What is Kimamaya by Odin?

Kimamaya by Odin is a Selected hotel located in Kutchan, Japan. It has been recognized by the Michelin Guide for its exceptional hospitality and unique experience.

How many Michelin Keys does Kimamaya by Odin have?

Kimamaya by Odin has been awarded Selected by the Michelin Guide, indicating a very special stay.

Where is Kimamaya by Odin located?

Kimamaya by Odin is located in Kutchan, Japan, in the Asia region.

What makes a Selected hotel special?

Selected hotels provide very special stays with excellent service and a unique sense of place.

How do I book Kimamaya by Odin?

You can view more details and booking information for Kimamaya by Odin through the Michelin Guide website. Each Michelin Keys hotel offers a unique booking experience tailored to their guests.

Kimamaya by Odin | Selected in Kutchan, Japan

Name: Kimamaya by Odin
Address: Kutchan, Asia, Japan
Rating: 4.5

Expert Review: Kimamaya by Odin

Kimamaya by Odin, nestled in Kutchan, Japan, is lauded as a Michelin Key Selected property, offering an intimate and luxurious alpine retreat. This micro-boutique hotel, with its nine uniquely designed rooms, consistently receives high praise for its exceptional service, sophisticated design, and prime location for ski enthusiasts.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

Kimamaya by Odin enjoys an overwhelmingly positive reputation, frequently described by guests as "exceptional". It boasts remarkable ratings across the board, including 9.9 for location, 10.0 for cleanliness, 9.6 for value for money, 10.0 for facilities, 9.9 for comfort, and a perfect 10.0 for staff and free Wi-Fi. The Michelin Key selection further underscores its standing as an outstanding hotel that significantly enhances the traveler's experience.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently highlight the attentive and personalized service, the delicious dining, and the hotel's convenient location as major strengths. The hotel's design, which thoughtfully blends traditional Japanese charm with a modern, cosmopolitan touch, also receives considerable acclaim. Amenities such as communal hot spa-bath rooms (onsen) with oak and stone tubs, a charming lounge area with a fireplace, free Wi-Fi, free parking, and ski storage facilities are frequently mentioned as key features that enhance the stay.

3. Room Quality

The rooms at Kimamaya by Odin are described as spacious and luxurious, designed with utmost care for comfort and well-being. They feature premium down beddings and cotton linens, with guests even having a choice of three pillow options (soft, medium, hard). The interior design incorporates a warm palette of chocolate wood, gray walls, elm floors, and black granite, creating minimal yet luxurious spaces. Loft configurations are available, accommodating up to four adults and one child, and include mezzanine levels with traditional Japanese tatami floors and views of the original timber framework ceilings. All rooms are equipped with ensuite bathrooms featuring rain showers and Japanese toilets, along with slick TV screens for after-ski entertainment.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at Kimamaya by Odin consistently exceeds guest expectations, with both breakfast and dinner noted as being delicious. The on-site restaurant, "The Barn by Odin," offers French alpine cuisine and wines in an award-winning building inspired by traditional Hokkaido farm architecture. Connected to the hotel via a protected walkway, The Barn provides a cozy atmosphere and a fantastic breakfast that guests consider an excellent way to start the day.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff are frequently cited as truly exceptional, with guests often commending their attentiveness and personalized approach. Reviews consistently mention staff members going "above and beyond" to assist with dining reservations, transportation needs, and providing helpful recommendations for first-time visitors to Niseko. The warm welcome and friendly demeanor of the staff contribute significantly to the overall enjoyable and comfortable holiday experience.

6. Location & Accessibility

Kimamaya by Odin boasts a central and highly convenient location in Niseko's Hirafu village, a renowned ski haven in Hokkaido. It is situated just a three-minute walk from the main part of Hirafu, making it incredibly convenient for accessing ski slopes, restaurants, and local activities. The hotel provides free ski shuttle access to the slopes. It is approximately 0.5 miles from Nac Niseko Adventure Centre and 1 mile from Niseko Grand Hirafu, with Hirafu Station being about 2.5 miles away.

7. Value & Pricing

While some guests note that the hotel can be "slightly pricey," the general consensus is that Kimamaya by Odin offers "excellent value for a boutique hotel experience in the mountains," given the high quality of service and amenities provided. Typical prices for a stay can start from around $282 USD per night.

8. Common Complaints

The most frequently mentioned "complaint," though minor, is the perception that the hotel can be "slightly pricey." Additionally, a few guests have suggested that "cleaning could be improved in some areas," although this appears to be an isolated criticism rather than a widespread issue.