Tucked away in Otaru’s Asarigawa Onsen district, this welcoming hotel hits the sweet spot between traditional Japanese hospitality and practical comfort. During my stay, I found the natural hot springs and ski access to be standout features, along with the attentive staff who make every guest feel at home.
The rooms, whether you choose traditional futons or Western-style beds, are spotlessly maintained.
A couple downsides to consider: the building shows its age in places, and if you’re looking for nightlife, you’ll need to taxi into central Otaru.
But don’t let that stop you – this place is a gem for the right traveler.
This hotel is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers who want to experience authentic Japanese lodging without breaking the bank.
It’s especially ideal for skiers in winter and hikers in summer who appreciate soaking in natural hot springs after a day of adventure.
Budget-conscious families will appreciate the reasonable rates and free parking, while couples will love the peaceful setting and private bathing options.
Good To Know
- The Choraku Onsen Hotel is located in the Asarigawa Onsen district of Otaru, Hokkaido, providing easy access to Otaru Station and the region’s natural attractions.
- The hotel offers a range of accommodations, including Japanese-style rooms, family rooms, and economy twin rooms, all with amenities like an electric kettle and refrigerator.
- Guests can enjoy on-site amenities such as a hot spring bath, ski-to-door access, and an on-site restaurant serving authentic Chinese cuisine.
- The hotel has received positive reviews from guests, with high praise for its friendly staff, clean rooms, and overall value for money.
- Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type, and the hotel welcomes children but does not allow pets on the premises.
Hotel Overview and Location
Located in the Asarigawa Onsen district of Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan, Choraku Onsen Hotel offers a convenient base for exploring the region.
Situated 8.5 miles from Otaru Station and 12 miles from Otarushi Zenibako City Center, the hotel provides easy access to nearby attractions.
Sapporo Station is 23 miles away, and Shin-Sapporo Station is 30 miles away, making it accessible from major transportation hubs.
Okadama Airport is 24 miles from the hotel, providing air travel options.
With its strategic location, Choraku Onsen Hotel allows guests to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Hokkaido.
Onsite Amenities and Services
Choraku Onsen Hotel offers an array of onsite amenities and services to cater to its guests’ needs.
The hotel provides free private parking, allowing visitors to conveniently access the property. Plus, the hotel features non-smoking rooms, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.
The highlight of the hotel’s offerings is its hot spring bath, where guests can relax and unwind after a day of exploring the surrounding area.
Other notable amenities include:
- Ski-to-door access for winter enthusiasts
- An on-site restaurant serving Chinese cuisine
- Baggage storage and meeting/banquet facilities for added convenience.
Guest Room Options
Choraku Onsen Hotel offers several room types to cater to different guest preferences. Guests can choose from Japanese-Style Rooms with 3 futon beds, Family Rooms with 5 futon beds, or Economy Twin Rooms with 2 twin beds.
All rooms come equipped with an electric kettle and refrigerator, ensuring guests have the amenities they need.
Whether travelers are seeking a traditional Japanese experience or a more standard twin room, Choraku Onsen Hotel provides comfortable accommodations to suit various needs.
Regardless of the room type selected, guests can look forward to enjoying the hotel’s other on-site facilities, such as the hot spring bath and restaurant.
Guest Review Highlights
According to guest reviews, the hotel’s staff receive high praise, with an average score of 8.1 out of 10.
The facilities, cleanliness, and comfort also scored well, all above 7.5.
However, the hotel’s location and value for money received slightly lower ratings, at 7.5 and 7.6 respectively.
The overall score of 7.2 out of 10 suggests the hotel provides a good experience, but there’s room for improvement in certain areas.
Key review highlights include:
- Friendly, helpful staff
- Clean and comfortable rooms
- Convenient ski-to-door access
Booking and Check-in/Check-out
Booking a stay at Choraku Onsen Hotel is a straightforward process, whether done through the hotel’s website or an online travel platform.
The check-in time is from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and guests must check out between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM.
The hotel welcomes children of all ages, but they don’t provide cribs or extra beds. Pets aren’t allowed.
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary depending on the accommodation type.
Booking.com processes payments on behalf of the hotel, ensuring a seamless booking experience for guests.
Nearby Attractions and Transportation
Guests looking to explore beyond the hotel can easily access various nearby attractions and transportation options.
The hotel is located just 8.5 miles from Otaru Station, providing convenient rail access to the charming city of Otaru. Sapporo Station, the region’s major transportation hub, is a 23-mile drive away, while Shin-Sapporo Station is 30 miles from the hotel. For air travel, Okadama Airport is situated just 24 miles from the property.
Nearby, visitors can enjoy:
- Wandering the historic streets and canals of Otaru, a picturesque port town.
- Exploring the natural beauty of Asarigawa Onsen, the hotel’s local hot spring district.
- Experiencing the vibrant culture and cuisine of Sapporo, Hokkaido’s largest city.
Dining and Cuisine Offerings
What dining options does Choraku Onsen Hotel offer its guests? The hotel’s on-site restaurant serves up authentic Chinese cuisine, perfect for those craving a taste of Asia during their stay. Guests can enjoy a variety of regional dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. To give you a better idea, here’s a sample menu:
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Kung Pao Chicken | Spicy stir-fried chicken dish with peanuts | ¥1,200 |
| Vegetable Fried Rice | Fluffy rice with mixed veggies | ¥900 |
| Steamed Dumplings | Bite-sized dumplings filled with meat or veg | ¥800 |
| Mapo Tofu | Spicy, savory tofu dish | ¥1,100 |
| Beef & Broccoli | Tender beef and crisp broccoli in a flavorful sauce | ¥1,400 |
The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and authentic flavors make it a great dining option for guests looking to enjoy Japanese culture.
Policies and Additional Details
As per the hotel’s policies, check-in is from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and guests must check out by 10:00 AM on the day of departure.
Children of all ages are welcome, but cribs and extra beds aren’t available. Pets aren’t allowed on the premises.
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type, and Booking.com processes all payments on behalf of the hotel.
The hotel offers the following additional services:
- Meeting/Banquet facilities for an additional charge.
- Fax and photocopying services for an additional charge.
- Vending machines for drinks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Dress Code for the Onsen (Hot Spring Bath)?
Most onsen (hot spring baths) in Japan have a casual and relaxed dress code. Guests typically wear a robe (yukata) provided by the onsen facility. Swimsuits are generally not allowed, as bathing nude is the custom.
Can Guests Request Specific Futon Bedding Preferences?
Guests can request specific futon bedding preferences, though availability may vary. The hotel will try to accommodate requests, but cannot guarantee a particular setup or arrangement for the traditional Japanese-style futon bedding.
Are There Any Grocery Stores or Convenience Stores Nearby?
There are no specific mentions of grocery stores or convenience stores near the hotel in the provided information. However, the hotel’s location in the Asarigawa Onsen district suggests there may be some nearby, but their exact proximity is unclear.
Does the Hotel Offer Any Organized Activities or Tours?
The hotel doesn’t seem to offer any organized activities or tours, based on the information provided. However, it does have amenities like ski-to-door access and an open-air bath, suggesting it caters to outdoor recreation enthusiasts.
Can Guests Purchase Alcohol or Other Beverages at the Hotel?
Yes, the hotel offers a vending machine for drinks, allowing guests to purchase beverages on-site. Plus, the hotel’s restaurant serves Chinese cuisine, providing food and drink options during guests’ stay.
The Sum Up
The Choraku Onsen Hotel offers a captivating blend of traditional Japanese hospitality and modern amenities. Its prime location in the Asarigawa Onsen district provides easy access to Otaru’s attractions, while the hotel’s natural hot spring baths, authentic cuisine, and comfortable accommodations ensure a rejuvenating stay. Whether seeking a culture or a relaxing getaway, the Choraku Onsen Hotel promises an unforgettable experience that will leave visitors feeling refreshed and revitalized.