層雲峡温泉 ホテル雲井
8,8/10 Excellent - Based on 118 reviews
Hotel Kumoi sits in the heart of Sounkyo Onsen, framed by the sheer cliffs and alpine peaks of the Daisetsuzan range. A small, time‑worn mountain inn, it has been carefully reshaped in recent years and now operates with a reduced, more intimate room count of around thirty‑three; a modest renovation was completed in April 2018. The property occupies a central village position within easy walking distance of the Kurodake ropeway and the Sounkyo bus terminal, making it a practical base for day hikes and photography along the gorge.
Accommodation leans on traditional Japanese elements: tatami floors, futon bedding and compact, thoughtfully arranged rooms where some units include a private bathroom while others use shared facilities. The defining feature is the natural sulfur spring drawn directly from the source; public onsen baths are presented as restorative, with water described as rich and calming. Shared spaces are intentionally homely — a lounge with evening refreshments and occasional local tastings, a small bar, a theatre room and recreational options such as billiards — plus complimentary Wi‑Fi and onsite parking.
The hotel’s location makes it especially suitable for visitors planning to explore Mount Kurodake, nearby waterfalls and the wider national park: the ropeway is a minute’s walk and key trailheads are minutes away by car. Local staff focus on simple, seasonal Hokkaido cuisine served in set meals that emphasize regional ingredients, and the atmosphere is aimed at travelers seeking a quiet, restorative mountain stay rather than elaborate luxury. This compact ryokan with onsen Aomori keyword appeal offers a straightforward, nature‑centred onsen experience for hikers and cultural travellers alike.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: 層雲峡温泉 ホテル雲井
Positive Reviews
Attentive, English‑speaking staff
Multiple reviews praise very friendly, helpful and attentive staff who communicate in English, assist with travel issues (e.g., rental car problems) and provide personalized recommendations.
Excellent location next to the ropeway/tourist center
The hotel is right by the ropeway station and in the heart of Sounkyo Onsen, making it extremely convenient for hikers and sightseers and an often‑mentioned highlight.
Clean, comfortable traditional rooms
Guests report tidy, comfortable rooms in a Japanese style (futons/mats), often describing them as cosy, well‑kept and suitable for rest despite modest size.
Quality onsen and bathing experience
The onsen is described as pleasant, with good water (sulfur scent noted), multiple temperature options and an overall relaxing effect on skin; guests appreciated the communal baths.
Thoughtful extras and cozy common areas
Reviewers liked the welcoming touches (welcome tea, fruit liquor/vinegar, DIY scrubs), free evening drinks, afternoon tea, a cosy lounge and useful communal facilities (billard), contributing to strong value and atmosphere.
Negative Reviews
Small rooms and futon setup
Several guests mention rooms are small. Some stays required guests to lay out their own futons, which some found inconvenient compared with other hotels that set them up.
Light soundproofing — noise from neighbours
As is common in some Japanese properties, a few reviewers noted weak sound insulation and that neighbouring guests could be heard, affecting quietness at times.
Limited dining options or no dinner service at times
A number of guests noted restricted on‑site dinner availability on certain nights and few nearby restaurants, so dining choices can be limited unless planned in advance.
Restricted onsen hours
One review pointed out the public bath schedule is limited (example given: early morning and mid/late afternoon/evening ranges), which may not suit all guest schedules.
Occasional room odour / older areas needing upgrades
A minority of guests reported unpleasant smells or ventilation issues in rooms and suggested some older facilities could use upgrades or improved ventilation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are mainly traditional tatami rooms furnished with futons; options range from single rooms to twin and triple rooms that sleep up to three guests, and a small number of family-style rooms are available.
The hotel uses a 100% free-flowing natural sulfur spring with mildly alkaline water noted for being gentle on skin; it is described as safe and soothing for children and guests with sensitive skin.
There is no regular airport shuttle listed; the property is an easy 3-minute walk from Sounkyo Bus Terminal, so most guests arrive by regional bus or taxi from nearby transport hubs.
Asahikawa Airport is about 71 km away; common routes are airport transfers or trains to Kamikawa followed by a local bus to Sounkyo, or a direct taxi from the station or airport to Sounkyo village.
Yes — the hotel provides English-language information and staff who speak English are available to assist guests.
Expect a modest, authentic ryokan atmosphere with tatami-floored rooms, futon bedding, simple thoughtful service, and meals focused on seasonal Hokkaido ingredients rather than luxury frills.
The Daisetsuzan Sounkyo Kurodake Ropeway is essentially adjacent, and famous sights like Ginga and Ryusei waterfalls and the Sounkyo Gorge are a short drive or walk away.
The hotel sits in the center of Sounkyo village within a few minutes’ walk of the bus terminal and ropeway, and on-site parking is provided for guests arriving by car.
Standard check-in begins in the afternoon (around 15:00) with check-out in the morning (around 10:00); guests are typically allowed to use the onsen facilities after leaving their rooms on departure day.
The property highlights public natural onsen rather than dedicated private onsen; major listings do not advertise pet-friendly rooms, and there are a few small shops and restaurants in Sounkyo village within walking distance for basic supplies and dining.