This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.
8/10 Good
J, Vancouver, Canada
Feb 19, 2017
Serene setting with a getaway feeling!
I really really enjoyed my stay at Kyukamura! I was up in Hokkaido for the Yuki Matsuri in Sapporo and decided to stay at Lake Shikotsu. I'm so glad I did. I actually enjoyed the ice festival at Lake Shikotsu more than the Yuki Matsuri in Sapporo. The whole town is really happy to have people come there in the winter.
I landed at Chitose arpt and took the bus to Shikotsu. (This was the most difficult aspect of staying out here. There is very limited bus service and it is very expensive if you are commuting into Sapporo or to Otaru for day trips.) I got off the bus and was instantly greeted by a Kyukamura staff with a shuttle to the hotel. Check-in was easy and the room was so clean. Changed into yukata and went for a delicious meal in the lobby. If I can say one thing that impressed me the most: THE STAFF IS THE BEST! Everything is cared for and you are made to feel as comfortable as possible. I speak limited Japanese but it was enough to communicate with everyone. Everyone was so helpful and respectful!
It's very easy to walk into town. Maybe 10-15 min depending on your pace. Definitely go during the day because the views are spectacular! The ice festival is incredible to see during the day.
I believe when you travel to another country it is always good to learn and respect local customs. When in the shared bath: WASH YOURSELF BEFORE GETTING IN. When it is past 10pm don't yell in the halls etc.
Fantastic place and I want to come again in the summer!