Alexandra Ziminski

The Knot Hiroshima is a contemporary hotel in the heart of Hiroshima. It is very close to the main sights in Hiroshima and feels expensive without the price tag, although they do need to work on communication and banish their confusing token system. What’s the hotel like? The Knot Hiroshima is a stylish and modern hotel that will tick most travelers' boxes. The reception is on the top 14th floor, which is both a blessing and a curse. A blessing because you are treated to the beautiful landscape views while you check in, and a curse because if you come across any problems when leaving -- like this writer did -- you have to go all the way back up to the top. While the staff put on a friendly face, their English isn't as good as you might expect. There were a couple of issues when booking taxis and arranging room cleaning. What facilities does the hotel have? The hotel isn't overflowing with facilities, but it does have an excellent restaurant on the ground floor -- MORETHAN -- and a bar and lounge with an open-air terrace on the top -- Kei. They also have laundry facilities, as well as vending machines if you can't be bothered to go across the road to the convenience store. What makes this hotel quite unique, and a little bit frustrating, is that you have to use hotel-branded tokens instead of cash in the bar. Each drink or snack is a certain amount of tokens. You will receive two complimentary tokens on check-in, but you can always replenish your stash with cash. Is there anywhere to hang out in the hotel? While the top floor is a beautiful and relaxing place to hang out, you'll need to pay something akin to a service charge from 2 p.m. (two tokens that come with a snack). If you've run out, you can always hang out in your room -- there is a great desk to work at. What are the rooms like? The rooms are the highlight of the hotel: spacious, modern, and with great city views. The colors include muted greys and pastels, which create a chill and relaxing atmosphere. A desk, kettle, mini-fridge, and even pajamas are provided. How big are the rooms? Depending on what size you get, they can be very spacious. We stayed in a Superior King, and it was around 25m2 but some of the other rooms can be quite small -- but ultimately cheaper. Are the rooms comfortable? The beds are very wide and comfortable and you'll have two choices of pillows. There is a chaise longue just in front of the window that also provides a relaxing place to lie down. What's the view like? If your room includes a window that faces the main boulevard, then you are in for a treat. You'll be high enough that the noise doesn't disturb you, but you'll still get to spot the people of Hiroshima down below. Should I order the breakfast? Yes. Breakfast comes with most rooms and it is amazing quality. You'll get the option of two types of plates. One is usually a salad and the other includes a meat dish with eggs. They both come with soup and piping-hot doughy bread that are the best smell first thing in the morning. Breakfast is served at the aforementioned MORETHAN restaurant, or you can also choose to have your morning meal on the roof terrace when the weather is clear. What’s the location like? The location is ideal for being just outside of the action, but still feeling like you're in the middle of a city. How is the access to trains and subway? There is a tram and bus stop 1 minute from the hotel but not a train station. How do I get there from Hiroshima Station? The hotel isn't super close to Hiroshima Station -- around 15 minutes on public transport, so you'll either have to take a taxi for around or hop on the tram or bus (both ). What's the surrounding neighborhood like? The area is very peaceful and quiet in the evenings. Are there many good places to eat nearby? If you don't want to spend your time in the hotel's restaurant -- it can be quite expensive -- then choose one of the many Hiroshima okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake) places nearby. We went to Kohinata, which was small but reasonably priced. There are also plenty of other izakaya. What points of interest are within walking distance of the hotel? Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum (2-minute walk) Cruise boat from the Peace Park to Miyajima (7-minute walk) Atomic Bomb Dome (10-minute walk) Hiroshima Castle (20-minute walk) Shukkei-en Garden (30-minute walk, 15-minute bus) Who should stay here? This hotel is suitable for most needs. We saw families, couples, solo travelers, and business types. What sustainability measures do they have? The rooms do not provide amenities -- including coffee, toothbrushes, etc. -- but they have special amenity open-cupboards around the hotel where you can grab what you need. They also only do a deep room clean if you are staying more than 2 nights, but you may have to remind the front desk to do this. Tips and tricks for the best stay Go to the terrace and bar before 2 p.m. so you can get the view without paying the charge. Top tip: Save more when booking multiple nights.

Alexandra Ziminski

The Knot Hiroshima

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