I declare! Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel is the god of atmosphere!

How many people, like me, added this hotel to their must-stay list because of a photo of the hotel lobby and the icefall hot springs? The moment I arrived, I knew I could spend the whole day taking photos of the mythical forest lobby. Outside, the snow was falling heavily, but inside, the flames in the lobby fireplace danced merrily, casting a warm glow around the room and dispelling the chill of the winter night. The icefall hot springs took the atmosphere to the next level. The moment I stepped into the open-air bath, I was stunned. Goose feather snow was swirling in the air, hot steam rose from the ground, the surrounding icefalls were covered in white snow, and the branches of the trees beside the pool were covered with snow. It was a true experience of ice and fire, more magical than a fairyland! [Hotel Highlights] 🏨 The East Building lobby, "Forest Myth," and the West Building lobby, "River God," have very different styles, both perfect for photos, meditation, and daydreaming. Apple cider is served from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. ♨️ The icefall hot springs are the most atmospheric I've ever experienced in Japan. When it snows heavily, it's simply amazing, an unforgettable experience. 🚌 Be sure to book the hotel's many outdoor activities in advance. I recommend the Keiryu Stream Bus, the Famous Waterfalls Bus, the Towada Lake Stroll, and the Icefall Light Show. 🎣 For a closer experience with nature, you can join the Keiryu Stream or Icefall Snowshoe Walk, as well as various activities on Mount Hakkoda. 🌟 If you enjoy crafts, you can participate in kokedama, Oirase lamp, and icefall soap making at the Keiryu Stream BASE. 🍣 The popular Keiryu breakfast and French restaurant are best booked as early as possible. Unfortunately, I didn't manage to book them, but I heard they are quite good. [J-Type Personality Itinerary] Highly recommend a two-night stay A shuttle bus departs from Aomoriya at 9:00 am and arrives at Oirase Keiryu Hotel at 10:00 am, giving you 5 precious hours before the 3:00 pm check-in. 10:30 am - 12:00 pm: Take the Famous Waterfalls Bus tour, reaching as far as the shores of Lake Towada. 12:00 pm - 2:30 pm: Explore the hotel and enjoy the delicious apple desserts at the nearby Keiryu Stream Museum. 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm: Take the Keiryu Stream Bus tour, stopping at three points to admire the scenery up close. 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm: Check in and enjoy apple drinks in the lobby. 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm: Dinner at Apple Restaurant. 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm: Icefall Light Show, an eye-opening experience. 8:00 pm: Soak in the icefall hot springs. DAY 2 6:00 am - 7:00 am: Soak in the icefall hot springs. 8:00 am - 9:00 am: Breakfast at Apple Restaurant. 10:00 am: Check out and take the hotel bus back to Aomori Station. [Room] The room uses a lot of wood, and the huge floor-to-ceiling windows look out onto the snowy forest. You can spend the whole day lounging on the sofa, lost in thought. [Food] Apple Restaurant offers dinner and breakfast (Keiryu and French cuisine require booking well in advance). While the variety may not be as extensive as at Aomoriya, the food is exquisite. I highly recommend the apple pie ice cream and the homemade seafood rice. [Transportation] There are buses from Aomori Station and Hachinohe Station, which require reservations. The most convenient way is to come from Aomoriya. Summary The environment is first-class, and the Oirase Gorge is truly beautiful in winter. Every detail of the hotel is exquisite. I would call it the god of atmosphere.