Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Crown Hills Kanazawa - Your Dream Japan Getaway
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Crown Hills Kanazawa - My Dream Japan Getaway (Or, at Least, Part of It) - A Very Honest Review
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from Crown Hills Kanazawa, and I'm about to spill the tea. Forget your perfectly curated Instagram feeds; this is the real deal. I'm talking honest-to-goodness, messy-hair-don't-care thoughts on whether this place truly lives up to its "Unbelievable Luxury" billing. Spoiler alert: it's complicated.
First Impressions: The Arrival (and My Own Clumsiness)
Getting there was smooth, thankfully. Airport transfer? Check. Absolutely worth it after a transatlantic flight. The driver was polite, the car was spotless, and the journey was surprisingly not filled with awkward silence, thank God. The check-in/out [express and contactless check-in/out] was a godsend after a long day of travel. Though… and this is purely personal, I managed to trip over an invisible bump in the lobby. Grace? Nonexistent. But hey, at least the doorman witnessed it and didn't laugh (to my face, anyway). The elevator was a beautiful smooth ride, perfect after my near-death experience.
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag (But Mostly Good!)
Now, this is important. Facilities for disabled guests are advertised, and while I don't personally require them, I did see evidence of ramps and what appeared to be accessible rooms. The website claims access friendly design too. However, it's always best to double-check with the hotel directly to ensure your specific needs are met. I will mention, my room was quite a hike from the lobby, and I wouldn't want to be pushing a wheelchair that far.
The Room: My Cozy Fortress
Let's talk room, baby. My room was a sanctuary. The air conditioning blasted exactly how I like it (arctic cold). The soundproof rooms were a lifesaver because my neighbor snored like a chainsaw. Seriously, I was worried about the structural integrity of the building. The blackout curtains were magnificent, which led to a beautiful, full sleep. The bed? Oh, the bed! Extra long bed I was so comfortable! The slippers were fluffy and a nice touch. I loved the complimentary tea and coffee maker and the free bottles of water. Little things, but they add up, and it helped me relax when I found myself in my room. The in-room safe box was useful for storing my passport, and the hair dryer actually worked! (A rare and glorious thing.) Also, I must praise the free Wi-Fi in all rooms!, which was fast and reliable. Perfect for streaming everything.
Side note: I am addicted to the shower, and the separate shower/bathtub was a game-changer after a long day. I also enjoyed the bathroom phone.
Internet: A Connection to the World (and a Good Connection, Too!)
As mentioned, Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! was a major win. I relied on the Internet – wireless connection, and it handled everything I threw at it, from video calls to streaming. There's also Internet access – LAN if you're old-school. Internet services are also available, so if I needed to check emails it would be fine. Basically, you're covered.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Culinary Adventure (with Some Hiccups)
Okay, this is where things got a little… interesting. The sheer variety of restaurants was mind-boggling. Asian breakfasts were available, which was a delight. I'm a sucker for miso soup and a good omelet. The buffet in restaurant was HUGE, and the coffee/tea in restaurant was always fresh. I loved the poolside bar in the daytime. A few cocktails and a quick dive into the pool, pure bliss.
My only issues were with the Western cuisine in restaurant. I wasn't so impressed with the Soup in restaurant. The room service [24-hour] was pretty good, however the salad in restaurant was a bit sad and I have to say!
(Here's where my brain wanders a bit… I'm still thinking about the way the sun hit the pool. Oh my god.)
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: A Spa Day That Almost Broke Me (in a Good Way)
Deep breath. The spa! Yes, I did the spa. Do yourself a favor and book a massage. Massage therapy was superb and one of the best I've ever had. The sauna was heavenly, and the steamroom was like a hug from a cloud of eucalyptus. I even did a body wrap (not sure what it did, but it smelled amazing). I also loved the Pool with a view. One major caveat, be prepared though, the fitness center had treadmills that may or may not have been from the Jurassic period.
Important to mention: a foot bath is available for a quick unwind, a lot of fun. The swimming pool, [outdoor], and swimming pool were a refreshing way to cool off after a day of exploring. Even the gym/fitness was great.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Safe (and Sprayed Down)
I can't fault the cleanliness. Everything was sparkling. The Daily disinfection in common areas was definitely noticeable. The Anti-viral cleaning products, and rooms sanitized between stays gave me peace of mind, especially in today's world. The presence of a Doctor/nurse on call and a First aid kit also added another layer of security. The Staff trained in safety protocol were very helpful and the hand sanitizer was everywhere
Services and Conveniences: From Concierge to Convenience Store
The Concierge was fantastic. Super helpful. The laundry service was efficient, and the dry cleaning was a miracle worker. They also offer car park [free of charge]. There is a convenience store on-site for snacks and essentials. They even arrange a food delivery.
For the Kids & Getting Around: Family-Friendly to the Core
The hotel is definitely family/child friendly, with Babysitting service and Kids meal options. Car park [on-site], the Taxi service, and the Airport transfer made getting around a breeze
The Verdict: Worth the Splurge? (Maybe)
Crown Hills Kanazawa is a beautiful hotel with a lot of great features. The A la carte in restaurant, the various Desserts in restaurant and the bottle of water brought in so much to this hotel. I loved all about it, from the room decor to the spa (almost). The location is good, and the staff were helpful.
SEO Optimization: Keywords and Phrases
Here's how I’d optimize this review for search engines:
- Target Keywords: "Luxury Hotel Kanazawa," "Crown Hills Kanazawa Review," "Japan Getaway," "Kanazawa Spa Hotel," "Accessible Hotel Japan," "Luxury Accommodation Kanazawa."
- Include: Location details (near major attractions if applicable), specific amenities (e.g., "ocean view," "pool with a view," "spa treatments").
- Structure: Use headings, subheadings, and bullet points for easy readability.
- Focus: Highlight the unique selling points (e.g., "unforgettable spa experience," "breathtaking views").
- Call to Action: Suggest booking through a link, encouraging positive reviews, and mentioning upcoming events.
- Long-Tail Keywords: "Best luxury hotel in Kanazawa with spa," "Wheelchair accessible hotel near Kanazawa Station," "Family-friendly hotels in Kanazawa with swimming pool."
Final Thoughts: It's a wonderful place for a splurge, a romantic trip, or even a family visit. Just go!
Nautic Hotel Bremerhaven: Your Dream German Escape Awaits!
Alright, buckle up buttercup, because this isn’t your grandma’s itinerary. This is my trip to Hotel Crown Hills Kanazawa, and let me tell you, it’s gonna be…an experience. Consider this the diary of a slightly disheveled traveler, fueled by caffeine and a healthy dose of existential dread (just kidding… mostly).
Trip: Kanazawa, Japan – A Quest for Serenity (and Decent Coffee)
Day 1: Arrival – Jet Lagged and Judge-y
Time: 8:00 AM (actual time: feels like 3:00 AM)
Activity: Land at Komatsu Airport (KMQ). Holy moly, the bowing. Everyone is bowing. And they're good at it. I’m pretty sure I just accidentally knocked over a toddler with my luggage cart while attempting a half-hearted bow. Smooth.
Transportation: Airport Shuttle to Kanazawa Station. Ah, the bliss of public transportation after a long flight. Except, y’know, the existential dread resurfaces due to the sheer perfection of the Japanese train system. Everything is so…organized. I bet even the cockroaches are punctual.
Expectations: Finding a decent cup of coffee. Seriously, I’m going to need a caffeine IV drip if I’m going to survive the next week, especially if I can't find a decent cup of coffee.
Time: 10:00 AM (actual time: who even knows)
Activity: Check-in at Hotel Crown Hills Kanazawa. Okay, this place is… not what I expected. It’s…functional. Clean, efficient, and about as personality-filled as a beige wall. The room is smaller than my bathroom at home, but it’s got those fancy Japanese toilets. You know, the ones that heat your butt and… well, let's just say I'm a little wary of the bidet.
Reaction: Initial disappointment. My Instagram feed promised cherry blossoms and zen gardens bathed in golden light, but right now, I just see a perfectly serviceable hotel room.
Rambling Thought: "Is this what inner peace feels like? Bland and slightly unsettling?"
Time: 11:00 AM
Activity: Lunch Break! I go to the very first Japanese restaurant I spot and I order chicken. I'm not sure what's in it. It's good, I think. But I had a mini heart attack. "WHAT IF IT WAS A DOG?" and then the panic subsided when the waiter comes to my table and asked if I liked it. "YES!" I said.
Time: 1:00 PM
Activity: Exploring the Higashi Chaya District. Whoa. Okay, now we're talking. These geisha houses are gorgeous! The intricate wooden latticework, the delicate teacups…it's all so utterly charming. I feel like I wandered onto a movie set.
Reaction: Pure, unadulterated 'oohs' and 'aahs'. This is the Japan I was hoping for. Wait, is that a geisha? I caught a glimpse of something beautiful and I have no idea who it was. And I think she was looking at me funny.
Quirky Observation: The tiny, perfectly manicured gardens. I swear, they're plotting world domination through sheer aesthetic perfection.
Time: 5:00 PM
Activity: Wandering into Omicho Market. Oh. My. God. Seafood. Everywhere. Mountains of it. Squid, octopus, oysters…I'm pretty sure some of it is still moving. This is sensory overload in the best possible way. I even tried some uni (sea urchin). It tasted… like the ocean. And happiness.
Emotional Response: Overwhelmed! I want to eat everything. I probably spent half my time just staring in wide-eyed wonder, totally forgetting to even think about getting sushi.
Imperfection: I got a little lost and ended up wandering into a back alley, smelling weird things and hearing even weirder things. I quickly U-turned.
Time: 7:00 PM
Activity: Dinner at a random restaurant. I’m slightly drunk after the "sake" tasting I had, everything is getting fuzzy. This is going to be good.
Transportation: Back to the hotel, I think I'll try the Japanese toilet this time.
Expectation: To wake up and not realize that I am in Japan.
Day 2: Arts, Gardens, and a Possible Breakdown (in a good way)
Time: 9:00 AM.
Activity: Visit to Kenrokuen Garden. I'm struggling to wake up and realize that I am in Japan. This garden, though. Oh, this garden. It’s like stepping into a painting. The meticulously sculpted trees, the moss-covered stones, the reflections in the ponds…it's breathtaking. The way the wind rustles the leaves, ugh! I can't comprehend.
Emotional Response: Pure, unadulterated 'oohs' and 'aahs'. This is the Japan I was hoping. Wait, is that a geisha? I caught a glimpse of something beautiful and I have no idea who it was. And I think she was looking at me funny.
- Quirky Observation: The tiny, perfectly manicured gardens. I swear, they're plotting world domination through sheer aesthetic perfection.
Time: 12:00 PM
Activity: Exploring the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa. Okay, maybe modern art isn’t my forte. I spent most of the time trying to figure out what was art and what was just…stuff. I'm an idiot, perhaps. But I have to admit, the "Swimming Pool" installation was pretty cool. The only thing that I did that was smart was to take a picture of it and upload it to Instagram.
Emotional Response: Mild confusion, a touch of boredom, and a deep appreciation for the architecture.
- Imperfection: I may have accidentally brushed against an expensive-looking sculpture. I’m pretty sure I didn’t break anything, but I'm still not sure.
Time: 2:00 PM
Activity: Exploring the Nagamachi Samurai District. And they had a tour guide. I knew that was a bad idea! Okay, the samurai houses are impressive, I guess, but I’m starting my feet are killing me. This is the part where your tour guide won't shut up. "And here we have the samurai swords that were used to… (blah blah blah)" It's torture.
- Quirky Observation: I thought I saw a tiny, little, samurai. Like, a baby samurai dude. Am I losing it? The tour guide did say that it was a family-friendly tour.
- Imperfection: I forgot the name of the tour guide.
Time: 5:00 PM
Activity: Heading back to the hotel.
- Rambling Thought: "I need a nap! And maybe some ramen."
Time: 7:00 PM
Activity: Dinner at a random restaurant. I'm eating. Everything is in Japanese. I love it. I learn how to say, "delicious."
- Emotional Response: Bliss! I am happy! I am in Japan! Woohoo!
Day 3: Farewell, Kanazawa (and My Sanity)
Time: 7:00 AM (and feeling it)
Activity: Farewell breakfast. I'm a wreck, but I'm alive. That's what counts.
Transportation: Last chance to buy souvenirs!
- Rambling Thought: "Did I learn a thing? Probably not."
Time: 9:00 AM
Activity: Check-out. It's…so…easy. I'm amazed.
Time: 10:00 AM
Activity: Travel to the airport.
Time: 12:00 AM
Activity: Back on a plane and home.
Overall Impression: Japan, you beautiful, crazy, confusing, amazing place. I came seeking serenity, and instead, I found a whole lot of delicious food, a few moments of genuine awe, and a renewed appreciation for my own, slightly messy, imperfect life. And I'd do it all over again in a heartbeat.
P.S. I still can't figure out how the Japanese toilets work. But hey, at least I tried.
Escape to Paradise: Pandawa Beach Villas & Resort, Bali
Is Crown Hills Kanazawa *really* as opulent as the photos? Because let's be real, Instagram lies... usually.
Alright, truth time. Yes. And NO. The photos are gorgeous, don't get me wrong. Think polished wood, minimalist design that still manages to scream "I'm loaded," and views that would make Monet jealous (okay, maybe not, I'm prone to exaggeration). But… and this is a big but… it's not just about the stuff. It's about *how* it makes you feel. I walked into my room and actually gasped. Not a polite little "oh my" gasp, but a full-blown, cartoon-character style *GASP*. Did I feel opulent? Absolutely. Was I suddenly worried about spilling coffee on the ridiculously expensive carpet? Also, yes. The fear is real. And honestly? That's kinda part of the experience.
I saw something about a "personal concierge." Is this just code for "someone who will judge my questionable fashion choices while I try to navigate the Japanese train system?"
Okay, the concierge… genius. Seriously. I, bless my cotton socks, actually *lost* my phone in the ancient garden. (Don't ask. I was overly enthusiastic about the moss.) Guess who tracked it down for me? The concierge. He even brought me a tiny, perfect cup of matcha to calm my frazzles. The concierge isn't judging you, they're making your mistakes disappear with a flick of their perfectly pressed sleeves. They handle everything! Reservations, finding obscure snacks, even translating the really, REALLY specific ramen menu. It's like having a fairy godparent who's fluent in both Japanese and "Where's my dignity?"
The suites look amazing! But seriously, is the bathroom really as big as my New York City apartment?
Okay, the bathroom. The *damn* bathroom. First of all, yes. It's probably bigger than your apartment. Mine had a soaking tub the size of a small car, a shower that could fit a rugby team, and heated floors that made me weep with pure joy. The problem? Real talk: I spent way too much time in the tub. Like, hours. I missed a whole day of exploring because I was basically living in a bubble of lavender-scented bliss. My skin felt like silk, I was relaxed, and I’m pretty sure I almost fell asleep in there… and by the end of the day, I felt totally guilty. But also? Worth it. 10/10. Would soak again.
What about the view? I’m a sucker for a good view! Did it live up to the hype?
The view…. Okay, brace yourselves. It’s… well, it's breathtaking. My suite overlooked the Kenrokuen Garden. Picture this: ancient stone lanterns, perfectly manicured trees, and the faint sound of a waterfall. It was like living inside a painting. I woke up to it every morning, and I swear my blood pressure dropped about 20 points. But… (there's always a but, isn't there?)… on the second day, a flock of pigeons decided to have a rooftop rave just outside my window. They were LOUD. I ended up throwing a pillow at the window. Don't judge me. It’s not always pretty, even with the beauty.
The food descriptions sound… intimidating. I’m a picky eater. Will I starve?
Okay, picky eaters, listen up! Yes, they're serving stuff that sounds like it belongs on a Michelin star menu. And yes, some of it is… adventurous. I, personally, had a moment with something that looked like a tiny, perfectly sculpted… mushroom. I'm not sure what it was, and I'm honestly still not entirely sure if I loved it or hated it. (Probably loved it in a "I'm glad I tried it" kind of way.) The point is, the chefs are amazing. They'll cater to your every whim. Don't worry about starving. Just be open to trying new things, and for the love of all that is holy, ask for a translation of the menu. The food is incredible, just be prepared to have your taste buds challenged in the best way possible.
Any recommendations for places to eat *outside* the hotel? Because I'm on a budget after this splurge...
Okay, real talk: Kanazawa is a foodie paradise. And yes, you *can* do it on a budget. The Omicho Market is a must. Fresh seafood, local produce… it's sensory overload in the best possible way. And the ramen! Oh, the ramen. Find a tiny hole-in-the-wall place and prepare to be amazed. Don't be afraid to get lost wandering the backstreets. You'll stumble upon the best meals you've ever had. Though, be sure to have Google Translate ready just in case... I once accidentally ordered a plate of…something… that I still have nightmares about.
What’s the vibe like? Is it stuffy? Or can I actually relax?
Here’s the thing: it’s luxurious, yes. But stuffy? Surprisingly, no. I was worried I'd feel like a fish out of water (and, let's be honest, sometimes I *did* feel like a fish out of water). But the staff? They are *amazing*. They're professional, attentive, and genuinely, genuinely, lovely. They make you feel welcome, not judged. I messed up my attempt at saying “hello” in Japanese (I mumbled a random word and nearly gave the poor waiter a heart attack). No judgement! Just a polite chuckle and a flawless response in perfect English. I never actually *got* the hang of saying much in Japanese, but I felt completely comfortable and at ease. I was able to relax and enjoy myself. Big win.
Any major downsides? Be honest! My bank account needs to know.
Okay, here’s the downer, and I hate to admit it: it’s expensive. Really expensive. Like, “I’m going to be eating instant ramen for a month” expensive. The extra charges for everything start to add up – the spa treatments (which are worth it, by the way), the fancy cocktails (which are *also* worth it), and the souvenirs (which are… well, you catch my drift). My advice? Budget. Seriously. Plan ahead. And maybe bring a friend who’s willing toHotel Safari
