Sitting in the northern region of Japan, the country’s second-largest island features the best views in winter. Imagine the combination of well-maintained national parks, lush greeneries and forestries, and mountain peaks covered in snow. Additionally, don’t forget that Hokkaido also offers mouthwatering seafood and friendly locals for the ultimate traditional experience.

To complete your Hokkaido getaway, why not try staying in ryokans or Japanese inns? From cozy accommodations in Noboribetsu Onsen to the charming ryokans in Sapporo and Niseko, here are our top recommendations!

Noboribetsu Onsen Area

1. Ryotei Hanayura

First on the list is a quaint traditional ryokan within Noboribetsu Onsen, a famous hot spring area with surrounding volcanoes. Ryotei Hanayura is well-known for its traditional Japanese decor and the unique bathing experience it offers guests. Inside the ryokan are 3 onsen waters, each with different water properties and claimed benefits.

Ryotei Hanayura has three room types, and you can book to experience the private open-air onsen area. We also recommend getting the rates with complimentary Kaiseki meals to taste authentic Japanese cuisine. The on-site chef curates each dish with the freshest ingredients.

If traveling in large groups, inquire about the ryokan’s luxury suite. It could fit up to 6 guests and features an outdoor veranda with a wooden onsen.

Book It Here: Ryotei Hanayura

2. Hotel Mahoroba

Hotel Mahoroba is also within Noboribetsu Onsen and was hailed as one of the most popular ryokan accommodations in Hokkaido back in 2018. Besides the traditional tatami mats and Japanese futon bedding, this ryokan is known for its four hot spring baths. Each has its own water quality and medicinal advantages.

Hotel Mahoroba has six guest room types, each featuring beautiful mountain views and open-air baths. For the dining experience, we definitely recommend the buffet option. Apart from the usual Japanese dishes, taste three majestic crabs cooked to perfection: snow crabs, horsehair, and red king.

Book It Here: Hotel Mahoroba

3. Oyado Kiyomizuya

Oyado Kiyomizuya is perfect for families and large group travelers because of the spacious and comfortable rooms. It has over 40 guestrooms with tatami mats and Japanese futon bedding. Moreover, its exteriors are very much like a traditional ryokan, especially with the majestic black roofs!

Oyado Kiyomizuya offers a full kaiseki meal for breakfast and dinner, which you can enjoy in your room or the dining hall. This ryokan also has a public hot spring bath for rejuvenation!

Book It Here: Oyado Kiyomizuya

4. Dai-ichi Takimotokan

Dai-ichi Takimotokan often gets fully booked because of its location. It’s right next to the Hell Vally, Noboribetsu’s main symbol, which means you can even glimpse the valley from your room!

Dai-ichi Takimotokan has large public baths, with 35 different bathtubs that can fit almost all guests! During winter, you can drink your favorite local sake while in the bath and admire the snowy scenery.

Dai-ichi Takimotokan has a wide selection of guestrooms for all travelers, but only two have private indoor hot spring baths. There are also entertainment facilities like a gaming center and karaoke rooms. Additionally, you can book a rejuvenating treatment at the ryokan’s massage salon.

Book It Here: Dai-ichi Takimotokan

You can find more amazing Ryokans in Noboribetsu Onsen here!

Jozankei Onsen Area

5. Hanamomiji

The traditional Hanamomiji offers a relaxing stay in the heart of Jozankei. Rooms have tatami mats, traditional futon beds, and Japanese-style decor. The exterior of this ryokan is classic and minimalist, making it easy to distinguish it from the exterior.

Hanamomiji also has an on-site hot spring bath surrounded by beautiful mountains for the perfect panoramic view. There’s also a museum that showcases traditional Japanese artwork and culture.

We highly suggest booking the private family hot spring bath for an extra charge to feel more relaxed. A spacious indoor swimming pool is also available, and guests can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine in the on-site restaurant.

Book It Here: Hanamomiji

6. Chalet Ivy Jozankei

Luxury is the name of the game with Chalet Ivy Jozankei. Serene landscapes surround this traditional ryokan, blending peace and modern comfort. Jozankei is one of Japan’s popular hot spring areas next to Noboribetsu.

Even though it’s a traditional ryokan, Chalet Ivy kept everything classic and stylish. From the room and suite designs to the contemporary decor of the exteriors, every corner is Instagrammable!

Chalet Ivy offers open-air baths and spa treatments for wellness. Rooms offer comfort, with large spaces to accommodate families and group travelers. The ryokan also has several dining selections. Try local Japanese cuisine in one of the on-site restaurants, serving authentic dishes made from seasonal ingredients. Moreover, you can catch panoramic views of Jozankei while eating!

Book It Here: Chalet Ivy Jozankei

7. Jozankei Daiichi Hotel Suizantei

Catering to all types of travelers, Daiichi Hotel Suizantei features different room types with varied features and amenities. One of the most notable facilities in this ryokan is the rejuvenating onsen bath and a zen garden. The garden looks well-maintained and lush, making it an excellent spot for photos.

A unique relaxation room, fitted with massage chairs and surrounding nature scenes, also makes this ryokan more remarkable. Ladies can also check out the specialty girls’ spa if they want more privacy and peace.

Daiichi Hotel Suizantei has private and public onsens available. The public bath is free and opens until 3 a.m., while the private hot spring comes with an additional fee. However, you can rent this one for an entire day! Traveling in groups? Check out the ryokan’s largest room, which features a 6-cm deep private bath and large TVs with HD projectors!

Book It Here: Jozankei Daiichi Hotel Suizantei

Sapporo Area

8. Onsen Ryokan Yuen Sapporo

Only a 13-minute walk from the central JR train station, Onsen Ryokan Yuen Sapporo’s location is convenient and accessible. This accommodation has a minimalist external structure and interiors, with tranquil spaces and warm hospitality for a complete ryokan experience.

Right in the center of Sapporo, Onsen Ryokan Yuen is near famous tourist attractions like the Odori Park and the Sapporo Clock Tower. Rooms have traditional Japanese style, but the beds and furniture are more modern. Plus, most feature city views with amazing night lights!

As its name suggests, experience a private hot spring bath. We also recommend trying out the sauna because it feels therapeutic and relaxing, especially after a day exploring Sapporo. Kakatojo Sapporo, the ryokan’s on-site restaurant, is also to die for! It serves fresh Japanese meals made from local ingredients.

Book It Here: Onsen Ryokan Yuen Sapporo

9. Nakamuraya Ryokan

If you want a traditional ryokan that feels like home in Sapporo, check out Nakamuraya Ryokan. It’s also a three-star accommodation, but the amenities and features are more classic and give off a rustic vibe. Additionally, its location is also convenient – about 10 minutes from the train!

Nakamuraya Ryokan’s exterior does not look like any traditional ryokan as it’s part of an entire building. It seems like another establishment in Sapporo. However, once you enter, you’ll feel the warm atmosphere and friendly greeting from the staff. Rooms may be smaller than typical ryokans but are still complete with all the things you need for a relaxing stay.

Nakamuraya Ryokan does not have an onsen or public bath, but it is near many tourist attractions, such as Odori Park and the Hokkaido University Botanical Garden. All guests also receive complimentary breakfast served in the dining hall.

Book It Here: Nakamuraya Ryokan

Niseko Area

10. Zaborin

Zaborin is a luxurious retreat and ryokan experience surrounded by snow-capped mountains and pristine forests. Everything about this accommodation is minimalist yet elegant, from the sophisticated furniture to the warm Japanese hospitality and extravagant amenities.

Zaborin has beautiful villas that combine traditional Japanese style with modern class. These villas are spacious, covered with tatami mats, and have private open-air baths. And the best part is that they offer guests panoramic views of Niseko for relaxation.

Additionally, Zaborin is even more famous because of its unique dining experience. The local chefs source all ingredients from Hokkaido, guaranteeing all dishes are fresh and celebrate authentic Japanese flavors. Zaborin also has a wide selection of activities. Try dipping in natural hot springs or explore nearby hiking trails and ski slopes.

Book It Here: Zaborin

11. Niseko Kyo

One of Niseko’s newest ryokans is Niseko Kyo, a prime accommodation providing ski-to-door access. This three-star accommodation has 22 luxurious and spacious villas complete with top-notch facilities for a full and relaxing stay.

Niseko Kyo combines a distinct Japanese ryokan style with timeless elements to keep up with the trends. It blends timber, limestone, quartz, and marble, creating a sanctuary that can adapt to its natural surroundings. For the interiors, Niseko Kyo has warm and neutral hues that make this ryokan feel more relaxing and intimate.

You have the option to choose American or continental breakfast, but it also has an on-site restaurant that serves fresh Asian cuisine. A hot spring bath is also available.

Book It Here: Niseko Kyo

12. Setsu Niseko

Hailed as a One Michelin Key Hotel, it’s no wonder Setsu Niseko continues to capture the hearts of more tourists and even locals. This luxurious ryokan is set right at the foot of one of the giant mountains in the Niseko area. At night, this elegant accommodation illuminates, featuring one of the best views in the region.

The spacious rooms have traditional Japanese sliding doors. The beds are more modern, with premium bedding to ensure you get the best sleep! Five restaurants are on-site, all serving a wide range of Asian cuisine. You can also try out the fitness center, which has all the gym equipment.

If you’re fortunate, you can get the rooms with the best views of Mount Annupuri and Mount Yotei. Ski access is also a no-brainer, and you can also ask for available bike and ski equipment rentals right in this ryokan.

Book It Here: Setsu Niseko

Lake Akan Onsen Area

13. Akan Yuku no Sato TSURUGA

Akan Yuku no Sato TSURUGA is an extravagant ryokan at the Lake Akan Onsen Area. It’s most famous for the warm hospitality of the staff, but the hot springs are also remarkable! Experience soaking in these baths while admiring the panoramic views of the area’s well-maintained forests and lakes.

Akan Yuku no Sato TSURUGA definitely takes everything to the next level – including the dishes! Kitarikyu Restaurant, the ryokan’s on-site dining selection, serves pure Japanese cuisine with seasonal ingredients. Besides mouthwatering flavors, you’ll love how the chefs craft each dish with a play of colors and designs.

The Japanese-style rooms are elegant yet traditional, and all have tatami mats. For an added element of entertainment, you can also book the sauna or the karaoke room!

Book It Here: Akan Yuku no Sato TSURUGA

Lake Toya Area

14. Lake Toya Tsuruga Resort

Another new addition to the ryokan list in Hokkaido is Lake Toya Tsuruga Resort, a five-star accommodation. Because it’s within a geothermal area, you can enjoy various hot spring baths nearby. But Lake Toya Tsuruga Resort also has its own open-air bath available for reservation.

Room reservations include complimentary breakfast. You may choose between continental and Asian selections. An on-site restaurant serves authentic French cuisine. We suggest speaking with the staff directly to get rooms with beautiful mountain views and spacious balconies.

Book It Here: Lake Toya Tsuruga Resort

Other Area

15. Daisetsuzan Vista Hotel

Finally, Daisetsuzan Vista Hotel might just be the quietest and most peaceful ryokan on this list. Nature and lush landscapes completely surround this accommodation, and it’s not close to any public transportation. Moreover, it’s a 40-minute cab ride from the Asahikawa Airport.

Despite being a ryokan, its decor also exudes classic Western style. Rooms come with free high-quality coffee, and you can also soak in the public onsen. Even better, the open-air bath encourages guests to take a nap while relaxing! You can also reserve any of the private on-site services. Plus, get a free milk ice cream or probiotic milk after taking a bath!

Daisetsuzan Vista Hotel has two on-site restaurants, Nonno, which features Western-style fine dining, and Nupuri, an authentic Japanese dining selection.

Book It Here: Daisetsuzan Vista Hotel

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As one of Japan’s largest islands, it’s no surprise you get to choose from a diverse selection of ryokans, depending on your budget! Try something as luxurious as Akan Yuku no Sato, or go for the more budget-friendly options like Niseko Kyo. Trust me, you can never go wrong with any of our recommendations!

Do you know any other ryokans in Hokkaido worth visiting? Let us know in the comments below! Also, don’t forget to share your thoughts or experience if you have stayed in any of the ryokans on our list!

Another ryokan in Hokkaido worth mentioning is Takinoya Ryokan. Read the full review of Takinoya Ryokan here!