Midorinokaze Resort Kitayuzawa
8,6/10 Excellent - Based on 555 reviews
Midorinokaze Resort Kitayuzawa sits in a wooded valley of Date in Hokkaido, positioned for easy access to the natural attractions of the Shikotsu‑Toya area. The property presents a large resort scale with roughly 178 rooms that blend Western beds and tatami seating areas, plus a selection of rooms with private bath options for quieter, in‑room soaking. Public areas are arranged to take advantage of the surrounding forest: broad lobbies, lounges and dining zones open onto views that change markedly with the seasons, from verdant summer canopy to clear winter snowscape.
The resort’s bathing facilities are the principal draw: a substantial open‑air bath complex, multiple themed outdoor pools and a variety of individual-style baths are arranged around wooden decks and garden paths to create a step‑by‑step onsen experience. Complementing the hot springs are indoor baths, a foot bath and a modern sauna program added recently, together forming a comprehensive spa circuit. For search visibility, this property functions as a ryokan with onsen Hokkaido visitors can reach by regional bus or drive; day‑use bathing and family‑friendly bathing options are commonly available.
Dining is offered across several on‑site restaurants with buffet and plated choices that emphasize local produce alongside international dishes, plus a patisserie for fresh desserts. Practical services include a paid shuttle link and airport transfer options, free parking and seasonal activities that range from guided nature walks to nearby adventure attractions. The resort’s combination of extensive communal bathing, varied room types and forested setting makes it a practical choice for travellers seeking a full‑service onsen resort experience in Hokkaido.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Midorinokaze Resort Kitayuzawa
Positive Reviews
Exceptional onsen & outdoor baths
Many reviewers highlight the variety and quality of the hot-spring facilities—large outdoor rotenburo, multiple scented/colored baths, private onsen options and relaxing night/day atmospheres. Guests repeatedly call the onsen the main attraction.
Very good food and buffet variety
Buffet breakfast and dinner receive strong praise for selection and quality; several guests also enjoyed upgraded kaiseki meals and special dishes prepared by the chef, describing meals as abundant and satisfying diverse tastes.
Beautiful natural setting and views
Guests appreciate the resort’s location in nature—forest and snowy views, starry skies and pleasant walking spots—often preferring it to nearby more touristy, concrete areas.
Friendly, professional staff and warm service
Multiple reviews note helpful, polite and attentive staff; some guests mention special welcome touches and memorable interactions with kitchen staff, contributing to an authentic, relaxing experience.
Spacious property and comfortable amenities
Reviewers like the generous property layout, parking and communal spaces. Many found rooms comfortable or spacious, and praised amenities such as private baths, shuttle service and family-friendly facilities.
Negative Reviews
Rooms and bathrooms can feel dated or small
Several guests reported aging or worn room features—small bathrooms, old fixtures, thin futons, musty tatami smells and stains—suggesting some rooms need refurbishment or deeper cleaning.
Can be crowded and noisy at times
A number of reviews mention the large complex attracts many visitors (including tour groups), producing noise and a less intimate atmosphere during busy periods.
Missing or limited wellness/fitness services
Some guests were disappointed by the absence of spa/massage facilities and a fitness centre, which they expected for multi-night stays.
Extra charges and unclear fees
Reviewers complained about pay-per-use for certain activities and a hot-spring tax that was not clearly communicated at booking or arrival, causing surprise at checkout.
Remote location with limited nearby activities
While the setting is peaceful, several guests noted the hotel is far from other attractions and restaurants; without a car the area can feel limited when baths are closed or for longer stays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types range from twin and premium rooms for 1–4 guests to larger Japanese-style rooms that can accommodate groups of about 5–8; please state the exact number and ages of children when you book.
The resort features public indoor and open-air hot-spring baths, a foot bath and a sauna, alongside a selection of communal bathing areas for guests to enjoy.
Yes — some executive and special rooms include a private in-room hot-spring bath; contact the front desk to ask about private/family-bath options and availability.
Scheduled shuttle services run between the hotel and New Chitose Airport and JR Sapporo Station; these run on fixed timetables and must be reserved in advance.
There is no hotel pickup from JR Date-Mombetsu Station; guests typically use a Donan bus (about 50 minutes to the Kitayuzawa Onsen stop) or a taxi (roughly 40 minutes).
Check-in is generally from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM and check-out is by 11:00 AM; please notify the hotel in advance if you expect to arrive late.
The resort has several on-site restaurants including a buffet restaurant, a traditional set-menu (kaiseki) option and a café; notify the hotel of dietary needs or restaurant changes in advance.
English information is available on the hotel’s English site and front-desk staff can assist in English for common requests; for detailed cultural questions or complex requests, a translation app or written notes can be helpful.
The property welcomes families and offers baby rooms and larger multi-person Japanese rooms; always provide the number and ages of children when booking so the hotel can prepare appropriate bedding and baby equipment.
The resort is close to Shikotsu‑Toya National Park, about a 30‑minute drive to Lake Toya and roughly 10 minutes to Sangaitaki Park; free on-site parking is available and the front desk can point you to the nearest convenience store or supermarket.