Kobe Luminous Hotel Sannomiya — Hotel in Kobe

This hotel was actually pretty nice overall. The location is super convenient—about a 5-minute walk to Kobe Sannomiya Station if you know the way, and also really close to Daimaru department store, which was great. The room was spacious too, so it worked well for our family with kids.The only downside was our first impression. When we arrived in the morning, the woman at the front desk wasn’t friendly at all. We walked up, and she didn’t say a word, no greeting, no eye contact, nothing. I showed her our booking, she looked at it briefly and just started typing. I tried to hand her my passport, and all she said was, “No need.” That was literally the only thing she said. No info about check in time, luggage storage, nothing.It was a bit of a shock, especially since we’d just stayed at a hotel in Osaka (Mitsui Garden Hotel), where the staff were so warm and helpful. They asked what time we’d be back, helped us get a high floor room, and even had our bags waiting in the room. I don’t expect that everywhere, but at the very least, a quick hello would’ve been nice. It felt really out of place, especially in Japan where service is usually amazing.When we came back in the evening, a different staff member was on duty and they were much more friendly, what you’d typically expect in Japan.Aside from that one awkward moment, everything else about the stay was great. I’d definitely consider staying here again when we’re back in Kobe.P.S. The night staff even gave us a few packets of skincare goodies when we picked up...

This place is juuuuuust about qualified as being in Sannomiya. But don't be mistaken, this is not in the centre of things. It's definitely a little bit of a hike to anything but the Kaigan line subway which frankly is not connected to anything useful. The hotel is right beside a nice city park and there is a nearby entrance to the underground tunnel which connects you to the station and shopping complex of Sannomiya.

This is one of the few hotels left in the area which will leave you a bag of towels and amenities at the door if you put up the "do not disturb" sign. This used to be standard practice but apparently times have got tight because in the month I stayed in Japan this time, this was the only one of 6 hotels I found that still do it. So anyway I give bonus thumbs up for that.

There is a coin laundry and microwave room. The lift operates only by key card. The room is moderate in size and has a nice big bed, with a full-size bath. The amenities are on the cheap side, though.

The staff do need a bit of extra training as they barely have 2 words to say on check-in or check-out. (This is not a language issue; they didn't attempt to speak in any language.) I felt a bit like I was just a number to them, as there was no smile or thanks or friendly greeting. But fine, it wasn't a big deal overall.

This was the third time I stayed in this hotel and I found it pretty good each time. The only genuine downside is the location but it's a minor gripe. It's a good option...

Hotel is about 10 min walk from Sannomiya Seishin Yamate station easy connection to Shinkansen station at shin-Kobe. There’s an underpass that links to the shopping street. Very convenient especially in the cold winter. |About 15 min walk from the port liner. Not the nearest hotel but for the price, room size and quality, it’s value for money. |5 min walking distance to Daimaru department store. Lots of food and shopping nearby. |The twin room is large even has a sitting area for 2. New hotel environment with comfy beds but only 1 pillow. Double sides- one hard one soft. |The toilet has a large bath tub and modern toilet. The hotel lobby also has a selection of bath salts for you to enjoy soaking in your bath tub after a long day. Free water bottles for drinks too. |Only downside of amenities is the toothbrush is sooo hard! They should select a soft type. |Room cleaning is efficient and removed all trash. |Good hotel to choose when visiting Kobe. Walking distance to many attractions like Meriken park, even Kitano foreign district around 15-20min. |Lifts are too small though. Can only carry about 4-5 people with luggage each time. So prepare to leave early or you will wait a long time for lift...