Ehime, Japan: REF Matsuyama City Station by Vessel Hotels

REF Matsuyama City Station by VESSEL HOTELS
5-2-2, Matsuyama, Matsuyama, Japan, 790-0012
Travel Date: March 2024, 2 nights

Location: In the center of Matsuyama City Station, which is the hub of local trains going to transfer stations in the JR line. Also, base for the tram heading to Dogo Onsen. Bus stops from other prefectures like Kochi or Hakata, etc. It is the same building as Takashimaya and the ferris wheel. There is a small underground market and a very long array of ground markets heading to Okaido. 

Check-in:  It's a self check-in hotel.  But the staff are very accommodating in helping me.  My booking is under my nickname which is not sync to my passport name, thus it needs manual intervention.

They offer welcome coffee at the pantry.  And you can take coffee where ever in the hotel.  Of course there are reminders that you should not use your own jugs to get coffee. 

In some reviews, guests are getting annoyed when the elevators stops at 2F for the reception area.  As for me, it doesn't matter,  it's a place to get your amenities, coffee and if you have clarifications or questions to the receptionist. 

Security:  Hotel door is locked between 1am-6am, you need to have your key card to unlock.  Also, when using the elevator, you will hold your keycard over the sensor and press the guest floor.

Room (1 X Business Single Room 10 to 15 sqm):

Nice and clean.  Good bed and they also offer a pillow bar.  It's like a modern hotel, well lit and has an air purifier.  

I like their water heater which is perfect for pouring coffee. 

Clothing hangers, but no more additional cabinets. 

Television has few digital channels with concerns from known artists.  Includes channels showcasing places to see in Dogo and Matsuyama. 

Even though the hotel is on top of the train station, it's sound proof ang you'll not be bothered by the outside noise. 

For the light packers, travellers can easily use the coin-operated washing and dryer machines at the laundry area. 

Entertainment: After a tiring day, I do appreciate their coin-operated body massager.  

There's also comic books area.  Thank you UCC for accompanying us during our stay. 

The hotel also offers bikes to use. 

Food:  I did not book for the breakfast meal in the hotel.  But don't fret, there is Doutor coffee at the ground floor, alongside with 7-eleven and steps away is Family Mart. 

I had sakura cake set meal during my visit. 

For my last night, I tried the ferris wheel at the top of the building.  Ticket is discounted when you are using JR All Shikoku Pass. 

You'll also see Matsuyama Castle as the top of the mountain. Which I also visited the next day. 

Recommendation:  Centrally located, highly recommended.