Located in Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Hatoya Hotel is a nostalgic tourist destination that captures the glamour of Japan’s bubble era and the warmth of the Showa period. With its luxurious facilities and retro charm, this hotel is ideal for travelers seeking a unique throwback experience. In this article, we’ll explore the many highlights and features of Hatoya Hotel.
Access
- By Train
After arriving at JR Ito Station, guests can take a free shuttle bus from the station to the hotel. The ride takes about 10 minutes, and during the day, buses typically run at approximately 30-minute intervals. - By Car
For those driving, the hotel offers a spacious parking lot, making access by car easy and convenient.
Retro Shuttle Buses
Even the hotel’s shuttle buses feature a charming retro design, adding a touch of nostalgia to your journey.
Hatoya Hotel
Opened in 1954, Hatoya Hotel became a nationwide sensation during the Showa and early Heisei eras, attracting visitors with its extensive facilities, natural hot springs, and diverse leisure offerings. The hotel’s opulent design and its famous jingle from a well-loved TV commercial have made it a cultural icon beloved by many generations.
The Iconic Commercial: “If You’re Going to Ito, Call Hatoya”
“If you’re going to Ito, call Hatoya, dial Yoi-Furo~♪”
This catchy slogan became synonymous with Hatoya Hotel during its heyday, making its television commercial a cultural phenomenon.
The commercial featured the hotel’s sprawling pool and joyful family vacation scenes, cementing its image as a resort destination where “the whole family can have fun.” For many, it remains a nostalgic reminder of Japan’s golden age of tourism.
Retro Decor and Photo Spots
Inside the hotel, areas like the lobby, hallways, and lounge retain the lavish decorations of the bubble era.
- Mosaic tiles
- Chandeliers
- Vintage sofas
Every corner is a potential photo spot, perfect for capturing retro-inspired images. Staying here feels like stepping into a time capsule, offering a unique experience that combines nostalgia and elegance.
Hotel Facilities
Game Center, Karaoke, Mahjong, and More
The hotel preserves the essence of Showa-era tourist culture with facilities like a game center, karaoke rooms, a mahjong parlor, and even a ramen shop. It’s truly a time capsule of Japan’s leisure culture.
Guest room
Scenic Views
Rooms in the annex offer stunning views of Sagami Bay, making your stay even more memorable. Room allocation depends on the number of guests staying, with guests being accommodated in either the main building or the annex.
Retro Furnishings
The room interiors and amenities maintain a classic retro vibe, perfect for guests seeking a nostalgic experience. Don’t forget to grab a box of the hotel’s signature Hatoya Sable cookies from the gift shop as a souvenir!
Indoor Pool
The hotel’s iconic indoor pool, as seen in its famous commercial, remains a favorite among families. Its retro design has been preserved, allowing guests to immerse themselves in a uniquely nostalgic atmosphere while enjoying water activities.
Natural Hot Springs
Hatoya Hotel offers indulgent onsen experiences with natural hot spring water available even in guest room baths. A stay at Hatoya Hotel also grants guests complimentary access to the undersea hot springs at Sun Hatoya, located nearby.
The undersea hot springs feature walls embedded with aquariums, showcasing the grandiosity of bubble-era architecture. A free shuttle bus runs between Hatoya Hotel and Sun Hatoya, so don’t miss the chance to visit.
Banquet Halls and Restaurants
The hotel’s expansive banquet halls and restaurants serve a blend of Japanese and Western cuisine, with fresh seafood from Ito’s waters as a highlight. The dishes are a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds, adding a gourmet touch to your stay.
Experience the Bubble-Era Atmosphere
Hatoya Hotel is a special place where guests can experience a sense of nostalgia and warmth that modern hotels often lack. With the glamour of the bubble era on full display, this hotel offers a glimpse into Japan’s tourism history at its most extravagant. It’s also the perfect location for those looking to capture unique retro-style photos.
Location: Hatoya Hotel, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture.
For official information and reservations, visit: Hatoya Hotel Official Website
