Jozankei Yuraku Soan (kyoritsu Resort)

The private hot spring was wonderful, and the snowy setting made the stay feel special. There were lots of free snacks, and after checking in we really liked the surroundings. We did get a shuttle reservation, though it was very cramped. That was a small downside in an otherwise good experience. I hadn't checked in when I first dealt with the hotel, and the service left me shocked. I found the response to be extremely poor for a mid-sized hotel. It felt like there was no room to reconsider the booking, and I saw that as forced buying and selling. For a traveler paying above the average price, I also expected basic meals. Whether the food is tasty or not, I don't think what was offered met the standard a hotel at that price should provide. The shuttle was another frustration. A mid-range hotel should have enough capacity, but it seemed impossible to book it on some days. I don't understand how they expect guests to come under those conditions. It felt like the customer was being treated as foolish, or that orders simply couldn't be returned. The whole thing seemed like a trap, and I haven't seen another mid-range luxury hotel with this series of problems. The welcome for people who can't get a shuttle is apparently being left out in the snow and cold. I wouldn't return, and I plan to leave negative reviews on the rating platforms.

There are four private outdoor Onsen, plus a shared public Onsen with separate areas for men and women. My room also had its own Onsen, so that was the main reason to come for the resort atmosphere. It's in a quiet village not far from Sapporo, and the hotel has a traditional Japanese inn feel as part of the Dormy Inn brand. They provide comfortable Japanese robes to wear around the building. Free Ramen is served at 10pm each night, another Dormy Inn trademark. You can book the shuttle to and from the north exit of Sapporo station through the hotel.

The Onsen wasn't crowded, and the hotel is in a great spot, very close to a convenience store. Service was quick, and for the price I thought it was good value. The rooms are a little dated but still nice. Food was just okay, I've had better during my trip to Japan. The free shuttle is handy, and I'd recommend booking ahead.

I came last month to visit the Onsen Musume recording location. The outdoor hot spring is lovely when it's snowing, and there are plenty of convenience stores nearby, which makes getting things easy. There's a souvenir shop with collaboration items, and nearby shops and the tourist information center carry the full range of Onsen Musume merchandise.