Highland Furano

The hotel is a peaceful retreat renowned for its spacious onsen (hot spring bath), which offers a tranquil escape and, during season, views of the surrounding lavender fields. This makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers and onsen enthusiasts seeking serenity away from urban life. Its good value proposition also appeals to budget-conscious travelers. In winter, its convenient proximity to the slopes makes it a suitable choice for skiers and snowboarders. While the remote setting provides quietude, guests are advised that having a car is highly beneficial for exploring the area due to limited public transportation. For those prioritizing relaxation and natural beauty, this hotel offers a memorable stay, appealing to both families and couples.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's primary attraction is its onsen (hot spring bath), which guests describe as spacious and enjoyable, featuring a sauna, cold pool, several indoor pools, and an outdoor pool. While some note the facilities appear somewhat dated, they are generally considered clean and offer good value. The onsen is open early, from 6 AM, which is appreciated by many. Guests also benefit from numerous vending machines throughout the property, offering a wide selection of beverages, including unique -5°C options, and ice cream. Feedback on Wi-Fi is mixed; some found it reliable, while others reported it to be slow, frequently disconnecting, or largely unusable. It is important to note that some rooms, particularly on the second floor, lack elevator access, which can be inconvenient for guests with heavy luggage.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, contributing to a comfortable stay. While the overall appearance of the hotel and rooms is described as dated, they are noted for being simple, warm, and conducive to relaxation. The comfortable beds are frequently praised, ensuring a restful night's sleep. However, some guests have reported minor issues, such as a temporary broken shower in one instance, a persistent cigarette smell in a specific room, or small details like misplaced towels and hair in the bathroom upon arrival. It is important for guests to know that rooms typically include only a small toilet and sink, with no in-room shower; showering is exclusively done in the communal onsen facilities. Despite these minor points, the hotel's quiet location ensures a peaceful environment.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback on the hotel's dining options is generally positive, though with some variation. Breakfast receives mixed reviews; while some guests found it good, others noted a limited selection of traditional Japanese cuisine, describing it as "just alright" with a set meal style and self-serve drip coffee. Notably, a vegan breakfast set is available upon request, provided guests announce it the evening beforehand. Dinner is highly praised, with guests describing it as delicious, satisfying, and offering good value, sometimes resembling a French-style meal with attentive service. Specific dishes like Furano pork, flavorful miso soup, and well-prepared appetizers were highlighted. For lunch, the hamburger steak and cheese fondue were mentioned as tasty options. However, there are no vegan a la carte dinner options beyond basic sides like fries and edamame.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel is situated in a remote location away from Furano city center, offering a quiet setting amidst natural surroundings and highland views. While this provides a peaceful retreat, it also presents accessibility challenges for guests without a vehicle, as public transportation is limited and taxi availability can be scarce. Many reviews emphasize that having a car access is highly recommended for convenient travel around the area. Despite its secluded feel, the hotel is conveniently located close to many attractions in Furano and is only about ten minutes from the slopes, making it appealing for winter sports enthusiasts. Ample free parking is available on-site, which is a significant advantage for those driving. The tranquil environment is a major draw for guests seeking an escape into nature.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service. Guests frequently highlight their warm welcome and willingness to go above and beyond, such as assisting with a lost wallet or accommodating specific dietary requests like a vegan breakfast. While some staff members may have limited English proficiency, their efforts to communicate and assist are greatly appreciated. The quick check-in process is noted, though some guests found the policy of requiring keys to be returned to reception each time they left the hotel to be unusual. The staff's professional and kind demeanor contributes significantly to a positive guest experience, making visitors feel valued and well-cared for throughout their stay. Additionally, the availability of free laundry service is a convenient amenity.

Additional Information
Several unique aspects enhance the guest experience. The hotel has a specific tattoo policy for its onsen, initially requiring tattoos to be hidden with towels, but generally allowing entry under this condition. The onsen also boasts convenient early opening hours from 6 AM, catering to early risers. Guests should be aware of the key return policy, where room keys must be handed back to the front desk every time they leave the premises. The hotel actively engages in environmental initiatives, including carbon-neutral practices and utilizing recycled fuel for heating. A delightful surprise for many guests is the frequent wildlife sightings, particularly deer, which can often be observed from the onsen or lobby, adding to the natural charm. It's worth noting that some rooms lack an elevator, which might be a consideration for guests with mobility issues or heavy luggage.