Fodor's Expert Review Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel

Once a ryokan, this resort hotel combines the best of both worlds: there are great mountain views, two meals are served each day, and yukata robes are provided (and you are encouraged to walk around in them). The magnificent lobby is dominated by a soaring chimney decorated by Okamoto Taro, and enormous plate-glass windows overlook a beautiful natural setting. Both Japanese- and Western-style rooms are available. There's a relaxing onsen, dinner offering a choice of Japanese, Chinese, and Italian food, and a Western-style breakfast. Free shuttle buses take you from Hachinohe Station, Shin-Aomori Station, and Aomori Airport. In addition to outdoor activities, they also run things like open-air bus tours. If you go in winter, take advantage of the tours to see frozen waterfalls.