In our review, we found this traditional Japanese inn to be a real gem, just a stone’s throw from Toshogu Shrine.
You’ll sleep on futons in rooms with mountain views, soak in hot spring baths, and savor local dishes. The staff speaks several languages, making your stay smoother.
However, keep in mind that you’ll need to check in by 7 PM if you want dinner, which might cramp your sightseeing style.
Also, the futon bedding might be a bit firm for some Western backs.
This place is perfect for travelers who want to dive deep into Japanese culture and don’t mind trading some modern comforts for an authentic experience.
It’s ideal for shrine enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities.
If you’re after a culture with a side of relaxation, this inn hits the spot.
Key Points
- The Seikoen Hotel is located in Nikko, Japan, a 5-minute walk from the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, offering convenient access to major attractions.
- The hotel features Japanese-style rooms with futon bedding and stunning mountain views, catering to traditional accommodation preferences.
- Guests can enjoy exceptional dining experiences, including a praised breakfast, authentic kaiseki cuisine for dinner, and high-quality seasonal offerings.
- The hotel provides amenities such as a public hot spring bath, free WiFi, and additional services like luggage storage and free parking.
- The hotel maintains strict policies, including a 7 PM check-in requirement for dinner service and a no-smoking policy throughout the property.
Hotel Overview
The Seikoen Hotel is a highly-rated accommodation option located in Nikko, Japan, just a 5-minute walk from the renowned Nikko Toshogu Shrine.
This hotel has an impressive 8.3/10 rating based on 82 reviews, with its prime location receiving an exceptional 9.2/10 score. Guests can easily access nearby attractions like Kegon Fall and Lake Chuzenji, which are a 30-minute drive away.
The hotel offers a variety of room types, including Japanese-style rooms with futon bedding and mountain views, as well as more standard twin rooms with single beds.
Amenities include free WiFi, a hot spring bath, and a highly-praised restaurant serving local, seasonal cuisine.
Accommodation Details
At the Seikoen Hotel, guests can choose from a variety of accommodation options, including Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring and futon bedding.
The hotel offers the following room types:
- Japanese-Style Room – Non-Smoking (4 futon beds)
- Economy Japanese-Style Room – Non-Smoking (2 futon beds)
- Twin Room – Non-Smoking (2 single beds)
All rooms feature amenities such as a mountain view, fridge, electric kettle, private bathroom, seating area, low table, and cushions.
The hotel also provides free WiFi in public areas, free luggage storage, free parking, karaoke, and a gift shop for guests’ convenience.
Dining Experience
| Cuisine | Meal Service | Guest Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Local ingredients | Breakfast | "Exceptional breakfast." |
| Seasonal dishes | Lunch | "Dinner and breakfast were the best in our stay in Japan." |
| Kaiseki meals | Dinner | "Food was seasonal, authentic, prepared with great care." |
Guest Services
Guests at the Seikoen Hotel can take advantage of a variety of amenities and services to enhance their stay.
The hotel offers a soothing public hot spring bath, both indoor and outdoor, for guests to unwind. Room service is available, ensuring guests can enjoy meals in the comfort of their room. Daily housekeeping maintains the hotel’s high standards.
For entertainment, guests can engage in karaoke or board games/puzzles. The hotel staff are multilingual, speaking both English and Japanese, catering to international visitors.
- Public hot spring bath
- Room service
- Daily housekeeping
- Karaoke
- Multilingual staff
Facilities and Entertainment
The Seikoen Hotel boasts a variety of facilities and entertainment options to enhance guests’ experience. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak in the hotel’s hot spring baths, both public and open-air. For indoor entertainment, the hotel offers karaoke and a selection of board games and puzzles. To further cater to guests’ needs, the hotel provides room service and daily housekeeping. Plus, meeting and banquet facilities are available for those looking to host events. The hotel staff is multilingual, with both English and Japanese spoken, ensuring a seamless experience for all.
| Facilities | Entertainment |
|---|---|
| Hot spring bath (public and open-air) | Karaoke |
| Room service | Board games/puzzles |
| Daily housekeeping | – |
| Meeting/banquet facilities (additional charge) | – |
| English and Japanese spoken | – |
Languages and Check-in/Check-out
Although the Seikoen Hotel caters to an international clientele, the staff is multilingual, fluent in both English and Japanese. This linguistic flexibility ensures a seamless experience for guests, regardless of their native language.
The hotel’s check-in and check-out policies are as follows:
- Check-in: 15:00 – 18:00
- Check-out: Until 10:00
It’s important to note that to enjoy the hotel’s dinner service, guests must complete the check-in process by 19:00. Late arrivals may not be able to partake in the dinner experience.
This policy helps the hotel maintain the high-quality dining experience that guests have come to expect.
Policies and Restrictions
Children over the age of 13 are welcome at the Seikoen Hotel, but cots and extra beds aren’t available.
Pets aren’t permitted on the premises. Smoking isn’t allowed anywhere on the property.
Guests can pay using cash. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary depending on the accommodation type, so guests should check the conditions when booking.
It’s important to note that check-in must be completed by 7 PM to have dinner, and late arrivals may not be served.
Additional Information
Conveniently, the hotel offers complimentary luggage storage for guests, allowing them to explore the area unencumbered.
Plus, the Seikoen Hotel accepts cash payments, providing flexibility for travelers.
While children over 13 are welcome, the hotel doesn’t accommodate cots or extra beds.
Smoking is strictly prohibited on the premises.
Guests should be mindful that check-in must be completed by 7 PM to ensure dinner service, as late arrivals may not be able to dine at the hotel.
The cancellation and prepayment policies vary by room type, so visitors are advised to review the terms when booking their stay.
- Complimentary luggage storage
- Cash payments accepted
- No cots or extra beds
- No smoking allowed
- Check-in by 7 PM required for dinner
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Shuttle Service From the Nearest Train Station?
Unfortunately, the hotel does not offer a shuttle service from the nearest train station. Guests will need to make their own transportation arrangements to reach the hotel, which is a 5-minute walk from the Nikko Toshogu Shrine.
What Are the Hotel’s Main Sustainability Practices?
The hotel’s main sustainability practices include using locally sourced ingredients, minimizing waste, and providing eco-friendly amenities. They also encourage guests to reduce energy and water usage during their stay.
Does the Hotel Offer Any Special Packages or Deals?
The hotel offers a variety of special packages and deals, including romantic getaway packages, seasonal offers, and group discounts. Guests should check the hotel’s website or inquire directly to learn about the latest promotions and offers.
Can the Hotel Arrange for Local Tours or Activities?
The hotel can arrange local tours and activities for guests. They can organize transportation, guide services, and customize itineraries to explore Nikko’s top attractions like Kegon Fall and Lake Chuzenji.
Is There an On-Site ATM or Currency Exchange Service?
The hotel doesn’t have an on-site ATM or currency exchange service. Guests will need to visit nearby banks or currency exchange facilities to access these services during their stay.
The Sum Up
Our stay at this gem in Nikko was like stepping into a living postcard of traditional Japan. The moment we slid open the shoji screens and sank into our futons, we knew we’d struck accommodation gold.
From the meticulously prepared kaiseki meals to the soothing onsen baths, every detail whispered authenticity. We found ourselves perfectly positioned to explore Nikko’s world-famous shrines and breathtaking natural wonders, all while basking in the warm glow of Japanese hospitality.
If you’re yearning for a culture that’ll have you feeling more zen than a meditation retreat, look no further. We’ve made it easy for you to snag your own slice of Japanese tranquility. Just click the button below to book through our trusted partner, Booking.com. We use them for all our reservations (at no extra cost to us) and find their prices hard to beat. Happy travels!