Hotel Route-Inn Court Azumino Toyoshina Ekiminami

The hotel offers a comfortable and reliable stay, with its large public bath being a significant highlight, consistently praised for its cleanliness and relaxing atmosphere, available late into the night. It is particularly well-suited for business travelers seeking dependable accommodations, skiers utilizing its convenient access to Hakuba, sightseers exploring the Azumino region, and families looking for a comfortable base with good amenities. Guests frequently commend the staff's friendliness, the excellent breakfast, and the hotel's overall cleanliness. To enhance your experience, make sure to take advantage of the spacious public bath for relaxation and enjoy the comprehensive breakfast buffet, which receives high marks from visitors.

Facilities & Amenities
The large public bath is a standout feature, providing a spacious and clean environment for guests to relax and unwind, with many appreciating its extended operating hours. A free coffee machine is available in the lobby until late evening, offering a convenient perk for guests. While Wi-Fi is provided throughout the hotel, some guests reported inconsistent connectivity or weak signal strength in certain rooms. For convenience, a laundry machine is located within the public bath changing area. The hotel utilizes a traditional metal key system for rooms, which also controls the electricity, meaning rooms are not auto-locking and can be less convenient than modern card keys. An EV charger is available for electric vehicle owners, and vending machines offer drinks and snacks.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Rooms are generally described as clean and well-maintained, despite the hotel's age. However, some guests found the rooms to be small or narrow, particularly the space around the bed. The unit bathrooms are frequently noted as cramped, with the toilet area being particularly tight, and the step into the bathroom can be high, posing a challenge for some. Several guests found the beds and pillows to be hard, which impacted their sleep comfort. Train noise from the nearby railway line is a recurring theme; while some found it unobtrusive, others in track-facing rooms found it disruptive. Occasional noise from other guests or toilet flushing in adjacent rooms was also mentioned. Some guests wished for a makeup mirror or USB charging outlets in the room.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast buffet receives widespread praise for its variety, quality, and tasty dishes, including local specialties and fresh rice. Guests consistently appreciate the diligent replenishment of food items, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. The hotel's restaurant also serves dinner, offering a convenient on-site dining option, which is particularly useful given that nearby dining choices can be limited, especially on Sundays. While some guests experienced slow dinner service at times, the food portions were generally considered generous and satisfying. The availability of free coffee from a machine in the lobby during breakfast hours is a well-liked perk, contributing to the positive overall impression of the hotel's dining offerings.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a convenient location directly adjacent to Toyoshina Station, making it easily accessible for guests arriving by train. Within walking distance, guests can find a few restaurants and a supermarket, though some note that convenience stores are not as close and many local eateries may be closed on Sundays. Free on-site parking is available and generally appreciated, but it can become full during peak times, leading to concerns about finding a spot upon returning. Some guests found the hotel's approach by car to be initially confusing due to its position slightly set back from the main road and small, unmarked intersections. The location is considered a good base for exploring the Azumino area, including access to Hakuba for skiing and Kamikochi.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, attentiveness, and exceptional helpfulness. Many guests highlight their positive interactions, noting the staff's cheerful demeanor and willingness to assist with various requests, such as arranging taxis or addressing room issues. The check-in process is described as quick and efficient, contributing to a smooth arrival experience. Staff are noted for their proactive approach to resolving issues, such as assisting with lost items or addressing concerns about room amenities. The overall service quality is a recurring positive theme, with guests feeling well-cared for and appreciating the staff's dedication to ensuring a comfortable stay.

Additional Information
The hotel is recognized as an older property within its brand, which is reflected in some of its facilities and design, though it is generally well-maintained. The use of a traditional metal key for rooms, which also controls the room's electricity, means rooms are not auto-locking and can be inconvenient if one person leaves while another stays. While Wi-Fi is available, some guests reported connectivity problems or weak signals in their rooms, occasionally requiring a room change. The parking lot can fill up, especially during busy periods, which might be a concern for guests returning late. Some older rooms may have a lingering smoke odor, even if designated non-smoking, which can be unpleasant for non-smokers. Guests appreciate thoughtful touches like free apple juice and the option to receive a drink voucher instead of daily room cleaning for extended stays.