GOOD
I chose this hotel as I've stayed in other hotels in their chain. The hotel itself has a great location in terms of travel to major sites and the neighbourhood is nice, with a 711 just 20 metres down the road.
Room is well designed, with the bed raised on a platform a great idea for putting your luggage underneath and not taking up valuable floor space.
Breakfast was tasty. I tried the Kanazawa Curry Toast.
BAD
The table is fixed to the ground and I couldn't find a height adjustment. I can imagine that mobility challenged people will struggle with getting in and out and not great for younger children.
Travelling for business, I arrived around 1240 and asked about early check in. After checking with cleaning staff, I was advised that rooms were available but that a 2*** yen/hr charge would apply. I figured that's OK and proceeded with check in but was shocked when I was charged 2*** for the 11 mins between 1249 and 1300 plus for between 1400-1500. I asked the staff, "Really? You're going to charge for 11 mins?" and he shrugged his shoulders.
I contacted Hoshino directly and raised a complaint but the answer was "We will train our staff better to explain the charges to our guests".
If you're travelling for business and expecting some flexibility here, then maybe another hotel is for you. I've advised our team in Japan to avoid this chain for future business trips.