Tateshina Grand Hotel Takinoyu

This hotel offers a memorable retreat, distinguished by its scenic stream-side open-air baths that provide a deeply relaxing experience amidst nature's sounds. It is particularly well-suited for families with children due to its extensive child-friendly amenities and activities, while also appealing to couples and individuals seeking a tranquil escape surrounded by natural beauty. Guests consistently highlight the diverse and high-quality dining options, the attentive service from most staff members, and the overall cleanliness of the renovated areas. To make the most of your visit, consider arriving early for meals to avoid crowds, and be aware that some facilities, like the onsens, may require a bit of a walk from certain rooms.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel boasts a wide array of facilities designed to enhance the guest experience. The stream-side open-air bath is a standout feature, offering picturesque views and the soothing sound of the river, often described as a highlight. Guests can also enjoy other hot spring options, including a garden bath and private baths, which are generally well-maintained. For families, the kids' park is a major draw, providing ample entertainment, though some athletic areas have specific height restrictions. Additional recreational facilities include table tennis, a karaoke room, and a game center, ensuring diverse entertainment options. While Wi-Fi is available, some guests noted occasional inconsistencies. The hotel also features comfortable relaxation areas and a well-stocked souvenir shop.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and comfortable, especially those that have undergone renovations, which offer a modern and pleasant ambiance. The beds are frequently praised for their comfort, contributing to a restful night's sleep. While many rooms provide a quiet environment, some guests have reported varying noise levels, occasionally hearing sounds from corridors or adjacent rooms, particularly from active children. In-room amenities often include a refrigerator (some with separate freezer compartments) and a coffee maker. Some rooms feature spacious bathrooms and large televisions. However, a few guests noted a lack of convenient power outlets near the beds, and some older rooms are described as being smaller or more dated, with water provided in reusable pots rather than bottled water.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's buffet dining experience consistently receives high praise for its extensive variety and food quality, catering to diverse tastes with Japanese, Western, and Chinese options. Guests particularly enjoy the live cooking stations, where chefs prepare fresh dishes such as omelets, sushi, steak, and pizza from a dedicated oven. Popular dishes include the flavorful beef stew, mini onigiri, and delicious French toast. While the food is widely acclaimed, the breakfast service can become very crowded, leading to significant waiting times, especially during peak hours. The hotel thoughtfully provides a dedicated kids' menu corner and baby food options, making dining convenient for families with young children.

Location & Accessibility
Nestled in a natural setting surrounded by mountains and a river, the hotel offers a serene environment with calming river sounds and picturesque scenic views. Its location is ideal for nature lovers and those looking to explore nearby attractions, including ski resorts and scenic routes. While the hotel provides parking, it can become full, sometimes requiring guests to park further away, and some paths from the parking area to the entrance have been noted as icy. For guests arriving without a car, a convenient shuttle bus service is available from the nearest train station. However, some guests have found the distance to facilities like the onsens to be considerable from certain rooms, requiring a bit of walking within the large complex.

Staff & Service
The majority of guests commend the hotel staff for their friendly staff and helpfulness, often highlighting the politeness and attentiveness of younger and international team members. Many appreciate the attentive service provided, including luggage assistance upon arrival, which is particularly valued by families. The check-in process is generally described as efficient, though some guests experienced longer waits during busy periods. In the dining areas, the dining staff, especially those at the live cooking stations, receive positive mentions for their interactions with guests. While most feedback is positive, a few isolated comments suggest occasional inconsistencies in service or a perceived lack of warmth from some staff members, particularly during peak times.

Additional Information
The hotel, with its hotel history spanning over a century, has undergone significant renovations that blend its traditional charm with modern comforts. A notable point for families is the kids' park height restrictions for certain athletic areas, which can be a source of frustration for siblings of different ages. Guests should be aware that reusable water bottles are provided in rooms instead of single-use plastic bottles. For those planning a visit, some guests recommend specific seasonal recommendations, such as spring for cherry blossoms or autumn for foliage, while others suggest avoiding peak winter if not prepared for snow. It is also worth noting that there are no nearby convenience stores, so guests should plan accordingly for any personal needs.