UNWIND HOTEL&BAR SAPPORO — Hotel in Sapporo

I’ll be honest, I’m a little confused by the glowing reviews. I was pretty darn disappointed with this hotel, and surprised at how far below my expectations it was given all the positive reviews I had read about the place. But it felt like a 2-star hotel masquerading as a 3-star hotel. If you’re from the US, it was basically what I would expect from a Super 8,

Let’s start with the positives: the service was pretty good. They have a lovely rooftop patio and serve free wine during happy hour. That part was nice. And the traditional Japanese breakfast delivered to the room was substantial and tasty. We stayed in one of the family suites and it was a decent size with a fairly well-equipped kitchen.

On the other hand….

Apart from the room’s decent size, the rest of it was surprisingly…dingy? depressing? bleak? Dark beige from floor to ceiling, no artwork on the walls, carpet that felt kind of gross to walk on, and an incredibly uncomfortable couch. And then there was the bathroom. I get that it was clearly retrofitted into the space, and I’m sure that’s not easy, but it felt like stepping into the bathroom of an RV or mobile home. And if you are tall, like my husband, forget about it. That shower was not made for anyone over 5’10. The hotel room had one square window that let in some light, but it was still quite dim in there.

I’m also disappointed by their cancellation or room change policy. My daughter was going to stay with us, hence the family suite, but she had to back out last minute (she lives in Sapporo). The hotel would have let us switch to a smaller room, but would not adjust the price accordingly because it was outside the 48-hour window. It’s a nearly $100 difference in price, so why would we pay the same for a smaller, cheaper room? We were still staying there, so I don't understand why they can't adjust when circumstances change. That just seems unnecessary.

I think it should also be said that the hotel is not in a great area. It’s fairly quiet, sure, but it’s also near all of the “love hotels” in Sapporo, and walking there from Susukino at night felt like a terrible idea. I was glad I was walking back with a very tall and imposing-looking man.

I was relieved we only had one night reserved. I would have been very sad to spend that much money on a room of...

A young and chic hotel in the middle of the bigger hotels nearby but you would be surprised with their even bigger smile and friendly service. You will be attended casually but attentive by the front office associates (kudos to the attractive female staff who can converse in fluent English and to the American guy working at Unwind Sapporo), for the hotel check-in and I like the way how it went so well... Welcome drink will be served with iced lemon drink or iced coffee.

Keys to the room were given and we got a family room of 2 rooms at floor 7 & 8 which is very nice indeed. 4 beds and with separated toilet and bathroom, a fridge, safe, and with lots of sockets to charge mobile phone battery and a mini kitchen plus a wardrobe and sofa with coffee table. Handy mobile phone for usage, and a smart TV. Fit perfectly.

Complimentary bed and breakfast style, with a really nice miso soup (very similar like Hong Kong style Borscht soup), with option to add mixed chili and basil. Served with bread and a good coffee. Kids comes with packed orange/apple juice. Complimentary wine for hotel guests from 5pm to 6.30pm at the rooftop (10th floor).

Lawson, local store and bar are quite near walking distance, plus number of cafe and local restaurants nearby.

Hotel parking is available for guest, for a fee.

Overall, it is really a nice hotel with no flaws, and I dont mind to come back...

I stayed for a total of 4 nights while in Sapporo - from 24th December until 28th December 2022

1. Strategic location - one station away (Nakajimakoen) from Susukino shopping district. Also within walking distance 300-350m from the hotel to the nearest subway station and Sapporo Shiden (tram). Also quite quiet location as it’s not located along the main road.
2. The hotel despite its small size - was quite comfortable and have room to accommodate 5 of us - two super single bed, one bunk bed and one sofa. However luggage space might be limited to one has to be creative.
3. They provide the most comfortable pajamas that we’ve ever worn during Hokkaido trip.
4. The service team was helpful to help us book restaurants that we wanted to go, as well as booking taxi.
5. 10th floor is where their Bag Ignis is located … free flow of wine and drinks for guests from 5pm until 6.30pm everyday. Hot food (chargeable) also provided.
6. Breakfast in the form of Soup of The Day, French bread, butter and small pack of apple/orange juice… all delivered to your room’s doorstep in steel basket. Big eater may find it insufficient and have to eat outside.. any extra food can be ordered via their online website at extra cost (of course). We found it quite difficult to eat together because of the limited space in the room.
7. Convenience stores are always around the corner but need a few...