JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo

I come back to JR Tower every year for my Japan ski trip, staying here on the first and last day. Even the basic rooms are pretty spacious, with enough room to open several suitcases, and the bathroom is large and has all the expected amenities. Breakfast is excellent, with a huge spread of freshly made, tasty food. After a long travel day, the lobby staff are a real comfort. They’re always pleasant and helpful, and bring a sense of calm.

We’d spent a week in Niseko at the “Ritz Carlton Reserve” before choosing HR Tower Hotel Nikko for one night in Sapporo. It’s hard to leave a Ritz Carlton Reserve and still be impressed by another hotel, but Sapporo Nikko managed it. The rooms we had on the 32nd floor had stunning views, good amenities, comfortable beds, and great showers. We chose the “corner room” at about 42 sqm, which is quite large for a Japanese city hotel. We loved the hotel and would stay again. The staff were great, especially the lobby “Bell Staff”, who were welcoming and attentive to everything we needed. The Libby lounge and 35 th floor restaurant staff were also good. The food “Chefs set menu” disappointed us, though. The main item, “Hokkaido beef”, was EXTREMELY chewy and in-eatable! The lobby lounge menu is too limited for a place open all day. Room service runs only from 6-10pm, which seems unusual for a 5 star hotel. After 10pm there’s no food or beverage service, and I think that’s a mistake for a 5 star hotel.

I left my reading glasses on the desk and only noticed about 15 minutes after leaving. I couldn’t get back by car, but the staff actually took the train to bring them to me at the airport check-in counter. I reimbursed their travel costs and added a little extra to thank them. Later I got this message: “Thank you as well for the generous tip. Many of our staff members, myself included, will be working through the Christmas and New Year holidays, so we plan to enjoy some traditional Japanese sweets together. Once again, thank you very much for your thoughtfulness.” That care was extraordinary. On arrival I was warmly welcomed, helped with my questions and luggage, and the service felt like Japanese hospitality at its best. The hotel also accidentally damaged the wheel on my wife’s carry-on, but took full responsibility and promptly bought us a brand-new replacement. One of my best experiences at a modern downtown hotel in Japan.

It’s right next to Sapporo Station, which makes the location hard to beat. Check-in went smoothly, and the room had a great view. Breakfast is served on 35F, with a good variety of tasty food. Get up early and you might catch the sunrise. The staff stood out for being attentive and friendly. As soon as you enter the lobby, they’re ready to help with check-in, directions, or dinner recommendations. A comfortable stay!