Oehonke
7,7/10 Very good - Based on 39 reviews
Offering a peaceful setting in nature, this elegant ryokan in Kitami invites serenity with its landscaped gardens and hot spring baths providing a soothing view of the surrounding mountains. Designed for well-being, the establishment also features a dedicated area for sauna, public baths, and massage chairs, allowing everyone to fully relax in a harmonious atmosphere. Visitors can soak up the surrounding calm while savoring an unparalleled moment of tranquility, whether in the warm indoor spaces or outside by the pools.
Spacious and bright, the rooms offer a perfect balance between modernity and Japanese tradition with comfortable futons or single beds, depending on the chosen category. They are equipped with all necessary amenities for a pleasant stay: flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and private bathroom with complimentary towels and toiletries. Some rooms offer superb views of the mountains, allowing guests to admire the natural beauty of Kitami directly from their cozy cocoon.
Ideal for gourmets, the ryokan offers an on-site restaurant where a refined Japanese dinner can be savored in an elegant setting. You can also enjoy a buffet breakfast with a variety of dishes, perfect for starting the day off right. Nearby, other local restaurants offer specialties from the Hokkaidō region, enriching the culinary experience of a stay combining gastronomic pleasure and cultural immersion.
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A Genius discount of 10% or more may apply via this link.
Japanese Authenticity Evaluation
5/10 There is a mix of traditional and modern elements in the architecture and rooms, creating a partially immersive experience. The baths are present without notable uniqueness, and the cuisine seems standard and generous without being refined. A pleasant ambiance but less remarkable of the authenticity of traditional ryokans.
Ryokan Highlights
Thermal bath/onsen
Outdoor bath
Public bath
Massages
Sauna
24-hour reception
Refrigerator
Wi-Fi connection
Parking
Air conditioning
Restaurant
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen experience
Many guests praised the onsen, mentioning the variety of baths, natural hot spring water, and relaxing atmosphere. The onsen is described as superb, with different temperatures and well-maintained facilities.
Friendly and helpful staff
Staff members are described as very kind and supportive, going out of their way to help with transportation, ticket reservations, and special requests. Guests felt welcomed and appreciated the personal touch.
Good buffet and dining options
Dinner and breakfast buffets offer a lot of options, and the taste is generally appreciated. Some guests found the dinner better than expected and enjoyed the variety available.
Great Japanese-style atmosphere
The hotel provides a strong Japanese ambiance with traditional rooms and decor. Guests enjoyed the authentic experience and the overall atmosphere of the property.
Convenient services and flexibility
The hotel offers helpful shuttle services and accommodates special needs, such as providing access to private baths when requested. Guests appreciated the flexibility and attention to their comfort.
Clean and comfortable rooms
Rooms are described as clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. Guests felt at ease and enjoyed the overall cleanliness during their stay.
Negative Reviews
Limited public transportation
The neighborhood has very little bus service, requiring guests to walk to most locations. Bus schedules are infrequent and may require reservations in Japanese, making access a bit challenging.
Few facilities open during the day
Guests noted that there is no lunch service, onsen, restaurant, or souvenir shop available during the day. The area and hotel can feel very quiet with limited daytime amenities.
Buffet style not for everyone
Some guests mentioned that meals being served buffet style was not their preference, and the dining area felt more like a cafeteria than a restaurant.
Onsen not always available
One guest mentioned that the onsen was not available during the day for those staying multiple nights, which was a bit inconvenient for them.
Temperature of outdoor bath
A guest found the temperature of the open-air bath to be a bit lukewarm, which affected their enjoyment of the onsen experience.
Changing area could be improved
A guest suggested that adding chairs in the changing area would allow guests to rest while changing, making the experience more comfortable.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is possible between 15:00 and 22:00. Check-out must be done between 07:00 and 10:00.
Is there an onsen available at the ryokan?
Yes, Oehonke offers a thermal bath/onsen as well as a whirlpool bath for relaxation.
What languages are spoken at the ryokan?
The staff speaks English and Japanese.
What are the rules regarding pets?
Pets are not allowed on the premises.
What wellness services are offered?
The ryokan offers public baths, an outdoor bath, a whirlpool bath, massage chairs, and a sauna. Massages are also available for an additional fee.
What type of dining is available on-site?
There is an on-site restaurant serving a buffet breakfast, as well as a bar. Children’s menus and wine/champagne are available for an additional charge.
Is parking available?
Yes, free private parking is available on site without prior reservation. Street parking and electric vehicle charging stations are also available.
What tourist attractions are nearby?
The ryokan is close to the Yama no Aquarium and the Kitakitsune Farm. Kitami Station is 33 km away, and Memanbetsu Airport is 65 km away.
Are cultural activities offered?
The ryokan offers bicycle rentals to explore the surroundings. Additional activities like karaoke and table tennis are available for an additional charge.
What are the transportation options to the ryokan?
Kitami Station is located 33 km from the ryokan, and Memanbetsu Airport is 65 km away, providing convenient travel options.
Does the ryokan offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
Are there age restrictions for guests?
There are no age restrictions for check-in at the ryokan.
