Kamakura Seizan

Kamakura Seizan stands in the Onarimachi district on the west side of Kamakura Station, close enough to walk from the platforms in about five minutes and so near to Komachi-dori that the shopping street is a one-minute stroll. It is rated as a three-class property, and its seven room types cover almost every kind of traveller, from a compact single of around 170 square feet and queen-bedded doubles to twin rooms and larger triples and family rooms that sleep up to five. Rooms are non-smoking, with air conditioning and heating, a mini fridge, an electric kettle, free toiletries and a toilet with an electronic bidet, and walls are sound-insulated, which helps in a busy tourist town. A restaurant and a garden add a little space, and breakfast is available as a buffet for an extra charge.

Location is the main reason to choose it. From the front door you can reach Komachi-dori in a minute, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu in around ten minutes on foot and a trailhead into the wooded hills in about three, which means you can start a hike or a temple walk without a train.

Yuigahama Beach is a longer walk of around a quarter of an hour, and the JR and Enoden platforms at Kamakura Station are close enough to make the day trips to Hase, Kita-Kamakura and Enoshima easy. Evenings are simple too, because the station-side izakaya and cafes are nearby.

The room mix is a real strength for families and small groups. Deluxe and superior triples have room for three guests, and the family room sleeps up to five, which is rare in a town of small hotels and guest houses. Single travellers can book the compact single or a double for single use.

A few guests note that rooms do not have televisions, so check the room details if that matters to you, and bring a book or download something for the evenings. Check-in is from mid afternoon to eleven at night, and there is no after-hours check-in, so tell the hotel if your train will be late.

There is no on-site parking, so drivers should plan to use a nearby paid car park or, better, leave the car at home and use the trains. Luggage storage helps on arrival and departure days, when you may want to sightsee before check-in or after check-out. Pets are not allowed. Many rates include free cancellation, which is worth choosing if your plans depend on the weather, as hiking and beach days often do.

This is a good pick for first-timers, families and walkers who want a simple, well-located base rather than a resort. It is less atmospheric than a beachfront hotel and rooms are practical rather than luxurious, but you pay for convenience and you gain hours of sightseeing time each day. Book early for autumn colours, cherry blossom season and summer weekends, and consider a midweek stay if you want the lanes of Komachi-dori to yourself in the morning.