Hotel Trend Nagano

The staff were really sweet. I stayed for 10 nights and didn’t have any issues.

Our biggest issue was that we accidentally booked a smoking room instead of a non-smoking one. That was our mistake, so it doesn’t affect my rating of the hotel. I’d have enjoyed the stay a lot more without the smoke. I’d recommend the place, but don’t book a smoking room if you don’t smoke! The location is easy to find, in a straight line from Gondo station, and a brisk walk away. There’s a 7-Eleven in the next building and Udon Hanamaru is a couple of minutes on foot. Reception was friendly, though there seemed to be only one English-speaking staff member. The lobby sells a few low-priced items and offers useful basics like hairbrushes, hair ties, razors, coffee, tea, creamer, and hot water. There’s also an indoor beer vending machine, with no ID check. A sign asks guests to take just one amenities set per person. Our group of three received only one key. The room was spacious, with two beds and an area for a single futon. It had a private fridge and bathroom, hair dryer, air conditioning, and TV. The bathroom was small but clean and usable. Each guest also gets a free yukata. They provided cups and a kettle, but we couldn’t figure out how to pour from the kettle since it had no dispenser, so we used the hot water downstairs instead. There weren’t many power outlets. Staff came in daily to empty rubbish and make the bed, and an air freshener helped with the smoky smell.

Decent price, nice place, and the location was okay. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the main station and the same to Gondo station, where you can catch the train to Yudanaka for the snow monkey park.

The room was clean but very dated. The staff were professional and friendly, and the location was good.