Pension Southcol

We couldn’t have picked a better base for our three-day trip around Norikura Kogen. The lovely family running the hotel made us feel welcome, the food was awesome, and the place was clean. Its location is just behind the bus terminal and tourist center. The daughter is a children’s book illustrator and also runs wood coaster workshops, with part of the proceeds going toward environmental maintenance and sustainability. Thank you to the Saito family.

The owner was so kind and welcoming, even though we can’t speak Japanese. We were very happy with the homemade dinner, especially the burgers that the kids loved. Our room was clean and the bed was soft, and the rice ball lunch boxes were delicious, much better than the ones from stores. We’re sorry we didn’t tell you in person because we were hurrying to catch the bus. Thank you so much for taking care of us, and we hope you and your family are always well.

The private hot spring bath was a big help for my elders, who value privacy and felt hesitant about using the public pool. The guesthouse is right by the tourist center, so catching the bus was easy and we didn’t have to haul our luggage a long way. It was warm and comfortable, and the owner patiently responded to our requests and was very friendly. Dinner and breakfast were delicious. Our trip to Tsuren Plateau with my elders turned out wonderfully, and I’d choose Hotel Alum again. Seeing the owner working from morning to night made me appreciate her effort. I sincerely wish her and her family peace, health, and happiness.

I stayed here for skiing and loved this charming, historic inn in Norikura. The food was delicious and comforting, and the place changes with the seasons. I’ll definitely return.