Travel Japanese 5 - Staying at Hotels Part 2

Staying at Hotels: Part 2 ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All
Rights Reserved. ホテルに泊まる② と Travel Japanese 05

Traveler's Insights 1/2 UNIQUE & QUIRKY HOTELS IN JAPAN ©2024
27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Did you know that Japan is home to a hotel staffed by robots, a capsule-sized bed experience, and even an entire lodging built around art or pop culture themes? Whether you’re an adventurous traveler in search of novelty or simply curious about Japan’s extraordinary hospitality, these hotels promise far more than just a place to sleep—they deliver an unforgettable experience. Image: Wikimedia Commons (n.d.)

Traveler's Insights 1/2 ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
Opened in 2015, Hen na Hotel (変なホテル) was recognized by Guinness World Records in 2016 as “the first hotel staffed by robots.” The reception features multilingual robot concierges for check-in and check-out, while a robotic arm in the cloakroom stores your luggage. Guests can enter their rooms via face recognition —no need for keys! Some locations even offer VR attractions and projection mapping. Although “hen” (変) often means “strange,” here it signifies “change,” reflecting the hotel’s commitment to continuous evolution. Image: Wikimedia Commons (n.d.)

One night, two guests, an astonishing 1.2 million yen (tax
excluded)! Traveler's Insights 1/2 ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Ozu Castle (大洲城), located in Ehime Prefecture, is Japan’s first lodging facility that allows guests to stay inside a completely reconstructed castle keep. More than just an overnight stay, it offers immersive programs in the surrounding castle town, where you can truly feel like a feudal lord. From entering the castle with historical reenactments to enjoying local culinary delights, every aspect has been meticulously crafted to recreate the authentic atmosphere of old Japan. Image: Wikimedia Commons (n.d.)

Image: MANGA ART HOTEL(n.d.) MANGA ART HOTEL is a concept capsule hotel that immerses guests in the world of Japanese manga. Designed for both enthusiasts and newcomers, it offers a unique opportunity to experience Japan's rich manga culture firsthand. There are two MANGA ART HOTEL locations in Tokyo: MANGA ART HOTEL, TOKYO: Capsule- style bunk beds with separate floors for men and women. MANGA ART HOTEL, BAKUROCHO: Private rooms occupying an entire floor.

御三家ごさんけ go san ke Traveler's Insights 1/2
Extra Tips ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Imperial Hotel Tokyo 01 02 The Okura Tokyo 03 Hotel New Otani Tokyo Experience Japan’s Elite Hospitality: The Legendary "Hotel Gosanke" In Japan, there are three famous hotels with tradition and prestige, known as the “Gosanke (御三家) ” hotels. The term "Hotel Gosanke" was coined during Japan's economic boom from the 1960s to the 1980s, when these three iconic hotels were selected by Ministry of Foreign Affairs to host world leaders and dignitaries during the Tokyo Summit. Since then, they have continued to set the standard for Japanese omotenashi - unparalleled hospitality that combines elegance, precision and warmth. ホテル ho te ru

HISTORY The Imperial Hotel was founded in 1890 by Kihachiro
Okura and Eiichi Shibusawa. Shibusawa later became the first chairman of the hotel, and his portrait was chosen for the new 10,000 yen bill that appeared in July 2024. HOTEL WEDDING The hotel wedding tradition—where both the ceremony and reception are held in the same hotel— first began in Japan at the Imperial Hotel. ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. 01 Imperial Hotel Tokyo / 帝国ホテル東京 Traveler's Insights 1/2 Extra Tips tei koku tokyo ていこくとうきょう ho te ru Image: Wikimedia Commons (n.d.)

FAMOUS GUESTS Over the years, this prestigious hotel has welcomed
numerous renowned guests, including Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe, comedy legend Charlie Chaplin, and Helen Keller. VIKING CUISINE Did you know that Japan’s famous “Viking” buffet- style dining originated here? Inspired by Scandinavian smorgasbord-style dining, this all-you- can-eat concept was introduced by the Imperial Hotel in 1958 and has since become a staple in Japanese dining culture. ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. 01 Imperial Hotel Tokyo / 帝国ホテル東京 Traveler's Insights 1/2 Extra Tips tei koku tokyo ていこくとうきょう ho te ru Image: Wikimedia Commons (n.d.)

HISTORY The Okura Tokyo was founded in 1962 by Kishichiro
Okura (1882–1963). Having studied at Cambridge University, Kishichiro envisioned a hotel that blended Japanese aesthetics with world-class hospitality. Under his leadership, President Iwaichiro Noda (1897–1988) helped bring this vision to life. Noda emphasized Japan’s traditions, culture, and hospitality spirit, focusing on "harmony and kindness" in service. The hotel’s design embraced understated elegance, inspired by Heian-era aesthetics. Today, The Okura Tokyo continues to honor its founders' vision, seamlessly merging tradition and innovation. ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. 02 The Okura Tokyo / オークラ東京 Traveler's Insights 1/2 Extra Tips okura tokyo とうきょう Image: Wikimedia Commons (n.d.)

FAMOUS GUESTS Throughout its history, The Okura Tokyo has hosted
numerous dignitaries, including U.S. presidents and European royalty, solidifying its reputation as a preferred destination for world leaders. JAPANESE BEAUTY The Okura Tokyo reflects Japanese aesthetics through its design, lighting, and atmosphere, preserving tradition while embracing modernity. For example, the Heritage Wing Lobby (pictured on the left) features a wall mural inspired by the Heian-era Thirty-Six Poets Anthology. ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. 02 The Okura Tokyo / オークラ東京 Traveler's Insights 1/2 Extra Tips okura tokyo とうきょう Image: Wikimedia Commons (n.d.)

HISTORY Hotel New Otani opened in 1964 in Tokyo,
originally built to accommodate the influx of international guests for the Tokyo Olympics. The project was led by Yonetaro Otani, a businessman who envisioned a world-class hotel showcasing Japanese hospitality. G7 HOST Since its establishment, Hotel New Otani has gained recognition for its excellent facilities and hospitality. It was selected as the main venue for the Tokyo Summit three times, in 1979, 1986, and 1993. The left photo shows British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher’s visit. ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. 03 Hotel New Otani Tokyo / ホテルニューオータニ東京 Traveler's Insights 1/2 Extra Tips とうきょう Hoteru 　　　Nyu　　　　　Otani 　　　Tokyo Image: Wikimedia Commons (n.d.)

HISTORY OF THE GARDEN The Japanese garden of Hotel New
Otani has over 400 years of history. It was once the residence of samurai Kato Kiyomasa, then the Ii family, who played key roles in the Edo shogunate. In the late 19th century, it was acquired by the Fushimi-no-miya family and became known for its beauty. After World War II, the estate was at risk of being sold to foreign investors. However, Yonetaro Otani, the founder of Hotel New Otani, purchased the land to preserve its historical significance and personally led its restoration. Today, the garden remains a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city, preserving Edo-period aesthetics while adapting to modern developments. 03 Traveler's Insights 1/2 Extra Tips Hotel New Otani Tokyo / ホテルニューオータニ東京とうきょう Hoteru 　　　Nyu　　　　　Otani 　　　Tokyo ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Image: Wikimedia Commons (n.d.)

Question You are at the hotel and need to iron
your clothes. What would you say to ask if an iron is available? A A B B ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Airon ikuradesuka? アイロンはありますか？ Airon wa arimasu ka? アイロンいくらですか？

Question You are at the hotel and need to iron
your clothes. What would you say to ask if an iron is available? A A ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. アイロンいくらですか？ Airon ikuradesuka? B B アイロンはありますか？ answer Airon wa arimasu ka?

Traveler's Phrases 1/2 アイロンは　ありますか Airon wa arimasu ka Do you
have an iron? MEANING This phrase means "Do you have an iron?" or "Is there an iron available? The structure follows a simple Noun + ありますか？ pattern, which is commonly used to ask whether something exists or is available. STRUCTURE アイロン (airon) = "iron" (a loanword from English) は (wa) = topic marker あります (arimasu) = "to exist" / "to have" (used for inanimate objects) か (ka) = question particle (used to turn the sentence into a question) ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. ★ The particle "は" can be omitted and the meaning will still be understood. E.g.「アイロンありますか」

Traveler's Phrases 1/2 Practice ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights
Reserved. じゅうでんき judenki Charger シャトルバス shatorubasu Shuttle bus ドライヤー doraiya hair dryer Let's ask if what you want is available! ameniti amenity goods koin randori laundromat ＿＿＿は　ありますか　　 _____　　 wa　　 arimasu ka Do you have ＿＿＿? / Is there ＿＿＿? アメニティコインランドリー

Traveler's Phrases 1/2 Extra Tips ただいまかしだしちゅうです Immediate Availability: Yes,
we have it. はい、ございます Hai, gozaimasu I will bring it to you right away. すぐにおもちします Sugu ni omochi shimasu 〇〇 is not available. 〇〇はございません〇〇 wa gozai masen. It is currently checked out. Tadaima kashidashi chu desu Please let me check. かくにんいたします Kakunin itashimasu. Please wait a moment. Shosho omachi kudasai ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. COMMON RESPONSES YOU MIGHT HEAR When you say "arimasuka", here are some typical responses. If they do not have: If they need to check: しょうしょうおまちください

Traveler's Phrases 1/2 Role Play Role Play You are staying
at a hotel.　 Suddenly, you realize you need the following items. Go to the front desk and ask if they have them. Blanket Umbrella Humidifier ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. mofu もうふかさ Kasa Kashitsuki かしつき

Traveler's Insights 2/2 ♨温泉 "Nippon no Onsen 100 Sen" (Japan's
Top 100 Hot Springs) is an annual ranking published by the Kanko Keizai Shimbun, a prominent Japanese travel newspaper. Each year, travel professionals from agencies across Japan vote for their favorite hot springs. Here are the top three hot springs for the 2024 ranking. ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. おん　　せん on sen Holding the top spot for an impressive 22 consecutive years, Kusatsu Onsen (草津温泉) is famous for having Japan's largest natural spring water volume. Its water is strongly acidic, known for excellent antibacterial properties. A unique local tradition, "Yumomi," involves rhythmically stirring the hot water with large paddles to cool it without diluting its beneficial minerals. Kusatsu Onsen, Gunma

Gero Onsen (下呂温泉), known as one of the "Three Famous Hot Springs of Japan," is celebrated for its silky-smooth alkaline water. Visitors particularly enjoy its subtle sulfur aroma and luxurious texture, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. Gero Onsen, Gifu Dogo Onsen (道後温泉), renowned as one of Japan’s three oldest hot springs, features gentle alkaline water that is kind to the skin. This historic hot spring town is famously depicted in Natsume Soseki’s novel "Botchan" and remains a beloved destination for its charm and literary connections. Dogo Onsen, Ehime

Traveler's Insights 2/2 Extra Tips LAUNDROMATS IN JAPAN: HOW THEY
WORK In Japan, self-service laundromats are commonly called “コインランドリー” (koin randori). They’re found all over the country and are often open 24/7 — perfect for travelers, long-term visitors, or anyone who needs a quick and easy way to do laundry. WHERE CAN I FIND IT? In hotels, コインランドリー may be on guest room floors, near the front desk, or inside the public bath area. Some hotels don’t have them — if so, search “コインランドリー” on Google Maps. Stores with signs that say “クリーニング (kuriningu)” are usually dry cleaners, not self-service laundromats. They often require a few days to clean your clothes! ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. How to use laundromats Your Quick Guide to Stress-Free Laundry on the Go

Traveler's Insights 2/2 Extra Tips PREPARE COINS & DETERGENT First,
please check the price on the machine (usually ¥100–¥500), and make sure to bring enough ¥100 coins. Also, you should look for a label like “洗剤自動投入 (せんざいじどうとうにゅう: automatic detergent added)” — if this is shown, there’s no need to bring detergent. If detergent is required, you can bring your own or purchase a one-time-use pack at a vending machine, convenience store, or drugstore nearby. HOTEL LAUNDRY TIP Hotel コインランドリー are often busy in the evening. If you're staying multiple nights, try doing laundry in the morning or early afternoon for a smoother experience. ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Photo:Lion (2020) Using the Washing Machine

USING THE DRYER Some machines in Japan are washer-dryer combos,
but many places have separate machines for washing and drying. Once your laundry is done, make sure to remove it promptly and transfer it to the dryer, so the machine is free for the next person. DRYING TIPS Only put in clothes that are dryer-safe Load items one by one (don’t overload!) Insert coins and press start Drying time and cost vary by machine, so check the label first. Moreover, dryers are for washed clothes only — don’t use them for wet shoes or soaked items from the rain! Traveler's Insights 2/2 Extra Tips ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. How to use the Dryer Photo:Lion (2020)

Question You are staying at a hotel and want to
know what time breakfast is served. What would you ask in Japanese? ちょうしょくなんじですか A A B B ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Choshoku nanji desu ka? ちょうしょくなんですか Choshoku nandesuka?

Question You are staying at a hotel and want to
know what time breakfast is served. What would you ask in Japanese? B B ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. ちょうしょくなんですか Choshoku nandesuka? Choshoku nanji desu ka? ちょうしょくなんじですか A A answer

Traveler's Phrases 2/2 ちょうしょくはなんじですか The structure for asking
about the time of something is: [Noun] + なんじですかちょうしょく (Choshoku) = breakfast (subject) は marks "ちょうしょく" as the topic of the sentence. なんじ (Nanji) = what time (question word for time) ですか (Desu ka) = polite question marker What time is breakfast? MEANING This phrase means "What time is breakfast?". "なんじですか" (nanji desu ka) is typically used when you want to inquire about the time of an event, the time of day, or when something happens. STRUCTURE ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. 　　　　　Choshoku　　　　　wa　　 nanji　　　　 desuka? ★ The particle "は" can be omitted and the meaning will still be understood. For example: 「ちょうしょくなんじですか。」

Traveler's Phrases 2/2 Practice ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All Rights
Reserved. せいそう Seiso Cleaning ゆうしょく Yushoku Dinner ラストオーダー Rasuto oda Last order Ask the time of anything you like! シャトルバス Shatoru basu Shuttle bus チェックアウト Chiekku auto Checkout ＿＿＿はなんじですか　　 _____　　 wa　 nanji desuka? What time is _____?

Traveler's Phrases 2/2 Extra Tips ©2024 27th Co., Ltd. All
Rights Reserved. The 24-hour clock is very common in Japan. While it is mostly prefered in official/public settings in other countries (stations, airports, military etc), Japanese people very often use the 24-hour clock in daily occasions, too. We don’t use “ごぜん” or “ごご” in the 24-hour format; expressions like “ごぜん19じ” are not correct.

Traveler's Phrases 1/2 Role Play Role Play ©2024 27th Co.,
Ltd. All Rights Reserved. A (Guest): Ask the front desk if the hotel offers dinner. Ask what time dinner is served. B (Front Desk Clerk): Confirm that the hotel offers dinner. Provide the time when dinner is served (6:00 PM). A (Guest): Ask if the hotel provides a shuttle bus. Ask for the departure time of the shuttle bus. B (Front Desk Clerk): Confirm that the hotel has a shuttle bus. Provide the time when the shuttle bus departs (8:30 AM). Situation 1: Asking About Dinner Situation 2: Asking About a Shuttle Bus Let's decide on roles between you and the tutor, then practice the role play based on the following situations.

Q&A AND FEEDBACK TIME!

THANK YOU! おつかれさまでした！ https://gokigen.jp/ Interested in learning Japanese grammar and
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References 松岡明芳, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons Tokumeigakarinoaoshima,
CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons Mobius6, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons Carpkazu, CC BY-SA 3.0 <http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/>, via Wikimedia Commons Kakidai, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons Nesnad, CC BY 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons Matsujima, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons 江戸村のとくぞう, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons Kakidai, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons Kakidai, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons About Okura - The Okura Tokyo - Official Site. (n.d.). The Okura Tokyo. https://theokuratokyo.jp/about/ Brand Story Imperial Hotel. (n.d.). Imperial Hotel. https://www.imperialhotel.co.jp/special/brand-story History of Hotel New Otani | Concept | Hotel New Otani (Tokyo) Wedding. (n.d.). Hotel New Otani, Tokyo Wedding. https://www.newotani.co.jp/tokyo/wedding/advantage/history/ Lion, B. (2020, September 1). Laundry in Japanese hotels “Trouble!” Tips on how to wash and dry your laundry in hotels in Japan. Lidea. https://lidea.today/articles/002554 MANGA ART ROOM, JIMBOCHO + MANGA ART HOTEL, TOKYO. (n.d.). MANGA ART ROOM, JIMBOCHO + MANGA ART HOTEL, TOKYO. https://mangaarthotel.com/

Travel Japanese 5 - Staying at Hotels Part 2

Travel Japanese 5 - Staying at Hotels Part 2

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