RichM
Nishi Itoya in Kamikochi - Family run, Japanese style lodge where breakfast and dinner is amazing. Opt for the japanese style rooms overlooking the river for the best experience. No shower or bath in the rooms, have to use the onsen. The service was second to none (it was the 4th time my uncle and dad were staying there). Appeared to be fancier places in the area, but they have me locked in for any repeat visits. The Japanese room with meals was just about $100 per night. 9.5 / 10
Hotel Tou in Kyoto - Rooms are kinda small with no wardrobes (don’t think it matters if you’re luggage forwarding). 90% of the room is a massive bed. Bang in the center of town (10 min walk for Kyoto Station). Both the western and japanese breakfasts were perfect, plus free drinks and snacks from 3PM onwards and a lovely onsen too. $100 per night with breakfast. Decent bathroom but very small. Not sure I’ll repeat, but given the price was very happy with it. 7.5 / 10
Royal Canvas in Sapporo - Rooms are spacious with probably one of the best bathroom-toilets during our stay. Breakfast was shit but there’s an amazing bakery right next door. No TV but a record player with vinyl in the room. Location was brilliant, right opposite Odori park/Sapporo Tower, everything in downtown walking distance. Plus 11AM checkout. This is more for youngsters, will repeat for sure. $150 per night. 8 / 10
Hotel Cocoa in Lake Toya - Driving up to this place was worried - place looked like it was falling apart from the outside and the lobby is dingy af. But the rooms are massive with huge beds, a big bathroom (jacuzzi bath tub etc) and well kept. It’s all about the view from the room. Up on a hill overlooking most of the lake. No breakfast, no food (think there was a vending machine). Lake Hill Farm is walking distance. Most of the tourists are lined up against the lake, this place is quiet and secluded which is a huge plus. Stay only if you’re driving otherwise I can imagine it being a pain. Wouldn’t hesitate to book again, especially with child, given all the space and that view. 8 / 10
