Hokkaido isn’t just Japan’s untamed north—it’s a land shaped by volcanoes, where snow drifts pile high and steam curls from hot springs that have lured visitors for generations. People flock here for the legendary ski slopes and endless lavender fields, but the real wonder is tucked away in the island’s ryokans—those timeless Japanese inns where you can soak in bubbling onsen, savor multi-course kaiseki dinners, and fall asleep on soft tatami mats. It’s Japanese hospitality at its very best.
These ryokans aren’t just a place to spend the night. They’re the soul of Hokkaido—some perched right above the steaming “Hell Valley,” others hidden in maple groves or facing the vast sea. Each blends age-old tradition with a touch of modern comfort, turning every soak, meal, and sunrise into something special—almost ceremonial.
If you’re craving a long soak in healing waters, want to feast on Hokkaido’s famous seafood, and drift off on impossibly comfortable futons, you’re in the right spot. Here are five ryokans that offer much more than just a place to sleep—they deliver an unforgettable experience.
Noboribetsu’s Legendary Onsen Experience
Daiichi Takimotokan has welcomed guests for over 160 years and remains Noboribetsu’s most iconic hot spring retreat. It sits right next to Jigokudani, or “Hell Valley”—a landscape so surreal it feels otherworldly—drawing its hot spring water straight from the earth to fill 35 unique baths. Step into the milky-blue pools and breathe in the sulfur-rich steam—it’s as if you’ve landed on another world.
Why Stay Here?
Onsen Wonderland: Choose from sulfur, iron, and radium-rich baths, plus the famed Kashou-no-yu cave bath where minerals coat mossy stones. Open-air pools give you prime views of the valley’s swirling mist.
Hokkaido’s Best on Your Plate: Dinner is a kaiseki showcase of snow crab, sea urchin, and wagyu beef. Breakfast? Miso soup made with onsen water. It’s anything but ordinary.
Rooms with Character: Go for a classic tatami-and-futon setup, or opt for a modern room with a private open-air bath. If possible, get a room with a valley view—watching steam rise from the vents at sunset is unforgettable.
More Than Just Baths: Visit the on–site onsen museum, or stroll along the valley boardwalks where steam pours from neon-orange pools.
Good to Know:
- The hotel is large and can get crowded. For peace and quiet, try the baths early or late.
- English signage is limited, but the staff’s hospitality bridges any gaps.
Perfect For: Onsen enthusiasts and anyone looking for that grand, iconic ryokan experience.
Sapporo’s Secret Forest Sanctuary
Just 40 minutes from Sapporo, Suizantei rests quietly in Jozankei’s hot spring valley. Here, emerald forests and a rushing river wrap around this cozy ryokan. Forget the big, crowded resorts—Suizantei keeps things personal, with only 25 rooms. Each one comes with its own open-air cedar bath, filled by those famous sulfuric springs.
Why Stay Here?
- Bathing in Nature: Soak in your own private onsen—some perch right above the river. Or, for an extra-special experience, there’s the hidden “Komorebi” bath among the maples. It feels like your secret spot in the woods.
- Kaiseki with a Twist: When dinner rolls around, you’re in for a treat. Suizantei serves up Hokkaido’s best seafood—hairy crab, scallops, and more—by lantern light in the dining room, or, if you’d rather, right in your room.
- Design with Soul: Picture modern minimalism with a soul. Rooms have washi paper screens, low platform beds, and traditional sunken hearths (irori) for a warm touch.
- Seasonal Magic: The whole valley changes with the seasons. In autumn, the maples turn fiery red. Winter buries everything in soft snow. It’s all pretty magical.
Good to Know:
- This ryokan is adults-only, so it’s peaceful—no kids running around.
- Shuttle service from Sapporo Station can be arranged.
Perfect For: Couples or anyone who wants to disappear into nature but still wants some luxury.
Hakodate’s Oceanfront Retreat
If you’d rather swap mountains for the sea, try Umi to Akari in Hakodate’s Yunokawa district. Here, hot springs meet the ocean. The ryokan is sleek, inspired by wabi-sabi style, and the infinity-edge onsens seem to spill right into the Tsugaru Strait. Sunset here? Honestly, it’s unreal.
Why Stay Here?
- Baths with a View: The outdoor “Umi no Yu” pool lines up perfectly with the ocean horizon—soaking here at dusk is next-level relaxation.
- Seafood Feast: At dinner, you’ll feast on Hakodate’s famous squid, salmon roe, and seafood rice bowls, all ultra-fresh.
- Zen Vibes: Rooms feature driftwood art, shoji screens, and balconies facing the sea. If you want to splurge, book a suite with a rooftop onsen for stargazing soaks.
- Local Flair: For a little adventure, borrow a bike to explore Goryokaku Fort or the bustling morning market.
Good to Know:
- Oceanview rooms cost more, but the sunrise is worth every yen.
- The onsen water is gentle and great for sensitive skin.
Perfect For: Design fans and seafood lovers who appreciate a modern spin on tradition.
Classic Charm in Hell Valley
Right near Daiichi Takimotokan, Noboribetsu Grand Hotel offers a more relaxed, still historic, take on the town’s famous hot springs. Their standout? A 100% sulfur-free spring—pretty rare here, and a lifesaver if strong mineral smells bother you.
Why Stay Here?
- Unique Waters: The “Mizu no Yu” baths use sodium bicarbonate water, so your skin feels silky, not stinky.
- Family-Friendly: The hotel is set up for families, with big Japanese-Western rooms and a play area for kids.
- Festive Atmosphere: Evenings get lively with taiko drum shows and a yukata rental corner.
- Easy Exploring: It’s just five minutes to the trails at Jigokudani or the Bear Park, so exploring is easy.
Good to Know:
- The vibe here is lively, not quiet, so skip it if you’re after peace.
- The dinner buffet is simple, not fancy kaiseki, but perfect for picky eaters.
Perfect For: Families or first-timers who want Noboribetsu’s energy without going overboard.
5. Kasho Gyoen
Sapporo’s Urban Onsen Oasis
Who says you have to leave the city for a great onsen? Kasho Gyoen, right in Sapporo’s center, shows city ryokans can wow you too. Its glass-ceilinged baths let you soak under cherry blossoms or falling snow, and the lobby feels like a blend of Art Deco glam and Japanese tradition.
Why Stay Here?
- City-Meets-Serenity: The “Garden Bath” surrounds you with bamboo and gentle water features—while the city skyline peeks in.
- Creative Cuisine: Dinner is creative, where Hokkaido flavors meet French techniques, like miso-marinated salmon with dashi foam.
- Sleek Rooms: Rooms are sleek and comfortable. Choose a tatami suite or pick one with a deep cedar tub and city views.
- Convenience: It’s just a 10-minute walk to Susukino’s nightlife or the historic Clock Tower.
Good to Know:
- The onsen is separated for men and women but isn’t open 24 hours.
- If you love culture, book a “Cultural Room” and get a calligraphy set and tea ceremony tools.
Perfect For: City lovers who want a taste of ryokan luxury without leaving Sapporo.
Love the art of Japanese dining? If you care about good food, don’t forget the details—like a great pair of chopsticks! Discover our guide to choosing authentic Japanese hash (chopsticks) for every occasion, from casual eats to fancy kaiseki.
Final Thoughts: Which Ryokan Speaks to You?
Ryokans in Hokkaido aren’t just places to sleep. They’re part of the adventure, full of steam, seafood, and a sense of calm you won’t forget. Whether you want the volcanic landscapes of Noboribetsu, the forest retreats of Jozankei, or the ocean air of Hakodate, every spot shows you a new side of Japanese tradition.
Pro Tips for Booking:
- Season Matters: Seasons change everything—autumn is all fiery leaves, winter turns the world into a snow globe.
- Book Early: Especially if you want private baths or plan to visit during busy times.
- Try It All: Don’t miss the kaiseki meals, they’re unforgettable!
Language barriers might seem tricky at first, but honestly, most of the top hotels in Hokkaido are well–prepared for international visitors. The staff usually speak several languages, and you’ll notice lots of signs and information in English. Still, picking up a few Japanese phrases can make your trip feel even more memorable. Another thing—safety and transportation. Check if your hotel offers shuttle buses or dependable rides, especially when the snow gets heavy. It’s always handy knowing you can get from sightseeing spot to souvenir shop without a hitch.
So, which ryokan will be your Hokkaido hideaway? Pack your yukata (cotton robe) and get ready to soak, savor, and unwind—Japanese style!
Ready to book? Let us know which ryokan you want to stay in the most below!
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Thanks for the info. Have always wanted to try an Onsen. Do the different mineral type baths actually have a real impact on your body / mood etc. in your opinion? I’ve never really believed that kind of stuff. Thanks.
Great question Patrick! Some mineral benefits are actually scientifically proven, such as sulfur springs helping with muscle aches. However, I think it’s important to note how soaking in steaming water surrounded by nature just melts stress away! That said, my skin always feels amazingly soft after an iron-rich bath. So at worst, you get relaxation; at best, you might discover a new favorite therapy. 😊♨️
Hi. Do they have different temperatures in Onsens and do they have cold and hot ones?
Hi Allysa. Yes! Traditional Japanese onsens typically range from 38-42°C (100-108°F), but temperatures vary by spring source. While most onsens are hot, it is not uncommon to find cold ones too. Hotter onsens can be up to 45°C/113°F) for muscle relaxation, lukewarm ones are around 35-37°C/95-99°F for longer soaks, and cold onsens would be around 15-20°C/59-68°F and aim to boost circulation. I would look for signs like “熱め” (hotter) or “ぬるめ” (milder) as they are fairly common. Also, always test the water before entering! 🙂
These places look amazing. I know these are luxury places, but are there free Onsen’s where tourists can go and try them out? Thanks – Damien.
Great question, Damien! While luxury onsens often require reservations or fees, many towns have free public onsens (called ‘sento’ or ‘rotemburo’)—especially in hot spring regions like Hakone or Beppu. Just check local rules, as some may require small towels or ban tattoos. Hope you enjoy!
Hi. These are quite trendy and sort of high end options.
Are you aware of more family friendly options? Would love for my teenage kids to try them out but I’m not sure if this is more of an adult thing? Would be great to get your advice. Thank you.
Hi! That’s a great question. You’re right, these are on the luxury end, but onsen are definitely for everyone—including families with teens! Many family-friendly ryokans have private onsens you can book for just your family, which can be more comfortable. Some larger hotels also have gender-separated public baths where kids are welcome. I’d recommend looking for places with mixed-gender outdoor baths or private options, but it’s generally a fun and relaxing experience that I think teens would also love!
Thanks Cian. Will definitely do more research and checkout some of your suggestions.
Cian, this was such an inviting read. You managed to blend luxury, history, and culture so smoothly that it almost felt like taking a mini trip through Hokkaido from my screen. I could almost feel the steam and hear the quiet drip of water from those hot springs. The way you described each ryokan made it easy to imagine the atmosphere—from the grandeur of Noboribetsu to the quiet intimacy of Jozankei.
I’ve always wanted to visit an onsen but never really understood the difference between each region’s charm until now. Your guide didn’t just list hotels, it told stories, and that’s what made it special. I also liked how you included practical notes for travelers like me who might worry about language or booking seasons. Those details make the experience feel accessible, not just aspirational.
One question though, for a first-time visitor to Japan, would you recommend starting with a traditional countryside ryokan or an urban one like Kasho Gyoen? I imagine both would offer something unique, but I’d love your take on which gives the truest “first onsen” experience.
— John Monyjok Maluth
Hi John, thank you for such a thoughtful comment! I’m so glad the guide felt immersive and accessible.
For your first onsen experience, I’d highly recommend a traditional countryside ryokan. I think the deep immersion in nature and focus on tranquility provides the most authentic and magical introduction to the ritual. A place like Kasho Gyoen is wonderful as it blends tradition with modern luxury—perfect for a future trip to fall in love with the ryokan vibes!
Whichever you choose, I’m sure it will be unforgettable. Hope you get to experience it soon!
This was a great read. I’ve always been interested in ryokans and didn’t realize there were so many unique ones in Hokkaido. I like how you showed the difference between the larger, traditional ones and the smaller, more private retreats. The forest setting at Suizantei really caught my eye. A quiet soak in a private onsen sounds like the kind of break I need. Do you know if these ryokans usually include meals in the booking or is that something you have to request separately?
Thank you so much Marlinda, I’m really glad you enjoyed the guide! Suizantei’s forest setting is definitely special, I think it’s the perfect place for that quiet, restorative break you’re dreaming of.
To answer your question, yes, it’s a standard and wonderful part of the traditional ryokan experience that meals are almost always included in the booking. They are typically offered as a package plan known as “ichi-ju san-sai” (一汁三菜), which includes a lavish multi-course dinner and a full Japanese breakfast. This is a highlight for most guests! But of course make sure to check the specific hotel offering when booking! When you go to book, you’ll usually select a plan like “Dinner & Breakfast Included.” You can request any dietary restrictions in advance, and they are typically very accommodating.
I hope you get to experience it soon, it’s a magical experience!
What a beautifully written guide… it perfectly captures the spirit of Hokkaido’s culture! I’m especially intrigued by Jozankei Daiichi Hotel Suizantei — the idea of soaking in a private cedar bath surrounded by maple trees sounds magical.
Quick question… for someone visiting in winter, which of these ryokans offers the best combination of snowy scenery and easy accessibility (especially if traveling from Sapporo without renting a car)?
Hi Jenny, thank you so much for your kind words! I’m delighted to hear the guide captured the spirit of Hokkaido for you.
That’s an excellent question for a winter trip. For the ideal combination of breathtaking snowy scenery and easy accessibility from Sapporo without a car, I would highly recommend the Jozankei Daiichi Hotel Suizantei. It’s a direct and scenic bus ride from Sapporo (roughly 60-75 minutes), and the winter landscape there is really magical I’ve heard. It offers that perfect ryokan charm with the convenience you’re looking for. I hope this helps, and that you have an absolutely unforgettable onsen experience in Hokkaido!
I am not sure how true it is, but they say that natural hot springs are very healthy and rejuvenating for our bodies and souls. They also make wonderful tourist attractions as guests feel they can truly relax in these warm waters.
If I had to choose one of these resorts to stay in, I would definitely go for Jozankei Daiichi Hotel Suizantei. The views, Forrests and private cedar baths sound so relaxing. I also like that it doesn’t appear too crowded.
Do you know if food is included, or do they just offer self catering rooms?
Great choice Michel! I think the private cedar baths and serene forest views at Suizantei make it a perfect retreat for deep relaxation. To answer your question, yes – like most traditional luxury ryokans, breakfast and dinner are typically included in your stay, featuring exquisite multi-course kaiseki meals that highlight local Hokkaido ingredients. Self-catering rooms are quite uncommon at this level of hospitality, as the culinary experience is a central part of the ryokan journey. You can look forward to having your meals beautifully prepared for you, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil onsen experience. But of course, you may need to check the specific hotel offerings just in case! Happy travels 🙂
Loved this roundup, it is exactly the blend of ryokan charm and modern comfort I look for in Hokkaido. I am especially curious about rooms with private rotenburo and how each property handles kaiseki dinners for dietary needs. Which of these is most first-time friendly for English speakers with clear tattoo policies, and which has the smoothest access to slopes or winter activities without a car?
Marios
Hi Marios, thank you for your kind comment! Based on your needs, I would recommend Noboribetsu Grand Hotel. It is the most first-time and English-speaker friendly among the listed options, with relatively clear tattoo policies (please confirm directly when booking). It also offers excellent access to winter activities, as it’s located right in the famous Hell Valley, with snowshoeing and park walks just steps away, no car needed. For rooms with private rotenburo, both Jozankei Daiichi Hotel Suizantei and Kasho Gyoen offer beautiful options. All these traditional hotels can accommodate dietary needs for their kaiseki dinners if you notify them well in advance. Hope this helps you plan a wonderful trip!
Really loved this article, Cian — you made Hokkaido sound absolutely enchanting. I’ve never been to Japan, but reading this had me imagining what it would feel like to step into one of those steaming outdoor baths surrounded by forests, mountains, or even the ocean. Every ryokan you described looks gorgeous in its own way, almost like each one offers its own little window into Japanese culture.
What really struck me is how each place blends tradition with luxury without losing that authentic feel. It seems like the kind of trip you’d remember for the rest of your life.
If you had to pick just one of these ryokans for a first-time visitor to Japan, which one do you think delivers the most magical introduction to Hokkaido?
Thanks so much! For a magical first-time visit, I’d choose Yunokawa Osen Uni to Akari! I think the traditional ryokan charm, stunning ocean-view baths, and a peaceful yet culturally rich Hokkaido introduction would be so amazing!
I hope your guide featured some of the famous onsen towns like Noboribetsu (the “Department Store of Hot Springs” with its unique water types) or the scenic resorts near Lake Toya or Lake Akan!
Do you think a traveler visiting Hokkaido for the first time should prioritize an onsen with a stunning outdoor view (like overlooking a lake or forest) or one that focuses more on the unique spring water quality itself?
Thanks again for putting together this luxurious itinerary!
Thank you! That’s a great question. For a first-time visitor, I’d probably recommend prioritizing an onsen with a stunning outdoor view. I think being surrounded by Hokkaido’s natural forests, lakes, or snowscapes is such as unforgettable experience. But, in fact, in Hokkaido you often don’t have to choose, as many luxury ryokans in famous towns like Noboribetsu or near Lake Toya offer both incredible views and also spring waters. So you the best of both worlds!
Hope you have a fantastic trip!