LLyndsay_XPros:
Location:
1. Convenient transportation: After arriving at New Chitose Airport, take the JR train. Exit Sapporo South Gate on the first floor to the plaza, cross the street, and turn right to reach the hotel. You can also take the underground shopping street APIA, but you'll need to climb about ten steps, and I couldn't find an accessible elevator. If you have luggage, it's easier to walk above ground. If you're taking a bus, there's a stop about 200 meters away. When we arrived, the adjacent block was under construction, making the ground uneven and inconvenient for pushing luggage, but it should be fine under normal circumstances. However, the bus to the airport stops directly downstairs from the hotel, which is very convenient. Be mindful of the schedule; over two days, I saw many people lining up, and it seemed unlikely that everyone would make their intended bus. You'll likely need to queue for an extra round.
2. Convenient for shopping and dining:
Daimaru is directly opposite the hotel, Stella is next to Daimaru, and Tokyu is diagonally opposite Stella – all visible from the South Gate Plaza. The entrance to the underground shopping street APIA is right at the hotel's doorstep (stairs). I recommend taking the elevator to B1 for direct access to APIA; it's extremely convenient on rainy days. The underground street connects directly to all nearby shopping malls and the JR station. The underground street itself has plenty of food and shops. For food, just follow the local office workers in line for authentic local flavors (be warned, the local ramen shops are incredibly salty, choose carefully). There are also many restaurants nearby, but not many drugstores. The two or three scattered stores are small, suitable for replenishment but not for a big haul.
3. Abundant and surprising breakfast: We entered and exited Sapporo, and compared to other places, this hotel's buffet breakfast had a good variety and quality. The seafood options for the DIY seafood rice bowl were also plentiful and promptly refilled. Friends who enjoy a rich breakfast should not be disappointed.
In addition to the above obvious advantages, here are a few points about the hotel to consider when making your choice:
1. The front desk is on the 7th floor, accessible by two direct elevators that require card access. During peak hours, you might have to wait, and the speed and size of the elevators are average.
2. During check-in, the front desk insisted that everyone use the self-service machines. However, the system is cumbersome and prone to bugs. When we checked in, there were three machines and four groups of guests, including locals, and everyone eventually needed human assistance. The front desk staff member started with a smile, but by the end, I felt it was commendable she maintained her politeness. I don't know what the owner is thinking; there are plenty of front desk staff, so why add to everyone's burden?
3. The room size is normally small. The hallway and lobby are relatively new, while the rooms are slightly older but acceptably clean.
4. The price is slightly higher than similar hotels in the surrounding area (if you consider the convenience of transportation and shopping, this price difference is acceptable).
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