Tokyo Onsen on a Budget: My APA Hotel Roppongi Review (2025)

For my 2025 trip to Tokyo—a mix of business and adventure—I had one non-negotiable for my hotel: it had to have a public bath.

I wanted to be close to the action of Shinjuku without being stuck in its 24/7 chaos. And most importantly, I was hunting for a place where I could enjoy a relaxing, onsen-style soak without a luxury price tag.

That's when I discovered the APA Hotel & Resort Roppongi-Ekihigashi.

It ticked every single box. Nestled in the vibrant Roppongi district, it offered the perfect blend of incredible value and convenience. Here’s my honest review of how this hotel became the secret star of my Tokyo trip.

01. Why I Chose APA Hotel in Roppongi

On my 3-day, 2-night trip, finding a hotel with a *daiyokujo* (large public bath) was my top priority. I dreamed of soaking away the day's fatigue, a little luxury I wasn't willing to compromise on.

My office meetings were in Shinjuku, so proximity was key, but I craved a quieter neighborhood to retreat to at night. And, of course, I needed it to be budget-friendly.

As an avid runner, I also searched for places near the Imperial Palace, one of Tokyo's best running spots. That’s how the APA Hotel & Resort Roppongi-Ekihigashi popped up on my radar.

Known across Japan as a powerhouse of value-for-money hotels, APA delivered an experience that went far beyond my expectations.

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02. APA Hotels vs. The Competition

Compared to other hotels, APA's biggest strengths are its hyper-efficient systems and unbeatable prices. The automated check-in kiosks are a great example—they reduce labor costs, and those savings are passed directly to you.

This smart approach means you get a clean, convenient room and access to a fantastic public bath for a fraction of what you'd pay elsewhere.

Sure, the rooms are more compact than at a luxury hotel, but for a solo traveler or someone on a business trip, the space is perfectly designed and more than enough.

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03. A Look Inside My Room

True to the APA brand, the room was a masterclass in efficiency. While some might find it small, it was perfectly comfortable for me as a solo traveler.

I loved the unique patterned wallpaper and the cozy lighting. Everything I needed was right there: a small desk, a mini-fridge, a hairdryer, and plenty of outlets.

The bathroom was also compact but featured a bathtub, shower, and sink, all spotlessly clean. A full set of amenities was also provided, so you can pack light.

Day and night, the view of Tokyo Tower from my window was an unexpected treat.

04. The Star of the Show: The Public Bath & Open-Air Tub

The number one reason I chose this hotel was the public bath on the 18th floor. I didn't even realize it had an open-air bath (*notenburo*) until I got there, which was an incredible surprise.

I made the most of it, enjoying a soak late at night and again in the morning after my run around the Imperial Palace. The generous hours (6:00 AM - 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM - 2:00 AM) make it easy to fit into any schedule.

The facilities were impeccably clean and stocked with shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. It was the perfect sanctuary to melt away the stress of a long day exploring the city.

05. Location & Nearby Conveniences

The hotel's location is fantastic. There's a Don Quijote and multiple convenience stores just steps away for any snacks or essentials you might need.

It's about a 6-minute walk to both Roppongi Station and Roppongi-itchome Station, putting the entire city within easy reach. This prime spot makes it an ideal base for diving into Roppongi's amazing food scene and shopping hotspots.

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06. Final Verdict: Who Should Stay Here?

The APA Hotel & Resort Roppongi-Ekihigashi was a phenomenal find, offering an unbeatable combination of value, a relaxing onsen, and a prime location.

While the rooms are compact, they are clean, modern, and thoughtfully equipped with everything you need. The public bath is a game-changer, providing a level of relaxation you wouldn't expect from a hotel in this price range.

I highly recommend this hotel to solo travelers, business travelers, and anyone looking for a great deal in Tokyo without sacrificing comfort or experience. The only minor downside was a request for an additional fee for early check-in, so just be mindful of your arrival time.

Would I stay here again on my next trip to Tokyo? Absolutely.

Traveler's Tips

• Check the public bath hours to plan your relaxing soaks.

• Arriving before the official check-in time may incur an extra fee.

• Take advantage of the nearby Don Quijote and convenience stores for snacks and drinks.

• The hotel is just a 6-minute walk from Roppongi and Roppongi-itchome stations.

• You can get a discount on breakfast by booking it in advance.