Maruseppu Onsen Maure Sansou ~Nordic-style Resort Nestled in Engaru Town, Hokkaido~

I stayed here four years ago and came back because I was craving soba. The Onsen water still has that silky feel, and it’s as wonderful as ever. This time I enjoyed a Multiple Night Stay and was able to truly relax. The soup curry at breakfast was also delicious, so I bought soba dipping sauce and packaged curry as souvenirs. We laughed remembering how last time we wondered, “Can we get through this way?” and then had to turn back from a dead-end road—classic Hokkaido travel. It really reminded me that eastern Hokkaido has great Onsen Accommodations. I’d love to come again.

Even for travelers who have visited eastern or northern Hokkaido, I think not many have made it as far as Engaru or Maruseppu. If you’re heading to Monbetsu, Abashiri, or the Shiretoko area, it might be a great idea to extend your trip and stay here.On the day I stayed, it was pouring rain, and in the pitch-dark a charming, Western-style building suddenly appeared—it really surprised me. The Hotel lobby also had high ceilings and a lovely Western feel, yet with an overall sense of cuteness. I enjoyed the welcome drink and cookies before soaking in the Onsen; as others have mentioned, it leaves your skin smooth and silky. Everything was also kept very clean.Dinner was the standard course, but both the content and portions were more than sufficient. Nothing was overly seasoned; it felt like the ingredients were allowed to shine, and everything was delicious. There was a pairing option with four drinks (not three), so I ordered that and found it to be excellent value. Every drink selected was tasty and paired well with the food. Breakfast wasn’t one of those “seafood pride!” spreads often seen at Hotels in Hokkaido; instead, it used plenty of local ingredients with many Hokkaido-style dishes, along with some creative twists and items arranged to be easy to enjoy in the morning—I had a great time with it. The staff were cheerful yet calm throughout, and very pleasant to interact with.