The hotel offered free breakfast, with both Japanese and American choices. In addition, it was very convenient to the streetcar/light rail public transportation system. However, the walls were incredibly thin, making for a loud stay; the hallway and room smelled of cigarette smoking (even though we'd booked a non-smoking room); and the bed was uncomfortable, with a hard mattress and bamboo filled pillow. Also, we were awakened throughout the night by street noise of an undeterminable origin that seeped through our single-paned window. Front desk staff was very helpful and spoke English. The hotel accepted credit cards.

Regalo is a nice, affordable budget hotel in Hiroshima. Stayed in large double room (one of the largest we've had in Japan) facing river -- very pleasant

Plus: About 10 minute walk from train station/nightlife district/shopping area and 15 minutes to Peace Park (or grab the tram right around the corner); staff was very attentive (although did not speak a lot of English); in-room refrigerator -- ask for ice at front desk; hot-water heater; hair dryer, razor, brush, toothbrush, soap, etc....; internet in room and also a computer in the lobby with internet for guests; breakfast is included (but note that it is Japanese breakfast -- rice, salad, soup, fish, etc...); bathroom is decent size; coin-op washer and dryer on roof floor.

Cons: Tram is a bit noisy but seems to be quieter at night. Check-in is not until 3 pm (but they will hold your bags -- a typical experience that we've had in Japan). Bring your own coffee or tea to use with the hot-water heater.

Enjoy! A quiet, affordable stay in Hiroshima. Be sure to pick up a "Get Hiroshima" map when you arrive at the hotel desk.

We stayed in the Regalo in 2004 and have booked in for 2005. It is located between the city centre and train station, clean and comfortable and well priced. Staff wer friendly and attentive. The restaurant downstairs is also highly recommended, Italian but with a japanese touch ( I have never seen spagetti eaten with chopsticks before!).

I stayed in this hotel during a visit to Hiroshima in late May of 2005. The hotel is centrally located and it was a comfortable walk to the main attractions of Hiroshima such as the Peace Memorial and the Art Museum and Gardens. The room I stayed had a nice view of the river. The room was spacious, the bedsheets and towels were almost like new. In fact, the entire hotel seemed like new. Breakfast was included in the price of the room and it was quite good. The staff was courteous and friendly. Of the five different hotels I stayed in during my trip to Japan, this was the best one.