Unbelievable! This Richmond Hotel in Obihiro Blew My Mind! (Japan)
Unbelievable! This Richmond Hotel in Obihiro Blew My Mind! (Japan) - A Review That's All Over the Place (But in a Good Way!)
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to gush (and maybe grumble a little) about the Richmond Hotel in Obihiro, Japan. I just got back, and honestly? My brain is still processing. It was… well, it was something. Prepare for a review that's less polished and more… me.
(SEO and Metadata Stuff - Don't worry, I'll get to the juicy bits!)
- Keywords: Richmond Hotel Obihiro, Japan Hotels, Hokkaido Hotels, Obihiro Accommodation, Accessible Hotels, Japanese Hospitality, Spa Hotel, Hotel Review, Free Wi-Fi, Cleanliness, Excellent Service, Onsen, Fitness Center, Business Hotel, Family Friendly Hotel, COVID-19 Safety, Wheelchair Accessible
- Meta Description: A brutally honest review of the Richmond Hotel in Obihiro, Japan! Discover if this hotel lives up to the hype, with detailed insights into accessibility, amenities, dining, cleanliness, and my (very) personal experiences. Prepare for some laughs, some sighs, and maybe a little drool-worthy descriptions of Japanese cuisine.
(Alright, Let's Dive In!)
First off, let me just say, I’m a sucker for a Japanese hotel. The meticulousness, the politeness… it's a balm to the soul. And the Richmond Hotel in Obihiro? Yeah, it mostly lived up to that reputation, with some weird unexpected twists.
The "Wow, This is Thoughtful" Moments:
- Accessibility (Accessibility, Facilities for Disabled Guests): This was actually really impressive. From what I could see (and from chatting with some folks), they've done a solid job with accessibility. Elevators are everywhere, wide hallways, and the rooms seemed equipped for wheelchair users. I didn't personally need these accommodations, but it was heartwarming to see the effort. Kudos to the hotel for taking this seriously.
- Cleanliness and Safety (Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection, Hand sanitizer, Hygiene certification, Rooms sanitized, Staff trained, Sterilizing equipment): Okay, let's address the elephant in the room: the pandemic. I was traveling in… well, let's just say a time, and I was hyper vigilant. This hotel really tried. Hand sanitizer stations everywhere, staff in masks, and I swear, I saw them constantly wiping down surfaces. The peace of mind was HUGE. Did I still use my own wipes and sanitizers? Absolutely. But I appreciated their efforts. And that room sanitization opt-out? Genius.
- Internet (Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!, Internet, Internet [LAN]): Okay, this is important. FREE WI-FI. And it actually worked! No dropped connections, streaming was smooth, and I could even get some work done (ugh, I know). The LAN option was a bonus for those who prefer a wired connection – old-school like me! I am still a bit of a luddite when it comes to Internet, so I appreciated feeling connected.
The "Food, Glorious Food!" Digression (Dining, Drinking, and Snacking):
Okay, I need to dedicate a whole section to the food because, honestly? It was a highlight. Let me just state this: I am a buffet person. I love them. I live for them. And the breakfast buffet at the Richmond Obihiro? chef's kiss.
Breakfast [buffet], Asian breakfast, Western breakfast, Buffet in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant: The breakfast was a glorious mix of Western and Asian delights. Think perfectly fluffy scrambled eggs AND miso soup. Think bacon that was crispy and not rubbery (a rare feat!), alongside rice and pickles. And the coffee? Bottomless! I spent hours just fueled by that caffeine and the sheer joy of choices. The Asian breakfast was an experience in itself – the fish, rice, miso soup were all good, and the Japanese omelet was divine! Sometimes I would even sneak back for a second helping. Then a third. Seriously, I almost forgot to do anything else that day.
Restaurants, Coffee shop, Snack bar, Poolside bar: Didn't visit, but the options were tempting. Next time, definitely checking out the snack bar!
The "Things to Do (or Not Do)" Dilemma (Things to do, ways to relax, Spa/sauna, Swimming pool):
Here's where things got a little… meh. I'm not a spa person. I'm more of a "sit in my room and eat snacks" kind of traveler (hey, no judgement!).
- Spa/Sauna, Swimming pool [outdoor], Pool with a view: Apparently, there's a spa and outdoor pool at the hotel. I found out about it on like, the last day. Oops. They really didn't grab my attention. Next time, I'll make a bigger effort.
- Fitness center, Sauna, Steamroom: I think maybe I saw a fitness center, but I'm not positive. Either way, I didn't go. Same with the sauna and steamroom. I just wasn't in the mood. Maybe I'll change my mind next time!
The "Oh, That's Convenient" Stuff (Services and conveniences, For the kids):
- Services and conveniences (Concierge, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Elevator, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Safety deposit boxes): They have those. Basic stuff, but necessary. The convenience store was a lifesaver for late-night snacks and… well, everything. The currency exchange was a little slow, but it did the job. The elevators were blessedly fast (which is a big deal in Japan - I hate waiting around for elevators!). The daily housekeeping? Amazing. My room always felt fresh and clean.
- For the kids (Family/child friendly, Kids meal, Babysitting service): Didn't travel with kids (thank God!), so I can't personally vouch for this, but the hotel seemed genuinely family-friendly. Maybe next time I'll drag my niece or nephew along.
The "Little Quirks" (Getting around, Available in all rooms, Extras like a bathrobe and hair dryer):
- Getting around (Airport transfer, Car park [free of charge], Taxi Service): The free parking was a HUGE bonus. Driving in Japan can be intimidating, but the hotel made it easy.
- Available in all the rooms (Air conditioning, Bathrobes, Coffee/tea maker, Hair dryer, Mini bar, Slippers, etc.): The rooms themselves were comfortable, clean, and had everything you'd expect. The air conditioning worked like a charm (essential!), the robes were plush, and I basically lived in the slippers. I loved that they provided complimentary tea.
- Non-smoking rooms (Non-smoking rooms): Absolutely essential for me!
The "Random Observations and Imperfections" Section:
- The Lobby Vibe: The lobby was… functional. Not particularly stylish, but clean and efficient. Like a well-oiled machine.
- The Staff: They were polite, helpful, and spoke enough English to get by. The check-in/out was a breeze.
- Room decorations (Room decorations): Minimalist, clean, and functional. Not exactly Instagram-worthy, but perfectly comfortable.
The "My Honest Feelings" Moment:
Look, the Richmond Hotel in Obihiro isn't perfect. But it's a solid, reliable choice. Yes, the spa was a bit of a miss for me, and sure, the lobby wasn't the most exciting. But the cleanliness, the accessibility, the AMAZING breakfast buffet, and the overall sense of calm and attentiveness? They won me over.
Would I go back? Absolutely. In a heartbeat. I'm already daydreaming about that breakfast. And maybe, just maybe, I'll venture into the spa this time. (Maybe).
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (mostly for that breakfast buffet!).
Ramada Bettendorf: Your Iowa Getaway Awaits!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to unravel a trip to Obihiro, Japan, centred around the Richmond Hotel Ekimae. Forget those pristine, perfect itineraries! This is the real, slightly-sweaty, ramen-stained version.
Pre-Trip Anxiety & Planning… Or Lack Thereof
Okay, so I’m officially addicted to planning on the day of the trip. I booked the hotel – great! The Richmond Hotel Obihiro Ekimae. Sounds promising. Okay, Google Maps, let's… OH GOD, Hokkaido. Winter. Shiver. Right, packing… what even is appropriate winter wear for… well, anywhere? Did I buy enough heat packs? I’m already regretting everything. This is going to be an adventure and I'm not sure I want to be on it.
Day 1: Arrival & Ramen Realization
Morning: The flight was a blur of airplane food and trying to decipher the cryptic instructions on the in-flight entertainment system. Landed in Chitose Airport, Hokkaido. Holy moly, it's COLD. Like, teeth-chattering, nose-running, "maybe I should have packed more than a flimsy scarf" cold.
Afternoon: Train to Obihiro. The scenery… gorgeous. Snow-covered fields stretching out forever. Made me actually want to Instagram the view. (Gasp!) Arrived at the Richmond Hotel. Check-in was efficient, the staff were polite, and the room… surprisingly spacious! Bonus points for the heated toilet seat – a godsend in this frigid climate.
Evening: Ramen. I'm here for the ramen, this is what my poor, over-researched soul craves. Obihiro is famous for its pork bowl (butadon) and I was determined to find the BEST ramen. Wander around… overwhelmed. Found a place, "Ramen Noob's Delight" written on the sign (I might have made that up, I can't remember). The Ramen… It was… meh. My tastebuds started to get offended by the lack of depth of flavors. Back to the hotel and try to be positive.
Day 2: The Butadon Pilgrimage & My Frozen Tears
Morning: Okay, so the ramen was a letdown. Time for Butadon redemption! I'd done some "research" (aka, Googled "best butadon Obihiro" while stuffing my face with the hotel's surprisingly good free breakfast). The consensus? Pancho.
Afternoon: Pancho. The queue was bonkers. Seriously, a line snaking outside the restaurant. But, dammit, I was committed. After what felt like an eternity, I was in. And then… the butadon. Oh. My. God. The pork was perfectly charred, the sauce… a sweet, savory concerto, the rice… fluffy clouds of perfection. I ate it in near silence, a single tear (of joy, probably; or maybe a combination of joy and the biting wind) rolling down my cheek. It was, no exaggeration, a religious experience. Worth the wait. Worth the winter. Worth… everything.
Evening: Wandered around, looking for something to top that Butadon experience. I thought, "Oh, a dessert cafe would be a lovely end!" I am quickly dissuaded because this means facing the elements again. I gave up on finding my perfect end-of-day plan and headed promptly back to my hotel.
Day 3: The Art of the Observation & Hokkaido's Quirks
Morning: Explored the Obihiro area, as best as I could without freezing my appendages off. Visited a park… it was snowing. Decided to just observe people and their quirky habits. I'm convinced the Japanese have mastered the art of the perfect bow – elegant, respectful, and seemingly effortless. I, on the other hand, was still struggling to navigate the automatic doors without resembling a confused penguin.
Afternoon: More exploration. This is the tough part. The language barrier. I stumble through some basic Japanese phrases, feeling like an idiot but trying. I am the queen of confusing the locals, but they seem to find it amusing so all is well.
Evening: Back at the hotel. Exhausted. Watched random Japanese TV, mostly failing to understand anything but finding it strangely comforting. The remote control is a masterpiece of baffling buttons. I'm still missing something or trying something, and ending up back at Netflix. Tomorrow, the journey to the airport…
Day 4: Departure & The Post-Trip Blues (Already?)
Morning: Last breakfast at the hotel. Damn those eggs were perfect. Packing. Always a nightmare. Did I forget anything? Probably. The train to the airport. The scenery still takes my breath away.
Afternoon: Goodbye, Hokkaido. Goodbye, Butadon. Goodbye, heated toilet seats (sob!). Reflecting on this trip – I learned a lot. First, I need a better winter coat. Second, trust your gut when choosing ramen (or maybe re-evaluate my standards). Third, and most importantly, embrace the mess. The imperfections. The stumbles. They're what make the journey memorable. And I can't wait to go back and have another religious experience with pancho. And maybe find my place around Obihiro, one Butadon-filled meal at a time.
Alright, Let's Talk About This Obihiro Hotel That Messed Me Up (In a Good Way!)
(And by "messed me up," I mean... wow. Just wow.)
Okay, Okay, I'm Intrigued. What's This Obihiro Hotel You're Raving About?
It's the Richmond Hotel Obihiro Ekimae! Emphasis on the "Ekimae," which means "in front of the train station." Listen, I’m a sucker for convenience, and this place DELIVERED. I rolled off the train, practically tripped over the revolving doors, and BAM! Hotel heaven. No endless taxi hunts, no frantic Google Mapping... pure, unadulterated ease. Seriously, after a long train ride, that's worth its weight in gold.
And Why Did It "Blow Your Mind"? I Mean, It's Just a Hotel, Right?
Look, I've stayed in hotels. I’ve seen it all: the dingy rooms, the surly staff, the questionable breakfast buffets. This… this was different. It was like they *understood* what a weary traveler needed. The room was immaculate (like, seriously, did someone go in with a magnifying glass and a toothbrush?), the staff was unbelievably helpful (even when I butchered my Japanese – multiple times!), and then… the breakfast. Oh, the breakfast!
Spill the Breakfast Tea! What Made the Breakfast So Amazing?
Alright, buckle up. I’m not normally a breakfast person. I grab a coffee, maybe a sad pastry, and run. But this… this was a *production*. They had everything! Freshly baked bread (I may have eaten half a loaf, don't judge), local Hokkaido yogurt that was thick and creamy, a whole section dedicated to fresh fruit (pineapples! Strawberries!), and… this is where it gets real… a little buffet of *local* specialties. Think amazing Hokkaido potatoes and grilled salmon. And there was this little bowl of *something* I couldn't quite place… turns out it was a local, traditional sweet bean paste. I ate like five bowls. Absolutely divine. I woke up with a ridiculous food coma. Seriously, it took me a whole hour to get ready and out of the hotel that day, and I blame the breakfast!
Was it just the food, or was there something else that made it so special?
Oh, there was definitely more. It's the little things, you know? Like, they had a humidifer AND an air purifier in the room! I have awful allergies, so I was already thrilled, but then I woke up feeling perfect. Not itchy or stuffy. Magical. They also had these unbelievably comfortable pajamas waiting for me in the wardrobe. I felt like I was wrapped in a cloud. I'm not even a person who *wears* hotel pajamas! Normally I'm all "ugh, cheap, itchy fabric!" But these? They were actually good!
Tell me more about the staff! Were they actually nice?
They were ridiculously nice! And not in that fake, forced customer service way. They were genuinely helpful and friendly. One of the staff members, bless her heart, practically walked me to the local ramen joint when I asked for a recommendation. (Turns out, it was the best ramen I’ve ever had! Thanks again, whoever you are!) And you know how sometimes you go to places where you feel judged for not speaking the local language? Completely absent here. They were patient and kind even when I was fumbling with my charades.
Let's talk about the location. Besides being in front of the train station, was it convenient for exploring Obihiro?
YES! The train station is right there, which is amazing for getting around. Then the hotel was also super close to restaurants, shops, and a few cultural attractions. I walked everywhere. Obihiro is a pretty compact city, and the hotel just made it so easy to get out and explore. Plus I could pop back to the hotel for a quick nap or to freshen up before heading back out. Convenience is king, and this place ruled.
Okay, okay, I'm sold. But what about the price? Was it crazy expensive?
That's the kicker! It wasn't! It was actually surprisingly reasonable, especially considering everything you get. I honestly felt like I was getting away with something. I mean, you're getting a super clean, modern room, amazing breakfast, incredible service, and all the convenience you could ask for, and it didn't break the bank. Definitely check the rates, but I was absolutely thrilled with the value for money.
Any complaints? Anything at all?
Okay, I have to admit, I *tried* to find something to complain about. It's my nature. But honestly? The only thing I could come up with is that it was so good it set a ridiculously high bar for the rest of my trip. Every other hotel paled in comparison, and I was constantly comparing experiences to the Richmond Hotel. So, yeah, consider yourself warned: this place might ruin you for all other hotels to come. And maybe… maybe they could have had more of that sweet bean paste at breakfast. Just saying...
Is there anything *else* you want to add?
Just… go! Seriously. If you’re going to Obihiro, just book it. I'm not sure what else to say. Pack your appetite, your most comfortable walking shoes, and prepare to be pleasantly surprised. You won't regret it. Oh, and tell them I sent you and you want the sweet bean paste! (Just kidding... unless...?)
Would you go back?
Are you kidding me? Absolutely. As soon as I can possibly justify another trip to Hokkaido, I'm booking a room. I'm dreaming about that breakfast as we speak! I’m actually thinking of going back just for a weekend getaway and to refill on sweet bean paste. Consider me a convert!
