Kitakobushi Shiretoko Hotel & Resort

Our third consecutive stay in Japan’s onsen scene brought us to Kitakobushi Shiretoko Hotel & Resort. Though labelled as a 3-star hotel, this resort is the very definition of an underrated masterpiece. From the moment we arrived, it became clear this experience would rival any five-star destination we’ve ever visited. Our room was a slice of paradise—spacious, serene, and offering a panoramic view of the breathtaking sea. Perfect for a moment of calm after a day of exploring. It was hard to tear ourselves away from the window, with its infinite horizon stretching beyond the blue waters. The bath experience was equally indulgent, with Dyson and Refa hairdryers in the public bath area. The soap and shampoo provided in the public baths? Luxurious, premium products that they also retail on-site. A small but significant touch that elevates this from your average onsen. Where do I even begin with the buffet? It was nothing short of culinary theatre. Imagine live cooking stations serving up dishes with the flair of a fine dining restaurant. From sashimi so fresh, it redefined how I think about lean tuna—the texture was almost reminiscent of beef!—to the incredibly generous portions of salmon roe. Each dish was top-tier, but the dessert station truly took my breath away. A unique pumpkin and sweet potato creation was the surprise highlight, and I couldn’t help but indulge in multiple helpings of the organic apple, crisp and fresh like it was picked that very morning. For fitness enthusiasts, there’s even a decent gym—a rarity for many onsen hotels. Meanwhile, the 24-hour lounge provides a range of delectable snacks, all of which are sold in their store. And though the prices may seem steep, the taste makes them worth every yen. The free daily scoop of Peter Beier ice cream was simply divine. Made with Hokkaido milk, the vanilla was already a showstopper, but the pistachio took the experience to another level. After this, it was impossible not to purchase their chocolate truffles—pricey, but easily worth the splurge. The experience extends outside the hotel, where an outdoor foot bath awaits with a view that will make you feel like you’ve entered another world. As long as the weather cooperates, this is an experience not to be missed. In short, Kitakobushi Shiretoko Hotel & Resort might officially be a 3-star, but in our hearts, it’s a five-star experience through and through. A perfect blend of luxury, nature, and comfort, it’s an onsen resort that deserves to be on every discerning traveller’s radar.