Kimamaya by Odin
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Hotel Details
Location
Kimamaya by Odin · Kutchan, Japan
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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.
Sources
Google Reviews
44 reviews
Recent Guest Reviews
Georgi Ganev
Stayed at Hotel Kimamaya for the first time, and hopefully not the last. This is a truly personal boutique hotel, with an amazing team that made our time in Niseko unforgettable. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, and the staff are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable about the area, whether it’s down to recommending where to order takeaway pizza for a quiet night in, reserve a table at the...
Hans Astrup (Hansomatic)
We stayed for (only) 2 nights in Kimamaya and it was wonderful! We‘ve been here in summer, which is clearly off season, but still has a lot of outdoor activities to offer! The Hotel has spacious room and with Peter one of the kindest hotelmanager I met, the hotel has it’s own chill and stylish atmosphere. Highly recommended, not only during Winter times!
Rick Mochulsky
We stayed at Kimamaya for 5 nights and had a great experience. The hotel is beautiful and they make it very easy and comfortable for those looking to ski every day. There is a dry room to unload all of your gear so you don’t have to bring it up to the room as well as a free private shuttle that will take you to the slopes when the time is right for you. Peter and Haruka, the two who run the hotel,...
Keith Carter
So convenient! Excellent service! On site hot tubs and well appointed rooms. They have a wonderful area for skis/snowboards and to warm up jackets boots and helmets. Peter and Haruka are amazing team members, making us all feel right at home. They gave us advice on where to eat. Shared tips about getting around and how to plan for the busy season next year! Importantly, there is a shuttle that b...
Steve C
We have just returned from 5 nights at this lovely and cosy boutique hotel in Hirafu village, Niseko. The building itself is a beautiful wooden structure with an interesting 'barn' with a huge glass front where breakfast (and evening meals) are served. The location of the property is ideal, towards the 'bottom' of the village and only a few minutes walk from the food trucks and restaurants. The p...
Dhruv Saigal
Home away from Home. Our first trip to Niseko and by far the best spot we could have chosen and definite to return again. The property is warm / very well equipped and connected to a resturant, dry room, hot baths and has their own parking. Loft Rooms were excellent for our family of 5 and very well designed and comfortable. Location is spot on to experience Niseko with a local lens and have t...
Marriott
