In our review of this hilltop retreat, we found a peaceful getaway with stunning lake views and easy access to local culture. The rooms are roomy and comfy, and you can soak in your own hot spring tub. The food is a treat, mixing local seafood with creative dishes. The staff is friendly, and everything’s spick-and-span.
But it’s not all perfect. The remote location might be too quiet for some, and getting there can be a bit of a trek. Also, if you’re on a tight budget, the prices might make your wallet wince.
This place is ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape or anyone looking to unwind in nature. It’s also great for folks interested in learning about northern Japan’s history and people.
If you don’t mind splurging a bit for a taste of Japanese luxury in a less-traveled spot, this resort could be just the ticket.
Key Points
- This scenic resort is situated atop rolling hills in the remote Abashiri region of Hokkaido, offering breathtaking views of Lake Abashiri.
- The resort features spacious, well-appointed accommodations with amenities like private hot-spring baths and a unique "chair gallery" showcasing local cultural charm.
- Guests can enjoy exceptional dining experiences featuring Okhotsk region and French cuisine, including vibrant breakfast and dinner buffets.
- The resort is praised for its friendly staff and impeccable cleanliness, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere ideal for couples seeking a peaceful, romantic getaway.
- Convenient services, such as a free shuttle to the Abashiri Train Station and flexible check-in/check-out times, enhance the overall guest experience.
Contents
- Key Points
- Scenic Location on Hilltops
- Accommodating Spacious Rooms and Amenities
- Dining With Local Okhotsk and French Cuisine
- Exceptional Breakfast and Dinner Buffets
- Friendly Staff and Cleanliness Highlights
- Couples-Friendly Environment and Atmosphere
- Convenient Shuttle Service and Check-in/Check-out
- Public Baths and Operating Hours
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Is There a Dress Code for the Public Baths?
- Can I Book a Private Hot-Spring Bath in My Room?
- Are There Any Vegetarian or Vegan Dining Options?
- Is There a Kids’ Club or Activities for Children?
- Can I Arrange for Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
- The Sum Up
Scenic Location on Hilltops
Nestled atop the rolling hills, Hokuten no Oka Abashiriko Tsuruga Resort commands a breathtaking vista of Lake Abashiri.
Situated in the remote Abashiri region of Hokkaido, the resort offers a serene and secluded atmosphere. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the tranquil lake from the hilltops, which are dotted with charming wooden buildings.
The resort’s location provides easy access to local attractions, including the Abashiri Prison Museum and Hokkaido Museum of Northern Peoples, while maintaining a sense of seclusion and privacy.
With its picturesque setting, the resort caters to travelers seeking a peaceful and immersive experience in the natural beauty of northern Japan.
Accommodating Spacious Rooms and Amenities
Along With its picturesque setting, Hokuten no Oka Abashiriko Tsuruga Resort offers spacious and well-appointed accommodations for its guests.
The rooms feature wood floors, comfortable seating areas, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. Some rooms even boast tatami flooring and private hot-spring baths, providing a truly authentic Japanese experience.
Guests can also enjoy the resort’s array of amenities, including open-air hot-spring baths, aromatherapy massages, a library, and a fitness room.
The unique "chair gallery" is another distinctive feature that adds to the resort’s cultural charm.
With its blend of modern comforts and traditional elements, Hokuten no Oka Abashiriko Tsuruga Resort ensures a memorable and relaxing stay for all its visitors.
Dining With Local Okhotsk and French Cuisine
The resort’s dining options are a highlight for guests, featuring two distinct culinary experiences.
Chef’s Restaurant Tou-Tou offers a menu inspired by the flavors of the Okhotsk region and French cuisine. Guests can savor fresh local seafood, hearty stews, and innovative fusion dishes expertly prepared by the skilled chefs.
For a more casual atmosphere, Cota serves a bountiful buffet showcasing the best of Hokkaido’s seasonal produce. From sashimi and sushi to hot pot and traditional Japanese dishes, the breakfast and dinner spreads delight the senses with their variety and quality.
The exceptional dining experiences complement the resort’s overall commitment to providing a memorable stay.
Exceptional Breakfast and Dinner Buffets
Guests rave about the resort’s exceptional breakfast and dinner buffets, which showcase the vibrant flavors of the region. The buffets feature an impressive array of traditional Japanese dishes, including hearty hot pots, freshly sliced sashimi, and delicate sushi rolls. Guests can also indulge in a selection of French-inspired dishes, highlighting the resort’s unique Okhotsk-French fusion cuisine. To further tantalize the palate, the buffets offer a range of local specialties, such as Hokkaido-grown produce and freshly caught seafood from nearby waters.
| Breakfast Offerings | Lunch Buffet | Dinner Buffet | Beverages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miso Soup | Grilled Salmon | Beef Sukiyaki | Tea |
| Steamed Rice | Tempura Vegetables | Yakisoba Noodles | Coffee |
| Tamagoyaki (Rolled Omelet) | Mixed Salad Bar | Sashimi Platter | Juices |
| Natto (Fermented Soybeans) | Assorted Sushi Rolls | Roasted Chicken | Water |
Friendly Staff and Cleanliness Highlights
Friendly and attentive staff greet guests upon arrival, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The resort’s exceptional cleanliness is immediately noticeable, from the well-maintained grounds to the spotless guest rooms. Guests consistently praise the resort’s attention to detail, with the staff going above and beyond to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Key highlights include:
- Prompt and courteous service from all staff members
- Meticulously clean and well-appointed guest rooms
- Pristine common areas, including lobby, restaurants, and public baths
- Responsiveness to guest requests and needs
- Attention to hygiene and sanitation protocols
The combination of friendly service and impeccable cleanliness contributes to the resort’s overall high ratings and positive guest experiences.
Couples-Friendly Environment and Atmosphere
For couples seeking a serene and intimate getaway, the Hokuten no Oka Abashiriko Tsuruga Resort provides an atmosphere that caters perfectly to their needs.
The resort’s secluded hilltop location overlooking Lake Abashiri creates a sense of privacy and tranquility. Guests can enjoy the comfort of spacious rooms with features like tatami flooring and private hot-spring baths, fostering a cozy and romantic ambiance.
The resort’s unique "chair gallery" and library offer opportunities for couples to explore and connect in a culturally-influenced setting.
With an exceptional 8.4 rating for couples, the Hokuten no Oka Abashiriko Tsuruga Resort is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and intimate getaway in Hokkaido.
Convenient Shuttle Service and Check-in/Check-out
Along with the resort’s couples-friendly atmosphere, Hokuten no Oka Abashiriko Tsuruga Resort offers convenient services to make guests’ stays more seamless.
The property provides a free shuttle service to Abashiri Train Station upon request, allowing easy transportation to and from the resort. Guests can check-in between 15:00 and 19:00, and check-out is until 10:00, providing flexibility.
The public baths are open from 14:00 to 09:30, with a cleaning break from 03:00 to 04:00. Plus, the resort accommodates children of all ages, though pets aren’t permitted.
- Free shuttle service to Abashiri Train Station
- Check-in from 15:00 to 19:00, check-out until 10:00
- Public baths open 14:00 to 09:30, closed 03:00 to 04:00
- Accommodates children of all ages
- Pets not allowed
Public Baths and Operating Hours
The resort’s public baths operate daily from 2 PM to 9:30 AM, with a cleaning break from 3 AM to 4 AM.
Guests can enjoy the soothing hot springs while taking in the stunning views of Lake Abashiri. The baths are divided into indoor and outdoor sections, providing a variety of bathing experiences.
The waters are sourced from natural hot springs and are said to have therapeutic properties. Guests can also take advantage of the resort’s aromatherapy massages to further enhance their relaxation.
The public bath facilities are well-maintained and offer a serene environment for guests to unwind and rejuvenate during their stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Dress Code for the Public Baths?
There is no strict dress code for the public baths. Guests can wear casual, comfortable clothes when using the facilities. However, swimsuits or towels are required for modesty and hygiene purposes when using the open-air hot spring baths.
Can I Book a Private Hot-Spring Bath in My Room?
Yes, some room types at the resort offer private hot-spring baths in the guest rooms. Guests can book these rooms to enjoy a private and relaxing bathing experience in the comfort of their accommodations.
Are There Any Vegetarian or Vegan Dining Options?
The resort offers vegetarian and vegan-friendly dining options at its buffet-style Cota restaurant, which features a variety of fresh local foods, including traditional Japanese hot pot, sashimi, and sushi offerings.
Is There a Kids’ Club or Activities for Children?
The resort doesn’t have a dedicated kids’ club, but it offers various activities and amenities for families, including a fitness room and library. Children are welcome, and the resort accommodates all ages.
Can I Arrange for Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
The resort offers flexible check-in and check-out times upon request. While early check-in (before 3 PM) and late check-out (after 10 AM) may be available, they’re subject to availability and may incur additional fees.
The Sum Up
After a long day exploring the rugged beauty of Hokkaido’s Abashiri region, we nestled into the cozy embrace of this hilltop retreat. Perched above Lake Abashiri, this resort offers a perfect blend of modern comforts and traditional Japanese hospitality.
Our spacious room provided a serene sanctuary, while the on-site dining options tantalized our taste buds with local flavors. We particularly enjoyed unwinding in the hot springs, letting the mineral-rich waters soothe our travel-weary muscles.
Families and couples alike will find plenty to love here, from the array of amenities to the cultural experiences that showcase northern Japan’s rich heritage. The tranquil atmosphere and attentive staff ensured our stay was nothing short of memorable.
Ready to experience this Hokkaido gem for yourself? Click the button below to book through Booking.com. It’s our go-to for hassle-free reservations, and they often have the best rates available. Happy travels!