Unbelievable Japan: Furano's Hidden Gem, Hotel Edel Warme Awaits!
Unbelievable Japan: Furano's Hidden Gem, Hotel Edel Warme Awaits! - My Totally Honest (and Slightly Rambling) Review
Okay, so, Furano. If you haven't been, think postcard-perfect. Seriously, it’s like someone photoshopped real life. And smack dab in the middle of all that lavender-scented, rolling-hill goodness sits Hotel Edel Warme. And let me tell you, it’s mostly a hidden gem. Not totally hidden, mind you – I mean, you’re reading this, right? But still… worth the trek. Let's dive in, shall we? Prepare for some honest opinions and a few… tangents.
Accessibility: The Good, The So-So, and The "Huh?"
Okay, so first things first. The website says "Facilities for disabled guests," and that's a BIG plus. But actual accessibility… well, it's Japan. Things are… different. The elevator is there, which is a win! But navigating some of the common areas with a wheelchair might… require some maneuvering. They have a lot of stairs, be aware, and it felt like navigating a maze that's a little bit challenging, in a good way. It makes you feel like you deserve the luxury. I, personally, didn't need the help myself, but I noticed some things. I think.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Safe-ish
Let's be real: post-pandemic, safety is a big deal. Edel Warme tries. They offer "Daily disinfection in common areas" – nice! Hand sanitizer stations are plentiful. Rooms are "sanitized between stays," and they claim to use "Anti-viral cleaning products." I saw staff wearing masks, but the emphasis on "safety/security feature" did make me feel more safe. I didn’t feel like I was swimming in germs, which is always a win. The "doctor/nurse on call" gives me a small peace of mind. And fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, all the basics are there. I mean, fire's a buzzkill, right?
Rooms: Cozy, Comfortable, with a Few Quirks
My room? Okay, the "Non-smoking" sign was definitely heeded. Thank goodness! "Blackout curtains" are a lifesaver if you've got jet lag, and the "Air conditioning" worked like a champ (crucial, especially in summer!) The "Desk" was functional, the "Free Wi-Fi" (thank goodness!) worked well with no need to pay extra. The "Mini bar" was stocked, but I mostly raided the convenience store for snacks (more on that later). And this gets my high praise: The "Bathtub," "Separate shower/bathtub" and all the goodies including "Bathrobes" and "Slippers" are great. The "Bathroom phone?" I literally have no memory of using it. Seriously, who even…?
Internet & Tech: Connected, But Not Obsessively
"Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!" – Praise be! It actually worked! "Internet access – wireless" was reliable, which is critical. The "Internet access – LAN" was also available, but who uses that anymore? I'd say the hotel gets a thumbs up overall for its tech setup. I could work, I could stream, I could post envy-inducing photos of Furano. Job done, Edel Warme!
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Buffet of Experiences (and Some Hiccups)
Oh, the food. Let's be real - this is where it gets interesting.
- Breakfast (buffet): Oh boy. Okay, so the "Asian breakfast" was… well, it was there. A little bit of pickled this, a little bit of that. But the "Western breakfast"? The bacon. It was glorious. Crispy, salty, pure joy. They also had "Coffee/tea in restaurant," which is a must-have, obviously. The "Breakfast [buffet]" served the most satisfying parts of breakfast.
- Restaurants: A "Restaurant" is available, "International cuisine in restaurant" is there, but the menu can be a bit… limited. Sometimes "A la carte in restaurant" felt like a better choice than the "Buffet in restaurant" because I could order just what I wanted.
- Poolside bar: No pool for me to test that out.
- Snack bar and Coffee shop: Yes! Just what's expected.
Things to Do / Ways to Relax: Spa Day Dreams and More
Alright, here's where Edel Warme really shines.
- The Spa: I'm a spa junkie, and the “Spa” (and “Spa/sauna”) had some serious game. I spent a glorious afternoon melting into a "Massage," and I'm not even ashamed to admit I possibly squeaked with pleasure. The "Sauna" was hot and steamy – perfect for sweating out all the travel stress.
- Pool with a view: No, I'm not sure if the "Swimming pool" is an "Swimming pool [outdoor]," but if it is, it's definitely got some great views.
- Other Relaxing Bits: They’ve a “Fitness center” for working out, "Foot bath" and "Steamroom".
Services and Conveniences: Pretty Darn Good
They offer "Airport transfer." I wish I had known that. "Cash withdrawal" is a godsend! "Concierge" was helpful, and the check-in was "Contactless check-in/out". They offer "Currency exchange" for helping to manage your money. There's a gift shop where I bought way too many souvenirs. "Daily housekeeping" is a blessing, and the "Elevator" is a lifesaver with travel bags. The "Luggage storage" was helpful. "Laundry service" is good, but I'm the kind of person to take all the laundry to do it at home, it's a quirk.
For the Kids:
I’m not a parent, but I did see "Kids meal" on the menu, so that's a win. They definitely cater to families.
Getting Around: There's a "Car park [free of charge]" and "Car park [on-site]" so you can park near or for free. "Taxi service" is available and recommended.
Now For The Rambling Part…
Okay, so I’m going to be honest. There was a moment. I was strolling through the lobby, admiring the meticulously arranged flower displays, and the scent of lavender (naturally) hit me. I was starting to feel… slightly overwhelmed by all the perfection. Like, could anything actually be wrong with this place?
And then, I went to order a cocktail. The bartender – bless his heart – was clearly new. He fumbled with the equipment, spilled some ice, and looked utterly bewildered by my simple request for a Negroni. For a split second, I was horrified. This was my moment of imperfection! (In a slightly dramatic way, I admit).
But then, I realized… it didn’t matter. It was the kind of charming, slightly clumsy imperfection that makes you feel like you're actually living in a place, not just visiting a perfectly-curated Instagram feed.
Final Verdict (and a Shameless Plug):
Hotel Edel Warme is a winner. It's not perfect, but it's charming, comfortable, and offers an amazing experience. The spa alone is worth the trip. The staff is lovely, the location is fantastic (right near the heart of Furano), and overall I felt like I got a fantastic value for my money.
So, here's my ridiculously enthusiastic call to action:
Tired of the same old boring travel experiences? Craving a dose of natural beauty, relaxation, and a little bit of quirky charm? Then book your stay at Hotel Edel Warme in Furano, Japan, right now!
Why?
- You deserve the spa experience. – Treat yourself to a massage (trust me), sauna, and let your worries melt away.
- Furano is magic. – The scenery is unreal. Get ready to be amazed.
- It's a little bit imperfect, in the best possible way. – The staff are friendly, and it’s not the kind of place where you have to worry about being too perfect.
- You'll thank me later. – Seriously, book it. You won’t regret it.
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because you're about to dive headfirst into my chaotic, slightly-burnt-around-the-edges vision of a trip to Hotel Edel Warme in Furano, Japan. Forget polished itineraries – we're going full "travel-induced-existential-crisis" here.
Hotel Edel Warme & The Furano Frenzy: A Diary of Delight (and Mild Disasters)
Day 1: The Long Haul and Lemonade Dreams
- 7:00 AM (ish): Wake up to the screaming alarm (seriously, who designed these things?). Realize I haven't packed. Again. Begin frantic scramble for passport, charging cables, and a vaguely clean pair of socks. Airport transportation secured, but still can't find my favorite travel pillow.
- 9:30 AM: Arrive at the airport, already feeling the stress sweat bead down my forehead. Queueing…why? It is truly the bain of my existence. Security is a blur of beeping metal detectors and the judgmental stares of TSA agents who clearly know I'm hiding something, even if that something is just a half-eaten bag of chips.
- 11:00 AM: Flight. Ugh. I hate planes. The recycled air, the tiny seats, the potential for crying babies or chatty Cathys. But, miraculously, flight is smooth. I watch three movies, one which made me cry like a baby.
- 4:00 PM (Japan Time?): Touchdown! Hooray! Hokkaido is officially under my feet. Breathe in the (hopefully) clean air. That airport seems a mile long.
- 5:00 PM: Train to Furano. The scenery outside is breathtaking. Rolling hills, charming towns. The train is so clean and quiet. I feel a wave of calm, which is promptly shattered by a rogue sneeze that almost knocks my hat off.
- 7:00 PM: Arrive in Furano. Cold, and I love it. Then, taxi ride to Hotel Edel Warme. The driver is a tiny, elderly man with a mustache that could rival a walrus. He barely speaks English, but we somehow communicate through enthusiastic head nods and the shared language of "beautiful."
- 7:30 PM: Check in. Edel Warme is beautiful, a rustic charm. The lobby smells faintly of woodsmoke and pine. My room is cozy, except the lack of a plug near the bed. I guess I'll watch my phone die in agony.
- 8:30 PM: Dinner at the hotel restaurant. I order tempura, which is fine. But the real star? The local melon. Sweet, juicy, heavenly. I briefly consider running away and becoming a melon farmer.
- 9:30 PM: Stumble back to my room, full of melon and a newfound appreciation for Japanese bathrobes. Pass out instantly.
Day 2: Lavender Laughs and Lost in Translation
- 8:00 AM: Wake up feeling surprisingly rested. Probably the lack of a decent internet connection. Breakfast at the Edel Warme is a wonderland of Japanese deliciousness! Miso soup, fluffy rice, grilled fish, and a confusing array of pickled things. I try everything. I love everything and I am going to eat all of it.
- 9:30 AM: Hike to Farm Tomita. It's the lavender farm! And it's more beautiful than I ever could have imagined. Purple everywhere! I spend a shameful amount of time taking pictures.
- 11:30 AM: Buy a lavender ice cream. My hands are purple. My mouth is purple. My soul is… happy.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch. I make a rookie mistake and order ramen from a tiny, almost-empty restaurant. The ramen is good, but its' just a little too much for me. I could really use a nap. The waitress, bless her heart, tries to explain the menu to me with frantic hand gestures. I end up pointing randomly at a picture while giggling idiotically. She smiles, probably thinking I'm an idiot. I do not blame her.
- 2:30 PM: Explore the local shops. The shops are full of adorable trinkets, mostly involving foxes and lavender, the mascot of the town I assume. I almost buy a ridiculously oversized lavender teddy bear. But then I realize I'd have to carry it around. I manage to control myself.
- 4:00 PM: Attempt to navigate the public bus. I get on the wrong bus. End up somewhere I don't recognize. Panic briefly sets in. (I'm not entirely sure where I am.)
- 4:30 PM: Eventually find my way back to the hotel. I swear, I'm not a complete idiot. I am a little bit of an idiot.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner. I dine on katsudon. It is fried perfection.
- 8:30 PM: Bath time! The Edel Warme's onsen (hot spring) is divine. Soak away my travel woes and the day's near-disasters. Bliss. I stay in too long and almost fall asleep.
Day 3: The Potato & The Power of the Chairlift
- 9:00 AM: Wake up. I think I'm finally getting the hang of the whole "time difference" thing. The breakfast is amazing. Still.
- 10:00 AM: Visit a potato farm. Furano is known for its potatoes. Yes, I am that easily impressed. The guy running the farm explains all the different potato varieties in rapid-fire Japanese. I understand maybe 10%. But I eat the potato chips, and they are glorious.
- 11:30 AM: Hike up a mountain, with a chairlift. I am terrible at hiking. Luckily, there is a chairlift. I'm mildly terrified of heights, but the views are worth it. The top of the mountain is stunning. I feel like I'm on top of the world.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch: Picnic with pre-made sandwich from the hotel. It is simple and delicious.
- 2:00 PM: Wander around a small village to take photos of the houses and take pictures.
- 3:30 PM: A local coffee shop, The beans are roasted perfectly, and the atmosphere is so relaxing. I feel I am in a world of my own.
- 5:00 PM: I take a nap.
- 7:30 PM: Dinner at the hotel. This time, I try the local uni. It is delicious, but I do have a weird aftertaste.
- 9:00 PM: Write in this journal .
- 10:00 PM: Sleep.
Day 4: Good-byes and Longing
- 8:00 AM: One last delicious breakfast. I'm going to miss this.
- 9:00 AM: Check out of the Edel Warme, a little sad to leave. I would've stayed forever.
- 10:00 AM: Taxi to the train. Wave goodbye to the walrus-mustached driver.
- 10:30 AM: Train to the airport.
- Rest of the Day: Flights, more planes, and the inevitable crushing realization that my real life is waiting for me.
Post-Trip Reflections (Probably From a Train/Plane):
Furano. Lavender, potatoes, and a whole lot of moments where I felt utterly lost. The Edel Warme, with its cozy rooms and delicious food, was the perfect base for this adventure. I wouldn't have wanted to do it any other way. Even the disasters are part of the story. And the memories… I'll be reliving them for weeks, maybe months, until the itch for a new adventure strikes again.
(P.S. I did eventually find my travel pillow. It was tucked in my emergency snacks bag. Go figure.)
And a huge note: I might have mentioned the hotel, lavender fields, and other things, but nothing beats visiting it yourself. So, please, do not hesitate. Please, book your flight now.
Kandanai Place: Chiang Rai's Hidden Gem You NEED to See!
Unbelievable Japan: Furano's Hidden Gem, Hotel Edel Warme Awaits! - Or Does It? (Let's Get Real)
So, Furano and Hotel Edel Warme: Is it *really* all that? Or just another Instagram trap?
Okay, so full disclosure? I went in expecting something… well, a little *too* perfect. You know, the usual filtered perfection of travel blogs. Rolling lavender fields, smiling locals, a hotel that looks like it's plucked straight from a fairytale. And, to be honest, Furano *does* have its moments of pure, unadulterated beauty. Those fields? Stunning. Seriously. I nearly choked on my own gasp the first time I saw them. Edel Warme? It’s got *charm*, I'll give it that. But perfection? Nah. And that's actually, kind of, the best part, in a weird way.
What's so "hidden gem" about Furano, anyway? Is it just the lavender?
The lavender is undeniably a big draw. I mean, picture it: fields stretching as far as the eye can see, a sea of purple… ugh, it's enough to make a grown woman cry. (And okay, *I* might have shed a tiny tear. Don't judge.) But beyond the lavender, Furano… well, it's got this sort of unpolished, real-Japan feel. You stumble into a little noodle shop run by a grumpy old man who secretly makes the best soba you've *ever* tasted. You get hopelessly lost on a back road and end up chatting with a farmer who’s been growing potatoes for generations. That kind of thing. It's not a perfectly curated experience; it's more like... finding yourself in a movie, but you're the slightly awkward, unexpectedly endearing protagonist. (And sometimes, the one who gets *really* lost.)
Let's talk about Hotel Edel Warme. The *warmth*... is it there? Give me the real deal.
Alright, buckle up. Edel Warme is… complicated. The name is a total misnomer, by the way; “Edel Warme” gave me visions of cozy fires and hand-knit sweaters, which is… not quite accurate. It's more like… a classic Japanese hotel with a touch of European flair, which I found really charming. My room was clean (always a plus!), and the breakfast! Oh, the breakfast. A delicious and authentic Japanese spread, not the usual greasy eggs and bacon. The staff were beyond lovely; incredibly polite and helpful, even when I was butchering my Japanese. It’s not *perfect*, the decor is a little… dated, and the wifi goes out occasionally (the worst, when you're trying to upload all those lavender field pics). But overall, the experience was truly memorable.
What activities are a MUST for a Furano visit, beyond the lavender farms?
Besides drowning yourself in lavender (which, honestly, I highly recommend), you've *got* to hit these:
- Farm Tomita: Duh. The OG lavender farm. Get there early, and prepare to be *amazed* by the sheer scale of the place. (And maybe fight for a photo spot. It can get WILD.) The lavender ice cream is a must - even if tastes a bit like soap.
- Cheese Factory: CHEESE! Need I say more? Go for the cheese! And buy a whole wheel! And eat it all! No shame!
- Wine House: Sample the local wine. And *definitely* try the cheese that goes along with it. (I see a pattern here…)
- A Wander Around: Seriously. Just wander. Get lost. Find a hidden cafe. Chat with a local. That's where the *real* magic of Furano lies.
Okay, you mentioned getting lost. Any hilarious (or mortifying) Furano stories?
Oh, *plenty*. I’ll offer this one. I was attempting to find a particularly "secret" viewpoint of the Lavender Fields. Armed with only a hand-drawn map and a questionable grasp of Japanese pronunciation, I set off. Hours and several wrong turns and one near-death experience with a particularly aggressive cow later (seriously, the cow was *huge*!), I finally stumbled upon… a completely unremarkable potato field. And not even a *good* potato field. I mean, it was potatoes, alright, just lots and lots of them. I eventually flagged down a local farmer, who looked at me like I'd sprouted a second head. He pointed me in the *completely* opposite direction, laughing the whole time and muttering something about "gaijin." It's moments like these that stick with you. And make you question your life choices. Mostly hilarious though, after the initial panic. Now, that potato field? *I'll* never forget it.
Furano in winter: Worth it? Or just a frozen wasteland?
Listen, I can't personally say yes or no, I've sadly never been in winter. (My bank account and the price of a flight have yet to align) But, from what I *hear*? Yes. Absolutely. Think pristine snow, skiing, snowboarding, the whole shebang. And (I'm assuming) a whole different layer of charm. Imagine the lavender fields covered in snow... sigh. Note to self: start saving. *Now*.
Any downsides to the whole Furano experience? Be brutally honest!
Okay, the brutal truth? It can be… *crowded*. Especially during lavender season. Prepare for lines, for jostling for space, for general tourist chaos. And if you don't speak any Japanese, be prepared for a communication barrier. Also, getting around can be tricky without a car, but hey, that's part of the adventure, right? One more thing: The food is not *always* amazing. There was one particular ramen place I went to… let's just say, it left something to be desired (and a lingering taste of… something). But honestly? Even the slightly-less-than-stellar moments are part of the fun. They become the stories you tell. The memories that stick. The things that make travelling *real*.
Okay, final verdict: Should I go to Furano (and stay at Edel Warme?)
YES. Go. Furano is a place that will sneak up on you. It's not the perfect, Instagram-filtered paradise some might promise. It's better. It's messy. It's real. It’s about stumbling, exploring, and finding something unexpected. Hotel Edel Warme? Stay there. It's charming. And honestly, just embrace the slightly-vintage decor. Embrace the quirky charm. Embrace the fact that you *will* get lost. EmbraceYour Stay Hub
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