Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Tottori Washington Hotel Plaza! (Japan)
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Tottori Washington Hotel Plaza! (Japan) - A Mostly Glorious, Occasionally Flawed, But Ultimately Worth It Review
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to unleash on you my unfiltered thoughts on the Tottori Washington Hotel Plaza. This isn't your dry-as-toast travel blog regurgitation; this is a REAL experience, complete with the good, the bad, and the slightly-too-much-wasabi.
First things first: accessibility. I’m not a wheelchair user, but I always look at this stuff. And honestly? The hotel claims to be accessible. They have the elevators, the ramps, the "facilities for disabled guests." That being said… I didn't personally wheel around the place to test it, so take that with a grain of salt. But the presence of these features is a good start, right?
Cleanliness and Safety – Breathe Easy (Mostly)
Alright, look, with the world being what it is, the whole COVID situation is uppermost in my mind. And Tottori Washington Plaza clearly gets it. They go hard on the sanitization. They’re like, "We're scrubbing it! Disinfecting it! Bleaching the BLEEP out of everything!" They use "anti-viral cleaning products" and have a "hygiene certification," which, honestly, calmed my inner hypochondriac a bit. Staff are "trained in safety protocol" and there’s stuff like "daily disinfection in common areas," which made me feel like I didn't immediately catch something just from walking around. Plus, they had little individually-wrapped food options, which is a lovely touch!
Oh, and the rooms are "sanitized between stays." That’s important. Makes you feel less like some stranger's germs are still lingering on your pillow. My one minor complaint? They offered a "room sanitization opt-out." Why? Why would you opt out of sanitization? I guess if you're that confident in your own germ-shedding abilities. But for me? Bring on the bleach, baby!
The Rooms – Cozy, Comfy, and Sometimes… Loudish?
The rooms themselves are actually pretty decent. They boast all the standard amenities: "air conditioning," "complimentary tea," "hair dryer," "free Wi-Fi in all rooms!" (yes, they emphasize that), "safe box." I loved the "bathrobes" and "slippers." Seriously, those slippers? Pure bliss.
I was on a high floor – always a plus! – and the view was… well, Tottori-ish. Beautiful mountains in the distance. But, let's be honest, the interior wasn't exactly the peak of design. Functional, yes. Glamorous, no. But hey, I'm not expecting a palace. I got a “window that opens” which is a bonus, and "blackout curtains", which are non-negotiable for a good night's sleep.
But one minor gripe? The soundproofing isn’t perfect. One night, some… lively guests were celebrating something or other down the hall. Let's just say, I know more about their karaoke selections than I’d like to. Don't expect silence! But, as far as imperfections go, this is pretty acceptable to me.
Dining – Wows and Woes of the Buffet
Let's talk food, folks. Tottori Washington Plaza is loaded with options. They have "restaurants," "coffee shops," a "bar," a "snack bar," and even a "vegetarian restaurant" (which I didn’t delve into, but good for them!).
The breakfast buffet? Now that's where things get interesting. They have everything! "Asian breakfast," "Western breakfast" – the works! There were fresh fruits, pastries, and enough bacon to feed a small army. But, and this is a big but, the crowds… Ho boy, the crowds! It's the classic buffet dance: balancing your plate of eggs while dodging rogue toast crumbs and competing for prime real estate at the coffee station.
It was, at times, chaotic. I recall waiting for what seemed like a lifetime for the elusive coffee pot to fill up, while watching a woman in a headscarf and several plates devour the buffet's baked goods. I kid you not, at one point a small child ran in front of me, and almost caused me to fall into the omelet station! But you know what? It's part of the experience. And when you finally do get that coffee and that perfect plate of scrambled eggs? Pure breakfast bliss.
They also offer "room service [24-hour]," which is a lifesaver after a long flight. I may have ordered a late-night burger… and it may have been one of the best burgers I've had in ages! Don't judge!
Things to Do (or Not Do) – Relax, Refuel, and Maybe Get Lost in Translation!
Okay, on to the fun stuff. They have "fitness center," "sauna," and a gorgeous "swimming pool" (outdoor), which is perfect for a relaxing dip after a long day of exploring Tottori.
Now, about the "spa." They have "massage," "body scrub," "body wrap." Sounds fancy, right? Well, I didn't actually use the spa. I was too busy trying to navigate the public transport… or trying to read the Japanese menu. I have to say, their translation is a bit… rough. It’s part of the charm, I guess. But honestly, if I'm not careful, I might've ended up in a massage therapy session for something I didn't want to participate in.
They also have a "shrine" nearby. It's a lovely, tranquil spot to spend a moment in reflection.
Services and Conveniences – All the Little Things That Matter
Tottori Washington Hotel Plaza throws everything at you. "Concierge," "luggage storage," "laundry service," even "currency exchange." It’s like they’re trying to anticipate your every need.
The "staff are trained in safety protocol," which is reassuring. And the "front desk [24-hour]" is a godsend when you're jet-lagged and need someone to explain (in very broken English) which bus goes where.
Getting Around – Easy Peasy (Mostly)
They offer "airport transfer," "taxi service," and "car park [free of charge]." I chose the bus, which was… an adventure. But hey, at least it wasn't my fault if I went the wrong way!
The Verdict – Would I Go Back? Absolutely!
Look, Tottori Washington Hotel Plaza isn't perfect. It's got its quirks, its slightly-less-than-stellar soundproofing, and its occasionally-chaotic buffet. But honestly? It's a solid, comfortable, well-located hotel with a genuinely helpful staff. The cleanliness is amazing, the food is plentiful, and the amenities are more than adequate. And that 24-hour room service? Priceless.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely. Especially if you're looking for a place that emphasizes safety, value, and convenient location.
And finally… the compelling offer!
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Book Your Tottori Escape!
Ready for an unforgettable Japanese adventure? For a LIMITED TIME ONLY, book your stay at the Tottori Washington Hotel Plaza and receive:
- A FREE upgrade to a higher-floor room with stunning mountain views!
- A complimentary bottle of sake upon check-in!
- 15% off your first spa treatment!
- Free breakfast for the entire duration of your stay!
- Plus: a handy, downloadable guide to essential Tottori attractions, created by me!
Don’t miss out! This offer won’t last forever! Book your stay at Tottori Washington Hotel Plaza today and experience the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and unparalleled Japanese hospitality!
Click Here to Book and Start Packing!
Pigeon Forge Getaway: Unbeatable Hampton Inn Deals!
Okay, buckle up buttercups. This isn't your pristine, perfectly-planned itinerary. This is my messy, heart-on-my-sleeve, probably-gonna-get-lost-at-least-once-and-totally-love-it Tottori adventure, based out of the Tottori Washington Hotel Plaza. Let's go:
Day 1: Arrival and Sand Dune Shenanigans (and Mild Panic)
- 14:00 - Arrive at Tottori Airport (TTJ) and pray my luggage arrives too. Honestly, I'm a nervous flyer. The first thing I do after landing is frantically scan the baggage claim carousel, feeling a ridiculous surge of relief when my battered suitcase finally appears. It’s a deeply personal relationship, that suitcase.
- 14:30 - Check into Tottori Washington Hotel Plaza: Okay, so, the lobby doesn't have the Instagram-perfect minimalism I was secretly hoping for. But the staff? SO. DAMN. NICE. They greet me with a warmth that instantly melts away the travel fatigue, and my room, though compact, feels surprisingly cozy. Bonus points for the tiny, impossibly clean toilet with a heated seat. Life-changing.
- 15:30 - The Great Sand Dune Expedition: This is it, the reason I came! I'm talking about an hour bus ride, yes, but the second I saw the dunes looming in the distance, my jaw dropped. It's surreal. Endless stretches of sand, sculpted by the wind, stretching towards the sea. I'm immediately compelled to run, and I did! And promptly regretted it because the sand is hot and the climb is steep. Gasping for breath, I finally summit a dune and let out a whoop of pure, unadulterated joy. This is epic. I spend an hour or two clambering around, feeling like a tiny speck in a vast desert, taking a million pictures (of course). I even try sandboarding, and let's just say, I'm better at admiring the scenery than gracefully gliding down it. (Face-planting in sand? Pretty sure I nailed that.)
- 18:00 - Dinner: Local Ramen somewhere near the dunes I can't remember: I'm starving. I wandered into a hole-in-the-wall ramen shop after seeing the sand and feeling the urge to indulge in some local food. I think I wandered in, and I enjoyed every slurp of the rich, savory broth. The noodles were perfect, and the guy, who probably speaks zero English, seems amused by my enthusiastic noises.
- 21:00 - Post-Sand Dune Wind-Down at the Hotel: I'm sunburnt, sandy, and utterly exhausted, and also, really happy. I take a glorious, long, hot shower with all the complimentary hotel toiletries. Then I write in my journal, reliving the day, and trying to articulate the awe the dunes instilled in me. I fail miserably, but I still feel completely content.
Day 2: Seafood, Shrine, and a Moment of Existential Dread
- 08:00 - Breakfast at the Hotel: Okay, I'm kind of obsessed with Japanese breakfast. Today's offering of rice, miso soup, grilled fish, and pickles, with a teeny-tiny cup of strong Japanese coffee hits the spot. I accidentally knock over my water and apologize profusely. The breakfast lady just smiled and cleaned it. These people are saints.
- 09:00 - Stroll Through the Tottori Fish Market (Uradome Coast): I love food markets. The sights, the smells, the raw energy! The Uradome Coast market is a sensory overload in the best way possible. Huge, glistening seafood, from giant crabs to glistening, fresh oysters. I'm mesmerized, and also a bit overwhelmed. I'm not a big fan of raw seafood but I decide to try some fresh uni (sea urchin) and let the flavour hit me. It's…interesting. I love the experience more than the taste itself.
- 11:00 - Hakuto Shrine: Nestled on a peaceful, lush hillside, this shrine feels like a secret. I walk through the Tori gates, feeling a sense of awe as I climb up and reach the shrine itself. The architecture is immaculate, and the surrounding landscape is breathtaking. I make a small offering and quietly reflect, feeling a strange blend of peace and… slight existential dread. (Why are we here? What does it all mean? A little bit of that thought is a part of my travel experience.)
- 12:30 - Lunch: Seafood Donburi (rice bowl) - Again! I'm so enamored with the fish market, I decide to gorge myself on a big bowl of seafood donburi at a small restaurant nearby. The flavors and textures are incredible. The fresh fish is perfect, and the rice is perfectly seasoned. I’m too focused on eating to finish it.
- 14:00 - The Sand Museum: This is a tourist trap, I know, but I'm kind of obsessed with sand art, so I don't care. The sculptures are incredible! I'm blown away by the skill. It's like watching a whole civilization be built from the sand! I spend about half an hour walking through the exhibit, and then spend another half an hour taking a million, possibly blurry, photos of the sculptures.
- 17:00 - Back to the Hotel - Nap Time: I'm exhausted from the experience. I collapse on the bed and completely forget to set an alarm.
- 19:00 - Dinner: I'm going for something other than seafood but am open to suggestions. (Maybe a good old burger?) I'm getting a craving.
Day 3: Adventures, Abandoned Train Stations and Departure (and Maybe a Tear or Two)
- 09:00 - Breakfast: I think I might just eat breakfast forever.
- 10:00 - Exploring at the Local Train Station: I wandered into the local train station (because I get an odd thrill from public transportation), and noticed there was an abandoned train station nearby. I decided I would visit it. It feels so out of place and time. I take photos of the lonely platform and imagine stories of passengers coming and going. It's oddly melancholic.
- 12:00 - Lunch: I find my local burger joint. Amazing!
- 14:00 - Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping/ Wandering Around: I hit the shops around the station. I actually feel a bit sad about leaving. I buy way too many things.
- 17:00 - Farewell dinner: I find a restaurant near the hotel that serves local Japanese food.
- 20:00 - Head to Airport (TTJ) and Pray for Delayed Flight: Well, this is it. As I board, I can't help but get a little teary-eyed. Japan, you got me. This trip was a rollercoaster of emotions, from the awe-inspiring beauty of the dunes to the simple joy of a good bowl of ramen. I’m leaving with a full heart, a slightly lighter wallet, and a suitcase full of amazing memories that will stay with me forever. I hope my flight doesn’t get delayed, because I'm not sure how much more of Japan I can take at once.
Notes and Disclaimers:
- This is a suggestion: You can probably do your own thing!
- My Sense of Direction is Terrible: I might get lost. Embrace the adventure.
- I Will Over-Eat: I love to eat. Please don't judge.
- I'm Not a Pro: Don’t expect professional travel tips. This is just my real-life, unfiltered experience.
- I will be okay.
This has been an absolutely fantastic experience!
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Unbelievable Luxury Awaits? More Like...Tottori Adventures! (A Tottori Washington Hotel Plaza Breakdown)
Okay, spill it. Is this place *really* "unbelievable luxury"? Because the marketing photos always lie, right?
How are the rooms? Did you feel like you were sleeping in a broom closet? (Asking for a friend... who's me.)
Let's talk about food. Breakfast buffet? Good? Terrible? Existential dread-inducing?
What's the location like? Is it easy to get around? Did you get lost? (I’m directionally challenged.)
Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: The Sand Dunes. How do you survive them? And how far away is it?
Anything else you remember about the hotel itself? Any quirks or things the hotel staff did that stood out?
Would you stay there again? Honestly? Even despite the occasional existential dread?
