From the moment we arrived at Mizu no Uta, Tsuruga Resort at Lake Shikotsu, we were enveloped in an atmosphere of tranquil luxury. Valet parking greeted us, and we were swiftly escorted to a path lined with zen music, setting the tone for a stay where every detail exudes serenity.
Upon entering the reception, a majestic wooden carving of an owl, a powerful symbol of protection in Ainu culture, watched over us. In a delightful and intimate touch, we were asked to remove our shoes – a gesture that immediately made the resort feel like a sanctuary. Walking barefoot on soft wooden floors in such a refined environment felt like the ultimate indulgence.
Live harp music floated through the air as we were led past a live fireplace, its warm flames inviting guests to roast marshmallows, adding a whimsical, yet homely feel to the elegant surroundings. The staff, attentive yet discreet, escorted us to our room via separate lifts, ensuring our luggage was seamlessly handled.
Entering the room, we were struck by its sheer spaciousness. A half-sized fridge, thoughtfully included, perfectly stored all our chilled treats from the road trip. But the true star was the view: an uninterrupted panorama of lush greenery, stretching out to meet the serene waters of Lake Shikotsu. The combination of the stunning scenery and the luxurious in-room robe made us feel like chaebols, lounging in opulence and shielded from the cool lakeside breeze.
As for the dining, the buffet at Mizu no Uta is nothing short of spectacular. Where many buffets struggle to balance quantity and quality, this resort excels at both. Highlights included a live dessert station and a live pizza-making corner, where thin-crust pizzas, surprisingly better than those from Furano’s famed Cheese Factory, were expertly prepared. The spread also featured an incredible assortment of sashimi – the freshest I encountered during my 1.5-week trip across various hotels. The salmon and mackerel, both raw and uniquely marinated in glass jars, were exceptional.
The hot dishes maintained the same elevated standard. A simple tomato-based clam spaghetti was transformed by the quality of ingredients, while even the sautéed kailan was enhanced with the addition of Parma ham. Local produce, such as the fresh broccoli used in the cream-based dishes, lent an unmistakable brightness to each bite. The combination of Japanese and Western cuisine was balanced beautifully, with every plate delivering a sense of thoughtful craftsmanship.
Of course, no stay at a lakeside resort would be complete without a visit to the onsen bath. While slightly smaller than the one at Lake Akan, the onsen here is far superior in cleanliness and upkeep. Conveniently, the bath is stocked with towels, so there’s no need to carry your own from the room. The experience is further enhanced by a sauna illuminated with soothing blue light, adding a layer of tranquility to the ritual. The open-air onsen is another highlight.
For those who appreciate the purity of nature, the bath even features drinkable Lake Shikotsu water, renowned as one of Japan’s top 100 spring waters. This thoughtful touch, coupled with the stunning views, creates an immersive experience that is equal parts restorative and luxurious.
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