Kitamura Onsen Hotel

This establishment is highly regarded for its exceptional hot spring water, which is notably salty and provides a deep, lasting warmth, making it a popular destination for day-trip visitors and local residents seeking a restorative soak. Following a recent renovation, the facilities are generally perceived as clean and comfortable, enhancing the overall guest experience. While the hot spring is a major draw, its popularity means it can become quite crowded, especially during peak hours and on weekends. The on-site restaurant also receives praise for its diverse and flavorful menu. For couples and sauna enthusiasts, the powerful hot spring and well-regarded sauna offer a relaxing retreat. To ensure a more tranquil visit, guests might consider scheduling their visit during weekdays or off-peak times, and be prepared for the distinctive, highly saline nature of the spring water.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the extensive hot spring facilities, which include multiple indoor baths and two outdoor baths, along with a sauna and a very cold plunge pool that is particularly favored by sauna enthusiasts. The establishment also features a rock bath area, though some guests found the noise from staff patrols and loud classical music in this area disruptive. There are numerous rest areas available, offering both sofas and tatami mats, providing ample space for relaxation. Wi-Fi is accessible, and vending machines are on-site for convenience. However, some guests noted issues with the water dispensers having low pressure or appearing unclean, and the lockers in the changing rooms sometimes require a coin deposit and may not always lock securely, leading to inconvenience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
For those staying overnight, the rooms are generally described as clean and comfortable, often featuring a combination of Japanese and Western styles. Guests reported sleeping well due to the comfortable accommodations. However, a significant concern for some guests was the lack of air conditioning in the guest rooms, which could lead to uncomfortably high temperatures, especially during warmer months, necessitating open windows for ventilation. Noise levels were also mentioned, with the elevator guidance voice being notably loud and audible from rooms. Additionally, some found the provided yukata (traditional robes) to be made of a thick, uncomfortable fabric.

Dining & Food Quality
The on-site restaurant garners positive feedback for its food quality, with many guests expressing pleasant surprise at the delicious offerings. Popular dishes include the stone pot steak bowl, ankake ramen, and the unique milk-miso ramen, which is highly recommended. Other appreciated options include the shrimp fry set meal and various Chinese dishes like mapo tofu and shrimp mayo. While the breakfast is described as a standard set meal, the overall dining experience is generally positive. However, some guests noted that the restaurant could become crowded with day-trippers, affecting the atmosphere, and service could occasionally be slow, particularly during busy periods.

Location & Accessibility
The establishment is situated in a rural area, surrounded by fields, offering a peaceful and scenic backdrop. It is approximately an hour's drive from Sapporo, making it a feasible destination for a day trip or a short getaway. The parking facilities are a recurring point of concern for guests, often described as narrow and frequently full, especially on weekends, as they are shared with day-use visitors. This can make finding a spot challenging. Despite its somewhat remote setting, the surrounding flat roads with wide shoulders make it accessible and enjoyable for those traveling by bicycle.

Staff & Service
Feedback regarding the staff and service is mixed. While many guests found the staff to be friendly, helpful, and attentive, particularly at the front desk, others reported less positive interactions. Some guests experienced staff being unhelpful or showing annoyance when asked questions, especially if they were not repeat visitors. There were also instances where guests felt the staff lacked attentiveness, such as slow service in the restaurant or needing to be called over. A few reviews highlighted specific unprofessional conduct, including a staff member reportedly using a phone to take photos in a changing room, and a perceived lack of enforcement of the stated tattoo policy.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that while there is a stated policy against tattoos, some visitors reported seeing patrons with visible tattoos, and staff were perceived as not enforcing this rule, which caused discomfort for some. The facility operates with extended day-use hours, opening early in the morning and closing late at night, which contributes to its popularity but also means it can be consistently crowded with day-trippers. Guests move around the facility barefoot, as slippers are not provided, which some found to be a hygiene concern. The establishment also features a local produce and souvenir shop, offering fresh vegetables, fruits, and unique baked goods. For frequent visitors, a stamp card program is available, allowing for free entry after a certain number of visits.