. Marugame is a fairly quiet, relaxed town, perfect for getting away from the hustle & bustle of the bigger cities.
Alright, let's say I'm sold. How do I actually *book* this miracle of a hotel room?
Good question! Check the usual suspects: Booking.com, Agoda, and the APA Hotel website itself. Keep an eye out for deals, especially during off-peak seasons. And be flexible with your dates! That's the key to snagging the best prices. The last time I checked it was only a few clicks! Seriously, it's almost too easy.
Is there parking? Because I'm thinking of renting a car.
Yes, there is parking, BUT plan ahead. Space can be limited, and parking fees are usually separate. Check the hotel's website or contact them directly to confirm availability and cost. Driving in Japan can also be a bit… *interesting*. Narrow roads, occasional crazy drivers (sorry, Japan!), and sometimes confusing signage. But hey, it adds to the adventure, right? Just be prepared!
What about other amenities? Like, is there Wi-Fi? And what about a laundry service?
Yes, yes, and maybe! Wi-Fi? Pretty much standard these days, and, thankfully, it's usually free (and works!). Laundry service? Check their website for details, or ask at the front desk. Sometimes they have a self-service laundry room. (Pro tip: always pack a small bottle of detergent. Trust me.)
Okay, okay… but what was the *weirdest* thing about staying there? Come on, give me the juicy stuff!
Oh, you want the *weird* stuff, do you? Alright, buckle up. For me, it was the vending machines. They're EVERYWHERE in Japan, right? And APA Hotels are no exception. But the sheer variety and the sheer temptation… You’re talking about a whole hallway dedicated to sugary drinks. The hotel had some machines near the elevator. The combination of jet lag, exhaustion, and the siren call of those sugary concoctions…I spent a small fortune (at least, a lot for me) on random drinks I didn’t even particularly *want*. The point is: be prepared for vending machine madness. And maybe pack your own healthy snacks, just in case.
Is it *really* worth it? Would you stay there again?
HECK YES! For the price and the location, *absolutely*. It's not going to be the most luxurious vacation ever. You're not going to be pampered. But it's clean, it's convenient, and it's so, so cheap. If you're on a budget and you want to experience Japan, the Marugame-Ekimae-Odori APA Hotel is a total winner. Plus, with the money you save on your hotel, you can spend more on delicious street food, quirky souvenirs, and, yes, more vending machine treats.
Look, I'm not going to lie, I've whined and moaned about a few things while I was there. But I'd go back in a heartbeat. Just, youHotel Finder Reviews
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