Gamagori Classic Hotel

I spent the night here in late March as part of an effort to enjoy all of Japan's classic hotels while here for a few months. At the time of this writing, I only have the Fujiya in Hakone left. This hotel shows major signs of cost-cutting. Typically many Japanese establishments are overstaffed -- not the case here. The welcome I received from the check-in staff the evening prior was lukewarm at best. I was instructed to check-out at a machine the following morning, which does not align with the idea of classic luxury this hotel ought to evoke. The guest wing showed mild signs of dilapidation which is not atypical of lower-rent properties throughout the country. Doors had paint peeling, carpet was ripped in places, ceiling was weirdly scuffed and stained in many places, and there was a foul chemical smell throughout that reminded me of stale nicotine. This smell was especially strong in my room. Despite requesting a large bed, I received two singles or twins or whatever. There was a single large towel in the bathroom, and no way to block the blinding light off of the AC (which is up by the ceiling) unless one just turns it off. I had the Japanese breakfast the following morning, and I've had much better at even the buffets of semi-abandoned onsen hotels. I can't say there was anything good about it, aside the excellent view. I was quick to leave and get a second breakfast elsewhere. Much like the rest of Gamagori town, this hotel is in dire need of renovation and a general injection of capital. I am hopeful to not endure a stay like this again in Japan.

My wife and I visited their Main dinning room during our stay in Nagoya. This restaurant has a stunning view of the Takeshima island. Their food was equally stunning, perfectly executed and cooked. We enjoyed each dishes, nicely presented and served. In my personal experience, I would say without second thought that this place offers one of the best fine dining experiences I have had in Japan.

Absolutely beautiful historic location across from the island temple shrine. Views were phenomenal, access is o the area from the hotel was wonderful. Food was amazing, dining room is beautiful, the hotel is beautiful. Included breakfast were delicious and large portions with traditional or western breakfast options available. 

Stunning views, excellent service wrapped in a classic atmosphere. Thanks to the limited number of rooms, there's an intimate atmosphere. Thankfully the facility was never over renovated so that it rains a lot of its original charm. If you select the French dinner course at the main dining room (highly recommended), I suggest you add the wine pairing it is exceptional!

This hotel is fantastically classic. It offers an elegant charm from a bygone era, situated on top of a hill giving views across the city, across Mikawa Bay and to Takashima Island.||||Straight off the bat, the ambiance when you enter the lobby is quite inspiring, calming and relaxing. The welcoming friendliness from the staff is overwhelmingly pleasant. They were great for the entirety of my four day stay.||||I had a city facing twin bed room. The bathroom was nicely presented, with a bath/shower facility. As I'm 6ft2 (186cm) the wash basin only came up to my mid-thigh, so a lot lower than I am used to. But that was not a problem.||||Breakfast was very good on the two occasions I had time to get it. I had the European style the first day, then had the traditional Japanese on my last day. The Japanese breakfast was a real treat and well worth straying from the traditional European bacon & eggs offering.||||All in all, a fantastic stay while I was in Gamagori and would recommend it without question.

Gamagori Classic Hotel ought to be among the best in Japan in the bygone era. It is said that the "Emperor family" once stayed here. The hotel is about 15 min walk from the Gamagori station; thought they would have free shuttle from the station, unfortunately no. We were impressed by hotel facilities, the garden, the view and the meals, especially the French set course dinner. We felt as if we were not in Japan. My tip, have an early dinner ( before dark), reserve a table in the "veranda" the view is fantastic, "the atmosphere" is priceless.

This is a formal and traditional hotel. Although it is by no means the latest, it is a facility that gives you a sense of history. The garden is beautiful and the view is nice. Time will pass slowly and you will be able to relax.

Beautiful azalea garden. Not as large as I had expected. The Japanese pond area was exceptionally nice. Located near the bay and Yaotomi shrine. I didn’t actually enter the hostel, but from the outside it’s lovely.