Chateraise Lodge Kasugai

The reserved hot spring bath turned out much bigger than I expected, and I was very pleased with it. You can use it from midnight to 8 AM if it’s available. Towels are supplied in the room, but you may want to bring your own, and there was no razor. We booked a room-only plan, so the price was reasonable. The room had a bathroom and toilet, and was clean and spacious, though I’d initially imagined more of a resort. You can cook at the hotel, with dishes and utensils provided, and you can make rice, but there are no seasonings. There’s a small refrigerator with freezing capability. In the room, there’s only a refrigerator. The hotel has just one vending machine, but the drinks cost less than at a convenience store. Asahi Super Dry beer in 350ml cans was 250 yen. A convenience store is under a 10-minute walk away. There are nearby izakayas and restaurants too, though the distance felt a little inconvenient. I had a great meal at Kappo Izakaya Aisaku. You need a reservation. It’s somewhat hard to find, but Google Maps should get you there.

It’s just under a 20-minute walk from Isawa Onsen Station. Near the lodge, Mars Winery offers free wine tastings and factory tours, so check it out if you’re visiting. This place is meant for overnight stays. The rooms are spacious, with the bath and sink separate. The room-only plan includes access to a shared kitchen equipped with cookware and tableware, so you can make your own meals. No seasonings are supplied. You need a reservation for the large public bath, but after 11pm you can use it without one if it’s available.

The room was spacious and nice, but there was barely anything provided besides a toothbrush and towels. Bring whatever else you might need, since there weren’t even disposable razors. My check-in was considerably delayed, and by the time I finally arrived late at night, there was no hotel staff around. It felt like I was staying in an empty hotel. I checked out at 9 a.m. the next day, again without seeing anyone, so I left my key and went. (lol) I’ve never stayed in a hotel without meeting a single staff member before. (lol) I don’t think I’ll use this hotel again.

They sent a staff member to take us to the train station when we left, thank you. The room was large, but the hotel felt very empty and a bit... you know what I mean, at night. When I booked, I was told I could leave my luggage at 1:00 AM and check in at 3:00 PM. But there was nobody at the hotel when I arrived at 1:00 AM, so I had to call for help. I recommend arranging the time with them in advance.