The Hotel Guru
7 of the Best Ryokans in Hokkaidō

7 of the Best Ryokans in Hokkaidō

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 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 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

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?

Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Hokkaidō.
Alternatively, expand your search to see 10 of the Best Ryokans with Private Onsens in Kyushu or the 11 Best Ryokans in Kyoto.
Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
- Zaborin Niseko (Kutchan-cho) 15 rooms from £996
  
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  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
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  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. See More
  
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- Akan Tsuruga Besso Hinanoza Hokkaido, Hokkaidō 25 rooms from £673
  
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  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
  
  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. See More
  
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- Kappo Ryokan Wakamatsu Hakodate (Yunokawachō) 24 rooms from £454
  
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  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
  
  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! See More
  
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- Oyado Kiyomizuya Noboribetsu (Noboribetsu-shi) 42 rooms from £283
  
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  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
  
  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. See More
  
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- Nakamuraya Ryokan Sapporo (Hokkaido Prefecture) 26 rooms from £134
  
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  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
  
  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! See More
  
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- Daiichi Takimotokan Ryokan Noboribetsu (Noboribetsuonsenchō) 399 rooms from £195
  
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  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
  
  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. See More
  
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- Noboribetsu Sekisui Tei Noboribetsu (Noboribetsu-shi) 248 rooms from £130
  
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  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
  
  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! See More
  
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