Published date: June 13, 2025
Here to Go in the Southern Jiangnan Region
Room Type Stayed
Some info has been automatically translated by AI.
Experience of the stay
I traveled to Korea for beauty purposes, looking for accommodation in the Gangnam area. I originally wanted a hotel near SinSa station offered by Hafh, but it seemed to be fully booked due to the weekend. Considering the number of coins and the location, I chose this hotel.
About the hotel: In Korea, most hotels do not provide toothbrushes and razors. This hotel had toothbrushes and razors available, but there was a charge of 2000 won if used. The fridge was stocked with beer, cider, and water, which were complimentary. There were disposable slippers, which were replaced during my stay. There was no nightwear, just a bathrobe. The bedside had C-type outlets, but there was a universal tap on the table that could accommodate Japanese plugs! This was a nice surprise as I could divide my charging into two. The interior felt less like a business hotel and more like an older hotel, reminiscent of a long-established hotel in a provincial city, with carpeted floors. I started taking photos of the room immediately after checking in, but when I closed the bathroom door, it wouldn't open (the lock seemed broken?), so I called the front desk. The staff member couldn't speak Japanese, so I explained in English, but it didn't convey well. Fortunately, a Japanese-speaking staff member called me back. They managed to communicate it successfully, and a locksmith came to fix it.
While there isn't always a Japanese-speaking staff member, during my two-night stay, I only interacted with the hotel staff during this issue and check-in/check-out, so as long as there are no troubles, it shouldn't be a problem. The exchange rates were quite poor, but it seemed possible to exchange money at the hotel front desk, which was displayed on the rate board.
About the location: The nearest station is Onju, but line 9 is like the Oedo line in Tokyo, going deep underground, so while it's close to the station, it took some time to get to the platform. It said 8 minutes to the train on the NEVER map, but if you have luggage, you should account for more time. You can also walk to Sinnonhyeon station. Korea has many hills, but it's a flat walk to Sinnonhyeon station.
What's more recommended than the subway is the bus, with a bus stop right in front of the hotel. This was incredibly convenient. Buses run even at night, and they are frequent, so it was not a hassle going out to Myeongdong. The bus stop and the hotel face the main road, so I felt safe even when returning late at night. On the other hand, the backside of the hotel is dark at night, so I would feel a bit scared walking alone. There is a convenience store in the back, so those going alone should make use of it early.
Overall, I think it's suitable for those looking to use it as a business hotel in the Gangnam area. However, since it's almost an office district with transportation options like buses and not much to enjoy for those not interested in beauty, I think it's more suitable for those who have a purpose for staying rather than first-timers. I would definitely want to stay again.
Experiences during the trip
Dining alone can always be challenging, but this time I went to eat Odari Jip Gangjeong. I was able to eat even by myself. The nearest station is Yeoksam, but it was within walking distance from the hotel! I recommended taking a bus for sightseeing with the hotel, but it's also recommended to charge up your T-money card or use the Climate Companion Card to ride the bus. If you want to have Greek yogurt, I think going towards Anguk would be good as well. I also moved by bus to here.