They said, “If you want a view of the castle, it’s Tokyu Inn,” so I went with high expectations. “Spring brings cherry blossoms in fresh greenery, while autumn is the changing colors of the foliage. There is something beautiful throughout the year,” pushes Guest Room Manager Ando.
I gazed upon the city as I rode the glass elevator to the 9th floor. I was first shown the restaurant “Shangri-La” on the east side of the building. The entire wall is one large window and, from it, you have the most magnificent view of the stately looking Wakayama Castle. It truly is beautiful!

On the west side is the “Kinokawa” steakhouse. At the entrance reads a sign, “Our beef is safe,” and it lists a number that identifies the cow where today’s meat came from.
Below is the mouth of the Kino River that spills into the Pacific Ocean, the sea and the city. There are splendid views from both the east and west, so either way, you don’t lose.

After sucking up the scenery enough, I threw a few questions at Mr. Ando. I first asked about eating out around the hotel, to which he replied, “In the underground mall, there is a Japanese restaurant that serves rustic Japanese cuisine and, since there many governmental offices in the area, there are many places to eat like izakaya (pub-like restaurant) and so forth.”
Then, when I asked about breakfast, he answered, “There is a Japanese-Western style buffet breakfast of healthy locally grown and caught foods, which includes popular items like chagayu (porridge in tea stock), umeboshi (dried tart plums) and Kinzanji miso.” Local specialties umeboshi and Kinzanji miso are also sold in the lobby, so if you are looking for souvenirs, look no further.

The 1st floor has a tea lounge, which seemed perfect for taking a break. If you wish to venture out in search of something to do, there is a modern art museum right near by. Designed by Kisho Kurokawa, it has a very unique appearance that draws attention and there are a restaurant and cafe on the 2nd floor. After refreshing your mood with art, you can enjoy a pleasant cup of tea.

Before leaving, I interviewed Ms. Yamairi who works at the front desk. In response to my question about what is best about Wakayama, somewhat timidly she replied, “The laid back, large-hearted atmosphere. The fruit is delicious, too.” Greeting people with a smile was obviously important. She was very charming.