Shonai Hotel Suiden Terrasse

Shonai Hotel Suiden Terrasse, located in Tsuruoka, Japan, is a distinctive property celebrated for its unique architectural design, tranquil setting amidst rice fields, and commitment to local experiences. As a Michelin Key Selected property, it is recognized for offering a high-quality stay.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Shonai Hotel Suiden Terrasse is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing it as exceptional, wonderful, and beautiful. It consistently receives high ratings across various platforms, with an overall rating of 7.4 on Agoda and 8.7 on Booking.com. Cleanliness, comfort, and staff performance are particularly lauded.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently rave about several key aspects of the hotel:

• Design & Ambiance: The hotel's architecture, designed by the renowned Shigeru Ban, is a major draw. It's a low-rise, wooden structure that appears to float on the rice fields, seamlessly blending with the natural surroundings and offering a serene atmosphere.
• Onsen (Hot Springs): The two-tier onsen, including indoor and outdoor baths, a sauna, and a gym, all facing the picturesque rice fields, are a highlight for many, providing a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
• Curated Library: A unique feature is the library with 2,000 books curated by book director Yoshitaka Haba, offering a fantastic space for reading and relaxation.
• Farm-to-Table Dining: The hotel's commitment to local, seasonal ingredients in its restaurant is highly appreciated.
• Exceptional Staff: The staff consistently receives high praise for their warmth, friendliness, attentiveness, and willingness to go above and beyond for guests.

3. Room Quality

The rooms at Shonai Hotel Suiden Terrasse are described as modern, spacious, and comfortable, offering a rich sense of natural light and the warmth of wood in their design. Many rooms boast direct views of the surrounding rice fields, where guests can observe the changing colors of the seasons. Room types range from Double and Twin rooms to larger Maisonette and Suiden Suites, accommodating various traveler needs. Amenities typically include private bathrooms, air conditioning, modern furnishings, a work desk, TV, and free WiFi. Some rooms also feature balconies and deep soaking bathtubs.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at Shonai Hotel Suiden Terrasse is centered around a "Farm to Table" concept, emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the Shonai region's sea, mountains, and farms.

• Restaurant Moon Terrasse: This open-space restaurant overlooks Mount Gassan and offers a pleasant ambiance for all meals.
• Breakfast: The buffet breakfast is a highlight, featuring Japanese cuisine with freshly cooked rice, local vegetables, and fish. Halal, vegetarian, and vegan options are also available. Guests praise the delicious and fresh local produce.
• Lunch & Dinner: Casual meals using regional produce are available for lunch, while dinner offers regional dishes paired with sake from local breweries. Cuisines offered include Italian, Japanese, local, international, and European.
• Sake Bar: The hotel also features a sake bar, offering a range of locally made drinks, craft beers, and sparkling wine, which can be enjoyed in a casual setting, even in room wear.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at Shonai Hotel Suiden Terrasse receive consistently high marks, with a staff performance rating of 9.5 on Agoda and 9.0 on Booking.com. Guests frequently describe them as warm, friendly, attentive, and exceptional. Reviewers have noted staff going "above and beyond" to assist with issues, such as rental car problems. The hospitality contributes significantly to the overall positive guest experience.

6. Location & Accessibility

The hotel is uniquely situated amidst the vast rice fields of the Shonai plain, offering a quiet and peaceful retreat away from urban bustle. This rural setting provides beautiful seasonal views that change from bright green in summer to golden yellow in autumn and off-white in winter.

While offering a serene countryside experience, the hotel remains relatively accessible:

• Tsuruoka Station: Approximately 1.7 km from Tsuruoka Station. A walk from Tsuruoka Station can take about 25 minutes.
• Shonai Airport: Located about 6.2 miles (10 km) away.
• Local Attractions: Tsuruoka Park is about a 3-minute drive away. Kamo Aquarium is approximately 6.8 miles (11 km) from the hotel.
• Parking: Free on-site private parking is available for guests traveling with a vehicle.

7. Value & Pricing

Shonai Hotel Suiden Terrasse is often perceived as offering "affordable luxury" and exceptional value for money. With an average room price of around $211, it is slightly higher than the average in Tsuruoka, which is $159, but guests feel the experience, design, and amenities justify the cost. It is considered a luxurious and relaxing option for those seeking exclusive rooms and services.

8. Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, a few minor criticisms have been noted by some guests:

• Breakfast Variety: One review mentioned that while the breakfast was fresh, the variety might be limited for international options.
• Spa Crowding/Bugs: A guest suggested the spa might be crowded and there could be "some bugs in summer time."
• Sake Bar Staff/Dinner Quantity: One reviewer had a negative experience with the sake bar staff, citing a lack of English explanation and unwelcoming service. The same reviewer also felt the dinner quantity was "too poor for the price."

These complaints appear to be isolated incidents and do not reflect the overall sentiment, which is highly favorable.

Sources

1. michelin.com
2. michelin.com
3. booking.com
4. booking.com
5. agoda.com
6. tablethotels.com
7. suiden-terrasse.com
8. tsuruokacity.com
9. japan.travel
10. japanese-onsen.com
11. suiden-terrasse.com
12. hotels.com
13. booking.com
14. expedia.com
15. trip.com
16. agoda.com