Kanazawa Hakuchoro Hotel Sanraku

I booked at the last minute for the location and in-house onsen, and had a wonderful stay. The staff were attentive and helped me arrange restaurant and massage reservations using a little Google Translate. They also let me change from a Japanese-style room to a Western-style one. My room was well appointed and comfortable, and room service kept it immaculate. I look forward to staying again on my next visit to Japan.

The service was impeccable. The staff handled my luggage with great care and went beyond the already wonderful Japanese hospitality. I also enjoyed the small onsen fed by a local mineral hot spring, and the live music in the early evening. I only booked one night, but I hope to return. This was probably the best hotel I’ve had the pleasure of staying in. The location is close to Kenroku-en and Kanazawa castle, with shopping streets and the Samurai mansions just a few minutes’ walk away. Inside, the beautiful hall has a classic, elegant feel. My room was large and beautifully furnished, with wifi, air conditioning, a big bathtub, comfortable beds, complimentary water and tea, and stationery. It has the amenities you’d expect from a four-star hotel, but feels much more high class, from the gold leaf glasses to the sliding window panels and brocade curtains. Even the old-style room key adds to its sophisticated, classic character. The whole place has an air of old glory that still feels current.

The hot spring was genuinely relaxing, and they even offered ice cream and Yakult afterward. The location is great too, with famous attractions generally within walking distance. This was the best hotel of our trip. The staff were friendly and always ready to help with questions or requests.

The onsen was warm, but tiny and not especially memorable. I didn’t care much for the hotel, mostly because its older, formal, former four-star style felt a bit stiff for me. Most of the guests seemed to be very old, dignified Japanese people. The same company has a brand-new, much nicer place nearby at the same prices, though that one doesn’t have an onsen.