I honestly really, really enjoyed my stay at Nihon Seinenkan Hotel. I booked well in advance and managed to get a good price, so for me it was excellent value for money. The rooms were clean, the amenities were great, and the staff were incredibly friendly. Every time you pass reception to get to the lifts, they'll greet you with a smile, no matter the time of day.
The biggest highlight, though, was the location right next to Jingu Stadium. I actually got to watch baseball games directly from my window! What an experience. Seeing Japanese fans arrive at the stadium after work, or even travel from other parts of the country to support their team, was such an authentic Japanese experience and something I didn't expect when booking the hotel.
One thing to keep in mind is that game days can get quite busy around the hotel, especially in the subway, convenience stores and nearby restaurants. It didn't bother me at all, but I can see how it might be an issue for some people, particularly families with young children. The good thing is that the area is otherwise surprisingly quiet, and the crowds usually clear out by around 10 PM, so noise wasn't an issue for me.
In terms of location, Gaienmae Station is about a five-minute walk away. I walked to Harajuku in around 15 minutes and to Shibuya in roughly 30 minutes, which I did several times. Shinjuku is also within walking distance if, like me, you enjoy exploring a city on foot. There's a FamilyMart right downstairs, plus other 24/7 convenience stores nearby. For a wider choice of restaurants, you'll probably need to walk a little further.
Overall, I'd happily stay here again. It's a great option for solo travellers who want a comfortable base for exploring Tokyo, and especially for anyone who appreciates a unique experience beyond just having a place to sleep. Just remember to check the baseball schedule if you want to know what to expect during your stay!
