Tucked into the resort town of Karuizawa, this mid-range hotel sits in a sweet spot – you can stroll to Kumoba Pond or browse the old-timey Kyukaruizawa Ginza shopping street, all without breaking a sweat. The staff here really shine, going the extra mile to help travelers feel at home. While the basics are covered nicely (free parking, Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms with private baths), there are a few wrinkles to consider. The overall comfort level is just okay (scoring 6.9 out of 10), and the European restaurant, while convenient, won’t knock your socks off.
The real question is: who’s this place right for? If you’re a practical traveler who values location and helpful service over luxury frills, you’ll find good value here. It’s especially suited for folks planning to split their time between Karuizawa’s natural attractions and shopping spots – the Prince Shopping Plaza is just an 11-minute walk away. Budget-conscious families and couples who plan to spend most of their time exploring rather than lounging in their room will find this a sensible home base.
Good To Know
- Kyu-Karuizawa Hotel Shinonome is located in Karuizawa, Nagano, Japan, within an 11-minute walk to Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza and close to local attractions.
- The hotel has an overall rating of 6.9, with strong staff service (8.1) but room for improvement in cleanliness (7.4) and facilities (6.7).
- Amenities include non-smoking rooms, free parking, complimentary WiFi, an on-site European-style restaurant, and meeting/banquet facilities.
- Rooms are equipped with basic furnishings and amenities, including wardrobe, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, refrigerator, and electric kettle.
- Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with check-out by 10:00 AM, and the hotel welcomes children aged 6 and above.
Location and Proximity
Kyu-Karuizawa Hotel Shinonome is located in Karuizawa, Nagano, Japan, at the address Karuizawa 1278-16.
It’s an 11-minute walk from Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza and close to attractions like Kumoba Pond (1969 feet) and Kyukaruizawa Ginza (2953 feet).
The hotel’s location is particularly favored by couples, who give it an 8.3 rating.
Convenient access to local amenities and sights makes this hotel an attractive option for visitors wanting to explore the Karuizawa area.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
The hotel’s overall rating of 6.9, categorized as pleasant, reflects a mixed bag of guest experiences. While the staff received a strong 8.1 rating, other aspects like cleanliness (7.4) and free WiFi (6.7) left room for improvement. The table below further highlights the hotel’s performance:
| Metric | Score |
|---|---|
| Staff | 8.1 |
| Cleanliness | 7.4 |
| Comfort | 7.5 |
Notably, couples seemed to appreciate the hotel’s location more, with an 8.3 rating in this area. However, the overall facilities score of 6.7 suggests the property could benefit from upgrading its amenities to better meet guest expectations.
Hotel Amenities and Services
Beyond the guest ratings, Kyu-Karuizawa Hotel Shinonome offers a range of amenities and services to cater to travelers’ needs.
The hotel features non-smoking rooms, free parking, and complimentary WiFi. Guests can enjoy on-site dining at the European-style restaurant, which serves breakfast and dinner.
Daily housekeeping, a shared lounge, and meeting/banquet facilities are also available for added convenience. The 24-hour front desk ensures assistance is always accessible.
While the hotel lacks elevators, it maintains a focus on providing essential services to make guests’ stays comfortable and enjoyable.
Room Features and Accommodations
Equipped with a range of amenities, the hotel’s rooms cater to the needs of guests.
Each room features a wardrobe, flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with free toiletries, a hairdryer, and a bathtub or shower. Guests can also enjoy the convenience of a refrigerator and electric kettle.
The rooms are equipped with air conditioning and heating, ensuring year-round comfort.
However, accessibility is limited as the upper floors are accessible only by stairs, as the hotel doesn’t have elevators.
Check-in, Check-out, and Policies
Guests can check in at the Kyu-Karuizawa Hotel Shinonome between 3:00 PM and 10:00 PM, and they must check out by 10:00 AM.
Children of all ages are welcome, but those 6 and above are charged as adults. Pets aren’t allowed.
Guests must pay in cash, and they’ll need to remove their shoes in guest rooms and the hallway.
There are no elevators, as the upper floors are accessible by stairs only.
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type.
Cuisine and Dining Options
The hotel’s on-site restaurant offers European cuisine, serving breakfast and dinner. Guests can enjoy a variety of European dishes throughout the day.
The breakfast menu features both Western and Japanese-style options, allowing visitors to start their day with their preferred fare. In the evening, the restaurant transforms into a cozy dining space, serving an array of European specialties.
Diners can savor the flavors of the Continent without venturing too far from the hotel. The restaurant’s welcoming ambiance and attentive service complement the delectable menu, providing a pleasant dining experience for hotel guests.
Meeting and Banquet Facilities
Along With its dining options, the Kyu-Karuizawa Hotel Shinonome provides meeting and banquet facilities for guests. These facilities are available for an additional charge and can accommodate various events, from small business meetings to larger gatherings.
The hotel offers a shared lounge and TV area, perfect for more casual get-togethers. The 24-hour front desk is on hand to assist with any event planning or logistical needs.
While the rooms aren’t equipped with elevators, the hotel strives to cater to the needs of its guests, ensuring a seamless experience for those utilizing the meeting and banquet facilities.
Hotel Accessibility and Elevators
Accessibility at the Kyu-Karuizawa Hotel Shinonome is somewhat limited, as upper floors are accessible solely by stairs.
There are no elevators available at the property. This may pose a challenge for guests with mobility issues or those traveling with heavy luggage.
While the hotel’s staff is likely willing to assist guests with their belongings, the lack of elevators could be an inconvenience.
Guests should be aware of this limitation when booking their stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Spa or Wellness Center On-Site?
The hotel does not mention any on-site spa or wellness center. The available amenities and services focus on basic hotel facilities like a restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and meeting spaces, but do not include any specialized wellness or relaxation offerings.
Can I Request Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
According to the information provided, early check-in or late check-out is not mentioned as an available service. The standard check-in time is 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and check-out is until 10:00 AM.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?
The hotel doesn’t advertise any discounts or special offers on its website. However, guests can check with the front desk upon arrival to inquire about any last-minute deals or promotions that may be available.
Can I Store My Luggage Before Check-In or After Check-Out?
The hotel allows guests to store their luggage before check-in and after check-out, although this service may have an additional charge. Guests should inquire at the front desk about the hotel’s luggage storage policies and any applicable fees.
Is There a Fitness Center or Gym at the Hotel?
According to the information provided, the Kyu-Karuizawa Hotel Shinonome doesn’t have a fitness center or gym on-site. The hotel focuses more on providing basic amenities like free parking, Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant.
The Sum Up
The Kyu-Karuizawa Hotel Shinonome is an excellent choice for those seeking a serene and convenient escape in Karuizawa. With its prime location, cozy accommodations, and range of amenities, the hotel caters to the needs of both couples and families. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, the Kyu-Karuizawa Hotel Shinonome promises a delightful and memorable experience.