Hotel Goryukan — Hotel in Hakuba

Hotel Goryukan offered an intriguing blend of traditional Japanese elements and westernized comforts, making for a unique stay during my visit to Hakuba. The hotel's traditional tatami rooms are spacious by Japanese standards, providing ample space for families or groups. Our room was not only large but also boasted exceptionally comfortable futons, which, surprisingly, were pleasant even when judged by Western standards.

The hotel offers a breakfast service, which, while satisfactory, might not meet the expectations of those seeking an authentic Japanese morning meal. The menu rotates every three days, a feature that could use more variety, especially for guests staying longer. However, the food quality is commendable, and the western-style breakfast can be a comforting touch for those less inclined toward Japanese cuisine.

A highlight of Hotel Goryukan is its onsen and sauna facilities, featuring a high alkaline onsen that is a delight for the skin, providing a soothing and rejuvenating experience. Notably, the hotel is tattoo-friendly, welcoming all guests to enjoy the onsen without the restrictions found in many other Japanese establishments.

Despite these charms, the hotel's westernization might not appeal to everyone. The majority of guests during my stay were Westerners, and the staff, despite my proficiency in Japanese, seemed to default to English communication. While this can be convenient, it may detract from the immersive Japanese experience some travelers seek.

The hotel is excellently equipped for skiers, with spacious ski lockers and changing areas that easily accommodated our group and a large Danish ski team simultaneously. The proximity to the ski lift and the pedestrian-friendly environment added to the convenience of our skiing experience.

Dining options within and around the hotel are plentiful, but a word of advice to future visitors: reservations are essential, especially during weekends. English-speaking staff at local restaurants make this process easy, mirroring the reservation culture in the US.

Lastly, a respectful engagement with Japanese culture greatly enhances the experience, not only at Hotel Goryukan but throughout Hakuba. While the hotel and area are welcoming to Westerners, demonstrating cultural awareness and respect is highly appreciated by locals and can enrich your stay.

In summary, Hotel Goryukan is an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable, ski-oriented stay in Hakuba, with the added benefits of traditional Japanese accommodations and a welcoming atmosphere, regardless of one's background or tattoos. However, for those seeking a deeply authentic Japanese experience, the hotel's westernized approach may require...

We stayed here based on our travel agents' recommendation. The hotel is easily seen (it's huge) from the bus terminal at Happo One and a short 10 minute walk away. Likewise also 10 minute walk from Hakuba Base at Echoland if you get dropped there. For skiers, it is a short walk to Nakiyama chairlift (base of Happo One resort) or there are plenty of shuttle buses daily to each of the other resorts that start within walking distance of the hotel. ||||The hotel is very nice with a great bar area (awesome happy hour), on site restaurant, free Japanese onsen bath and amazing staff. ||||There are two room types - Japanese or Western style. Our group had one of each. All beds were comfortable and large enough to fit our almost 7 foot tall friend. I personally liked the Western room better as the beds were at normal height but the Japanese room was still comfortable - personal preference really. ||||Rooms have good heating, small but fine shower and toilet, and adequate storage space. We barely used the TV or in house tea and coffee making facilities. Our room faced the ski slopes which was great. ||||Breakfast was included for us - egg station (cooked to order but no poached eggs available - fried or omelette) with bacon and toast. Also salad, fruit, cereals, and then a full Japanese breakfast setup with noodles, salmon, pickles etc. Coffee ok but not great (filter) and juices and tea. We also ate here for dinner once as we were too tired to go out and had lovely shabu shabu and sukiyaki hotpots. ||||The ski storage area is great as well - each room gets a ski locker down in the basement that you can lock and there is also a drying room with free lockers. Fantastic! ||||The hotel also provides great shuttle services - around town, to and from dinner nearby (Echoland etc) and even to some of the ski slopes (these services are timed and set to a schedule). ||||Self serve laundry in the hotel too with free detergent provided and dryers. Vending machines in same area for beer, coffee and drinks. ||||Finally, the staff - all speak excellent English and went out of their way to help us (even helping me up the driveway in a snowstorm!). ||||This really is a fantastic hotel and above all my expectations. We will...

We stayed here based on our travel agents' recommendation. The hotel is easily seen (it's huge) from the bus terminal at Happo One and a short 10 minute walk away. Likewise also 10 minute walk from Hakuba Base at Echoland if you get dropped there. For skiers, it is a short walk to Nakiyama chairlift (base of Happo One resort) or there are plenty of shuttle buses daily to each of the other resorts that start within walking distance of the hotel. ||||The hotel is very nice with a great bar area (awesome happy hour), on site restaurant, free Japanese onsen bath and amazing staff. ||||There are two room types - Japanese or Western style. Our group had one of each. All beds were comfortable and large enough to fit our almost 7 foot tall friend. I personally liked the Western room better as the beds were at normal height but the Japanese room was still comfortable - personal preference really. ||||Rooms have good heating, small but fine shower and toilet, and adequate storage space. We barely used the TV or in house tea and coffee making facilities. Our room faced the ski slopes which was great. ||||Breakfast was included for us - egg station (cooked to order but no poached eggs available - fried or omelette) with bacon and toast. Also salad, fruit, cereals, and then a full Japanese breakfast setup with noodles, salmon, pickles etc. Coffee ok but not great (filter) and juices and tea. We also ate here for dinner once as we were too tired to go out and had lovely shabu shabu and sukiyaki hotpots. ||||The ski storage area is great as well - each room gets a ski locker down in the basement that you can lock and there is also a drying room with free lockers. Fantastic! ||||The hotel also provides great shuttle services - around town, to and from dinner nearby (Echoland etc) and even to some of the ski slopes (these services are timed and set to a schedule). ||||Self serve laundry in the hotel too with free detergent provided and dryers. Vending machines in same area for beer, coffee and drinks. ||||Finally, the staff - all speak excellent English and went out of their way to help us (even helping me up the driveway in a snowstorm!). ||||This really is a fantastic hotel and above all my expectations. We will...