We wanted to hike to Mt. Asahidake during the Koyo (Fall foliage) season, and among the properties at the base of the mountain, La Vista Daisetsuzan appeared to be the highest end accommodation in the area. Both the outside and inside of the lodge are charming and rustic in appearance, but are definitely showing clear signs of age and wear. In fact, while taking a dip in the communal Onsen (natural hot springs) bath, I overheard two men remarking how the place was ”boro boro” (Japanese for ”really worn down.”) Thankfully, we were relieved to find that La Vista Daisetsuzan was at least quite clean, and did not exhibit the old, moldy smell that is commonplace in older properties. And the dining room seems to have been renovated - we enjoyed our dinner here (more on that in a moment.) We stayed in their ”Luxury Room,” the highest category unit that was a relatively spacious 56m² open-plan Junior Suite. Other rooms on premises are quite a bit smaller, but people used to staying in standard rooms at Marriott-class properties will be more than satisfied with these room types. La Vista Daisetsuzan has a communal, gender-segregated Onsen on site - there is both an indoor and open-air outdoor bath, which is appreciated, especially in the Winter months, given that you'll want to warm up in the indoor bath before jumping into the outdoor one. While we did not have breakfast at the property (we wanted to get an early start on our hike, and we're glad that we did - the sky is more clear and there are less crowds), we had the French-Japanese dinner. To say that the meal exceeded our expectations would be an understatement. We're in Hokkaido, and an hour from the nearest city (Asahikawa), yet every dish was creative, beautifully presented and a feast for the eyes and palate. Everything - from the tuna tartare to the mini quiche to the Foie Gras to the al dente pasta with mushrooms and broccoli - was a highlight. The only serving that did not hit the spot was the main (ocean-) fish dish. The fish was hard and dry - when you're in the center of Hokkaido, perhaps they should focus on other ingredients, or at least serve fish that are fine frozen (like Tuna) or that come from the nearby rivers or lakes. Overall, if we were to make a return trip to the area, we would be more than fine with staying again at La Vista Daisetsuzan. In no way is this a destination unto itself, but if our short but pleasant stay is any indication, it's a very solid higher-end option in Daisetsuzan. It definitely blows away the vast majority of lodges in U.S. National Parks, that's for sure!
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