It's part of the Tsurugu group, which encompasses 15 hotels in Hokkaido. They seem to have a liking for high quality audio equipment; Onuma Epuy has a B&O setup in their bar/train room and this had a similar setup from another make.

On a crisp spring day, we drove through winding rural roads to the Lake Shikotsu Tsuruga Bessou Ao no Za. When we got close, we were treated to scenic views of the lake. Pulling into the raised driveway was a delight as it was filled with light and had a good view. A staff member greeted us as we got out of the car, and similar to Onuma, they asked for our name, helped with luggage, took the car keys and we were escorted through a man made waterfall wall to the lobby, where we were shown a sofa after taking off our shoes. Sipping some grape juice, we handled check in formalities. Soon after, we were escorted to our room on the third floor overlooking the lake. The entry area is tiled but not sunken, and splits four ways to the closet, room and bath. All which had doors.

The road and parking lot was not as bothersome as some make it out to be, though it wasn't that busy. There was just a large tour bus and a small tour bus. Not familiar with the location, and how busy it might get. Onsen water is clear, alkaline and has a great softening effect on the skin. Staff readily knew it is recirculated at 41 C - can be changed by request should one desire.

The bottle of champagne (included as part of room service) chilling in the bucket upon check in is a nice touch, though the included room service is really them bringing up opened packaged goods, nicely plated. Room had a good selection of Schott Zwiesel glassware. In room minibar only included asahi beer and bottled waters, so calling is a must to get other items. They made sure we understood that wines in the wine chiller were not included - and we though it was probably an unnecessary splurge given the inclusions.

Dining was done in assigned rooms, with each hotel room getting a private dining room. The food was quite solid, though nothing amazing. They honored our dietary requests and preferences as they could. There was an included drink list of decent quality as well. In the morning, we arrived to find the dining room very warm at 25 C, but the system mode was heat only, so we were unable to cool the room, which further warmed due to the sun. Common issue Japan, yes, but for the price and especially as a new build, I would score it as a miss.

In the evening, the fireplace near the gift shop can be lit.

It's a good place just around a half hour drive to Chitose town, though I would be careful to avoid crowds as it would likely mar the experience. However, their pricing is currently a bit much as well, and would be even worse value for light or non drinkers. Do note that we were told that people under drinking age are not allowed in the bar area, which apparently included the sofa area outside the bar proper, even if the whole place was empty. The hard product and service is otherwise excellent.