Morioka Grand Hotel

Morioka Grand Hotel Review

This pleasingly secluded hotel is near the top of a wooded hill with a breezy view over the rolling green hills that surround the otherwise ordinary-looking city. The staff are extremely polite and attentive (guests often include big names, politicians, and the Imperial Family). All large rooms have peach-color velvety carpets and minimal furnishings. Public areas have lots of marble and massive, shiny columns. An elegant lounge and French-Japanese restaurant have equally splendid views of the downtown, as do most guest rooms. It's10-minute taxi ride up from the station (¥1,300) or a 50-minute walk, and a 20-minute walk down to the action in town if you don't mind meandering around some jungly switchbacks and wending your way along the easy-flowing Nakatsu River.