Manza Kogen Hotel

The hotel's signature feature is its extensive and varied hot spring baths, particularly the unique mixed-gender outdoor pools which offer a truly immersive experience with different water qualities, including highly acidic and sulfur-rich options. This makes it an ideal destination for dedicated onsen enthusiasts, couples seeking a shared bathing experience, and families looking for a memorable and relaxing getaway. In winter, its proximity to the slopes also makes it suitable for skiers. Most guests consistently praise the exceptional quality of the onsen and the generally helpful demeanor of the staff. However, the facilities are noted to be older, and the remote location means guests should be prepared for limited dining and shopping options outside the hotel. To enhance your stay, consider bringing your own snacks and be aware of the toll road fees for access.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of amenities designed to enhance the guest experience, though some areas show signs of age. Guests frequently commend the good quality towels available for use in the baths and appreciate the convenient ice cream service offered near the onsen areas. Wi-Fi connectivity is provided throughout the property, though some visitors reported slower speeds in certain sections. The elevators are noted for their smooth operation, contributing to easy navigation within the hotel. Rooms are equipped with small refrigerators, which some guests found limiting. While there is no air conditioning, the hotel's high altitude ensures naturally cool temperatures, with fans available for added comfort. Some guests mentioned minor issues with the cleanliness of remote controls and general wear in common areas.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is somewhat mixed. While many guests find the rooms adequately clean, some frequently point out visible signs of aging and wear, such as stained carpets, instances of mold near windows, and dirty walls or fixtures. Beds are often described as narrow or hard, which can impact sleep quality for some, though others find them acceptable for a short stay. The hotel's central heating system is very effective, keeping rooms warm, sometimes to the point of being excessively hot, leading guests to open windows even in cold weather. While general noise levels are not a major concern, some guests noted a distinct sulfur smell permeating the rooms when windows are left open, a characteristic of the surrounding hot springs.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel primarily offers buffet-style dining for both breakfast and dinner, with varied guest opinions. Most guests find the breakfast to be satisfying, highlighting a decent variety of Japanese and Western options, including fresh local produce like cabbage and delicious yogurt. Dinner, however, receives more mixed feedback; while some praise the quality and selection, including popular items like roast beef, others describe the food as lukewarm, lacking in variety, or not justifying the cost. Some guests noted that alcoholic beverages are quite expensive, often only available through an all-you-can-drink package, which can be a drawback for those preferring individual drinks. Overall, the dining experience is considered acceptable for the remote location, but not a standout feature for all.

Location & Accessibility
Situated at a high altitude amidst scenic mountain landscapes, the hotel's remote location is a defining characteristic. It offers direct access to ski slopes in winter, making it highly convenient for winter sports enthusiasts. However, reaching the hotel typically involves navigating winding mountain roads and paying a mandatory toll road fee, which some guests find to be a significant and unexpected expense. Due to its isolation, there are no nearby restaurants, convenience stores, or other commercial establishments, meaning guests are reliant on the hotel's facilities for all their needs. Parking is available, though during peak times, guests may need to use more distant overflow lots. A convenient shuttle bus service provides transportation to Karuizawa and the affiliated Prince Hotel.

Staff & Service
Feedback on staff and service is somewhat polarized. Many guests consistently commend the staff for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness, particularly highlighting positive interactions with restaurant and general service personnel. These guests often feel well-cared for and appreciate the staff's efforts to assist. However, a notable number of reviews express dissatisfaction with the front desk staff, describing them as unwelcoming, slow, or unresponsive to guest concerns. Some visitors reported issues with the check-in process, citing a lack of clear explanations regarding hotel facilities or dining arrangements upon arrival. Despite these specific criticisms, the overall impression is that while some individual interactions can be frustrating, many staff members strive to provide good service.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of the mandatory toll road fees for accessing the hotel, as this can be an unexpected cost. A significant benefit is the ability to access the sister Prince Hotel's onsen via a complimentary shuttle bus, expanding bathing options. For the extensive mixed-gender outdoor baths, guests are strongly encouraged to purchase a special bathing garment (yugami-gi) or use a large towel, as standard swimwear is not permitted, ensuring comfort and privacy. The hotel frequently hosts engaging star-gazing events, which are highly praised for offering stunning views of the night sky. A generous 11 AM check-out time allows guests to enjoy a relaxed morning before departure.