Sounkaku Grand Hotel

You can expect an excellent buffet dinner and breakfast at Sounkaku. Many guests have praised the food quality and variety, making it a highlight of their stay.

Yes, there is a free shuttle service from/to Asahikawa station to the hotel. However, it's advisable to reserve the shuttle in advance by phone, as some guests have encountered challenges with email communication.

Sounkaku offers a mix of traditional Japanese-style rooms and newer renovated rooms. While some guests have mentioned older rooms that may need maintenance, the hotel is gradually renovating its accommodations to offer a better experience.

The hotel is comfortable and clean, with impressive buffet meals. However, some guests have mentioned concerns about the cleanliness of certain areas, so it's recommended to consider the room selection carefully.

Sounkaku experiences high season in March and low season in August. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting during the low season for a more serene experience.

If you plan to use the free shuttle from/to Asahikawa station, try to reserve it well in advance as there have been instances of difficulty in booking the shuttle, especially for individual travelers.

Some guests noted that the hotel is slowly renovating their rooms, and newer rooms offer a better experience. If noise and cleanliness are concerns, consider requesting one of the newly renovated rooms.

Many guests praised the buffet dinner and breakfast, highlighting the impressive variety and quality of the food. However, some mentioned that the offerings remained the same each day, so consider staying for one night to experience the buffet without repetition.

While the open onsen bath on the 5th floor was described as small, the outdoor bath adjacent to it was highly praised for its scenic view of the snowscape. Don't miss the opportunity to relax in the onsen during your stay.

Some guests mentioned that the staff had difficulty communicating in English. If you encounter language barriers, using translation tools like Google Translate could help bridge the communication gap.

A few guests expressed concerns about the cleanliness and condition of the tatami rooms, noting thin walls and outdated baths. If cleanliness is a priority, consider checking the room condition upon arrival and requesting a change if necessary.

The hotel is conveniently located near Sounkyo Gorge, Kurodake, Sounkyo Onsen, and various waterfalls. Take advantage of the proximity to these natural attractions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

If you're interested in the Sounkyo Icefall Festival, consider staying at the hotel during this event. However, be aware that the hotel may be crowded due to the influx of tourist buses during the festival period.

The hotel has a great souvenir shop according to guest feedback. Take some time to explore the gift shop for unique mementos or gifts to take back home.

As there were comments about the lack of non-smoking rooms and unpleasant smells in some bathrooms, consider specifying your room preferences and checking for any odors upon arrival.