Mercure Urabandai Resort & Spa

We stayed as a family of three with our six-year-old child. We have stayed at several Mercure hotels, and this one was relatively compact and had a quieter feel. We appreciated that, unlike at high-rise hotels, there was almost no wait for the elevators, making it easy to get around. The lobby also offered scrunchie-making and traditional red cow figurine painting activities, so there was plenty to enjoy with our child without leaving the hotel. On the downside, perhaps because it was a holiday weekend, the hotel seemed unable to comfortably accommodate the crowds. There was a queue at check-in, the lounge offering complimentary drinks and snacks was full, so we had to stand, and there were waits for the breakfast and dinner buffets at certain times. We were exhausted on arrival after getting caught in holiday traffic, but considering the price for a one-night stay with dinner and breakfast included, we were very satisfied with the value for money. We would definitely like to return during a quieter season to avoid the crowds.

My grandchild will be leaving Fukushima next spring to start work, so I booked this stay hoping to make some special memories together. The receptionist was from overseas and very courteous. We were unexpectedly given a room upgrade, and I was grateful to be able to relax in such a spacious room. It was lovely to unwind in the lounge after arriving. The bath water was just right—not too hot. Dinner and breakfast were very busy, but there was no time limit, and staff were stationed throughout the dining area to show guests to their seats and clear dishes, so the crowds caused us no inconvenience. Reviews have varied opinions about the food, but my grandchild was delighted to try dishes they rarely get to eat and said they were delicious. There will always be more luxurious options, but with lounge access, unlimited drinks, and an all-you-can-eat buffet included at this price, I was very satisfied. We are going to Zao on November 12 and have booked a stay at Mercure Miyagi Zao. I have become a Mercure fan. The staff were helpful and seemed very well trained. As the weather gets colder, please take care of yourselves and keep working to make Mercure even better.We made wonderful memories together. Thank you very much.