The chef at Jogakura is really good - I had dinners there throughout my stay and found the flavours and textures skilfully executed, with an impressive range of both traditional Japanese and western fare. The food portion is also on the more manageable side, which is great. The open air bath was also delightful and I could not get enough of lying down in the hot bath while enjoying the winter scenery and feeling the snow fall on my face. Service was super attentive, especially by the staff that serve dinners - they discreetly look out for and pre-empt your needs, they are quick on their feet and very polite.

I felt the room I had was a little bit dark (even with all the lights on) and dated. It could have benefitted from some refurbishment and better lighting. However, perhaps this only applies to some of the rooms there as the photos of the other rooms look fine.

The public bath at the hotel was very nice. It has indoor and outdoor portions, open almost all hours. I was a bit nervous as it was my first time using one but the staff gave me guidance and there were also explanatory posters with English text. I went in a couple of times, once with other guests and once on my own in the early hours if the morning. Being in the outdoor portion in the warm water and surrounded by snow was a lovely experience. The staff were extremely helpful in general and went out of their way to help me arrange my activities because I didn't have a solid plan. The dinners were quite elaborate Japanese meals consisting of many courses, honestly more than I could eat. The breakfast buffet offered a varied selection of foods including Japanese style fish, rice, soup etc. as well as stuff like cereal, pastries and sausages. The room was a pretty good size and the beds were comfortable, though the pillows are quite hard compared to what I'm used to. The private bathroom was basic but had everything I needed. All-in-all the hotel felt cozy and had a somewhat traditional vibe, the staff were great and I had an enjoyable time there.

The location, while nicely connected to nature, is quite remote for someone without a car, so be aware that if you aren't driving, the options for what you can reach will be quite limited. Also be aware that there is a "bath tax" you will have to pay when checking out (it's not much but it is an extra expense not included in the room fee.)

The natural setting is spectacular and there are day trips and hikes to enjoy directly from the hotel. There are many beautiful works of art displayed throughout the establishment to enhance guest’s enjoyment. Both breakfast and dinner were veritable feasts! The vast tatami mat room with balcony view onto the forested mountain was soothing. There is a rotenburo for soaking in and washing away any stress. The staff worked diligently to make all guests, from Japan and other countries, feel equally comfortable and welcomed. In my opinion, anyone who rates this luxury mountain lodge less than “9” is spoiled or pretentious.

Nothing to dislike. It was excellent.

Beautiful tatami room, stunning scenery, relaxing baths, and the best dinner and breakfast I’ve ever had! Very much worth the trip.

There was a bit of a mishap with the shuttle bus. I confirmed our spots on the shuttle weeks in advance through Booking’s messaging system, but when it came to Aomori Station for pickup, my husband and I were not on the list. We were able to get on, thankfully, but if possible, call the hotel to reserve the shuttle or maybe send another message a few days in advance to confirm.

Food are great and delicious

Came for ski trip , is expensive for the season, staff online and front desk should be better trained for English coz no one can answer question well, for online reply I have to wait forever with a very rude attitude, quite disappointed as this is not expected in Japanese culture. Front desk looks like not helpful, when helping with Japanese, I can see their passion, but with me instead? Not at all.

The set course dinner and buffet breakfast included with the booking were superb. The room was large and could easily fit 3 people. The public bath facilities was great and operated for most times of the day, with free ice cream and massage chairs when you are finished.

Internet was a bit spotty and if you do not have a car, the hotel is a bit difficult to reach from Aomori if you do not book a shuttle-bus or inquired about the main bus beforehand.

The hotel is located within the Towada-Hachimantai National Park and just down the road from the Hakkoda ropeway if you're hoping to see the famous snow monsters. Although in a remote location, the drive up was one of the most picturesque snowy landscapes we're experienced in Japan. The hotel is well insulated, incredibly clean with amazingly plush beds and the staff were incredibly friendly too. We did the half board which was well worth it- ended up with a 9 course dinner and then a breakfast buffet. The main highlight though of course was the outdoor onsen looking onto the snowy trees whilst bathing in the onsen water. The hotel is small-medium size place so you're more than likely to have the onsen to yourself, which is much nicer than some of the bigger complexes or if you're looking for more of a meditative onsen experience. Finally, this place even has it's own little shrine next to the hotel to admire.

Nothing. We would love to come again!

It’s such a beautiful hotel nestled in the foothills of the Hakkoda mountain. I really enjoyed the traditional Japanese room which was beautifully prepared. The food also is exceptional, and the hotel offers free shuttle busses to Aomori city, the ropeway station and other nearby sites, as well as having ski rentals available. It’s just lovely!

It is quite remote but that is also part of its charm.

Loved the location

One of the reasons we went there was to do some walks and see the Bridge. When we booked we didn’t see / or be advised that walks were shut due to bear attacks We were under the impression that there was a western dinner menu.. there wasn’t .. we enjoyed trying some of the Japanese menu .. some items were interesting to say the least The Chef was fantastic as well as all the staff. Especially Saki.

Great hotel with beautiful views. On a clear night you can see a lot of stars. The hotel is only 6 mins away from Hakkoda Ropeway which is a must visit! You can also go to Oirase Gorge within 40 mins drive. The daily Breakfast and Dinner offered from the hotel is out of the world! All the staff were super friendly and courteous! Onsen was very clean & amazing.

Vending machine at the property doesn’t dispense hot drinks. Since the nearest convenience store is about 40 mins away, it would be good to have more food/snacks option or vending machines across the property.