Hanakagura

This hotel is celebrated for its stunning open-air baths that offer breathtaking views of the majestic Daisetsu Mountain Range, providing a truly soothing and blissful experience. It's an ideal retreat for nature lovers and hot spring enthusiasts seeking relaxation amidst serene surroundings. Families will appreciate the spacious accommodations and child-friendly amenities, while couples can enjoy a romantic escape with private onsen options. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's exceptional cleanliness, comfortable rooms, and the delicious, plentiful food. The attentive and friendly staff contribute significantly to a warm, home-like atmosphere. To enhance your stay, consider booking a room with a private open-air bath for ultimate tranquility, and be mindful that public baths can become crowded during peak hours. Utilizing available discounts, such as the JAF discount, can also add value to your visit.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel boasts an impressive array of facilities designed for relaxation and comfort. Its signature open-air baths, some two-tiered, provide expansive views and are a highlight for many guests, complemented by various indoor baths including carbonated springs, high and low-temperature options, and unique bottled water baths. A well-maintained and spacious sauna is also available, often equipped with a TV for added entertainment. Guests can unwind in the extensive rest areas, which feature a vast manga collection, hammocks, and comfortable seating, creating a relaxing lounge atmosphere. For those seeking more privacy or space, cottages are offered, complete with kitchens and ample room, ideal for families or groups. The property also provides free Wi-Fi, though some guests note occasional slowness. Thoughtful in-room amenities include a Panasonic hair dryer, an alcohol auto dispenser, and a large air purifier, ensuring a comfortable and hygienic stay.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently praise the hotel's high standards of cleanliness throughout the property, noting that despite its established presence, the facilities feel well-maintained and modern. The rooms are generally described as spacious, particularly the Japanese-Western style accommodations and cottages, offering ample space for relaxation. Many rooms feature stunning views of the surrounding nature, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere. While most guests find the beds comfortable, some feedback on cottages mentions beds being a bit hard or creaking. In-room amenities are comprehensive, with shower rooms and toilets often being separate for convenience, and modern fixtures like a new toilet and an adjustable air conditioning system in each room. Thoughtful touches such as provided yukatas and a selection of pillows contribute to overall comfort. Some guests have noted occasional lingering smells in older cottage units or former smoking rooms, but overall, the quiet environment ensures a restful stay.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel receives high acclaim for its dining and food quality, with many guests describing meals as delicious, plentiful, and of a high standard. Dinner options often include elaborate course meals, served in private rooms, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients like sushi and steak, presented beautifully. Guests appreciate the attention to both quality and quantity, finding the meals very satisfying and heartwarming. The breakfast buffet is also well-regarded, offering a good variety, primarily Japanese dishes, with popular items such as fresh melon and local milk. While the buffet selection is considered average in terms of sheer number of items, the quality of each dish, including homemade pudding, is consistently praised. The on-site restaurant and snack corner offer additional options, though some specific dishes like ramen or curry receive mixed reviews, with the cutlet being a notable favorite. Staff are also accommodating for dietary needs, such as warming food for children with allergies.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is highly valued for its serene setting amidst nature, surrounded by trees and a forest park, offering a quiet and relaxing escape. It is conveniently situated approximately 15-20 minutes by car from popular attractions like Asahiyama Zoo and Asahikawa Airport, making it an ideal stop for travelers. The Biei and Furano areas are also within a 20-30 minute drive, providing easy access to regional sightseeing. Ample and free parking is available on-site, including spaces directly next to the cottages, which is a significant convenience for guests traveling by car. While the area is described as somewhat deserted, its natural beauty and proximity to outdoor activities like park golf and water play areas are major draws. Some guests note that winter driving conditions can be challenging, and the road leading to the cottages can be dark at night, suggesting a need for additional lighting.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives high praise for their attentive service, friendliness, and overall professionalism. Guests frequently highlight their helpfulness and cheerful demeanor, contributing significantly to a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. The check-in process is generally smooth, with staff often going the extra mile to explain hotel details and amenities. Specific examples of excellent service include staff assisting with luggage, accommodating late dinner orders, and warming food for children with allergies. Housekeeping is noted for its thorough cleaning, ensuring rooms are well-maintained. While most feedback is overwhelmingly positive, a few isolated comments mention initial lack of guidance upon arrival or minor service delays during busy periods, such as a forgotten dish during dinner. Overall, the staff's dedication to providing a warm and hospitable experience is a recurring theme, making guests feel valued and at home.

Additional Information
A distinctive aspect of the hotel is its no-shoes policy inside the main building, with guests provided with comfortable tabi socks for walking barefoot, contributing to a clean and home-like environment. The hotel is notably pet-friendly, offering a dedicated cottage for guests traveling with animals. For those seeking entertainment beyond the baths, the spacious rest areas boast an extensive manga collection, akin to a manga cafe, and even a UFO catcher machine for children. Guests can also benefit from a JAF discount on bathing fees, which is clearly advertised. While the hot spring water itself is described as mild, colorless, and odorless, some guests note a slight chlorine smell, indicating proper hygiene management. The facility also offers various outdoor activities nearby, such as park golf and a water play area, making it a versatile base for recreation.