Ark Hotel Kumamotojomae  

Right in central Kumamoto, a short stroll from Sakura-no-baba Josaien, the Kumamoto Prefectural Traditional Crafts Centre, the Former Residence of Natsume Soseki and the Contemporary Art Museum. A practical base for sightseeing and city walks, with paid on-site parking for drivers.

222 air-conditioned rooms with a clean, modern vibe and simple comforts. Rooms include refrigerators, flat-screen TVs, desks, blackout curtains and private bathrooms with shower/tub combos and bidets; some rooms offer garden views and in-room slippers.

Free wired and wireless internet keeps you connected. Enjoy a massage room, 24-hour front desk, elevator access, laundry and dry-cleaning, currency exchange and a safe-deposit box. Self parking is available (fees apply) and a transfer service helps you get around.

On-site conference space and meeting rooms for events, plus complimentary high-speed wired internet and lobby newspapers for easy work-and-play days.

Two on-site restaurants serve guests, with buffet breakfast available daily for a fee. Plenty of nearby options add local flavor—think ramen and Sichuan-style Chinese restaurants just steps away.