Route Inn Grantia Hakodate Ekimae

This hotel is highly regarded for its prime location directly in front of Hakodate Station and its exceptional natural hot spring on the top floor, offering a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration. Its convenient position makes it an excellent choice for sightseers eager to explore local attractions and business travelers seeking easy access to transportation hubs. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's cleanliness, the quality of its breakfast, and the attentive service provided by the staff. For solo travelers and couples, the hotel offers a comfortable and well-located base, though those with significant luggage should consider packing light due to the compact room sizes. To enhance your stay, be sure to take advantage of the soothing onsen and the hotel's proximity to diverse dining options.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a highly praised natural hot spring on the 13th floor, which many guests find spacious and incredibly relaxing, noting its warm, iron-rich water. Some male guests enjoyed views from the bath, while female guests noted their bath did not offer a view. A small sauna is also available, along with a lounge area equipped with massage chairs. Guests appreciate the convenience of free Wi-Fi, though some reported issues with unstable connections, making it less ideal for remote work. Complimentary Misuzu Coffee is available in the lobby, a welcome touch for many. Other conveniences include vending machines, ice machines, and laundry machines in the onsen area. While parking is available for a fee in an adjacent covered facility, some guests experienced long waits for elevators during peak times.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, contributing to a pleasant stay. However, a recurring theme is the compact size of the rooms, with many guests noting they are narrow and make it challenging to fully open large suitcases or move around comfortably. The beds receive mixed feedback, with some finding them comfortable while others describe them as too hard or prone to creaking. The bathrooms are often described as small and cramped, with some guests mentioning issues like drainage odors or water stains on fixtures. Despite these points, the rooms are equipped with basic necessities, and some guests appreciated the presence of an air purifier and the convenience of passcode entry for room doors.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast consistently receives positive feedback, with many guests praising its variety and quality. Served buffet-style, it features a range of options including local specialties such as squid sashimi, salmon roe, and Matsumae-zuke, providing a taste of Hakodate. Guests also enjoyed the omelets or fried eggs prepared on demand, and some noted the inclusion of unique items like Lucky Pierrot collaboration croquettes and Katsugen (a local dairy drink). While the breakfast is not complimentary, many guests feel it offers excellent value for the price, making it a satisfying start to the day. The dining area is generally spacious, though it can become busy during peak hours.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant highlight, situated directly in front of JR Hakodate Station, making it incredibly convenient for arrivals and departures. It offers excellent accessibility to various modes of transport, including the tram station and the bus terminal, where the airport bus stops right outside. Popular attractions such as the Morning Market, Daimon Yokocho (a food alley), and Lucky Pierrot are all within easy walking distance. The Red Brick Warehouses and access to Mount Hakodate are also readily available. For those traveling by car, covered parking is available adjacent to the hotel for a fee, offering convenient in-and-out privileges. The surrounding area is bustling with numerous restaurants and convenience stores.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, politeness, and helpfulness. Guests frequently commend their attentive service, noting their willingness to assist with requests and provide information. The check-in process is generally described as quick and smooth, contributing to a positive first impression. While most feedback is overwhelmingly positive, a few guests reported isolated instances of perceived unresponsiveness or a lack of warmth from some staff members, particularly during busy periods. However, the overall sentiment highlights a dedicated team committed to ensuring a comfortable and pleasant stay for guests, with many appreciating their proactive approach to service.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel has been undergoing exterior wall construction, which may impact views from some rooms until October 2024. The hotel offers a convenient passcode entry system for room doors, eliminating the need to carry a physical key. For environmentally conscious guests, an eco-cleaning option is available for consecutive stays, which comes with a complimentary drink. The hotel also provides a free shuttle bus to the airport, though its availability and schedule require confirmation and reservation with the front desk. Some guests have reported receiving room upgrades, adding to their positive experience.