Shirafune Grand Hotel

I have rhinitis and am very sensitive to smells, so this stay was a nightmare. The first room had a strong musty smell mixed with dust, and I went straight to the front desk to ask for another. The second room was still being cleaned when I entered, and there was a strong odor like body odor. I assumed it came from the cleaning staff and would go away once they finished. The front desk said there were no other rooms available, so I accepted it. I left the windows open all afternoon, but the smell came back as soon as I shut them. Then I realized it was mold from the air conditioner and wallpaper, which just smelled like body odor. It made me dizzy and unable to think clearly. I nearly used a whole bottle of air freshener, but that didn’t help. I had no choice but to sleep with the windows open all night, wearing a hat because it was so cold. This hotel is extremely unfriendly to guests with rhinitis. I absolutely wouldn’t recommend it to anyone with allergies or respiratory issues.

The rooms were clean, the food was lovely, and the service was VERY good. I also loved the onsen and the beautiful mountain view. Getting there from Matsumoto took a while, but the route is simple: one train and two buses. You can book a taxi from the hotel to visit different places.

Our room had a lovely view of the mountains, and although the hotel is old, it was clean. The staff said it’s about 40 years old. My family enjoyed the onsen and the food served for both breakfast and dinner.

Our stay was very pleasant, and we were happy with the trip. We spent two nights in a recently renovated room with two beds. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the hot spring was very hot and relieving. The basic amenities were provided, though they could have offered a bit more. Both dinners were amazing in quantity and quality. On our second day, we visited Kamikochi. We drove about 10 minutes from the hotel to Sawando bus terminal and caught a bus, since cars aren’t allowed in Kamikochi. It was fantastic, definitely a must visit. The hotel is very nice and in the Shirahone Onsen area.