Takasago Onsen

The hotel offers a unique journey back in time, characterized by its distinctive retro atmosphere and an extensive array of onsen baths, making it a memorable destination. This charming establishment is particularly well-suited for families seeking engaging activities, nostalgia seekers who appreciate a glimpse into the past, and onsen enthusiasts eager to explore diverse bathing experiences. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's overall cleanliness, the comfortable accommodations, and the genuinely friendly and attentive service provided by the staff. The wide variety of baths, coupled with the fun, old-school arcade and manga library, ensures there's something for everyone. To fully embrace the experience, guests are encouraged to explore the numerous onsen options and immerse themselves in the unique retro ambiance, which many find to be a delightful escape.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel is celebrated for its impressive range of onsen facilities, often described as a "bath department" due to the sheer variety. Guests can enjoy numerous indoor baths, including unique options like electric baths and radium baths, alongside a spacious sauna and a refreshing cold plunge. The rooftop outdoor baths offer scenic views, though some note varying temperatures, with some being quite cool. Beyond the bathing experience, the hotel boasts a vibrant retro game corner featuring classic arcade machines, mini Famicom consoles, and even a jukebox, providing hours of entertainment for all ages. A well-stocked manga library offers a quiet retreat, while vending machines are conveniently located throughout. Guests also appreciate the availability of free Wi-Fi and the presence of an elevator for easy access to rooms.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, despite the building's older age. Many reviews highlight the spaciousness of the rooms, particularly the tatami family rooms, which are equipped with clean beddings and towels. The futon beds are consistently praised for their comfort, ensuring a restful night's sleep. In-room amenities typically include a small fridge and a kettle, providing convenience for guests. While some rooms feature shared toilets, these are noted to be clean and well-kept. A few guests have mentioned minor issues such as holes in curtains or inconsistent shower water temperature in private baths, and occasional noise from neighboring rooms due to the older construction. However, overall, the rooms are described as comfortable and conducive to relaxation, with good ventilation and high ceilings contributing to a pleasant stay.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive positive feedback, with many guests praising the quality and affordability of the food. The breakfast buffet is often highlighted for its variety and delicious offerings, though some note that popular items like salmon roe might be limited. The on-site restaurant provides convenient and tasty meals for both lunch and dinner, with guests particularly enjoying dishes such as fried chicken (zangi), katsudon, and jingisukan. The food is consistently described as satisfying and offering good value for money, often exceeding expectations for the price point. The restaurant atmosphere is generally pleasant, and the availability of a cafe within the premises adds to the convenience, allowing guests to enjoy meals and snacks without needing to leave the hotel.

Location & Accessibility
Situated on the outskirts of the city, the hotel offers a tranquil environment while remaining accessible. It is conveniently located for guests traveling by car, providing free and spacious parking that, while sometimes crowded, is generally sufficient. The hotel serves as a good base for exploring surrounding areas like Furano and Biei, as well as various ski resorts. For those relying on public transport, a bus station is located directly in front of the building, offering connections to Asahikawa Station, though guests should be mindful of bus schedules as frequency can vary. While some reviews mention the proximity to other establishments, the immediate surroundings of the hotel itself are described as quiet, contributing to a peaceful stay.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise for their exceptional friendliness and attentiveness, significantly enhancing the guest experience. Many guests highlight their helpfulness and willingness to go out of their way to assist, even accommodating requests like holding the restaurant open for late arrivals or providing early breakfast. While some staff members may not speak English, they are resourceful and often utilize translation apps to ensure effective communication, demonstrating their commitment to providing a comfortable stay for all. The check-in process is generally smooth, and guests appreciate the warm welcome they receive upon arrival. Overall, the staff's dedication to providing excellent service and their genuine hospitality are recurring themes, leaving a lasting positive impression on visitors.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of certain specific policies and features that contribute to the hotel's unique character. The hotel maintains a strict no-tattoo policy for its main onsen facilities, though some guests with tattoos have opted to use the smaller private family baths as an alternative. There have been recent changes regarding smoking areas, with the hotel moving towards eliminating indoor smoking spaces, which has been noted by both smokers and non-smokers. A heating fee is applied per person during colder months, which some guests found to be an unexpected addition to their booking. The hotel also offers a pet-friendly policy, accommodating guests traveling with their animals. Additionally, the presence of unique items like a "drinking plum jelly" and various nostalgic objects throughout the premises adds to the overall quirky and memorable experience.