La Vista Daisetsuzan

This place is exceptional! I’ve traveled all over Japan, and my solo stay here was one of my best onsen lodge experiences, especially for the price. My room was spacious with a view of the mountains. So quiet that it wasn’t a problem for me to sleep with the window cracked. In-room amenities include delicious whole bean coffee with a hand grinder. Both dinners were delicious. Varied appetizers, super fresh sashimi (including scallops and uni) crab and other delicious dishes including a hot pot with fish, mushrooms and greens. The breakfast buffet is varied, with something to satisfy everyone who’s not looking for a western style breakfast. The onsenl water leaves your skin silky soft. Perfect temperatures for the large outdoor rotenboro, cold plunge, and dry sauna. For couples there are three private onsen rooms. It’s a 10 minute walk to the ropeway that puts you in an alpine setting with extraordinary views and multiple hiking options. There’s no one here who speaks good English, but that’s what translation apps are for. I found all of the staff to be helpful and accommodating.

One critique : the piped music was sometimes annoying. Orchestral arrangements of quasi film score music from the 60s and 70s play nonstop in the restaurant and onsen. The dance inspired numbers and sometimes over the top bombast can break the mood. How about some light classical in the restaurant or shakuhachi in the onsen?

The staff are very friendly and try to make your stay comfortable. It was also not crowded despite going in late June/early July - I was in the onsen by myself! There are also some complimentary small gestures during the stay which were a nice touch - tea selection in the afternoon, wine in the evening, ramen for a late evening snack, and ice cream post onsen. The hotel is also well-located near the Asahidake ropeway, very convenient if you plan to do some hiking. Good selection for breakfast and nice omakase for dinner. The rooms are also very spacious. There is also a convenience store onsite which has drinks, snacks and other small items

Just be aware that the dinners are set menus so they can’t really make adjustments if you have dietary requirements. For example, if you are vegetarian and the dish has meat, you will just skip that course. The property can also be refreshed with a fresh coat of paint (esp the exterior) but the staff still keep it clean and comfortable. The mattress wasn’t hard but is on the firm side

walking distance to volcano

property a bit run down

Location

Very dated - needs upgrades - considering the price- not flexible with providing lunch box or breakfast box to go.