Lonely Planet Review

A family-owned business, small and personal. The hotel is centrally located in a covered shopping arcade parallel to the river, near Canal City and just across the river from Nakasu island's bustling night scene. The best rooms overlook the river Hakata-gawa.

Only a stone's throw from Canal City's glitzy attractions, this laid-back riverside hideaway resembles a European pension. It's small, low-key and within striking distance of Fukuoka's lively after-dark action. A street-level bistro off the small lobby rounds out the international feel. There are no non-smoking rooms, though the building doesn't suffer from it as do many business hotels. However, of the 18 rooms, only the four rooms overlooking the river can truly be recommended. Stick to these; the others are dark and cramped in comparison. While you're there, take a walk along the narrow lane that follows the river to Hakata Bay.