Awabi Sanso

The food, hot springs, and staff service keep bringing me back to this inn, and I hope it stays open for a long time. I heard the lodging side was at risk of closing a few years ago, but the current management company took it over after the local community wanted it to continue. I visited in February 2026 for the new All-You-Can-Eat Tuna Gozen. It was a very filling meal with sushi, sashimi, carpaccio, what looked like lotus leaf grilled dishes, sukiyaki, abalone pie, and braised pork. Everything was delicious. The facilities are undeniably old, but I love this place and stay here several times a year. I’ll definitely return soon.

Dinner was so good that I regretted choosing the abalone course instead of the deluxe special, even though I’m a big drinker and thought I wouldn’t eat much. After a soak in the hot springs, I sat down to the meal with a delicious ice-cold draft beer. I’ll definitely come back! 😆 The shared bathrooms and restrooms are part of the experience too. The lobby ceiling, lighting, banquet hall, and game corner all bring back childhood memories. I wonder if they’ll turn the games on if you ask. As an adult, you can appreciate the food and hot springs even more. Come here if you want to feel like you’ve gone back in time.

I was starting to lose hope after getting disappointing food at the places I stayed and ate during my first trip to Hokkaido. Then, at the last stop, Awabi Sanso, the abalone course was absolutely delicious. I’d never eaten so much abalone, and it made me so glad I’d come to Hokkaido. The bath felt thick and looked like it might be good for you, in a nice way. A short soak warmed me right up, and my mother was delighted that her long-standing back pain had been cured. The front desk staff were cheerful and kind, too. The interior has a retro look, but it was well-kept and didn’t feel dirty. The location is inconvenient, so I couldn’t visit often. It’s a favorite place I’d love to stay at again.

The food was all delicious, and I’m glad I came. The place has a wonderful atmosphere you don’t find elsewhere. I liked the Showa-era touches, from the wallpaper and the electric fan in the dining room to the mysterious telephone exchange room. It has Wi-Fi despite that old-time feel. The TV isn’t a CRT, unfortunately. I’m very satisfied.