Izumigo AMBIENT Azumino Hotel

Nestled in a serene mountainous setting, the hotel offers breathtaking mountain views and the unique option of staying in private cottages, making it a memorable destination. Guests frequently commend the spacious rooms, the diverse buffet dining experience, especially the all-inclusive drink options, and the generally friendly staff. This hotel is particularly well-suited for leisure travelers seeking tranquility, families and groups who appreciate ample living space and the distinct cottage experience, and sightseers drawn to the scenic surroundings. To enhance your stay, consider that some rooms in the main building might have a faint, older scent, and it's advisable to confirm the availability of kitchen tools in cottages or bring your own consumables like paper towels.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features extensive public baths (onsen), which include both indoor and outdoor options, with some boasting jacuzzis and saunas for relaxation. Guests staying in the cottages can enjoy the convenience of private onsen baths directly within their accommodations. Wi-Fi connectivity is available throughout the property and is generally reliable, though not high-speed. Many rooms, particularly in the West Wing and cottages, are equipped with mini kitchens that include sinks, electric stoves, and microwaves, offering self-catering flexibility. The hotel also provides convenient on-site shops, including a well-stocked souvenir shop and a self-checkout shop. Underground parking is a valued amenity, especially for protecting vehicles from the elements, though some guests noted the presence of stairs leading to the lobby.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Rooms are consistently praised for their spaciousness, often featuring a separate Japanese-style room and a living area with a sofa, providing ample space for larger groups and families. While some guests noted that rooms in the main building might have an older feel or a faint smell, many found them to be clean and well-maintained, with some areas benefiting from recent renovations. However, a few reviews mentioned specific issues such as dust, stains on furniture, peeling wallpaper, or moldy humidifiers in certain rooms. Standard amenities typically include pajamas, oil heaters, and humidifiers, though some guests wished for more basic consumables like paper towels or in-room coffee. Air conditioning can be noisy, and temperature regulation can be challenging, with some rooms feeling excessively warm.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's buffet is a central feature, offered for both breakfast and dinner, with many guests commending its variety and overall quality. A significant highlight for many is the all-you-can-drink option for alcohol, including beer and wine, available during dinner, which is widely appreciated. Popular dishes frequently mentioned include churrasco, tuna sushi, roast beef, and grilled onigiri. While numerous guests found the food delicious and plentiful, some long-time visitors observed a decline in food quality and selection over time, noting fewer premium items like made-to-order omelets or fresh-cut steaks compared to past experiences. The restaurant has been recently renovated, offering a clean and stylish ambiance, and many guests enjoyed dining on the terrace with scenic views, though it can become crowded during peak times, leading to slower dish replenishment.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel is beautifully situated in a mountainous area, providing breathtaking views and a tranquil, secluded atmosphere. It is located approximately 30 minutes from the Azumino Interchange. The access roads to the hotel can be quite steep, which may pose challenges, particularly during snowy conditions. While the remote location offers a peaceful retreat, it means that supermarkets and other conveniences are not within easy walking distance, requiring guests to plan for food procurement if they intend to utilize the in-room kitchens. Parking facilities are available, including a convenient underground parking area that protects vehicles from the elements, though some guests found it narrow or noted the presence of stairs leading to the lobby. Wild monkeys are a common sight in the hotel's vicinity, adding a unique natural element to the stay.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives high praise for being friendly, kind, helpful, and attentive. Many guests specifically highlighted their willingness to assist with requests and provide useful guidance. The check-in process is generally described as efficient, with the recent introduction of automatic check-in machines. However, some guests reported initial check-in issues, such as miscommunications regarding discount applications or room assignments. While staff are generally accommodating, a few reviews noted a perceived lack of hospitality in certain interactions or suggested a need for further staff training, particularly following recent renovations. Despite occasional language barriers, staff members make concerted efforts to communicate effectively with international guests, including providing assistance in English.

Additional Information
Guests considering a stay in the cottages should be aware that these private accommodations typically do not include room wear and may require guests to bring their own kitchen consumables, such as paper towels. A point of concern for some guests is an additional public bath charge per person per day, which is sometimes applied even if the facility is not utilized, though management has been known to waive this fee upon request. The hotel's overall structure is somewhat complex due to multiple renovations and expansions over time, featuring long corridors and occasionally confusing layouts, particularly when navigating to the public baths from certain wings. It is also noted that the hotel frequently accommodates group tours, which can lead to crowded common areas and dining times.