The Hotel Royal is a prominent example of 'haikyo' – the Japanese term for urban ruins or abandoned places. This seven-story structure, once a 'love hotel' designed for discreet encounters, now stands as a decaying monument overlooking Sagamiko Lake in a quiet, remote area of Kanagawa. Its unique history and state of disrepair make it a point of interest for urban explorers and photographers.
Visitors interested in haikyo often praise the eerie atmosphere and the visual opportunities presented by the hotel's dilapidated state. The varying room decorations, though now faded, offer a glimpse into its past. However, potential visitors are consistently warned about the security measures in place. The site is known to have an alarm system and possibly movement sensors, with security personnel arriving shortly after any trigger. This means that unauthorized entry is not only illegal but also likely to result in immediate detection and intervention.
For those considering a visit, it's crucial to understand that this is not a sanctioned tourist attraction. Access is restricted, and attempting to enter is at one's own risk, with legal consequences. There are no facilities, and the structure itself is unsafe. It is recommended to appreciate the site from a distance, if at all, and to prioritize personal safety and respect for private property. The best time to view it from afar would be during daylight hours for visibility, but any close approach is strongly discouraged.
The Hotel Royal is situated in a remote area, far from public transport. Reviewers indicate that reaching it would almost certainly require a car. There is no mention of specific bus lines or train stations within easy walking distance. Its secluded location, which once offered discretion to its patrons, now makes it challenging to access for those without private transportation. Parking information is not available, and given its abandoned status, no official parking facilities exist.
The primary complaint and warning from sources like Atlas Obscura is the active security system. Visitors are explicitly told that triggering an alarm will lead to the swift arrival of security personnel. To mitigate this, the only safe and legal approach is to view the hotel from public areas without attempting to trespass or disturb the property in any way. Any attempt to enter or even approach too closely could lead to legal trouble and personal danger.
