We found ourselves in Hakodate on the Southern tip of Hokkaido. This was somewhat last minute and we needed to find a room for the night somewhat quickly. We chose the JR Inn Hakodate as it’s right in the center of town and I’m a sucker for great location. We made a good decision in the JR Inn, the hotel was clean and comfortable. The only downside is we had no choice but to sleep in twin beds. That’s the only room they had available.
Bottom Line: If you need to spend a night or two in Hakodate, the JR Inn is a great choice. Perfect location, friendly staff, and train theme. As is the norm in Japan, the JR Inn was impeccably clean.
JR Inn Hakodate Location
The JR Inn Hakodate is located in the Hakodate train station just outside of the port. This is a great location if you arrive by train, but it’s also great for walking around town. We were able to explore the town on foot and via the tram system in Hakodate. It’s also right next to the Mashū-maru museum. This was one of the train carrying ferries that connected to the mainland before the current tunnel opened in 2016.
JR Inn Hakodate Lobby and Check-in
We arrived at the JR Inn in the early evening. I was expecting the standard Japanese Business hotel, but was pleasantly surprised by the lobby. We checked in with the desk attendant.
These emblems were on the individual train lines that serviced the Hakodate station over the years. I do love trains.
It’s cherry blossom season here in Hakodate and the hotel has decorated for it.
JR Inn Hakodate Twin Room
Once in the room it felt more like a standard Japanese business hotel, but more upscale. The rooms are small yet functional. When walking in, it’s directly into a hallway that has the sink, shower, and toilet room.
The two twin beds were very firm. I like a mattress like that, Val’s not a huge fan. Between the beds there was a small table with outlets to charge devices.
Across from the beds there was a wall mounted TV. This is a pretty narrow room so there’s no furniture under the TV.
In the corner of the room there was this cute little booth style desk. We didn’t really use it because we were just here for a single night, but I liked it anyway.
Across from the boot there was the only piece of furniture, a small cabinet that had a small fridge and some drawers.
JR Inn Hakodate Bathroom
When you walk into the room, the sink is right in the entry way. It’s a little odd, but the room is small so it makes use of the space.
Opposite from the sink is the shower. The door to the shower opens right into the room, so this isn’t a place you want to stay with someone you’re not very comfortable around.
There is a nice private toilet room so you can at least have a little alone time when using it.
JR Inn Hakodate Pillow Library
In the lobby of the JR Inn there is the “Pillow Corner.” In the rooms, there’s only one pillow per bed, of course this is good enough. But in the lobby there’s a place where you can select another pillow to take to your room. There’s all sorts of different pillows to choose from. Soft, firm, foam, feather, etc. It’s a kinda cute idea and I liked it.
JR Inn Hakodate Final Thoughts
We were only here at the JR Inn for one night, but it was a great hotel. Unbelievably clean and in a great location. Walking to most places in Hakodate was easy and there’s also the tram and train station right next door for going a little further. Sleeping in two separate beds was a little odd, we haven’t done that very much, but last minute, take what you can get.
I think I’d like to visit Hakodate again, when I do, I’ll gladly stay at the JR Inn again.
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