Hotel New Esashi Honkan

I come to Esashi each year to buy apples, and since I usually go to Bekoyasan at night, I stay here because it’s within walking distance. The facilities are old and there aren’t many services, but the large parking lot is convenient.

I usually stay here when I visit my family’s grave. It’s not a new hotel, but it feels homey and relaxing, and the bed is so comfortable that I sleep soundly. I almost wish checkout weren’t as early as 10 a.m. Breakfast costs extra, but it’s simple and good. The Kinsatsu rice is delicious, and it’s a nice way to get a proper meal before weeding the graves.

For 6,500 yen, this is great value, and the breakfast is tasty too. It’s fine for business travel: the place is properly cleaned, there’s Wi-Fi, and convenience stores, supermarkets and restaurants are nearby. I was driving, so being a bit far from the station didn’t matter to me. It’s definitely old, as people say. I haven’t stayed anywhere in a long time without a heated toilet seat and bidet.

The reception staff were polite and helpful, and the old building was kept clean enough to be comfortable. There are plenty of izakayas and restaurants nearby, plus a 7-Eleven, so staying without meals is fine. It’s a standard business hotel, with the bathroom and toilet together in the room. The A/C only has high and low settings, so if dryness bothers you, you may want to hang up a damp towel. The lounge clothes are thin, so bring your own if you have space.