APA Hotel (APA Hotel) Erperience & info

History and Company Concept

APA Hotel (アパホテル) is one of the largest and most well-known business hotel chains in Japan. The name APA stands for "Always Pleasant Amenities" and reflects the company's concept of always providing pleasant amenities. The hotel chain was founded on April 1, 1988, and is headquartered in Akasaka, Tokyo ^[1]. Under the leadership of founder Toshio Motoya, APA Hotel has grown into one of the dominant forces in the Japanese hotel industry.

With more than 300 locations throughout Japan, APA Hotel has experienced impressive growth and has been expanding internationally since 2015, including to the USA and Canada. The brand is known for its standardized, compact rooms and its characteristic red and white logo, which can be seen on many buildings in Japanese cities.

The "New Urban Style" Concept

APA Hotel has made a name for itself with its "New Urban Style" concept, which is based on three main principles: high quality, high functionality, and environmental friendliness ^[2]. This concept is reflected in all aspects of the hotel design, from architecture to the smallest details of room amenities.

Eco-Friendly Concept

A distinctive feature of APA Hotels is their commitment to environmental friendliness. The chain relies on various measures to reduce its ecological footprint:

• Energy-saving LED lighting in all areas
• Water-saving fittings in bathrooms
• Reduced laundry service (towels are only changed upon request)
• Eco-friendly toiletries and reduced disposable products
• Energy-efficient air conditioning and heating systems

These measures not only contribute to environmental protection but also enable APA Hotel to reduce costs and offer competitive prices without compromising on quality.

Room Types and Facilities

APA Hotels are known for their compact yet functional rooms. The average room size is between 10-15 square meters, which may seem small by Western standards but is quite common in Japan, especially in cities. Despite the limited size, the rooms are cleverly designed to make optimal use of the available space.

Room Type	Typical Size	Special Features
Single Room	10-12 m²	Single bed, ideal for business travelers
Double Room	12-15 m²	Double bed, compact but comfortable
Twin Room	15-18 m²	Two single beds, slightly more spacious
Superior Room	18-22 m²	Larger room with additional amenities
Suite	25+ m²	Separate living and sleeping areas (only in selected hotels)

Standard Amenities in All Rooms

Despite the compact size, APA Hotels offer impressive amenities in every room:

• Beds: High-quality mattresses with the in-house "Cloud Fit" concept for optimal sleep comfort
• Bathroom: Compact units with bathtub and shower in one, high-quality toiletries
• Technology: Flat-screen TV, free high-speed Wi-Fi, individually controlled air conditioning
• Work area: Small desk with chair and good lighting
• Additional amenities: Kettle, tea and coffee making facilities, fridge, hair dryer, Yukata (Japanese cotton kimono)

A special feature of many APA Hotels is the availability of public baths (大浴場, daiyokujo) at selected locations, offering guests a traditional Japanese bathing experience – a welcome addition to the compact in-room bathrooms.

Locations and Availability

One of APA Hotel's greatest strengths is the strategic placement of its locations. Most hotels are located in close proximity to major train stations, business districts, and tourist attractions, making them especially attractive to business travelers and tourists.

Popular Locations in Tokyo

In Tokyo, APA Hotel's main market, you can find numerous locations in sought-after neighborhoods such as:

• Shinjuku: Several hotels near the busy station and the entertainment district Kabukicho
• Akihabara: Ideal for electronics and anime fans
• Ginza/Nihonbashi: Perfect for luxury shopping and business appointments
• Asakusa: Close to traditional sights like Senso-ji Temple
• Shibuya/Roppongi: Centrally located for nightlife and entertainment

Outside of Tokyo, APA Hotel is represented in almost all major Japanese cities, including Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Sapporo, and Fukuoka. The chain continues to expand and regularly opens new locations.

Pricing and Booking Options

APA Hotels position themselves in the mid-price segment of the Japanese hotel market. Prices vary depending on location, season, and room type but generally offer good value for money, especially for business travelers and budget-conscious tourists.

The average prices per night are between:

• Low season: 5,000-8,000 yen (approx. 30-50 euros) for a standard room
• High season: 8,000-15,000 yen (approx. 50-100 euros) for a standard room
• Premium locations/rooms: 15,000+ yen (approx. 100+ euros)

APA Hotel offers various booking options, including flexible rates and non-refundable discounted rates. The in-house loyalty program "APA Card" offers regular guests additional benefits such as discounts, upgrades, and special rates.

Booking Tips

For the best prices and availability at APA Hotels, you should note the following tips:

• Book early, especially during Japanese holiday periods (Golden Week, Obon, New Year's)
• Use the official APA Hotel website or app, which often offers exclusive deals
• Look for package deals that include breakfast or other extras
• Consider smoking rooms, which are often cheaper and more readily available (if you don’t mind smoke smell)
• Book longer stays, as many hotels offer discounts for multi-night bookings

Personal Experiences and Tips

As a frequent guest at various APA Hotels in Japan, I've collected some personal experiences and tips that could be useful for future visitors:

Advantages of APA Hotels

• Reliable standard: No matter which location you choose, you can expect a consistent quality standard
• Excellent location: Most hotels are located very close to public transport
• Good value for money: Especially for short stays or business trips
• Cleanliness: The rooms are cleaned daily and always spotless
• Technical equipment: Fast Wi-Fi and modern amenities in all rooms

Limitations to Consider

• Room sizes: The compact rooms may feel cramped for longer stays or several people with lots of luggage
• Standardization: Little local flair or individual decor
• Breakfast: The breakfast on offer is often quite basic; sometimes it’s worth eating out
• View: In urban areas, many rooms face nearby buildings or concrete walls

Practical Tips for Your Stay

To get the most out of your stay at an APA Hotel, keep the following tips in mind:

• Ask for a room on one of the upper floors for a better view and less street noise
• Use the public baths if available for a relaxing experience after a long day
• Bring your own toiletries if you have special preferences
• Use the storage space under the bed for suitcases to have more space in the room
• Ask reception for restaurant recommendations in the area – they often know good local places

Conclusion: Who Is APA Hotel Suited For?

APA Hotel is an excellent choice for certain types of travelers and purposes, while other travelers may be better suited to alternative accommodations.

Ideal for:

• Business travelers: The central location, reliable amenities, and efficient services make APA Hotels perfect for business trips
• Solo travelers: The compact rooms are optimally designed for individual travelers
• Short stays: For a few nights, the hotels offer everything you need without unnecessary luxury
• Budget-conscious travelers: Good value compared to other inner-city accommodations
• Travelers who value location: The strategic placement near stations and attractions saves time and transport costs

Less suitable for:

• Families with children: The limited space can be challenging for families
• Long-term stays: For stays of several weeks, apartment hotels may offer more comfort
• Travelers seeking local flair: The standardized decor offers little authentic Japanese atmosphere
• Luxury travelers: Those looking for extra luxury or extensive facilities should consider higher-priced options

Overall, APA Hotel offers a reliable, practical, and affordable accommodation option for travelers in Japan who value good location, cleanliness, and functionality. With its eco-friendly concept, consistent quality, and good value for money, APA Hotels have rightly established themselves as one of Japan's leading hotel chains.