Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Grids Premium Hotel Otaru - Your Otaru Dream Getaway

GRIDS PREMIUM HOTEL OTARU Otaru Japan

Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Grids Premium Hotel Otaru - Your Otaru Dream Getaway

Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Grids Premium Hotel Otaru - My Otaru Dream Getaway… Or Did I Just Dream It? (A Review with Some Serious Real Talk)

Okay, folks, buckle up. This isn't your average, sanitized hotel review. I'm laying it all out, warts and all (and trust me, after a few too many Sapporo beers, I do have some warts). We're talking Grids Premium Hotel Otaru, and whether it truly delivered on its promise of "unbelievable luxury" or just left me feeling like I'd accidentally stumbled into a really well-decorated dream… well, read on, my friends.

First Impressions & Getting There (The Logistics, My Least Favorite Part):

So, getting to Otaru is practically like a scene from a Studio Ghibli film, especially if you're arriving by train. The scenery is GORGEOUS. The hotel itself? Easy to find. Accessibility is, from what I saw, pretty good. They have an elevator, which is a HUGE win for tired travelers (like, me, always). And, they mention "facilities for disabled guests," which is reassuring. Though, I didn't personally test the wheelchair accessibility, so buyer beware, check the specifics if that's a key concern!

Rooms: Plush, Pretty, and Praying You Don't Drop Your Phone in the Shower (It Happened…):

The rooms? Honestly, they ARE pretty darn nice. Clean, modern, a real sense of "Wow, I could definitely stay here for a week." This place is all about the details. In-room features like the air conditioning (thank GOD!), alarm clock, robes, coffee/tea maker, hair dryer, safe, and Wi-Fi (free!) are all present and accounted for. The bed was one of those "sink-into-it-and-never-leave" types…I actually considered taking it home. (Just kidding… mostly). The blackout curtains are a godsend if you, like me, need complete darkness to sleep. They really did think of the little things: complimentary tea, slippers (essential!), and even a scale (because apparently, vacation calories don't count… right?).

Now, a minor, slightly mortifying anecdote. I managed to drop my phone in the shower. Yep. My phone, now a sad, waterlogged paperweight. Thankfully, the bathroom was clean and well-appointed, and they did have those lovely, fluffy towels. (Silver linings, people, silver linings).

Internet & Tech (Because We Need To Stay Connected, Even on Vacation):

Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Praise the tech gods! Seriously, crucial these days. The connection was fast and reliable, which is a huge plus when you're trying to upload all those envy-inducing travel photos. They also offer Internet access – LAN, if that's your jam (it's not really mine, to be honest).

Dining, Drinking & Snacking: Where the Magic (and the Calories) Happen:

Okay, let’s get real: Dining is a HUGE part of the vacation experience, and Grids Otaru doesn't disappoint. They had several restaurants, a bar, a coffee shop and even a snack bar for those inevitable late-night cravings (mine were strong, I won't lie).

• Breakfast (Buffet): I was excited for the Asian breakfast options. The Asian cuisine was great. The buffet itself was pretty decent, offering everything from your usual Western breakfast fare (eggs, bacon, the works) to some local specialties. The coffee was… well, it wasn't the best I’ve ever had, but it was hot and caffeinated, which is what matters, right? They had breakfast takeaway service if you're in a rush.
• Restaurants and Bars: The a la carte options in the main restaurant looked tempting, but I was too busy stuffing my face at the buffet. They also had a poolside bar, which, alas, I didn't get to enjoy (more on that later). There were happy hour deals, which, again, I regretfully missed.
• Room Service (24 Hour): Yes, please! I didn't need it, but knowing it's there is comforting.
• Food Delivery: I don’t remember needing this during my stay, but just in case.

Things to Do (Or, How to Relax… Or Try To):

Okay, this is where things get interesting. Grids Otaru boasts a fitness center, which I, in my dedication to relaxing, completely avoided. They also have a spa, which I was very interested in!

• The Spa: I was picturing myself lounging in a robe all day, but I just didn't get there.
• Swimming Pool (Outdoor): Sadly, given the time of year… it wasn't open. Devastating, to be honest. A pool with a view probably would have been amazing.

Ways to Relax (The Dream, the Reality, and the Mild Disappointment):

They advertise sauna and steamroom, which are always a plus. I envisioned luxuriating in a hot, steamy haven, letting my worries melt away like snow in springtime. Nope. Didn’t get around to it. Time!

Cleanliness & Safety (Because, 2024):

This place seemed to be obsessed with hygiene, which, honestly, is a GOOD thing. They boasted anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, and room sanitization between stays. They also had hand sanitizer everywhere and staff trained in safety protocol. You could tell they were taking it seriously. They even offered sanitized kitchen and tableware items, and I liked the emphasis on hygiene, though I was not a fan of having to show my health certificate.

Services & Conveniences (The Little Things That Matter):

They have all the usual suspects: concierge, daily housekeeping, laundry service, luggage storage, and a helpful front desk (24-hour). There's a convenience store, which is clutch for snacks and forgotten essentials. They also offer things like currency exchange, which is nice.

For the Kids (Because Not Everyone Travels Alone):

I didn't see any kids at the time, but they mention babysitting service and being family/child friendly, with kids facilities available. Good for families!

Getting Around (The Transportation Tango):

They offer airport transfer, which is so helpful, and an on-site car park (free of charge). They have taxi service, but I walked everywhere.

The Verdict: Unbelievable? Maybe. Dreamy? Definitely… With a Few Caveats.

Look, Grids Premium Hotel Otaru is a solid choice. The rooms are lovely, the service is attentive, and the location is perfect for exploring Otaru. It has all the right ingredients for a fantastic getaway. However, the spa, pool and other great facilities were not experienced.

Here’s the bottom line: If you're looking for a comfortable, safe, and well-located hotel in Otaru, Grids Premium is a good bet. Just manage your expectations about the "unbelievable luxury" part. Maybe it was that my dreams were a little too lofty, or my expectations were raised a bit too high.

---

SEO Optimized Offer - Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Grids Premium Hotel Otaru - Your Otaru Dream Getaway

Tired of the Ordinary? Escape to Grids Premium Hotel Otaru for an Unforgettable Otaru Getaway!

Discover the Magic of Otaru with Comfort and Style:

Are you dreaming of a breathtaking escape to Otaru, Japan? Look no further than Grids Premium Hotel Otaru, your gateway to an unforgettable experience! We're not just a hotel; we're your launchpad for exploring the charming canals, delicious seafood, and stunning beauty of this enchanting city.

Why Choose Grids Premium Hotel Otaru?

• Luxury Redefined: Indulge in impeccably designed non-smoking rooms featuring air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and all the modern conveniences you desire. Every detail is crafted for comfort and relaxation:
  • Sink into the plush comfort of an extra long bed.
  • Stay connected with free Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas.
  • Enjoy a cozy evening with on-demand movies.
  • Refresh yourself in the separate shower/bathtub.
  • Enjoy the Blackout curtains to make you fall asleep easily.
• Unparalleled Relaxation: Rejuvenate your senses in our world-class amenities:
  • Spa facilities to melt away stress.
  • A fitness center to maintain your routine.
  • Even with a pool with a view, your relaxation is guaranteed.
• Culinary Delights at Your Fingertips: Savor delectable dining experiences:
  • Start your day with a delicious Asian or Western breakfast.

Kokansai Beach Resort: Your Dream Diveagar Getaway Awaits!

Book Now

GRIDS PREMIUM HOTEL OTARU Otaru Japan

Okay, buckle up Buttercup! This is my attempt at a travel itinerary for GRIDS PREMIUM HOTEL OTARU in Otaru, Japan. Prepare for a rollercoaster, because my travel style is less "meticulously planned" and more "wing-it-and-hope-for-the-best." Consider this… a suggestion. Don’t come crying to me when things fall apart.

Day 1: Arrival & Otaru's Charm (or, "Help, I'm Lost in a Land of Deliciousness!")

• 10:00 AM (ish): Arrive at New Chitose Airport (CTS). Jetlagged. Already regretting the pre-dawn wake-up. Customs? Smooth. Airport pastries? Divine. (Seriously, the Japanese airport pastries are a national treasure. I'd happily get deported for a custard cream bun.)
• 11:30 AM: Train to Otaru. Okay, I think I know which train… Google Maps is my best friend (until my phone inevitably dies from excessive photo-taking). Scenery is breathtaking, even though my eyelids are fighting a losing battle with the urge to close. The sea's on the right, the mountains' on the left. Japan is so clean, it makes me look like a slob.
• 1:00 PM: Check-in at GRIDS PREMIUM HOTEL OTARU. The lobby is minimalist, classy, and I'm immediately relieved. (Phew, not a tiny, coffin-esque room! Always a worry with Japanese hotels!) The staff is unfailingly polite. I feel like a clumsy panda in a china shop. I'm sure I'll get used to bowing.
• 1:30 PM: Room Exploration. It's small, but smartly designed. My suitcase explodes like a disorganized grenade. I manage to mostly put my stuff away. Success.
• 2:00 PM: Lunch: Otaru Canal Area Exploration! Okay, this is where things get gloriously messy. I wander. I get lost. I embrace the lost-ness. The Otaru Canal is beautiful, but it's also packed with tourists. Still, the atmosphere is magical.
  • (Rambling Mode ON) Okay, so I stumble upon a seafood restaurant. The menu? Japanese. Of course. But there are pictures! I bravely point at a plate of something… with sea urchin. Look, I have a thing about sea urchin. Smell it, taste it, love it. I am a food adventurer. At least that's what I tell myself while I'm sweating and trying not to make a fool of myself.
  • (Rambling Mode OFF)
  • Impression: The Sea Urchin was awesome. It was melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Okay, it might have cost a small fortune for a single bite. Worth it.
• 4:00 PM: Otaru Music Box Museum. Very cute. Very whimsical. I bought a music box shaped like a cat playing a piano. Don't judge me. My inner child is thriving.
• 5:00 PM: The Glass Blowing Spectacle.
  • (Emotional Burst) Okay, I can't express how freaking cool this was. The glassblowers were like magicians, turning molten glass into delicate works of art. The heat, the precision, the skill! Made me feel utterly inadequate. Made me want to buy EVERYTHING. I was just standing there in awe of their work.
  • (Impression) I was blown away. The colors were unreal. My wallet is slightly lighter now, but my heart's a little bit fuller.
• 7:00 PM: Dinner at a random restaurant that looks inviting. It has pictures. Again, a lifesaver. Ramen! Delicious, warming ramen, which is exactly what I needed after a day of wandering. My stomach’s happy.
• 8:30 PM: Back to the hotel. Maybe watch some TV. Maybe fall asleep before I can say "Otaru." Jetlag is a beast.

Day 2: Sweets & More (or, "Sugar Rush & Artistic Angst")

• 8:00 AM: Breakfast at the hotel. Probably buffet-style. I will eat ALL the pastries. ALL OF THEM. Coffee. More coffee. I need sustenance for my daily adventures!
• 9:00 AM: Otaru's Dessert Delights! This is a BIG ONE. Otaru is famous for its sweets. Get ready for a sugar coma.
  • (Rambling Mode ON) The sweets shops! The sheer variety! Chewy, creamy, crunchy, every texture imaginable. I probably visited a dozen shops, each more tempting than the last. The smell of sugar, the colors… my willpower crumbled faster than a cookie in a hurricane. I bought more candy than I thought I needed. The next day my stomach would be thanking me.
  • (Rambling Mode OFF)
  • Impression: Worth. Every. Single. Calorie. Absolutely. The best.
• 11:00 AM: Kitaichi Glass. I'm really into glass now. Maybe I should take an apprenticeship in glass-blowing. Actually, no. I’d probably burn the place down. Still, their glass art is extraordinary. Walking through the dimly lit halls, I was just lost in the beauty and creativity.
  • (Emotional Burst) I'm so jealous of these artists. I will never be this talented as a human.
• 12:30 PM: Lunch. Something light, after all the sweets. Sushi maybe? (or another Ramen restaurant)
• 2:00 PM: Exploration of the various art galleries. Finding my own art style. What an experience it was. I will never see art the same.
• 4:00 PM: Back to the hotel to rest.
• 7:00 PM: Dinner. Probably something I can point at on a menu. I hope it's good.
• 8:30 PM: Back to the hotel. Exhausted but happy.

Day 3: Departure (or, "Sayonara, Sweet Tooth!")

• 8:00 AM: Breakfast. One last hurrah with the buffet! I will probably have a croissant-shaped mountain.
• 9:00 AM: Last-minute souvenir shopping. I probably forgot something. Probably need more snacks.
• 10:00 AM: Check out of the hotel. Sniffle. Goodbye, GRIDS PREMIUM HOTEL OTARU! Thanks for the comfy bed and the lovely staff.
• 11:00 AM: Train back to the airport. Sadness.
• 1:00 PM: Fly home. Dreaming of Hokkaido and the treats to come…

Post-Trip Thoughts:

• I probably forgot vital things. Like, did I buy any actual necessities?
• My suitcase is going to weigh a ridiculous amount.
• I need to learn more Japanese.
• I will definitely return to Otaru.
• I'm already planning my next trip… and it's probably going to be just as chaotic.

This, my friends, is the essence of my travel style. Remember, it's all about the experience, the accidental discoveries, and the utter joy of being utterly unprepared. Safe travels!

Unwind in Italy's Hidden Gem: Cascina Bertolotto Wine Resort!

Book Now

GRIDS PREMIUM HOTEL OTARU Otaru Japan

Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Grids Premium Hotel Otaru - Your Otaru Dream Getaway? (Let's Get Real...)

Okay, spill it. Is this place *really* as dreamy as it looks in the pictures?

Alright, alright, let's talk brass tacks. The pictures, they’re *good*. Like, really good. That lobby fireplace with the giant map? Yeah, it's there. And it's *impressive*. My jaw actually dropped a little when I first walked in. Okay, maybe a lot. But the pictures, you know, they lie a little. The lighting's always perfect, the people are all beautiful and serene… the reality? It's still pretty damn good. The design is slick, minimalist, and generally screams "expensive". But, and this is a big but, it's not *perfect* perfect. There's a little wear and tear, a smudge here and there. You know, *life*. But honestly? It's a gorgeous place. Just… manage your expectations a smidge.

The rooms... are they worth the price tag? I saw some reviews…

Let's be honest, Otaru isn't cheap. And Grids Premium? It's not a budget motel. So, are the rooms worth the price? Okay, here's my take. I booked the 'Premium Corner Room' (because, let's face it, I'm a sucker for a corner room with a view). The space? Generous. The view? Stunning. I'm talking postcard-worthy. The bed? Cloud-like. The bathroom? Modern, clean, and with those fancy Japanese toilets that I’ll never *not* be impressed by. BUT… the air conditioning was a little… temperamental. One night, it was a blizzard in there. The next, I was sweating like a politician at an ethics hearing. So, yeah, luxurious? Definitely. Flawless? Nah. Honestly, I probably wouldn't pay for it again, but I would do it again. And the bathroom? The bathroom just about made up for it.

What's the deal with the breakfast buffet? Is it worth waking up for?

Oh, the breakfast buffet. This is where things get… interesting. Okay, the selection is vast. Sushi? Yes. Freshly baked bread? Yes. Bacon? Glorious, crispy, golden-brown bacon. And if I'm *completely* honest, it's good. Like, *really* good. But… and here’s the thing… it's also *busy*. Like, ridiculously, early-morning-tourist-stampede busy. Be prepared to fight for a croissant. And the coffee? Let’s just say it’s… passable. Honestly, I found myself having a much better breakfast at a small local bakery down the street. Way less chaotic and, dare I say, better pastries. But, the buffet is convenient. So, you make the call. Me? I'd probably go for the local bakery and grab a coffee somewhere with a view.

Is the location good? Easy to get around?

The location? *Chef's kiss*. Seriously. Right smack-dab in the middle of everything. The Otaru Canal? A stone's throw away. Restaurants? Plenty. Shops selling adorable glass baubles? Everywhere. You can literally wander around and stumble upon amazing things all day. Walking distance is usually pretty easy, but I found that the ice-cold wind of the Otaru Canal did not really appreciate my legs. Be prepared to embrace the cold, but the location? Absolutely A+.

Tell me about the staff. Are they helpful?

The staff. Ah, the staff. Generally speaking, super polite, very helpful. Your typical, wonderfully-trained Japanese hospitality. Now, here's a confession: I had a bit of a *situation* involving a misplaced charger and some frantic Googling of "Japanese customs about missing things". The staff were *patient* and kept me from going into full-blown panic mode. They were amazing, even when I was a stressed-out mess. So, hats off to them. They're gems.

What's the best *one thing* about staying at Grids Premium?

Okay, if I *had* to pick one thing… and this is a tough call, because the location is incredible, and the rooms are lovely… but honestly? The *vibe*. There's a certain feeling in the air, a sense of calm and understated luxury. It's not stuffy, it's not pretentious. It's just… *nice*. It's a place where you can actually relax and unwind. I mean, aside from my aforementioned AC issue, the charger incident, the buffet madness and the fact that I could only afford a fancy coffee once during my stay.

Would you recommend it? Honestly.

Alright, the million-dollar question. Would I recommend it? Hmm… It depends. If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience, a place that feels special and offers a fantastic location, and if you’re prepared for a few minor imperfections? Yes, absolutely. But be prepared to open your wallet a bit. And maybe bring your own charger just in case. And if you’re a very light sleeper, or a stickler for AC, maybe think twice. But generally? Yes. It’s a good hotel. A *very* good one. Just go in with your eyes wide open, a sense of humor, and a willingness to embrace the slightly-less-than-perfect. You'll have a blast. (And the bathroom! Did I mention the bathroom?)

Starlight Inns

GRIDS PREMIUM HOTEL OTARU Otaru Japan

GRIDS PREMIUM HOTEL OTARU Otaru Japan

Location:

Share :