Hotel Nupka

I stayed at Nupka Hanare, where the rooms feel new and nice. Mine was only 12 square meters, though, and I think they somehow fit a 50-inch TV in there. There was really only enough space to open one full-size suitcase. The location worked well, close to Obihiro station and the popular confectioneries Rokkatei, Ryugetsu and Cranberry. A nice surprise was having a Balmuda oven and microwave available on my floor. Parking is available, but about 300 meters from Hanare. It costs 600 jpy from 3pm until 12pm the next day. You can leave and re-enter the car park after parking as long as you pick up the seasonal parking ticket at reception. Wifi was quite good.

+ Friendly, helpful staff and a front desk open 24/7 + Choice of dorms or private rooms, plus a cozy lounge - The dorm door is a pain to open. I always struggle with it.

The beds were clean, but the sleeping area felt cramped. Even with just a backpack, I didn't have enough room to open my luggage, so it had to stay upright the whole time. My bigger issue was not having a proper lounge for guests. During my stay a pop-up took over the entire lobby seating area, leaving nowhere for guests to sit except a tiny fifth-floor pantry without proper tables for working or reading. They offered space in another building a few minutes' walk away, but it wasn't the same as being able to lounge in the place I'd paid to stay in. Guests' needs should be considered too; we shouldn't just be given a bed. The hostel bed is on the expensive side, and at that price I would expect towels to be included, but they cost extra.

A lovely find right in the middle of Obihiro, an easy walk from the station and everything else you need. The people running the place are so friendly and helpful. Both kinds of rooms are comfortable and well appointed. The cafe is delightful, with light house-made food, craft beer, and coffee. They rent bicycles too, which is a nice way to explore more of this hidden-gem city. Hokkaido is a beautiful part of Japan and well worth the effort to get there.