Best 10 Ryokan in Hokkaido | Gourmet Hokkaido Edition

Photo courtesy of Zaborin

Have you ever thought about visiting the white snow-topped fields of Hokkaido in the winter? Or spending a weekend in the cool summer of beautiful Hokkaido?

If you visit Hokkaido, you’re going to want to know the best places to stay with the best Japanese foods. That’s why we made this list of the best 10 ryokan in Hokkaido.

We gathered videos of the best Japanese ryokan in Hokkaido so that you could get a feel for the atmosphere of each. These ryokan are spread out all over Hokkaido, so no matter where you go decide to go in Hokkaido, you have an idea of what to expect!

Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

1. Zaborin (坐忘林)
2. Ao no Za (碧の座)
3. Raku Suisan (楽 水山)
4. The LakeSuite KO no SUMIKA (ザ・レイクスイート湖の栖)
5. KAI Poroto (界 ポロト)
6. Borou NOGUCHI Noboribetsu (望楼 NOGUCHI 登別)
7. Nukumori no Yado Furukawa (ぬくもりの宿 ふる川)
8. Noribetsu Takinoya (滝乃家)
9. Otaru Kourakuen (おたる宏楽園)
10. Marukoma Onsen Ryokan (丸駒温泉旅館)
11. Conclusion

Zaborin (坐忘林)

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0:00 – Zaborin is a modern take on a luxury Japanese Ryokan. Zaborin is hidden deep in the woods of Hokkaido and is perfect for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of life for a few days.

1:00 – Take a look at Zaborin from the outside. It gives off a calming and luxurious atmosphere. The large windows in the lobby bring in a lot of light and show off one of Hokkaido’s best features, its nature.

2:40 – The experience that you have in your room is the main focus at Zaborin. The furniture, water fixtures, views, and amenities are all high-quality. In the fridge, drink some juice made from produce raised in Hokkaido. This room has thick and fluffy futons with large comfy blankets to match. If you have trouble sleeping on the floor, they offer western-style rooms with beds too.

7:00 – Let’s check out the private onsen in this room. The water in the tub is natural onsen water from a source deep underground. The indoor onsen is made from wood, and the private outdoor onsen is carved from a giant stone. Surround yourself in the forest while relaxing in a private onsen.

9:15 – One of the best parts about staying at Zaborin is the dining experience. Choose from a large variety of wines (or leave it up to the chef’s recommendation). This course meal is just an example of what you can expect when you book a night. Most likely, your meal will differ, as the chef and staff members are always changing the menu with what’s freshest and what’s in season. Of course, you can expect that all of the ingredients in the meal will be local to Hokkaido.

13:20 – After waking up, take a dip in the onsen before eating breakfast, before checking out, or whenever you please. If you want to book a night at Zaborin, check their website below.

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Ao no Za (碧の座)

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0:00 – Ao no Za is a luxury resort ryokan located near Chitose and Chitose Airport, on the shore of Lake Shikotsuko. Although one night will set you back at least 60,000 JPY, the price is worth it for the luxury service and amenities you’ll get when spending a night here. Make sure to save it for a special occasion.

1:15 – Between the fresh Hokkaido air and the luxurious atmosphere of Ao no Za, we’re sure you’ll be relaxed. The lobby is grand with large doors, but make sure to take your shoes off and change into slippers when you walk in. Every detail has been thought about, so make sure you pay close attention and appreciate as much as you can.

2:20 – The room being shown off in this video is the Suite Resort. They have a walk-in closet where you can pick pillows with softness to your liking. Clean off in the rain shower before hopping in the jacuzzi. The private tiled onsen has all of the healing effects of the Shikotsuko Onsen waters.

6:10 – The beds are comfortable with thick fluffy blankets, perfect to warm you up during the cold Hokkaido winters. The room is fairly large too. There is a small tatami mat area for you to lay on and relax after a long soak in the onsen. Order room service from the large selection and you’ll never have to leave your room.

8:25 – For dinner, we are headed to the restaurant. Don’t worry though, you’ll be dining in a private room. Enjoy a meal that is full of fresh ingredients that are local to Hokkaido. Drink three samples of Japanese Sake that was brewed in Hokkaido and pair it perfectly with fresh sashimi fish.

11:50 – If you didn’t get full from dinner, check out the bar for all-you-can-eat and drink service with more Hokkaido-sourced ingredients. For those interested in staying a night at Ao no Za, book a night on their website below.

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Raku Suisan (楽 水山)

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0:00 – Raku Suisan is located in Niseko, one of the snow-sport capitals of the world. Known for being surrounded by Mount Yotei, Annupuri Resort, and the Shiribetsu River. Raku Suisan is perfect for those who want to return to a luxury ryokan after a long day on the slope.

0:25 – Drop your car (or rental car) off with the valet before you check-in. The outside of Raku Suisan is inconspicuous, and you’d never know what waits for you inside without watching this video. Enjoy a cup of tea and a traditional Japanese sweet while you wait for your room to be prepared.

2:00 – Here is the entrance to the room we are checking out in this video. As soon as you open the door, you’ll be able to feel the spaciousness. There is a living room, bathroom with private outdoor onsen, and bedroom. It feels like an ideal second home. If you ever visit in the winter, you can enjoy the endless snow blanket that covers the area surrounding Raku Suisan.

6:00 – The beds at Raku Suisan imitate nature as they look similar to the expansive snow blankets outside, but they are much warmer. Wear the special Raku Suisan pajamas after getting out of the onsen before bed. Before leaving your room, wear the specially prepared Japanese yukata. If you happen to be staying here for longer than one night, toss your dirty clothes or snow-wear in the combination washer-dryer machine.

9:20 – Let’s check out the onsen. This private onsen is half indoors, as the room that it’s located in actually has a large window that opens all the way to let in the fresh air. If it gets too cold, as it often does in Hokkaido, warm up by closing the window.

15:35 – Dinner at Raku Suisan is served in a private room. Even if it’s dark outside, they still make sure that you have a great view. Enjoy a variety of fresh foods from the Niseko area and all over Hokkaido. Sip various teas and wines while trying various different gourmet courses. And make sure to save room for dessert at the end.

18:45 – After dinner hit the bar for a handcrafted drink. And of course, before bed, take a dip in the onsen one more time for the best night of sleep. If you’re interested in staying, check out their website below.

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The LakeSuite KO no SUMIKA (ザ・レイクスイート湖の栖)

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0:00 – Welcome to The LakeSuite KO no SUMIKA, on the south shores of Lake Toyako in Toyako Onsen. It’s a modern Japanese ryokan that has private outdoors onsen attached and stunning views of the lake from every room. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Sapporo, and they also provide a free shuttle bus service.

5:50 – This is the type of room you can expect at KO no SUMIKA. Large comfy beds and views of Nakajima Island. In the winter, put on a few layers and sit on the sofa outside while enjoying soaking in nature. Perfect after taking a soak in the private outdoor onsen. They provide various different yukata, robes, and room wear for ultimate relaxation.

13:45 – If you prefer, head to the large public onsen. They have popsicles for guests for post-onsen refreshments. Hop in the jacuzzi, the infinity pool, the sauna, and the onsen beds to experience the view from as many relaxing angles as possible. Take your time enjoying the view.

25:40 – The meals at KO no SUMIKA are filling and delicious. The buffet also has many different delicious options, like fried tempura, Chinese food, soba, sushi, seafood, sweets, and much more. All the ingredients are sourced locally from Hokkaido. Eat your fill then sample as many wines and cheeses at the bar as you’d like.

36:45 – If you want to wake up to a sunrise like this in Hokkaido, consider staying a night at the modern Japanese inn, The LakeSuite KO no SUMIKA. Check out their website below.

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KAI Poroto (界 ポロト)

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0:00 – KAI Poroto is a Japanese Onsen Inn in Shiraoi, about 40-minutes away from Chitose by train. The inn is 5 minutes away from Shiraoi Station by taxi, making it very accessible to those without cars. Chitose Airport has routes to various destinations in Asia, perfect for those on their way in or out of Japan. Just walking up to the entrance will have you feeling at peace in nature next to the sounds of running water from Lake Poroto.

7:55 – The rooms at KAI Poroto continue the birch tree theme from outside and in the lobby. They are filled with themes and motifs from traditional Ainu culture, the people native to Hokkaido. Sit back and enjoy the amazing views in every season. Enjoy a snow spectacle in winter, or amazing lakeside views in the summer. If you’d like, book a larger room with a private onsen for special occasions.

17:45 – The large public onsen are one of the main focuses of Kai Poroto, and they are in a different building closer to the lake. To get to the outside onsen, you’ll have to wade through the waters, but it’ll be worth it when you get the panoramic view of beautiful nature on the edge of Lake Poroto.

28:30 – Dinner at KAI Poroto is served in a private room. You’ll be able to enjoy a menu with ingredients sourced from all over Hokkaido. Choose from a variety of different alcohols while enjoying the perfect Japanese kaiseki meal to pair with the weather. Seafood and Japanese sake are the perfect combination.

49:35 – Breakfast is traditional Japanese, with fish and an assortment of many vegetables and rice. If the breakfast looks good, or you want to enjoy this Japanese Ainu onsen ryokan in Hokkaido, check out KAI Poroto’s homepage below.

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Borou NOGUCHI Noboribetsu (望楼 NOGUCHI 登別)

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0:00 – Borou NOGUCHI Noribetsu is located in the Noboribetsu Onsen area of south Hokkaido, near Lake Kuttarako and Hell Valley Nature Park. This area has lots of sightseeing areas and scenic spots year-round. After arriving at Noboribetsu Station, hop in a taxi, or reserve a free shuttle bus when booking.

5:45 – Let’s take a look at what the rooms look like at NOGUCHI. This is one of the larger suites, packed with amenities and ways to relax. This room also comes with a private onsen bath. If you have tattoos or want to spend time with a loved one, getting a room with a private onsen attached is recommended. Before leaving your room, put on a yukata to get the full experience. There is also a personal massage chair for ultimate relaxation.

11:40 – This dinner at NOGUCHI is served in a private room. With each of the 5 plates, enjoy paired wine that suits the food perfectly. Fresh seafood, wasabi, wagyu, and vegetables, are all creatively plated and served to make your experience truly delicious and unique. Dining at NOGUCHI is an experience you’ll never forget. They describe it as a combination of Japanese and French cuisine. After dinner, enjoy a drink from the bar to wind down.

19:35 – The best part about booking a room with a private onsen is being able to use it whenever you want in private. Before going to bed, after waking up, and even before you check out, use it as many times as you please.

20:40 – Have a look at the wide assortment of foods that you can enjoy for breakfast when booking a night at Borou NOGUCHI Noribetsu. If you’re interested, learn more below.

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Nukumori no Yado Furukawa (ぬくもりの宿 ふる川)

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0:00 – Nukumori no Yado Furukawa is a traditional Japanese ryokan in Jozankei Onsen with a traditional Japanese atmosphere and spirit. There are a total of 4 different onsen baths, including an 8th-floor public onsen bath, a public outdoor onsen bath, a private heated stone bath, and a private rental onsen bath. If you prefer, you can also book a room with a private onsen attached.

1:00 – You can feel the traditional Japanese ambiance. Lanterns outside light the way to the entrance. Don’t forget to take your shoes off and change into slippers. Sit in front of the hearth and warm up after being outside in the cold Hokkaido winter.

4:45 – The room that we will be checking out is on the 8th floor, with the best view of Jozankei. When you think of Japanese ryokan, you might think of things like tatami and floor sitting. If you’d like to get that experience, half of Nukumori is an authentic Japanese style. But the concept for the room at Nukumori no Yado that we are checking out is different. The lobby and this room both have log cabin themes that match perfectly with Jozankei weather, especially winter. You’ll want to cozy up somewhere warm while enjoying the beautiful snow. If you are interested in music and sound systems, this special room has a record player and audio system.

8:15 – This room comes with a private outdoor onsen. Open the window and let all of the fresh air in for the most relaxing experience in your own room.

9:15 – When staying on the top floors, you’ll have access to this special roof lounge. It comes with drinks, snacks, and various ways to relax including a swing and an onsen foot bath.

11:05 – Nukumori has an area for private dining for 7th-floor guests or a special dinner experience in front of the hearth for only 10 guests every night. Taste delicious Japanese kaiseki with a variety of flavors. Wagyu beef, local vegetables, fresh seafood, and delicious drinks are a few things that you can expect, along with other seasonal ingredients.

14:45 – Take a walk in the peaceful nature of Jozankei before coming in to warm up in front of the fireplace with a few Japanese confections and warm drinks.

16:30 – Before bed, take a dip in the onsen. And if you have the opportunity, after you wake up too. If you want to relax in Jozankei at Nukumori no Yado, check their website below.

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Noribetsu Takinoya (滝乃家)

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0:00 – Noribetsu Takinoya is a more traditional onsen ryokan in the Noribetsu Onsen area. The rooms have lots of tatami and there are many traditional Japanese elements that you can enjoy. Take a 10-minute taxi ride from Noribetsu Station for the perfect place to stay while visiting Noribetsu Onsen and the surrounding areas.

4:10 – Welcome to Takinoya. Take your shoes off on the way in so you can start warming up in the winter. Enjoy a cup of tea along with some traditional Japanese tea snacks to start your stay.

5:45 – Takinoya has many types of rooms to choose from. This booking has many tatami side rooms with one large main room. Sit back on the deck outside or where ever you please while sipping on a warm cup of coffee or tea. There is a private outdoor onsen on the deck outside made from Japanese wood. You might even be able to spot deer or other wildlife if you look hard enough.

8:45 – Because there is a special dining area in this room, dinner will be served there. The staff will come from the special door that leads to a kitchen. Enjoy high-quality Hokkaido kaiseki with fresh ingredients from the comfort and privacy of your own room. If you have kids, they can watch TV in the main room while you enjoy a multiple-course meal. If you’re interested in booking this room, check out Noribetsu Takinoya below.

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Otaru Kourakuen (おたる宏楽園)

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0:00 – Otaru Kourakuen is a popular Japanese ryokan among tourists visiting Hokkaido. For those interested, they can service dietary restrictions, and even have halal Japanese kaiseki. Located only an hour away from Sapporo by bus on the coast of the Ishikariwan Bay and the Sea of Japan.

0:50 – Here is Otaru Kourakuen from the snowy outside. Have seat in the lobby and relax with a cup of tea while you relax and count the koi fish in the fountain. Walk on tatami mats in the lobby, halls, and rooms, something that is common in traditional Japanese ryokan.

2:30 – Welcome to the room featured in this video. It has multiple tatami rooms, floor seating, and a private open-air outdoor onsen bath. Relax in a warm wooden onsen while enjoying the beautiful nature of Otaru. Even if it’s cold outside, you’ll be able to warm up while in the healing waters.

6:05 – Explore the halls of the Kourakuen to discover the history of Japan and Hokkaido. Pieces of art, luxury kimonos, ponds, fountains, hearths, pottery, and much more line the halls for guests to enjoy while they move from space to space inside the ryokan.

8:45 – Have dinner in the dining area of your room and enjoy your Japanese kaiseki in privacy. Enjoy sashimi fish, seafood, and other traditional Japanese foods. All prepared especially for you. The portions are small but there are so many different types of food for you may not finish everything. There are also tatami dining areas for breakfast, so you can choose whenever you’d like to eat when you wake up. If Otaru Onsen seems like a nice place, and you want to visit Otaru Kourakuen, check out their home page below.

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Marukoma Onsen Ryokan (丸駒温泉旅館)

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0:00 – Marukoma Onsen Ryokan is a quiet traditional Japanese ryokan on the west shores of Shikotsuko Lake. They’ve been in service for over 100 years and have many regulars. You’ll be able to surround yourself with peace, nature, and history, as the onsen is actually located inside Shikotsuko National Park. Check out the famous Poropinai Scenic spot on the way if you’re going by car.

1:45 – While you wait for the staff to get your room ready, have a seat in the lounge with an amazing view of the lake. Experience Japanese hospitality as the staff guide you to your room. One thing to note about Marukoma is they don’t provide internet in the rooms, which is common among some traditional ryokan with lots of history. If you’re interested in staying here but want internet, keep scrolling and check out Sakura Mobile.

2:55 – This room has western beds with a tatami floor sitting area. If you want to stay at a Japanese ryokan but don’t want to sleep on the floor, this option may be perfect for you. Enjoy a peaceful lake view from your room. Make yourself a cup of tea and snack on the traditional Japanese sweets in your room.

11:35 – Let’s check out the private rental onsen at Marukoma. If you have a family, a partner, or are coming with a group of friends, we recommend renting a private onsen. It’s the best way to have fun and relax together. In this private rental onsen, there is an indoor and outdoor onsen bath. Try them both out and then spend the rest of the time relaxing in the one that you prefer. If it’s cold outside you may like the indoor onsen bath better.

17:00 – There is a restaurant inside Marukoma where you can have dinner. The room service provided at the hotel is also from the restaurant. For dinner, enjoy flamed grilled skewers, tuna, salmon, potatoes, and a variety of other fresh foods. Irori is a traditional Japanese fireplace, and if you want to try this special Japanese flamed grilled experience, check out Marukoma Onsen Ryokan below.

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Conclusion

Have you decided what ryokan you want to visit while you’re in Hokkaido? We gathered these videos to show you the food, atmosphere, and onsen of various ryokans around Sapporo, Hakodate, Chitose, Noboribetsu, and much more.

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