Sotetsu Fresa Inn Sendai

Sendai feels different from Osaka and Tokyo; it's less bustling, and I hear it's the most populous city in the Tohoku region. The room was small but clean and tidy, and the double bed was comfortable enough. The staff suggested storing luggage under the bed, which was practical. The bathroom facilities were great, and all the water in the hotel is purified and safe to drink directly. The breakfast was exquisite and delicious, with staff constantly refilling dishes to ensure there was always enough for guests. They offer free luggage storage, and you can open the locker with a Suica card (even a mobile one). The staff were all very warm, polite, and helpful in resolving any issues. I highly recommend this hotel. Be sure to visit Tohoku University, where Lu Xun studied, and the small park that used to be his residence. You can find them by searching 'Lu Xun' on iPhone Maps. At the main station, buy a loop bus ticket for a 70-minute circuit that takes you to places like Aoba Castle and the mausoleum of Date Masamune. The Giant Kannon statue isn't covered by the loop bus; you can take a taxi there and a public bus back. For dining, I suggest trying Zenjiro and Ajitasuke.

Although the room was small, it was very clean and had everything I needed. Toiletries could be picked up on the first floor. The location is excellent, with plenty of shopping and dining options nearby. Parking was convenient for self-drivers, as there's a surface parking lot right across the street. It's also close to the morning market, and there are various fresh rice balls (onigiri) sold right next door in the mornings.