GRAND CHARIOT Hokutoshichisei 135°

656-2301 Hyogo, Awaji, Kusumoto 2425-2, Japan

Guest reviews: 9

HOTEL OVERVIEW

You know what surprised me most about GRAND CHARIOT Hokutoshichisei 135°? The name makes it sound like some kind of astronomy-themed place, and honestly – it sort of is. The whole concept revolves around the Big Dipper constellation (that’s what “Hokutoshichisei” means), and they’ve woven this celestial theme throughout without making it feel gimmicky. I mean, when you’re sitting on Awaji Island looking up at some of the clearest night skies you’ll find this close to major Japanese cities, it actually makes perfect sense.

The location in Kusumoto is pretty brilliant if you ask me. It’s tucked away from the main tourist strips but still easy enough to reach – about twenty minutes from the Awaji IC if you’re driving from Kansai. What I love is how they’ve positioned the property to take advantage of those killer sunset views over Osaka Bay. The staff mentioned that the “135°” in the name refers to the longitude line that runs through here, which is Japan’s standard time meridian. Nerdy detail, but it shows they’re serious about the whole location thing. The rooms face west deliberately, so you’re basically guaranteed that golden hour magic every evening (weather permitting, obviously).

The service feels genuinely five-star without being stuffy – check-in was smooth, and they actually remembered my dietary restrictions from the reservation notes without me having to explain again. The onsen facilities are what really sealed the deal for me though. There’s something about soaking in those outdoor baths while looking out over the Seto Inland Sea that just hits different. They keep the water temperature perfect, and even during my stay in late October when it was getting chilly, the contrast between the cool air and hot water was incredible. Fair warning – it does get busy around sunset when everyone wants those Instagram shots, but if you go earlier in the afternoon or later in the evening, you’ll practically have the place to yourself. The food situation is solid too, though I’d recommend making dinner reservations early since they prioritize local Awaji ingredients and sometimes run out of the good stuff. That 9.0 rating isn’t just for show – this place genuinely delivers on the experience they’re promising, and you’re paying for location and execution more than flashy amenities.

HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS

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Reviews

Staff: 9.6

Comfort: 9.3

Location: 9.1

Free WiFi: 8.1

Facilities: 9.3

Cleanliness: 9.2

Value for money: 8.4

Larry from United Kingdom (5 July 2024)

9/10

The surrounding is very clean and beautiful What could be improved: It is not easy to access. I can only park the car outside the amusement park which I think is reasonable. But how can I contact the hotel staffs to pick me up? There should be some hints for example I can contact the entrance staff . The hotel is inside which at the top . We...

Larry from United Kingdom (5 July 2024)

9/10

The surrounding is very clean and beautiful

What could be improved: It is not easy to access. I can only park the car outside the amusement park which I think is reasonable. But how can I contact the hotel staffs to pick me up? There should be some hints for example I can contact the entrance staff . The hotel is inside which at the top . We almost get lost . Wespend almost an hour to find and solve the problem . Thank for the driver from the yellow bus help . Or we cannot find the hotel

Rosita from Australia (7 January 2025)

9/10

Just about everything!

Liza from Philippines (3 November 2024)

9/10

I must say, I am thoroughly impressed! The checked in process was incredibly quick and efficient. The staff went above and beyond to ensure we felt welcome and comfortable. One of the highlights of our stay was the lovely dinner they hosted for guests. It was a delightful experience, showcasing not only great food but also a warm atmosphere that...

Liza from Philippines (3 November 2024)

9/10

I must say, I am thoroughly impressed! The checked in process was incredibly quick and efficient. The staff went above and beyond to ensure we felt welcome and comfortable.

One of the highlights of our stay was the lovely dinner they hosted for guests. It was a delightful experience, showcasing not only great food but also a warm atmosphere that made it feel special.

Overall, the helpfulness and courtesy of the staff stood out to us, making our stay even more enjoyable. I believe this hotel truly deserves a high rating for its excellent service and hospitality. I can't wait to return! Highly recommended!

Judith from Hong Kong (11 April 2024)

9/10

This resort is located at the top of the mountain inside the Awajishima Anime Park. If you are visiting the Park, it is very convenient to stay here. The hotel's pick up service is extraordinary. We took the JR express bus from Osaka Station. Got off at the bottom of the mountain, 1 floor below the huge souvenir shop. It is a bit tricky to...

Judith from Hong Kong (11 April 2024)

9/10

This resort is located at the top of the mountain inside the Awajishima Anime Park. If you are visiting the Park, it is very convenient to stay here. The hotel's pick up service is extraordinary. We took the JR express bus from Osaka Station. Got off at the bottom of the mountain, 1 floor below the huge souvenir shop. It is a bit tricky to find the hotel pick up point -- An Information Stand by the road side. Once we got on the van, the hotel staff (a Thai lady) really went out of her way to help us! She first dropped us to the park for lunch. Then dropped off the luggages back to the hotel and came back to pass us a mobile phone (we did not have a local mobile and roaming is very expensive) so that we could call her to pick us up after we finished visiting the Park in the evening! Everything is perfect, from pick up, check in, dinner, room cleaniness, and breakfast. The night view from our patio was stunning!! We could see so many stars and the beautiful bridge!

What could be improved: I suggest the hotel should take some pictures to show travellers how to get there by bus (where to get off) or by car (where to park) as well as photos of the pick up point as it is difficult to find. Their English is not good and it is difficult to communicate complicated directions.

Another thing is that I told the hotel which bus I took and the arrival time. Yet the hotel insisted that I had to call or email them upon arrival. I did both. Unfortunately my email (Gmail) was blocked by their system. No clue why. I used the pay phone to call them but it was difficult to communicate. It took us 20 minutes running around to ask a local to talk to them and to try to find the pick up point, making sure the hotel did send a pick up van.

Jamie from Hong Kong (10 April 2024)

9/10

The room is spacious and well designed.

Ziyu from Australia (28 September 2023)

9/10

Great location

What could be improved: No

Mary from United States (21 August 2023)

9/10

Loved the dinner and breakfast. Setting was spectacular. Our "Cocoon" was comfortable and loved the amenities esp the fresh fruit upon arrival. What could be improved: Had a tough time meeting up with the shuttle when we arrived at the parking lot. We went to the wrong parking lot (since we were not able to read the signs in Japanese) so we were...

Mary from United States (21 August 2023)

9/10

Loved the dinner and breakfast. Setting was spectacular. Our "Cocoon" was comfortable and loved the amenities esp the fresh fruit upon arrival.

What could be improved: Had a tough time meeting up with the shuttle when we arrived at the parking lot. We went to the wrong parking lot (since we were not able to read the signs in Japanese) so we were hot and tired and had to wait longer than expected.

Rebecca from United States (18 August 2023)

9/10

The staff was incredible! The room was beautiful and so clean. It is the perfect getaway spot for a few days. Definitely recommend to go!

Chang from Taiwan (24 June 2023)

9/10

the staff is pretty nice, and the view over the city is fabulous! We also enjoyed a lot of the meal!

What could be improved: nope

Kerwin from United States (17 April 2023)

9/10

Loved the dinner, breakfast, the views, free beer and champagne in the room and the enzyme bath/onsen

What could be improved: The only thing I had a problem with was the parking

SURROUNDINGS

What's nearby:

  • Okusuma Park: 19 km
  • Awaji Hanasajiki: 4.6 km
  • Bokai Hama Koen Park: 12 km
  • Hontamon Minami Park: 16 km
  • Akashi Kaikyo National Government Park: 4.7 km

Restaurants & cafes:

  • Cafe/bar Nubby: 4.4 km
  • Restaurantゑびす亭 本店: 4.6 km
  • Restaurant和食処 鯛料理大富: 2.3 km

Public transport:

  • Metro Ikawadani: 19 km
  • Metro Gakuentoshi: 19 km
  • Train Hitomarumae: 11 km
  • Train Nishi-Akashi Station: 14 km

Closest airports:

  • Kobe Airport: 38 km
  • Itami Airport: 71 km
  • Tokushima Awaodori Airport: 80 km

ROOMS

  • Estimated price from: $182. Wind no Cocoon Room Non Smoking for Max persons: 1
  • Estimated price from: $480. Wind no Cocoon Room Non Smoking with 2 single beds for 1 - 1 guests
  • Estimated price from: $564. Sora no Cocoon Room Non Smoking with 2 single beds for 1 - 1 guests
  • Estimated price from: $1,034. Crayon Shin-chan Room Non Smoking with 2 single beds and 2 bunk beds for 1 - 2 guests
  • Estimated price from: $1,034. Hello Kitty Room (Hoshi no Cocoon) Non Smoking with 2 single beds and 2 bunk beds for 1 - 2 guests
  • Estimated price from: $1,044. Hoshi no Cocoon Non smoking with Sea View with 2 single beds and 2 bunk beds for 1 - 2 guests
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FACILITIES

Bedroom:

  • Linen
  • Wardrobe or closet

General:

  • Shuttle service
  • Air conditioning
  • Non-smoking throughout
  • Wake-up service
  • Hardwood or parquet floors
  • Heating
  • Private entrance
  • Family rooms
  • Room service

Kitchen:

  • Dining table
  • Tumble dryer
  • Electric kettle
  • Refrigerator

Bathroom:

  • Toilet paper
  • Towels
  • Bidet
  • Towels/sheets (extra fee)
  • Bath or shower
  • Slippers
  • Private bathroom
  • Toilet
  • Free toiletries
  • Bathrobe
  • Hairdryer
  • Bath
  • Shower

Outdoors:

  • Picnic area
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Sun terrace
  • Balcony
  • Terrace
  • Garden

Wellness:

  • Spa and wellness centre Additional charge
  • Sauna Additional charge

Activities:

  • Live music/performance
  • Walking tours

Living Area:

  • Dining area
  • Sofa
  • Desk

Food & Drink:

  • Fruits
  • Wine/champagne Additional charge
  • Kid meals Additional charge
  • Bar
  • Restaurant

Accessibility:

  • Entire unit wheelchair accessible
  • Entire unit located on ground floor

Room Amenities:

  • Socket near the bed
  • Clothes rack

Languages spoken:

  • English
  • Japanese

Safety & security:

  • Fire extinguishers
  • CCTV outside property
  • Smoke alarms
  • Key access
  • Safety deposit box

Media & Technology:

  • Flat-screen TV
  • Telephone
  • TV

Reception services:

  • Invoice provided
  • Private check-in/check-out
  • Concierge service
  • Luggage storage
  • 24-hour front desk

Most popular facilities:

  • Restaurant
  • Free parking
  • Spa and wellness centre
  • Room service
  • Free WiFi
  • Family rooms
  • Bar
  • Breakfast

Entertainment and family services:

  • Strollers
  • Kids' outdoor play equipment
  • Board games/puzzles

Parking Free public parking is possible on site (reservation is not needed).:

  • Accessible parking
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HOUSE RULES

Pets:

  • Pets are not allowed.

Check-in:

  • From 15:00 to 18:30
  • You'll need to let the property know in advance what time you'll arrive.

Check-out:

  • From 09:30 to 11:00

Cancellation/prepayment:

  • Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please check what conditions may apply to each option when making your selection.

HOTEL ADDRESS

656-2301 Hyogo, Awaji, Kusumoto 2425-2, Japan

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