Kuretake Inn Asahikawa

This hotel in Asahikawa is highly regarded for its exceptional value, primarily due to its extensive range of complimentary services that significantly enhance the guest experience. Guests consistently highlight the free breakfast, evening happy hour with drinks and curry, and the convenience of free laundry facilities. The hotel maintains a high standard of cleanliness and is praised for its comfortable accommodations and the attentive service provided by its staff. Its central location makes it an excellent choice for business travelers seeking convenience, budget-conscious tourists looking for great value, families exploring the region, and sightseers planning trips to nearby attractions like Biei and Furano. To maximize your stay, be sure to take full advantage of the generous complimentary offerings and inquire about the in-room amenities available for longer visits.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the thoughtful provision of various rental items available at the lobby, including pillows, humidifiers, and hair dryers, allowing for a more personalized and comfortable stay. The availability of free washing machines (some even in-room for specific room types) and dryers is a significant convenience, especially for longer trips. While some guests noted the front counter area and elevator can feel a bit compact, the hotel offers free Wi-Fi (both wired and wireless) to keep guests connected. Other useful amenities include ice machines, vending machines, and a collection of comics/manga for leisure. The provision of quality toiletries at the lobby also adds to the overall positive impression.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel consistently receives high marks for its impeccable hygiene and the overall cleanliness of its rooms. Guests frequently commend the comfortable beds, often noting their spaciousness, which contributes to a restful night's sleep. While some rooms are described as a bit cramped or having limited electrical outlets, many appreciate the presence of a bathtub and the generally spacious bathrooms. Specific room types are equipped with convenient features like an indoor clothes drying pole, a microwave, and a washing machine, making them ideal for extended stays. Despite some older equipment, the rooms are well-maintained, and guests generally find them quiet and conducive to relaxation, with good soundproofing noted by some.

Dining & Food Quality
A major highlight for guests is the hotel's free breakfast buffet, which is consistently praised for its wide variety and delicious offerings, including both Japanese and Western options. The menu often changes daily, ensuring a fresh experience for longer stays, with popular items like croissants, seafood dumplings, and even authentic pains au chocolat. In the evenings, the hotel hosts a happy hour where guests can enjoy a free drink, including choices like beer, wine, or sake, along with soft drinks. Many guests also rave about the complimentary curry rice (sometimes Hayashi rice), which is served on a first-come, first-served basis during happy hour, providing a satisfying and cost-effective dinner option.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a highly convenient central location, making it an excellent base for exploring Asahikawa. It is within an 8 to 10-minute walking distance to Asahikawa Station and offers easy access to the downtown area, including the bar district and shopping street. Guests appreciate being on a main road, which feels safe for walking at night, and the proximity to several convenience stores. For those traveling by car, the hotel is well-situated for day trips to nearby cities like Biei (approximately 30 minutes) and Furano (around 40 minutes). While a paid multi-story parking lot is available behind the hotel, some guests note the mechanical system can lead to delays in car retrieval, and GPS might initially guide drivers to the side of the hotel, requiring a short detour to the parking entrance.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives glowing reviews for their friendliness, politeness, and exceptional helpfulness. Guests frequently commend their attentive service, from the quick check-in process to their willingness to accommodate requests, such as changing a smoking room to a non-smoking one. The staff's professionalism extends to guiding guests to the parking lot and ensuring a smooth experience throughout their stay. Many reviews highlight the staff's proactive and responsive approach, making guests feel well-cared for. Even the cleaning personnel are noted for their politeness, contributing to an overall positive and welcoming atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

Additional Information
The hotel offers several unique features that cater to specific guest needs. For those on extended trips, certain rooms are equipped with washing machines and microwaves, providing significant convenience for longer stays. The hotel also offers a self-service welcome drink during happy hour, with a policy of one drink per person, which is a popular amenity. Guests can purchase detergent for the free laundry facilities at the front desk. The hotel also provides a collection of manga for guests to enjoy, adding a unique leisure option. Furthermore, some guests have received discount coupons for nearby restaurants, enhancing their dining experiences outside the hotel.