Hotel Route-Inn Asahikawa Ekimae Ichijodori

This hotel is particularly noted for its public bath, which provides a relaxing and refreshing experience for many guests after a day of travel or work. Its convenient location near the station and city center, coupled with a satisfying breakfast offering good value, are consistently praised. The hotel is well-suited for business travelers seeking practical amenities and an efficient stay, as well as sightseers who appreciate easy access to local attractions and dining. Solo travelers and those on short stays will find the compact rooms efficient. To enhance your visit, be mindful that room sizes can be small, especially if you have large luggage, and remember to manually lock your door upon leaving, as rooms are not auto-locking.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a public bath in the basement, which is a major highlight for many guests, providing a welcome opportunity to relax and unwind. While some found the bath area to be somewhat small or noted minor issues with a few broken showers or sinks, the overall experience is generally positive. Guests appreciate the convenience of laundry machines located within the public bath area. The hotel also offers free Wi-Fi, though some guests reported spotty or slow connections at times, particularly during peak hours. A complimentary coffee service in the lobby is a welcome amenity, and vending machines are available for additional convenience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, despite some noting a slightly dated appearance in certain areas. The beds are described as comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep for most. However, a recurring theme is the small size of the rooms, which can make it challenging to open larger suitcases or move around freely. Some guests also mentioned issues with air conditioning being centrally managed, leading to rooms feeling too warm or cold depending on the season. A significant point of feedback is that room doors are not auto-locking, requiring guests to manually use a physical key to secure their room, which can be a concern for those accustomed to modern hotel security.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast buffet receives widespread praise for its quality and being included in the stay, offering excellent value. Many guests highlight the variety of options available, including a popular spicy curry, fresh salads, and traditional Japanese dishes. While some guests wished for a greater selection of items like grilled fish or sausages, the overall consensus is that the breakfast is satisfying and well-prepared. The restaurant staff are often commended for their attentiveness and efficiency in managing the buffet, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for all. Complimentary coffee is also available, adding to the convenience.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a central location, making it highly convenient for exploring the city. It is within easy walking distance of the train station, the Aeon shopping mall, and various restaurants and entertainment areas. This accessibility is a major advantage for both business and leisure travelers. Regarding parking, the hotel offers a multi-story parking garage, but guests should be aware of height restrictions for vehicles. Feedback on parking is mixed; some found it convenient and reasonably priced, while others experienced difficulties with full lots or unhelpful staff, occasionally needing to use more expensive nearby public parking options.

Staff & Service
The staff at this hotel generally receive positive feedback for their friendliness and helpfulness. Many guests commend their attentive service, particularly at the front desk and in the breakfast area. Staff are often noted for their willingness to assist with inquiries, provide clear directions, and manage check-in processes efficiently, though some guests experienced slow check-in during busy periods. Instances of exceptional service, such as assisting with parking guidance or handling lost and found items with care, are also highlighted. However, a few guests reported less positive interactions, describing some staff as unenthusiastic or unhelpful, leading to frustration.

Additional Information
A notable feature of this hotel is its physical key system for rooms, which means doors are not auto-locking. Guests are advised to manually lock their doors upon entering and exiting to ensure security. While this can be a point of adjustment for some, it also means guests are less likely to be locked out of their rooms. The hotel offers an eco-cleaning option, where guests can opt out of daily room cleaning in exchange for complimentary drinks or other small perks. Some guests have commented on the condition of the room wear, suggesting it appeared old or worn. The hotel also provides umbrellas in rooms, a thoughtful touch for unexpected weather.