If you have been wondering where you can soak yourself and find peace in Japan’s famous hot springs, Hokkaido is definitely the place you should be looking for. Right in the heart of this extraordinary island is Noboribetsu, a hidden gem surrounded by lush leafy forests and majestic nature beauty. And to make your experience even more memorable, why not stay in Takinoya, a natural splendor for all seasons?

Takinoya is nestled in Noboribetsu’s resort area, setting foreigners and locals abuzz with its tranquil beauty and serene surroundings. To get the most out of your cultural Japanese experience, Takinoya Ryokans have become famous among tourists, combining modern and traditional art in their zen spaces.

Still curious to know more? Continue reading to discover what makes these Takinoya ryokans special and worth visiting.

History & Concept

Takinoya ryokans feature simple yet elegant interior spaces, where hallways are covered with tatami, which are rush-covered straw mats boasting traditional Japanese culture. Unlike other ryokans where guests are used to walking in slippers, those staying here can walk around in special socks or even bare feet.

The Suga family are the owners, featuring five generations of Japanese hospitality. Plus, did you know that Takinoya began as a local restaurant in 1918? Today, just like other ryokans, you may discover more about omotenashi, a Japanese take on hotel hospitality.

The prime seasons to visit Takinoya ryokans are spring and summer, so you can truly appreciate the beauty and lushness of the surroundings. While it may get extra cold during the winter season, some guests still enjoy because it can get quieter and more peaceful. The blankets of snow surrounding the outdoor space are also admirable. To witness the magical shifting of foliage colors from summer green to blazing red, visit Takinoya in autumn.

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Location

Takinoya Ryokan is right in the heart of Southern Noboribetsu, 45 kilometers from Lake Toya. It can normally take an hour to head to New Chitose Airport, the nearest airport, so make sure to plan well your itinerary before heading to the Ryokan.

What’s great about its location is that there can be quite a few convenience stores nearby, especially 7-11. If you’re planning to stay for a couple of days, this could be a great option to score quick yet delicious meals when you grow tired of the onsen baths.

Other popular attractions near Takinoya are Yuzaea Shrine, Sengen Park, and Noboribetsu Hell Valley. Additionally, because Takinoya’s location can get less crowded than other onsen towns, you can expect the prices of the Ryokans to be a bit more affordable.

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Ryokan Facilities

You’ll be glad to know that Takinoya Ryokan offers free WiFi for all guests! Guests are also given free private parking spaces.

The Japanese Garden at Takinoya Ryokan is also a sight to admire, with the inner courtyard graced by traditional stone lanterns. Indulge in a peaceful afternoon sitting by the garden and listening to the serene running water.

Besides traditional onsens, there are also spa services, including head, body, and foot massages, salt oil treatments, and aromatherapy – all these you can enjoy at Takinoya’s Treatment Salon Spa.

A welcoming counter bar also exists at Takinoya Ryokan, where you are greeted with unique alcoholic beverages served from cedar slabs. You can also purchase your own drinks, local crafts, and specialty foods from a local Japanese store nearby.

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Onsen

Generally speaking, the onsens at Takinoya are more cloudy and sulfuric than the usual onsens in Japan. But fear not, because the experience is just as relaxing. You need to try all the onsen baths at Takinoya Ryokan because they feature five different water types, all from the renowned Jigokudani source. All have varying mineral content, alkalinity, and acidity that make your body and mind feel more at ease and peaceful.

You can have the best experience at Takinoya’s private onsen, with slits or windows you could freely open to witness the stunning Hokkaido scene. The public onsens are just as mesmerizing, where you could still enjoy your own privacy without having to talk to people you don’t know.

The onsens at the top floor feature an outdoor bath with walls and a roof made of cave-like black stones. At the same time, onsens at the lower level feature rocky bathing pools with natural water that can help with common body pains and fatigue.

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Rooms

There are 6 types of rooms suitable for all types of guests. They mainly differ in size and additional facilities that could elevate your overall stay. All rooms are padded with tatami, are air-conditioned, and equipped with a flat-screen TV and an electric kettle.

However, there are no private baths, so you have to head to the bathhouse to shower. Guests are also served with breakfast and dinner in each of the rooms at Takinoya Ryokan.

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Food & Cuisine

What guests love about Takinoya Ryokan is the diversity in its menu and dish options. You get breakfast and dinner each day, and you’ll be surprised to know that they serve different types of food every day. Dinner served is typically Japanese haute cuisine emphasizing traditional Hokkaido dishes.

Genseirin, the famous on-site restaurant, features high-ceiling windows. Best-selling dishes include fresh fish, tender steak, and succulent veggies. Dishes are more commonly served in courses, so you get to experience each one from the appetizer down to the dessert.

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There you have it – a quick round-up of Takinoya Ryokan, a relaxing getaway when you want to escape the hustle in big cities and unwind. This traditional accommodation is not your typical hotel stay – with calming onsens and purely Japanese rooms that can make you feel like a true local.

The authentic Hokkaido cuisine at Takinoya Ryokan is also to die for, alongside its spacious and homey rooms and calming spa experience.

Have you been to Takinoya Ryokan? What are your thoughts? Let us hear about them by leaving a comment below!

Want more recommendations of Japanese inns in the same area? Check out our list of the 7 best ryokans in Noboribetsu. We also have a nice selection of the best ryokans in Hokkaido here!

Your first time staying at a Ryokan? Discover the right etiquette and proper manners to remember by reading our posts about ryokan etiquette and onsen etiquette.