Smart Hotel Kutchan - Hostel

The dorm bed was decent and the place was generally clean. What stood out was how close it is to the JR station, with a Co-op grocery store about a 10-minute walk away. I did feel it cost a bit much for what you get. Maybe prices are just like that around Kutchan and Niseko, I don’t know.

This place is comfortable and very clean, with private beds. It feels geared more toward business travelers, though, and I didn’t meet anyone during my stay. The shared area was a little sterile, and guests can’t use the kitchen. Fine for sleeping between ski days, but don’t expect the usual hostel feel.

I sent several polite messages asking about cancelling, but got no personal reply or explanation. The only responses were automated, and the hotel never contacted me directly. They apply the cancellation policy very strictly, with no flexibility even in unexpected personal circumstances, and even when the hotel isn’t fully booked.

I was told to leave the reception while waiting for a friend who had a room there. Apparently I had to pay to stay inside, so I couldn’t wait in the lobby and ended up outside in the snow instead :)