Manza Hotel Juraku

They were supposed to refund a cancelled transaction, but no refund was processed. They never followed through, and I haven't been able to contact them.

The view of Karabuki from my room was beautiful, which was the one thing I liked about it. The hotel itself felt old throughout, including the lobby, and it didn't feel welcoming. Service was below what I've had at other hotels. No one greeted me or helped with my luggage when I arrived. The room had a business-hotel style unit bath that didn't seem very clean. Dinner and breakfast were buffets. The food wasn't bad, but there wasn't much to say about it. Don't expect too much and you won't be disappointed. If you're coming for winter diving, you'll need a 4WD and snow tires. For a nice hotel, stay at the nearby Prince Hotel. I'd only choose this one if the view from the room matters most.

I spent a couple of days here for skiing. The buffet breakfasts and dinners were really good, and nabe was served every night. The rooftop rotenburo was amazing and wonderfully peaceful. They had a shuttle bus to the nearby resort, and renting skis at the hotel was pretty cheap. I don't think the staff spoke much English, so it could be tricky if you don't know some Japanese.

Tucked well away from the cities, this place has fresh air, a good onsen, and good food. Meals are buffet-style, so you can pick what you like. It's a very Japanese place, so you have to be comfortable with that.