In our review of this cozy mountain retreat, we found a gem nestled just steps away from the snow-covered slopes of Zao Onsen. This traditional Japanese inn offers a mix of futon and Western-style rooms, perfect for soaking up the local culture or easing into it gently. The steamy hot spring baths and tasty local grub are sure to warm you up after a day on the slopes.
While the friendly staff and spotless rooms earn top marks, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. The upcoming renovations from fall to winter 2024 might bring some unwanted noise, and the traditional futon beds might be a bit too firm for some Western backs.
That said, if you’re looking for an authentic Japanese experience with a dash of comfort and convenience, this place hits the spot. It’s ideal for ski buffs, hot spring enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to enjoy the stunning Zao landscape without sacrificing modern amenities.
Just remember to book outside the renovation period if you’re a light sleeper!
Key Points
- The Zao Shiki no Hotel is an 8.8-rated accommodation located in Zao Onsen, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan, just a 1-minute walk from the Zao Onsen Ski Resort.
- The hotel offers various accommodation options, including Japanese Modern Twin Rooms, Junior Suites, and Japanese Style Deluxe Twin Rooms, all equipped with modern amenities.
- The on-site restaurant, Yama no Uta, serves delectable Japanese cuisine, including sushi, tempura, and grilled meats, using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.
- The hotel has impressive wellness facilities, including indoor and outdoor public hot-spring baths, a sauna, and massage services, allowing guests to rejuvenate.
- Ongoing renovations from September 2 to December 13, 2024, may cause occasional noise and disruptions, and guests are encouraged to plan their stay accordingly.
Hotel Overview and Location
The Zao Shiki no Hotel is a well-regarded accommodation located in the heart of Zao Onsen, a renowned hot spring resort in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan.
This 8.8-rated hotel is just a 1-minute walk from the Zao Onsen Ski Resort, making it an ideal choice for winter sports enthusiasts.
Nearby attractions include the Zao Rope Way Station, Yamagata City Wild Plants Garden, Okama Crater, and Lina World.
With its convenient location, the hotel provides easy access to various sightseeing and recreational opportunities in the Zao mountain region.
Accommodation and Amenities
The Zao Shiki no Hotel offers a range of accommodation options to suit different guest preferences. Guests can choose from Japanese Modern Twin Rooms, Junior Suites, Japanese Style Deluxe Twin Rooms, or rooms selected at check-in.
The rooms feature either Japanese futon bedding on tatami floors or Western-style beds with carpeted floors. Amenities include free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, fridges, private bathrooms with hairdryers and slippers, air conditioning, ski storage, a sauna, and an on-site restaurant serving Japanese cuisine and breakfast buffets.
The hotel’s wellness facilities include indoor and outdoor public hot-spring baths, footbaths, and a sauna, with massage services available at an additional cost.
Dining and Restaurant
Zao Shiki no Hotel’s on-site restaurant, Yama no Uta, offers guests a delightful dining experience featuring Japanese cuisine.
The restaurant offers a breakfast buffet as well as à la carte dinner options. Guests can look forward to:
- A selection of traditional Japanese dishes, including sushi, tempura, and grilled meats.
- A focus on using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients for maximum freshness and flavor.
- A cozy, inviting atmosphere with stunning views of the surrounding Zao Onsen landscape.
Yama no Uta’s commitment to quality and authenticity ensures guests can indulge in a truly memorable culinary journey during their stay at Zao Shiki no Hotel.
Hot Springs and Wellness
Guests can enjoy a rejuvenating soak in Zao Shiki no Hotel’s indoor and outdoor public hot-spring baths.
While the outdoor baths are closed from late December to February, the indoor baths are open year-round. Visitors can also unwind in the sauna rooms.
For an additional cost, the hotel offers massage services to help guests relax and rejuvenate.
The hot-spring facilities provide a serene and invigorating experience, allowing guests to enjoy the natural thermal waters of the Zao Onsen region.
With these wellness amenities, Zao Shiki no Hotel offers a well-rounded stay focused on relaxation and rejuvenation.
Guest Experience and Reviews
Glowing reviews from satisfied patrons attest to the exceptional guest experience at Zao Shiki no Hotel. According to feedback, the hotel’s staff earned a near-perfect rating of 9.1, with guests praising their friendliness and attentiveness.
The facilities and cleanliness were also highly rated, scoring 9.0 and 9.1, respectively. Guests were particularly impressed by the:
- Spacious and well-appointed rooms.
- Excellent quality of the food, both at the breakfast buffet and dinner service.
- Beautiful views and overall relaxing ambiance of the property.
With an average overall rating of 8.8, Zao Shiki no Hotel delivers an experience that exceeds expectations and leaves a lasting impression on its visitors.
Check-in and Check-out
Providing guests with a smooth arrival and departure experience, Zao Shiki no Hotel offers check-in from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM and check-out between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM.
The hotel enforces a minimum check-in age of 18, welcoming children over 7. Guests should note that the hotel only accepts card payments, as it doesn’t accept cash.
Guests with special requests, such as for allergies, must communicate them by 12:00 PM the day before. Plus, the hotel may restrict guests with tattoos from using the public bathing areas.
Guests should plan their stay accordingly, as the hotel is undergoing renovations from September 2 to December 13, 2024, which may result in potential noise during those hours.
Policies and Restrictions
The hotel enforces a strict minimum check-in age of 18, though children over 7 are welcome.
Guests should note that cash isn’t accepted, and only card payments are allowed. Plus, tattooed guests may be restricted from using the public bathing areas.
Key policies and restrictions include:
- All special requests, such as changes for allergies, must be communicated by 12:00 PM the day before.
- Pets aren’t permitted on the premises.
- Guests should be aware of ongoing construction work from September 2 to December 13, 2024, which may cause some noise during renovation hours from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Construction and Renovations
Guests should be aware of the ongoing construction and renovation work at the Zao Shiki no Hotel.
The renovations are scheduled to take place from September 2 to December 13, 2024. During this time, there may be occasional noise and disruptions, primarily between the hours of 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
The hotel management has made efforts to minimize the impact on guests, but some inconvenience may be unavoidable.
Guests are encouraged to plan their stay accordingly and to contact the hotel if they’ve any concerns or special requests related to the ongoing work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Shuttle Service to the Ski Resort?
The hotel offers a convenient 1-minute walk to the Zao Onsen Ski Resort, so there’s no need for a shuttle service. Guests can easily access the slopes directly from the hotel.
Can I Store My Ski/Snowboard Equipment at the Hotel?
The hotel offers ski storage facilities, allowing guests to safely store their ski and snowboard equipment on-site. This convenient amenity ensures equipment is readily available when guests need it for their winter activities.
Are There Any Non-Smoking Rooms Available?
Yes, the hotel offers non-smoking rooms. Guests can request a non-smoking room when booking their stay. The hotel strives to accommodate all guests’ preferences and provide a comfortable experience.
What Time Is the Last Check-In for the Restaurant?
The last check-in time for the Yama no Uta restaurant at Zao Shiki no Hotel is 7:00 PM. The restaurant serves Japanese cuisine and offers a breakfast buffet to hotel guests.
Is There a Cancellation Policy for the Hot Spring Treatments?
The hotel’s website does not provide specific details on a cancellation policy for spa treatments. However, guests are advised to inquire about any applicable policies when booking their spa services.
The Sum Up
After a long day of skiing on the powdery slopes of Zao Onsen, we found ourselves delightfully cocooned in the warm embrace of Japanese hospitality at this gem of a hotel. The perfect blend of traditional aesthetics and modern comforts had us feeling like we’d stepped into a living postcard.
The natural hot springs here are a balm for weary muscles, and we found ourselves lingering longer than planned, soaking in the mineral-rich waters while gazing at the snow-capped mountains. The dining experience was equally memorable, with each carefully crafted dish telling a story of local flavors and age-old culinary traditions.
Whether you’re here for the world-class skiing or simply to learn about the tranquility of rural Japan, this hotel delivers an experience that will linger in your memory long after you’ve returned home. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to extend your stay "just one more night."
If you’re itching to book your own Japanese adventure, you’re in luck! The button below will whisk you away to Booking.com, our go-to site for reservations. We use it ourselves for its competitive prices and free booking service. Go ahead, treat yourself to a slice of Japanese paradise!