Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel
8,5/10 Excellent - Based on 903 reviews
Between land and sea, the Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel in Shari offers a soothing and warm setting with its decor blending Japanese tradition and modern comfort. The wellness areas, including indoor and outdoor thermal baths, a hot tub, and a sauna, invite relaxation. The indoor pool, suitable for children, and the massages offered add an extra touch for a relaxing stay with family or friends.
Beautifully appointed, the ryokan rooms in Shari combine elegance and authenticity with tatamis, traditional futons, and comfortable beds. Spacious and bright, they cater to the needs of couples, large families, or groups, with options ranging from luxurious suites to rooms with classic Japanese style, all offering a warm and intimate atmosphere.
Nothing beats a good meal to complete your stay. The Marusukoi restaurant offers more than 80 Japanese and Western dishes prepared with local and fresh ingredients. Additionally, you can savor specialties such as noodles or enjoy a gourmet break at the on-site café. If you wish to explore the surroundings, the center of Shari also abounds with excellent restaurants offering a wide range of local flavors.
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A Genius discount of 10% or more may apply via this link.
Evaluation of Japanese Authenticity
5/10 Establishment combining modern aspects with a few Japanese touches. The baths offer a nice experience without standing out by a natural source. The cuisine, well-presented, mixes traditions and contemporary influences. The rooms, comfortable, however, lack a complete cultural immersion with few typical elements visible.
Ryokan Highlights
Thermal bath/onsen
Outdoor bath
Public bath
Massages
Sauna
24/7 Reception
Refrigerator
Wi-Fi Connection
Parking
Air Conditioning
Restaurant
Pool
Positive Reviews
Spacious and comfortable rooms
Many guests appreciated the large, spacious rooms, often with sea views and Japanese-style decor, making the stay comfortable and enjoyable for couples and families.
Excellent onsen facilities
The onsen was frequently described as very large, relaxing, and well-maintained, with multiple pools and beautiful ocean or sunset views, used daily by many visitors.
Great location and views
The hotel's location offers wonderful ocean views and is conveniently close to Shiretoko National Park, making it ideal for exploring the area and enjoying natural scenery.
Diverse and tasty food options
Buffets for breakfast and dinner were noted for their abundance and variety, including fresh sashimi, tempura, sushi, and many dessert choices, with some meals described as wonderful.
Helpful and friendly staff
Staff were repeatedly described as friendly, helpful, and able to assist with requests such as shuttle service, language support, and resolving check-in issues efficiently.
Convenient amenities for travelers
Guests found the hotel clean and bright, appreciated the laundry facilities, shop in the foyer, and convenient shuttle services, especially helpful during winter or for those without a car.
Negative Reviews
Hotel decor feels dated
Several guests mentioned the decor as being from another era or having a kitch or blast from the past style, though it was generally well kept and clean.
Challenging access without a car
The hotel's hilltop location can be difficult to access, especially in snow or for those without a car, though shuttle and pick-up services are available on request.
Buffet dinner can be expensive or crowded
Some guests found the dinner buffet expensive or noted that popular food options could run out quickly if not arriving early, with some hot food not always staying fresh.
Beds and pillows may be too firm
A few guests found the beds and pillows to be quite hard or too firm, possibly reflecting Japanese style bedding, which may not suit everyone's preference.
Limited towel supply for onsen and shower
One suggestion was to provide two towels per guest, as using the same towel for both onsen and shower was inconvenient for some visitors.
Buffet variety may not change daily
For longer stays, guests noted the buffet dishes did not change much, which could become repetitive after several days, though the quality remained good.
Does the ryokan have onsens and what are their features?
Yes, the Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel offers natural indoor and outdoor thermal pools, as well as a public bath. The facilities also include a hot tub, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is possible between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM. You will need to indicate your arrival time in advance. Check-out is between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM.
What languages are spoken on-site?
The ryokan staff speaks exclusively Japanese. If you do not speak Japanese, it is advisable to have a translation app to facilitate exchanges.
Are there any specific rules or restrictions to follow?
Pets are not allowed on the premises. Children over 6 years old are charged as adults, and no baby or extra beds are available. Additionally, groups of more than 6 rooms may be subject to special conditions.
Does the ryokan offer wellness services?
Yes, the establishment has a spa and wellness center with services such as massages (for a fee), a sauna, and a heated indoor pool accessible to children.
What does the on-site restaurant offer?
The ryokan has six restaurants, including a buffet offering more than 80 Japanese and Western dishes prepared with local ingredients. You will also find a restaurant specializing in noodles, as well as a bar and a café.
Is parking available and free?
Yes, private parking is available free of charge on-site and does not require any reservation.
What activities or attractions are nearby?
The ryokan is located only 450 meters from the Shiretoko National Park. The Oronko Iwa Rock is also accessible within a 20-minute walk. These sites are ideal for exploring the surrounding nature.
Are pets allowed on the premises?
No, pets are not allowed at the Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel.
Are cultural activities organized on-site?
If you wish to entertain yourself, the establishment offers karaoke equipment and has a game room. You can also enjoy traditional Japanese decoration in the rooms and common areas.
What are the means of transportation to reach the ryokan?
The ryokan offers a free shuttle service from and to the Utoro Onsen bus station, facilitating access for travelers arriving by public transport.
Do the rooms offer free Wi-Fi connection?
Yes, free Wi-Fi connection is available throughout the establishment, including in the rooms.
