Hotels near Shirakawa-go too pricey? Here's a budget-friendly, family-oriented hot spring hotel with Chinese-speaking staff.
On this trip to Hakusan City, apart from exploring the natural beauty, my friends and I stayed at Ichirino Kogen Hotel Roan for two nights.
Although this hotel is a bit on the older side, the stay was surprisingly amazing—perfect for anyone looking for a peaceful retreat to escape the daily grind.
First off, the hotel is located right inside a ski resort. It gets pretty lively during peak season, but off-season is much quieter, making it ideal if you want to enjoy a serene vibe. Plus, we snagged a great deal for two nights at just around HK$600 per person per night! Adding breakfast and dinner only costs a little extra, roughly HK$300 per person for a meal.
The hotel is an older building with a traditional Japanese style. The wooden structure combined with the cozy hearth gives it a real rustic, countryside feel. While the facilities aren't as modern as newer hotels, it’s kept impeccably clean, so you won't feel uncomfortable at all.
The absolute best part is the hot springs, featuring both private open-air baths and large public baths. Soaking in the warm water while taking in the snowy scenery of Hakusan City is straight out of a dream. The hotel also offers bedrock baths and indoor ping-pong tables if you want to work up a sweat. It’s great for kids too, with a dedicated kids' menu so the little ones won't get bored.
When it comes to dining, every meal was a pleasant surprise. The ingredients are incredibly fresh, and the fresh shiitake mushrooms really stood out. The restaurant has a laid-back atmosphere, and the staff takes the time to introduce each ingredient. The sweetest touch was having a staff member from Taiwan, which made communication completely stress-free with a warm and polite vibe. Oh, and the whole hotel has robot cat butlers roaming around—an absolute win for cat lovers!
Just a heads up, since the hotel is surrounded by nature, there are a few more bugs up in the mountains. But whenever they appeared, the staff were super helpful and attentive in clearing them out. As for transportation, the location isn't the most convenient. It’s best to arrange a shuttle or rent a car in advance, otherwise, it can get a bit expensive. It's the perfect spot if you're planning a ski trip, but if you visit during the off-season, just be prepared for a quieter surrounding with fewer activities.
As for attractions, the ski resort is right across the street, making it top-notch for playing in the snow during winter. For other times of the year, I recommend renting a car for sightseeing to experience the rest of Hakusan City's natural landscapes.
To sum it up, if you're chasing five-star luxury, this might not be your spot. But if you're looking to enjoy a great soak, stunning views, and traditional Japanese hot spring hospitality,
this place is definitely worth a try. The staff are enthusiastic, the service is meticulous, and they can handle both English and Chinese. You can truly feel the host's sincerity throughout the entire experience.
Booking tip: Peak holiday seasons and winter ski trips are in high demand, so remember to book early. To fully appreciate this secluded tranquility, make sure to have your own transportation sorted.