7 of the Best Ryokans in Hokkaidō

Kappo Ryokan Wakamatsu

Japan's second-largest island, Hokkaidō is home to volcanic mountains, snow-capped peaks and beautiful forested national parks. The bubbling hot spring town of Noboribetsu is brilliant for keen spa-goers eager to unwind in steaming onsen baths, whilst adventurous skiers can zip down the spectacular slopes at Niseko before enjoying massages and long soaks. Coastal Hakodate and the city of Sapporo, too, play host to traditional Japanese inns with hot spring baths, multi-course cuisine and rooms featuring tatami matting and paper screens. These classic ryokans — some intimate and elegant, others large and impressively equipped — are amongst Japan's most memorable hotels. Whether you're travelling as a couple or with friends and family, these top spots reflect the character of this fascinating country. Check out our list of the best ryokans in Hokkaidō as you plan your trip!

For Romantic Luxury

Zaborin

  • Zaborin sits just above the Zabo natural spring near Niseko. A luxurious choice for romantic couples, the property's 15 villas offer minimalist decor and private onsens with stunning views. Feast on traditional cuisine at the elegant restaurant. Exceptional, and undoubtedly one of the best ryokans in Hokkiadō.
  • Akan Tsuruga Besso Hinanoza is a beautiful ryokan on the banks of Lake Akan. Pick this place for the generous suites, which boast lake views, private hot spring baths and traditional seating areas. The multi-course kaiseki cuisine highlights the region's best ingredients. Very luxurious and ideal for an outdoorsy adventure.
  • Kappo Ryokan Wakamatsu offers 24 charming rooms in Hakodate, many of which boast ocean views. The multi-course kaiseki menu is exquisite and the hot spring baths are gorgeous. A chic boutique ryokan for romantic couples looking to expore Hokkaidō's seaside city.

FOR Families or Groups

Oyado Kiyomizuya

  • Oyado Kiyomizuya has 42 traditional rooms with tatami matting and futon beds. More spacious rooms allow families or groups of friends to share. Kick back in the public hot spring baths, tuck in to Japanese cuisine and enjoy experiencing classic ryokan hospitality in the hot springs town of Noboribetsu.
  • Nakamuraya Ryokan is a simple, traditional ryokan with 26 rooms. Located in downtown Sapporo, this historic property promises regional cuisine, a 24-hour onsen bath and a real sense of tranquility. Affordable and offering space for couples, friends and families in rooms with low tables and futon beds.

For a Larger Ryokan

Daiichi Takimotokan Ryokan

  • Dai-ichi Takimotokan Ryokan has close to 400 elegant rooms, set close to the Noboribetsu Hot Spring. The extensive, garden-facing onsen baths, spa facilities and healthy cuisine make this a wonderful wellness choice. Families and friends will adore the karaoke room and the games area, which features more than 40 arcade games.
  • Noboribetsu Sekisui Tei offers both Japanese and Western-style accommodation, with more than 200 rooms. Highlights include the pampering spa, hot spring baths — some of which boast beautiful views — and splendid kaiseki cuisine. A large yet relaxing traditional hotel.

STILL NOT SURE?

7 of the Best Ryokans in Hokkaidō

Nakamuraya Ryokan
Nakamuraya Ryokan

Sapporo (Hokkaido Prefecture)

Nakamuraya Ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn located in downtown Sapporo. The air-conditioned rooms have woven-straw floors and futon bedding whilst there's also a spacious 24 hour bath to relax in. Enjoy meals served in a true Ryokan style with plenty of small dishes. A unique and friendly spot!

  • Museums - The Sapporo Beer Museum, the Hokkaidō University Museum and the Hokkaidō Museum of Modern Art are all well worth visiting
  • Value chic - A simple, well-priced and historic stay for couples, families and groups in the heart of the city
  • Great walks - Take a stroll through the Hokkaidō University's Botanic Garden, just five minutes' walk away
  • Local exploring - Within walking distance of Hokkaidō University, Odori Park and a number of key museums
from AU$262 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Kappo Ryokan Wakamatsu
Kappo Ryokan Wakamatsu

Hakodate (Yunokawachō)

Kappo Ryokan Wakamatsu is situated on Hakodate's coast and features traditional Japanese-style accommodation with woven-straw flooring and futon beds. The restaurant serves up splendid multi-course Kaiseki cuisine and their baths are the perfect way to relax after a long day. A lovely city stay!

  • Foodies - Savour delicate regional kaiseki-style cuisine in the restaurant - ideal for keen foodies seeking an authentic experience
  • Romantic Break - A romantic traditional ryokan overlooking the ocean in Hakodate, this is a top spot for couples in the city
  • Learning - Learn the art of Kado (traditional Japanese flower arrangement) or Soba (buckwheat noodle making)
  • Sights nearby - Take a ride on the Hakodate Ropeway for spectacular views of the city
from AU$886 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Daiichi Takimotokan Ryokan
Daiichi Takimotokan Ryokan

Noboribetsu (Noboribetsuonsenchō)

Daiichi Takimotokan Ryokan is situated in rural Hokkaido, a short distance away from Noboribetsu. It boasts traditional Japanese-style accommodation with woven-straw floors and futon beds. Try their seven different bath types which all have unique healing properties! A great choice for families.

  • Romantic Break - Daiichi Takimotokan Ryokan boasts hot spring baths, a soothing spa and excellent cuisine, perfect for a romantic stay
  • Local exploring - A 5-minute walk from Jigokudani Valley and the Noboribetsu Bear Park, and 12-minutes' drive from Lake Kuttara
  • Other Activities - The hotel's extensive games room includes over 40 arcade machines - ideal for trips with family and friends
  • Learning - Delve into Japan's Edo Period at the Noboribetsu Date Historic Village
from AU$381 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Oyado Kiyomizuya
Oyado Kiyomizuya

Noboribetsu (Noboribetsu-shi)

Situated a short distance from Noboribetsu on the island of Hokkaido, Oyado Kiyomizuya provides traditional Japanese-style accommodation with woven-straw floors and futon beds. Make use of their public bath open 24 hours a day and enjoy splendid Japanese cuisine. An unfussy and relaxing retreat.

  • Back to Nature - Close to Noboribetsu Genshirin primeval forest and Lake Kuttara, this is a lovely nature-focused escape
  • Great walks - The spectacular Jigokudani Valley's bubbling geothermal crater is a striking setting for a walk
  • Families - Larger rooms with futon beds make this a top choice for a relaxed family stay
  • Fishing - Fishing on Lake Kuttara is an idyllic spring, summer or autumn activity
from AU$552 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Noboribetsu Sekisui Tei
Noboribetsu Sekisui Tei

Noboribetsu (Noboribetsu-shi)

Noboribetsu Sekisui Tei is situated in Noboribetsu, 20 minutes from the station. Offering a variety of traditional Japanese accommodation (think woven-straw flooring with futon bedding) and Western-style rooms, the property also boasts 3 hot-spring baths and a sauna. A smart and relaxing stay!

  • Foodies - Splendid kaiseki dishes of local produce will delight foodies eager to sample regional cuisine
  • Other Activities - Gather with friends and family for a lively evening of your favourite karaoke tunes
  • Great walks - Enjoy a scenic hike around the dramatic Jigokudani (Hell Valley) volcanic crater
  • Total relaxation - Unwind in the outdoor hot spring baths and sauna after relaxing massages
from AU$254 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Akan Tsuruga Besso Hinanoza
Akan Tsuruga Besso Hinanoza

Hokkaidō (Akankohan)

A boutique property comprising of 25 individually designed suites. Rooms are contemporary yet the style is traditional. Find floor to ceiling windows, large terraces with outdoor free standing baths, tatami mats and shoji paper screens besides all the mod-cons. An utterly spoiling stay.

  • Romantic Break - A gorgeous, upmarket take on the traditional ryokan experience for a memorable couples' hideaway
  • Fishing - Lake Akan is well known for its excellent fishing, and the hotel can organise guided excursions
  • Total relaxation - Unwind in luxurious suites with beautiful open air onsen baths and lake views
  • Cycling - Hire bikes to cycle around Lake Akan and to explore Hokkaidō more widely
from AU$1314 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Zaborin
Zaborin

Niseko (Kutchan-cho)

A few miles outside Niseko, the boutique Zaborin features 15 villas situated directly above the Zabo natural Spring. The villas offer minimalist and chic accommodation boasting wonderful views. Enjoy wonderful traditional local cuisine in their restaurant! A stunning and truly rejuvenating stay.

  • Total relaxation - Each villa boasts its own private indoor and outdoor onsen, perfect for unwinding whilst enjoying magical views
  • Romantic Break - A gorgeous rural escape for romantic couples eager to embrace blissful onsen soaks and exemplary cuisine
  • Great walks - Reconnect with nature on long forest walks or guided excursions with members of the hotel team
  • Golf - Hone your golf skills with a round at the beautiful Niseko Village Golf Course
from AU$1944 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
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Written by Saskia Walker

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