I'm not sure how many people here use the lounges at ITM, but I was just wondering what others think of the new Sakura Lounge in comparison to the old one (before the remodel a few years ago). And by "old one" I'm referring to the one on the 3rd floor, with tarmac views, not the one by gate 17.

Personally I think the new lounge is a huge downgrade from the old one. It looks and feels like a cheap cafeteria. The chairs are hard and uncomfortable. And it seems like two thirds of the seating is now counter/table seating instead of the plush arm chairs that used to be the norm. Also, it feels smaller and more crowded than the old lounge. I have a harder time finding a decent open seat, whereas the old lounge always seemed to have plenty of seats.

Who at JAL signed off on this? Does anyone think the new lounge is an improvement? I really liked the old lounge and looked forward to using it. The new one is barely any better than a typical cafe or food court.