This is a column where people who are both self-confessed “travel lovers” and “experienced travelers” introduce their “top picks” that they discovered when they stayed at NIKKO STYLE NAGOYA.

＜The Appeal of Hotel Lobbies＞

When working while moving around town, I’m constantly searching for power outlets and Wi-Fi. Coffee chains and coworking spaces are usually convenient, so I often stop by. However, coffee shops can be distracting with people talking, and coworking spaces let me focus on work, but feel stifling. For someone like me (admittedly picky), one hidden gem where I can work comfortably is the hotel lobby.

The “Communal Lobby” at Nikko Style Nagoya is a place I love for its sense of openness and escape from the everyday. The high ceilings and large windows let in sunlight, making the natural light feel wonderful. Seasonal flowers always adorn the large desk in the lobby center, and the BGM has great acoustics and rhythm, making my fingers tap out a light beat on the keyboard. The coffee blend I always order at the cafe has an exceptional aroma and taste, allowing me to work while relaxing.

Around me, international tourists with large suitcases sit comfortably waiting to check in, or pull out souvenirs while happily sharing travel stories. It’s delightful to hear not just English, but various languages from Asia and Europe. Watching such scenes sometimes makes me feel like I’m traveling somewhere in the world myself. Being immersed in this extraordinary world can even spark great ideas.

Come to think of it, a talk event by Instagrammers who love hotels was once held in this lobby. The phrase “A hotel isn’t just a place for tourists to stay” really stuck with me. Meaning, it also functions as a cafe where local customers, not just guests, come for delicious coffee, and as a venue for events like music, talks, and exhibitions. Even staying overnight isn’t just for tourism or business; apparently, some people enjoy staying at hotels with friends for activities like supporting their favorite idols or chatting late into the night. Hotels are truly free spaces.

Living in Nagoya, I rarely stay at hotels here. While I often mention how much I like this hotel’s lobby and introduce it to friends, I’ve never actually stayed here myself. Next time a friend visits Nagoya, it might be nice to stay at a hotel together, enjoy coffee in this lobby, and strategize our travel plans.

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The “Communal Lobby,” located just inside the main entrance facing the main street, is a very open space and an iconic feature of this hotel. The large wall-to-wall shelves, familiar from Instagram, display art pieces by craft artists and monochrome photo panels capturing scenes from Nagoya’s streets, giving it the feel of a gallery. Additionally, the collection of books themed around Nagoya, coffee, architecture, music, and travel will pique your curiosity.

With seating in various forms, the central counter table with power outlets is perfect for remote work. For meetings or waiting, the brown sofas at the back are ideal, while the so-called “Shachihoko Chair” is great for immersing yourself in a book. This versatility within the same space is part of the Communal Lobby’s charm. During events like LIVE DJ sessions or workshops, it transforms into a space where participants connect.

Feel free to visit the Communal Lobby even if you’re not staying overnight. Like Mr. Kato, discover your own “personal comfort zone” here.

Note: Visitors are kindly requested to order a drink or food item. The menu from “style kitchen Cafe & Bar” is available within the Communal Lobby. Please feel free to ask our staff for your order.