Sundance Resort Atami

This hotel offers a memorable stay, particularly noted for its relaxing onsen and panoramic views of the city and sea, which are especially spectacular during fireworks displays. While some areas of the hotel show their age, ongoing renovations contribute to a generally clean and comfortable environment. It is an ideal choice for families seeking a quiet retreat with dedicated amenities for children, pet owners looking for accommodating rooms, and couples desiring a scenic and tranquil getaway. Guests should be aware that the hotel's location on a steep hill makes a taxi from Kinomiya Station advisable, especially with luggage or for those with mobility challenges. Drivers should also be prepared for narrow, winding roads leading to the property.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the range of facilities available, including a well-maintained onsen that is segregated by gender and open both mornings and evenings, offering a truly relaxing experience. For entertainment, the hotel provides a mini-theater with nightly movies, DVDs, and complimentary popcorn in the afternoons. There are also massage chairs and a table tennis area for recreation. Practical amenities include shared washing and dryer facilities with supplied soap and softener, and a small shop in the foyer for convenience. The rooftop area is a highlight, offering stunning views and a complimentary coffee and tea service. While Wi-Fi is advertised, some guests found its signal to be weak or almost non-existent.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is mixed. Many rooms offer spacious layouts and excellent sea views, enhancing the overall experience. In-room amenities such as a dehumidifier, effective air conditioning, and daily replenished tea and coffee supplies are appreciated. However, some guests, particularly those in pet-friendly rooms, noted that the decor felt dated, with issues like peeling wallpaper, visible pipes, and even mold on the air purifier tank. A significant concern for many guests is the futon bedding, which is frequently described as very thin and uncomfortable, leading to body aches and poor sleep; many strongly suggest the introduction of mattresses. Some rooms, especially pet-friendly ones, also feature inconvenient steps and level changes, and some guests found the lighting to be dim.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive positive feedback for both quality and taste. Guests can enjoy pre-ordered breakfast and dinner, with many praising the deliciousness of dishes such as Kinmedai (sea bream) and sashimi. The breakfast variety is appreciated, especially for longer stays, and the kitchen is accommodating to dietary requests, such as providing white rice instead of barley rice. While portions might initially appear modest, guests consistently find them to be just right and ultimately satisfying. A thoughtful touch is the option to take leftover kamameshi (rice dish) as onigiri, helping to reduce food waste. An izakaya option is also available for those seeking a traditional Japanese dining experience.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a key point of discussion among guests. It is situated about a 10 to 15-minute walk from Kinomiya Station, though this walk involves steep uphill and downhill sections that can be challenging, especially with luggage or for those with mobility concerns. A taxi from the station is often recommended. While the hotel offers excellent night views and is ideal for watching fireworks, its immediate surroundings are residential with no nearby shops, necessitating prior preparation for supplies. Accessing the hotel by car can also be tricky due to narrow and steep roads, which some drivers find daunting, particularly with larger vehicles. Parking is available both underground and directly in front of the hotel.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise from guests for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many reviewers highlight the staff's efficient and polite demeanor, noting their willingness to go above and beyond despite often multitasking across various roles, such as front desk and restaurant service. Guests appreciate their efforts in providing clear directions, local information, and accommodating special requests, such as dietary needs. The check-in and check-out processes are generally smooth, contributing to a positive overall experience. Even when facing language barriers, the staff are commended for their dedication to ensuring guests feel welcome and well-cared for.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of a 1,000 JPY surcharge per night for Wyndham owners from overseas. The hotel operates as a membership-based resort, though it also accommodates general bookings, with some guests appreciating the rewards program benefits. For those traveling with pets, the pet-friendly policy is a significant draw, although some guests noted that the provided pet sheets were insufficient in quantity and size. The check-out time of 11:00 AM is appreciated, allowing for a relaxed departure. It is also noted that yukata rentals incur an additional charge.