"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe? A hotel with a riverside terrace and low-slung water views? In Tokyo? Yes, that's The Share Hotels Lyuro Tokyo Kiyosumi. What's the backstory? When value is the keyword, there's no better collection of hotels than Share, a Japan-based group of budget-friendly properties that prove good design exists across all price categories. With a hybrid hotel philosophy, all Share properties combine the efficiency of a business hotel with the hospitality and lounging space of a ryokan: the perfect mix for urbane travelers. Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book? Efficiency is the M.O. in Lyuro's rooms and dorms, but the designers went out on a limb with a few water-inspired themes. The royal-blue carpets are a bit on the nose, sure, but the accent walls have been papered in subtle nautical themes that enliven even the tightest spaces. Fret not, there's still plenty of room for the necessary bathroom accoutrements that are standard in Japan: a bath and a robot toilet. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi? The wifi is free and fast. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at? An on-site craft brewery and roasting pit means bespoke ales and pulled pork sandwiches. And the service? The "business hotel meets ryokan" ethos plays out in the staff service as well. Young front desk workers are eager and efficient, whether you need directions to the metro station or another round of beers. What type of travelers will you find here? Japanese budget travelers from the country's second cities, all eager to explore the cosmopolitan corners of their capital. Expect lots of baggy denim. What about the neighborhood? Does the hotel fit in, make itself part of the scene? The out-of-center positioning isn't not in one of the hippest parts of town, but the hotel has created its own sphere of coolness, reorienting cross-river East Tokyo around its riverside terrace and brewery. Is there anything you'd change? Not a thing. We're Share Hotel devotees. Any other hotel features worth noting? Everything in the gift shop—called the "Share Shelf"—has been handpicked by the staff, and many objects are one-off creations from arts and crafts shows. Bottom line: Worth it? Why? One of our favorite hotels in Tokyo—for only be a handful of yen" - Brandon Presser
