Hotel Route-Inn Sapporo Shiroishi

This hotel offers a compelling blend of affordability and practical amenities, making it a popular choice for various guests. Its signature feature is the provision of free parking, a significant advantage for car travelers exploring the region, complemented by a consistently praised delicious breakfast. Guests frequently highlight the hotel's overall cleanliness and the friendly staff as key positive aspects of their stay. It is particularly well-suited for budget-conscious travelers and business travelers seeking good value, as well as solo travelers looking for a comfortable base. To enhance your experience, consider bringing an extension cord for convenient device charging, and utilize the in-room TV to monitor the breakfast area's crowd status before heading down.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a public bath, which, while appreciated for relaxation, is often noted by guests as being quite small, particularly the women's section with only two washing stations. Access to the public bath requires obtaining a key from the front desk, which some guests find inconvenient. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, though some visitors report inconsistent or slow speeds, especially during peak usage times in the evenings. Rooms are equipped with an air purifier and air conditioning, though some guests have experienced issues with temperature control, finding rooms too warm or the system limited to heating/ventilation. Other conveniences include laundry facilities (paid, with detergent available at the front desk), an ice machine, vending machines, and a complimentary welcome coffee at the front desk that receives positive remarks for its quality.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
While the hotel generally maintains a good standard of cleanliness, a significant number of guests, particularly non-smokers, report a strong and pervasive cigarette smell in designated smoking rooms, which can be quite bothersome and even cause eye or throat irritation. The bathroom areas are frequently described as small and narrow, with some guests noting unpleasant odors, such as mold or dampness, and issues like loud toilet water sounds or cold bidet water. Despite these concerns, the beds are generally found to be comfortable, providing a restful sleep. Noise levels receive mixed feedback, with some guests experiencing disturbances from street traffic, elevators, or even dripping sounds from water fixtures. A common point of feedback is the limited number of power outlets near the bed, necessitating the use of extension cords for charging devices.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast consistently receives high praise from guests, often described as delicious and offering a satisfying buffet selection, especially considering it is complimentary. While the variety may not be extensive, the quality of the food is a recurring positive theme. The breakfast area can become quite crowded, particularly during peak morning hours, though the hotel provides a useful system allowing guests to check the current crowd status on their in-room television. In addition to breakfast, the hotel also has a restaurant that serves dinner, with some guests commending the food quality and value, and noting the availability of take-out options. The complimentary welcome coffee available at the front desk is also frequently highlighted for its good taste.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a key factor for guests, being quite a distance from Sapporo Station and not easily accessible on foot. However, it is well-suited for car travelers due to its proximity to a highway exit and the significant benefit of free parking. While public transportation options like bus stops are available nearby, providing routes to the station, the immediate surrounding area is described as lacking in attractions, with convenience stores requiring a short walk. The parking facilities, though free, are often noted as being narrow and can be challenging to navigate, especially the multi-story parking area. Limited outdoor spots are available for larger vehicles, and guests are advised to arrive early as parking can fill up quickly.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, with guests frequently commending their friendliness, kindness, politeness, and overall attentiveness. Many reviews highlight specific instances of staff going above and beyond, such as assisting with parking, helping with car troubles, or efficiently resolving issues like forgotten items. The check-in process is generally described as smooth and efficient, contributing to a positive first impression. Guests appreciate the staff's willingness to accommodate requests and their proactive approach to customer service. Despite a few isolated reports of inconsistent service or misunderstandings, the prevailing sentiment is that the hotel's team is dedicated to providing a helpful and pleasant experience for all visitors.

Additional Information
A notable feature of the hotel is its eco-cleaning program, which allows guests to opt out of daily room cleaning in exchange for a complimentary drink, such as beer or a soft drink. However, some guests have reported issues with staff misinterpreting their choice, leading to confusion. It is important for guests to note that the hotel's room doors are not auto-lock, requiring manual locking upon exit, and the room key controls the electricity, meaning air conditioning or other power-dependent amenities will turn off when leaving the room. For female guests, the hotel provides thoughtful amenities at the front desk, including cleansing oil, lotion, cotton pads, and cotton swabs. Some guests have expressed discomfort with the use of space deodorizers in common areas, reporting throat or nose irritation.