Sanyoan
9,5/10 Exceptional - Based on 40 reviews
Sanyoan is a compact, design-led ryokan set in the Tokachigawa Onsen area of Hokkaido, offering a calm, small-scale retreat rooted in local craftsmanship and quiet hospitality. The property centres on Tokachigawa’s distinctive botanical moor hot springs, a rare type of onsen prized for its organic, skin-smoothing qualities, and presents both communal bathing spaces and guest-room baths that bring that moor water directly to guests. Architecturally the inn blends natural timbers and plaster with subtle, indirect lighting conceived to create a relaxing atmosphere; interiors feature handcrafted Japanese paper, pine floors and tatami to reinforce a deliberately slow pace. This ryokan with onsen in Hokkaido emphasises thoughtful details rather than volume: there are only eleven guestrooms, each shaped to feel private and restorative.
Guest accommodation ranges from tatami-style rooms to suites with outdoor hinoki tubs, and most room types include private moor-spring baths or open-air bathtubs on the veranda, allowing in-room relaxation without the crowds of a large facility. Bedding, yukata and a choice of pillows are curated to individual comfort, while the dining programme focuses on seasonal Tokachi produce delivered through a kaiseki-style meal prepared in an open kitchen; breakfast options include Japanese and Western choices. Onsite services extend to a supervised aromatherapy salon, a small bar for local sake and wines, and a library space for quiet reading—amenities that underline the ryokan’s wellness-orientated offering.
Practical details reflect the property’s countryside setting: there is on-site parking and concierge assistance, and the nearest regional airport and rail links provide straightforward access for travelers heading into the Tokachi plain. The atmosphere suits couples, small family groups or solo guests seeking restorative time framed by nature; activities in the wider area include gentle hiking, cycling and seasonal sightseeing across Tokachi’s agricultural landscapes. As a focused, well-appointed ryokan with private onsen in Hokkaido, Sanyoan is positioned for visitors who prioritise serene bathing experiences, local cuisine and considered hospitality.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Sanyoan
Positive Reviews
Attentive, friendly service
Many guests praised the staff for being warm, considerate and highly attentive — helpful at check‑in/out, thoughtful with luggage and service throughout the stay.
Excellent, creative cuisine
Food repeatedly described as outstanding (kaiseki dinners, breakfasts) using fresh local ingredients with attractive presentation; several guests called the meals a highlight.
Very good onsen experience
Reviews highlight the quality of the hot springs — large communal baths, pleasant private hinoki baths and smooth water — providing a relaxing bathing experience.
Comfortable, characterful rooms
Rooms are described as comfortable and distinctive (some with in‑room baths), contributing to a calm, relaxing atmosphere appreciated by many guests.
Thoughtful extras and helpful transport
Guests noted small touches such as welcome drinks, complimentary drink bar and helpful staff/driver assistance (including shuttle or support to bus/train), which enhanced the overall stay.
Negative Reviews
Blackout/early morning light issues
At least one guest reported blackout panels were not effective, causing early wake‑ups from sunrise (around 05:30).
Private outdoor bath requires filling and waiting
A reviewer noted the open‑air hot spring must be filled for each use and needs time to cool before reuse, which can require waiting between uses.
Occasional room odors on arrival
A few comments mentioned an initial musty or sewage‑like smell when first entering the room, which affected first impressions for some guests.
Road noise at some rooms
One guest found road noise from nearby traffic louder than expected, suggesting noise can be an issue depending on room location.
Limited/variable amenities (sauna, smoking area)
A few guests noted drawbacks such as sauna access being unavailable during maintenance and smoking facilities located at a neighboring building, which some found inconvenient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types range from twin and Japanese-style rooms (up to four futons) to suites and a maisonette that can sleep up to six; family rooms are available for larger groups.
Sanyoan features a rare botanical moor hot spring with public baths, an open-air bath and hinoki (cypress) bathing options; some rooms also offer private in-room baths.
There is no regularly advertised airport shuttle; guests should contact the property in advance to request transfer assistance or arrange pickup/drop-off.
Tokachi-Obihiro Airport is the closest, roughly 35 km (about 22 miles) from the ryokan; travel by taxi or bus from the airport is common.
Japanese is the primary language, and staff are widely reported as helpful; English assistance is generally available for basic guest needs, but notify the ryokan in advance for special requests.
Sanyoan offers a traditional ryokan atmosphere with yukata, a curated library and onsen rituals; meals emphasize local ingredients and are highly rated by guests, with breakfast and evening dining provided on site.
The ryokan sits in the Tokachigawa Onsen area, close to the Tokachi River and local hiking and cycling routes; nearby Obihiro and regional attractions such as farms, parks and seasonal events are easy day trips.
Take a train to Obihiro Station, then use regional buses or a taxi to Tokachigawa Onsen; timetables vary, so plan connections in advance.
Standard check-in begins at 15:00 (guests are usually asked to arrive by 19:00) and check-out is by 11:00.
Some suites include private in-room or open-air baths and public baths are available for guests; pets are not allowed, and the property has a small on-site minimarket while convenience stores and local shops are nearby.