REF Kumamoto by VESSEL HOTELS

Hotel Reff Kumamoto is located right inside the Shimotori Arcade, Kumamoto's main shopping and entertainment district. The moment you step outside, you're surrounded by tons of restaurants and shops. It’s great because you can enjoy dining and shopping late into the night and have the peace of mind that your hotel is just steps away. Plus, the tram station is right around the corner, making it super easy to get to Kumamoto Castle. If you want to really experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kumamoto, you honestly couldn't ask for a better location.

I’d recommend checking out Hotel Reff Kumamoto by Vessel Hotels. While the rooms, which blend a simple style with traditional Japanese elements, and the large public bath are great, the real highlight for me is the breakfast. They offer a buffet where you can enjoy local Kumamoto specialties like basashi (horse sashimi) and karashi renkon (lotus root with mustard) first thing in the morning. Of course, the location is also fantastic, making it a perfect base for sightseeing.

If you're looking to enjoy exploring Kumamoto on foot, I highly recommend Hotel Reff Kumamoto. It has a spacious public bath and an open-air bath (rotemburo), which is perfect for stretching out and relaxing after a long day of sightseeing. It's the best way to soothe your tired muscles from all the walking. Of course, it’s also conveniently located within walking distance of Kumamoto Castle and the main downtown area, so you can have the perfect evening—enjoy dinner out, then head back to the hotel for a long, relaxing soak in the big bath.

Located in Shimotori Arcade, Kumamoto's busiest shopping arcade, the hotel is just steps away from popular shops and restaurants. Of course, Kumamoto Castle is also within walking distance, making it convenient for sightseeing during the day. The breakfast buffet is also popular, offering a wide variety of delicious Kumamoto local cuisine.