KOKO HOTEL in Sakae, Nagoya: My Honest Stay Experience and Review

16/10/2025

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Contents

Staying at KOKO HOTEL in Sakae, Nagoya – My Experience

If you are planning a trip to Nagoya and want to stay right in the heart of the city, KOKO HOTEL in Sakae is a convenient choice. Located just a 5-minute walk from Sakae Station, the hotel opened in 2022, though the building itself has more of a classic, Western-style look that feels older than its opening year.

The Room

I stayed in a non-smoking twin room. Before arriving, I had read some reviews mentioning a lingering smoke smell in “non-smoking” rooms, but in our case, there was no problem at all. The air conditioning was a bit weak, and it took about 30 minutes for the room to cool down, but once it did, it was comfortable.

The bathroom was noticeably larger than those in a typical Japanese business hotel, which was a pleasant surprise. Amenities were basic but sufficient, so we didn’t feel lacking in anything.

Atmosphere and Surroundings

In front of the hotel, there was a newly opened sauna facility. Interestingly, until around 11:00 pm, music could be heard coming from that direction. The music didn’t sound typically Japanese—it had more of a Southeast Asian vibe. I wasn’t entirely sure what was going on, but it was noticeable.

At the hotel entrance, the staff included foreign employees, and many of the guests I saw were also international visitors, particularly from other parts of Asia. This gave the hotel a very international feel.

Dining Options

The hotel offers a paid breakfast service, though I didn’t try it. Instead, we walked about 10 minutes to the well-known Kato Coffee, a traditional Nagoya café, for breakfast. For those who prefer to explore local food culture, Sakae has countless restaurants and cafés within walking distance.

Another great dining option near KOKO HOTEL Nagoya Sakae is Dim Sum at Chishu. For around 3,000 yen, you can enjoy an all-you-can-eat dim sum experience that’s perfect for anyone who loves Chinese food.

If you’re looking for a cozy spot near KOKO HOTEL, check out Cafe Vincennes Deux in Sakae. It’s a bit of a hidden café — the entrance can be tricky to find — but that’s part of its charm. Their apple pie is a must-try, with a perfectly crispy crust served warm alongside creamy ice cream. It’s the perfect treat after exploring the city.

Final Impressions

KOKO HOTEL’s biggest advantage is its location right in central Sakae. With the station just minutes away, plenty of dining options nearby, and easy access to Nagoya’s main attractions, it’s a solid and convenient choice.

Despite minor issues like the slow air conditioning and background music at night, my overall stay was positive. If you’re looking for a hotel in downtown Nagoya, KOKO HOTEL is a comfortable and well-located option that I can recommend.

Our map

I’ve compiled a list of Nagoya’s places that I’ve personally visited. Is Nagoya boring? Not at all! While it has developed as an industrial city, it also hides interesting places full of history and culture. Use this guide to explore Nagoya and discover its hidden gems.