First, the Route Inn chain is equivalent to "Motel 8" or the "Red Roof Inn" in concept. So, this no-frills hotel is not meant to be a full service establishment. With this in mind, this hotel far exceeded our expectations!
It is situated steps from the JR Obihiro Station, and there are many restaurants and bars only a couple of blocks away. The staff was friendly, helpful and courtrous, and they maintain the building very clean and updated. Unfortunately, there is no "Japanese atmosphere" and the decoration is totally western. The hotel, thus, isn't "sexy" in any way. The breakfast buffet was quite nice, as well--and they had a delicious selection of breads. The best feature of the hotel is their onsen spa facilities. Who'd expect such nice onsen in an unassuming hotel like this one!
All in all, I had a wonderful time, and I'd highly recommend it.