According to the latest data, Hokkaido currently boasts over 30 renowned hot spring destinations, with Noboribetsu, Lake Shikotsu, and Lake Akan being the most recommended by travelers. These traditional Japanese hot spring ryokans combine spectacular natural landscapes with authentic Japanese hospitality, achieving an average guest satisfaction rate of over 90%. To experience a slow journey through the northern country, these hot spring towns are unmissable top choices.
- Noboribetsu Onsen Street: Hell Valley sulfur spring variety, see details
- Lake Shikotsu Onsen: Crystal clear lake water with Japan's highest transparency, see details
- Lake Akan Onsen: Akan deerskin Line ecological secret spot, see details
- Lake Toya Onsen: Volcanic terrain spectacular open-air hot spring, see details
More Hokkaido hot spring hotel recommendations, view complete guide.
When it comes to hot spring accommodations in Japan, Hokkaido may not be the first name that comes to mind, but this vast northern land actually hides many charming Japanese traditional ryokans. Unlike the bustling hot spring areas on Honshu, Hokkaido's hot springs retain a more pristine and serene atmosphere, combined with stunning natural scenery, making the accommodation experience itself an unforgettable journey.Highlights
Hokkaido's Japanese traditional ryokans have several notable characteristics worth introducing:
First is the most stunning open-air hot spring. Many hot spring ryokans in Hokkaido are situated amid natural landscapes, allowing guests to soak in steaming hot spring waters while appreciating primeval forests or snowy mountain views—an experience hard to find in the busy hot spring areas of Honshu. Especially in winter, snow-covered open-air hot springs create a dreamy "snow-viewing hot spring" scenery, representing Hokkaido's unique ultimate enjoyment.
Second is the fresh seafood cuisine. Hokkaido is Japan's premier ingredient treasure trove, with delicious ingredients such as crab, sea urchin, salmon, and scallops delivered directly from neighboring seas to the dining table. Many traditional ryokans serve kaiseki cuisine meticulously prepared with local ingredients, with freshness that leaves a lasting impression.
Third is the spacious and comfortable environment. Compared to traditional ryokans in Kansai or Honshu's hot spring areas with limited land, Hokkaido's abundant space means many hot spring ryokans feature spacious rooms and courtyards, providing a more comfortable and leisurely accommodation experience.
Recommended Locations
Noboribetsu Onsen Town
Noboribetsu is one of Hokkaido's most representative hot spring destinations, featuring well-known attractions such as Hell Valley and Bear Park. This area has an extremely high concentration of traditional ryokans, with "First Takimoto Kan" being a time-honored establishment with over 150 years of history. The ryokan features seven hot spring pools with different therapeutic benefits, a scale rarely seen in Japan. Located at 55 Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido, prices range from ¥15,000 to ¥30,000 per person for one night with two meals.
Lake Toya Onsen
Boasting spectacular views of volcanoes and lakes, Lake Toya is a representative scenic spot in Hokkaido. "Lake Side Tei" by the lakeside is famous for its open-air hot spring facing the lake. Autumn offers maple leaf viewing, while winter nights feature Lake Toya's fireworks display (released nightly from late April to late October). Located at 77 Lake Toya Onsen Street, Toyako-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido, one night with two meals costs approximately ¥18,000 to ¥35,000.
Lake Akan Onsen
Lake Akan is known for its beautiful natural environment and mysterious Akan Blue, surrounded by primeval forests. "Akan Lake So" represents traditional Japanese architecture, with warm wooden structures throughout. Dinner features kaiseki cuisine centered on locally caught fish, showcasing the simple delicious flavors of eastern Hokkaido. Located at 1-1-1 Akan Onsen Street, Kushiro City, Hokkaido, prices range from approximately ¥20,000 to ¥40,000.
Jozankei Onsen
Located only about an hour's drive from Sapporo city center, Jozankei is the most easily accessible hot spring area yet retains a rich hot spring town atmosphere. "Jozankei Dai Hotel" offers private open-air hot springs where guests can stroll through mountain forests, with breathtaking maple leaf views in autumn. Located at 3 Jozankei Onsen Higashi, Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Jozankei View Hotel rates are approximately ¥16,000 to ¥28,000.
Sounkyo Onsen
Located within Daisetsuzan National Park, Sounkyo is known for its spectacular canyon and waterfall scenery. "Sounkyo Choyotei" boasts stunning canyon views, with autumn offering views of mountains covered in colorful maple leaves and winter featuring snow-viewing open-air hot springs. Located at Sounkyo Onsen, Kamikawa-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido, one night with two meals costs approximately ¥14,000 to ¥26,000.
Practical Information
Regarding transportation, the ways to reach various hot spring areas in Hokkaido are as follows: Noboribetsu Onsen can be reached from New Chitose Airport or Sapporo Station via JR to Noboribetsu Station, then transfer to a bus (approximately 20 minutes); Lake Toya can be reached from Sapporo via JR Hokuto Line to Toya Station (approximately 2 hours), then transfer to a bus; Lake Akan requires taking Akan Bus from Kushiro Airport or Kushiro Station (approximately 1 hour); Jozankei can be reached from Sapporo Station via Jotetsu Bus (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes); Sounkyo can be reached from Asahikawa Station via Sounkyo Bus (approximately 1 hour 40 minutes).
Regarding accommodation costs, the price range for traditional Hokkaido ryokans is quite broad. Regular hot spring ryokans with one night and two meals cost approximately ¥10,000 to ¥18,000, mid to high-end ranges from ¥18,000 to ¥30,000, and premium hot spring ryokans may exceed ¥40,000. Peak and off-peak price differences are significant, with winter (December to February) and maple leaf viewing season (mid-October to mid-November) being peak seasons, so advance booking is recommended.
Regarding business hours, hot springs typically check in from 3 PM and check out before 10 AM the next day. Some ryokans offer day-use hot spring services, costing approximately ¥1,000 to ¥3,000.
Travel Tips
There are several details worth noting when visiting Hokkaido's hot springs: When traveling in winter, indoor and outdoor temperature differences are extreme, so it is recommended to carry a warm jacket to avoid catching a cold. Many traditional ryokans serve dinner relatively early, usually starting between 6 PM and 7 PM, so it is advisable to confirm the timing in advance to arrange your schedule.
Regarding bookings, popular hot spring ryokans in Hokkaido are often fully booked, especially during holidays and snow-viewing seasons, so it is best to book 1 to 2 months in advance. Some ryokans offer free pickup service from the station, which can be confirmed at the time of booking.
Finally, it is important to note that most hot springs in Hokkaido are public bathing facilities. Please be sure to wash your body thoroughly before entering and observe hot spring etiquette to make your hot spring trip more fulfilling.
