This is a typical Japanese onsen-style hotel from 70s-80s (though Karatsu does not have an onsen hot spring) although this could be constructed in early 90s. The hotel’s architectural design, now outdated, has a lot of mismatched spaces for the 21st century needs lobby too spacious with a junk souvenir store; a large cafe-like space with no one attending; unused Izakaya-style restaurants;a karaoke club and bar in the basement; a deluxe backdoor entrance not used currently. So much spaces are wasted despite its grandiose building and the spacious land. This place has fabulous views on the both sides: facing Nijino Mastubara Beach on the north; the Karatsu river on the south.side. However, due to the old design of the windows, you can enjoy only somewhat narrowed views of these picturesque sceneries. We had a buffet dinner and breakfast in the big ballroom on the 2nd floor. Food was okay but the ambience was as if we were eating in a school cafeteria. This could be morphed into a decent modern resort, if the management refreshes its mind.…
Large room with nice view offset by very spotted carpeting. Stayed 3 nights and should have insisted on room with newer carpet, which we saw the morning we left. Lunch expensive and mediocre but with view of sea. Location about 1.5 miles from town, train station. That said, one morning when we didn't allow enough time for a taxi to make our train to Imari, a hotel manager jumped in the hotel van and drove us, saving us a 3 hour wait for the next train. Hotel used by large groups, tours.
I stayed here as a parent/chaperone for a sailing event with 20+ kids. I do not speak Japanese and the hotel did their best to accommodate our needs. I was very impressed by the manager Mr. Suzuki as my daughter has a severe nut allergy and he personally spoke to the chefs in each of the hotels restaurants to ensure her safety. He was available all the time if we had any questions and was very attentive and helpful when one of the kids was injured and needed medical attention. The views of the beach and the Karastu Castle were beautiful.
Overall an enjoyable stay here. Rooms were good enough, location was fine, next to convenient store and within walking distance to the beach. Food was above average for hotel buffets but not amazing. The one semi-complaint I have is with hotel staff (or perhaps kitchen only?) not being flexible. We had made plans to have both breakfast and dinner at the hotel but one person had a gluten allergy (not just a diet but a legit allergy). We wanted to eat at the hotel but were told that they couldn't meet the requests and wouldn't prepare something for him. They were kind enough to refund the cost of all dinner and it turned out fine as we found some good food in Karatsu for dinner, but still, first time I was told nothing could be done for an allergy. Everything else was was good here though!…
Upon first impressions the hotel from the outside looks fresh and rejuvenated but arriving in the lobby you are transferred back to the 1960s. The lobby is large and bright but dated as are the rooms. We booked a suite for our stay and the room was massive(68sq/m) with an adjoining tatami room. Large windows that open make the room bright. While tired and dated we only paid Y 210. A bargain for sure given the space. Bathroom amenities as well as towels and bath robes are plentiful. Wifi is now available throughout the hotel. The hotel is located across from the seaside and close to Karatsu castle and the Pine forest. The town is very walkable and hotel staff, while limited English, are very friendly. We would certainly stay here again but only in a suite room.
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