Hamamatsu is a big business city, so there are plenty of business hotels, which means lots of good deals available for visitors. The Shizuoka-based Kuretake Inn chain has a number of hotels in the city, and for this one trip I decided to treat myself to their Premium location by the south exit of the station.
My single room was typically compact, big enough for a solo traveler with little luggage; the design was snazzy and modern, and I had the usual desk, TV and fridge, and a few hangers for my clothes. There's free Wi-Fi or wired internet if you bring your own cable, as I did. (They might have cables at reception; I didn't check.)
One of the reasons I chose this hotel was the public bathroom, particularly the sauna. This was very small – put more than four men in it, and they'll be getting to know each other very well – but satisfyingly hot and steamy, with relaxing classical music piped in to boot. (As my visit was during Covid, I emailed beforehand to check that the sauna was open, and received clear, helpful replies in English.)
Other selling points were the breakfast and evening 'welcome drink', both included in the room rate. The breakfast was a comprehensive buffet, offering a wide range of food, with some variation from one day to the next. Then from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm every day, guests can have one drink from a free bar, featuring beer, and a selection of Japanese and western spirits.
I really enjoyed my stay here! Despite the hotel being on the main road by the station, I could sleep well as my room wasn't facing the road; the breakfast set me up well for each day of sightseeing, and the drink and sauna helped me relax after I came back each evening.
