Tazawako Lake Resort & Onsen

This hotel is highly regarded for its exceptional onsen facilities and diverse buffet dining, making it a memorable destination for many visitors. Its signature feature is the extensive and well-maintained hot springs, offering a truly relaxing experience. Guests consistently highlight the delicious and varied food options, alongside the generally spacious rooms and a welcoming atmosphere. The hotel is particularly well-suited for families due to its comprehensive child-friendly amenities and play areas, and for pet owners who appreciate the dedicated accommodations and services. Couples and sightseers also find it appealing for its comfortable environment and proximity to natural attractions. To enhance your stay, consider utilizing the convenient free shuttle service from the train station, and be aware that some older sections of the hotel may have a lingering smoke odor.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests consistently praise the hotel's extensive onsen facilities, which include both indoor and spacious outdoor baths, a sauna, and unique kettle-style baths. Many appreciate the thoughtful provision of baby baths, toys, and changing tables in the bathing areas, making it convenient for parents. The hotel also offers a large, comfortable lounge accessible 24 hours, providing free coffee, soft drinks, and ice cream or ice candy. For entertainment, there's a kids corner with toys and books, a game room, a manga corner, and options for table tennis and billiards. While Wi-Fi is available, some guests reported it could be slow or unstable. Additional conveniences include ice machines and vending machines, and a souvenir shop for gifts.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel generally receives positive remarks for its cleanliness, with many guests noting the rooms are well-maintained and hygienic. The beds are frequently described as comfortable, whether traditional futons or Western-style mattresses. However, feedback on room condition is mixed; some guests found rooms to be tired or dated, with issues like cracked sinks, peeling wallpaper, or loose electrical outlets. Noise can be a concern for some, with mentions of water pipe sounds, air conditioner noise, or dog barking from nearby pet-friendly rooms. While most bathrooms are functional, some are noted as small or outdated, and a few guests reported issues with toilet functionality or a lack of hand towels. The hotel thoughtfully provides tape in rooms for dealing with occasional insects, acknowledging its natural setting.

Dining & Food Quality
The buffet dining experience, for both breakfast and dinner, is a major highlight for most guests, offering a wide variety of dishes. Many commend the inclusion of local Akita specialties such as kiritanpo hot pot, inaniwa udon, and iburigakko, alongside a good selection of Japanese and Western options. Guests particularly enjoy the steak, sushi, and fresh sashimi, noting that food is constantly refreshed. While the quality is generally high, some guests found the steak to be tough or the rice hard. The dessert selection also receives praise. The dining areas can become crowded during peak times, leading to long lines and a bustling atmosphere, and some guests felt staff were too quick to clear plates. All-you-can-drink alcohol options are available for an additional charge.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is convenient for exploring the region, being a short drive from Lake Tazawa, Kakunodate, and various ski resorts. It serves as a good base for visiting Nyuto Onsen. A significant advantage is the free shuttle bus service to and from Tazawako train station, which is highly appreciated given the hotel's somewhat isolated setting. There is also a local bus stop nearby for further exploration. The hotel offers ample and free parking, making it very accessible for guests arriving by car. While many rooms offer pleasant mountain views, some guests noted their rooms had minimal or no scenic outlook. A minor accessibility point is the presence of stairs at the main entrance, which can be challenging for guests with heavy luggage or mobility issues, though alternative access points exist.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight their courteous and efficient service, from the quick check-in process to their willingness to assist with various requests, including arranging transportation like taxis. Many reviewers noted the staff's efforts to communicate effectively, even with language barriers, often using translation apps. Specific positive mentions include the cleaning staff's warm greetings, the provision of yukata selection upon arrival, and the availability of Dyson hair dryers for loan. While the vast majority of feedback is positive, a few guests reported isolated incidents of unhelpful responses to specific inquiries or overly zealous plate clearing during busy meal times.

Additional Information
The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, offering dedicated rooms equipped with dog cages and amenities like bowls and pet sheets, which is highly valued by pet owners. However, some guests noted that dogs barking in adjacent rooms could be disruptive. There was a specific instance where a guest experienced poor communication regarding the child meal and bedding policy during a phone inquiry, leading to frustration. The hotel features a smoking area within the main lounge, which, while convenient for smokers, can result in a lingering smoke odor in the lounge and some older room sections. Unique amenities include the provision of tape for bug removal in rooms, acknowledging the natural environment, and a well-equipped ski locker room for winter sports enthusiasts. The hotel also offers glamping options for a different type of stay.