Okujozankei Onsen Kasho Gyoen
9,5/10 Exceptional - Based on 136 reviews
Okujozankei Onsen Kasho Gyoen is set within the primeval woodland of Shikotsu‑Toya National Park, occupying a carefully preserved garden and a large reflective pond that frame the building’s minimalist interiors. Reopened in its current form in 2018, the property blends natural materials such as oak, ash and local soft stone with a restrained contemporary design; public spaces include a library, a sunken hearth and a raised “Breeze Terrace” that looks over the garden. Practical conveniences include a daily shuttle (reservation required), on‑site parking and round‑the‑clock reception.
The ryokan offers 23 Japanese‑style suites, each designed to maximize the view of the surrounding forest and to deliver an in‑room bathing experience: every guest room contains an en‑suite open‑air hot‑spring bath fed directly from the local Usubetsu source. Rooms are equipped with climate control, a kettle and refrigerator, a safe and a private bathroom with bidet; guests commonly cite the seclusion of the suites and the ease of accessing the hot water from the room as defining features. Spa treatments and luggage assistance are available on request, and staff assist with local activities and transport arrangements.
Food is presented through a seasonal course menu that pairs Hokkaido produce with Italian cooking techniques and a curated wine list, while breakfast is offered à la carte or with lighter Asian options. The property suits guests seeking a calm, nature‑centred stay with direct access to thermal water and nearby outdoor pursuits such as hiking and skiing. For travellers who search for a ryokan with private onsen, Kasho Gyoen demonstrates how secluded, room‑attached baths can be integrated with designed garden views; it also serves as a useful point of comparison for those researching ryokan with onsen in Aomori.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Okujozankei Onsen Kasho Gyoen
Positive Reviews
Exceptional, attentive staff and service
Multiple reviewers praised the team for being friendly, helpful and highly professional—staff go out of their way to assist with sightseeing, bookings and guest needs, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
High-quality, delicious meals
Guests highlighted excellent food across breakfast and dinner (including distinctive Italian dinners and varied breakfasts), noting well‑prepared dishes and generous, flavorful ingredients that exceeded expectations.
Private in‑room onsen and relaxing bathing experience
Many stays emphasized the private hot spring baths in rooms as a major draw—clean, relaxing and perfect for enjoying views or snowfall in privacy.
Beautiful, peaceful mountain/forest location and views
The property’s setting in the woods/mountains provides stunning scenery and a tranquil atmosphere; reviewers found it ideal for relaxation and special occasions like honeymoons.
Clean, comfortable rooms and useful guest amenities
Rooms were described as spacious, well furnished and very clean, with comfortable beds and large windows. Guests also appreciated practical extras (self‑service washer/dryer, complimentary coffee, night snacks) that added convenience.
Negative Reviews
Remote location — car recommended
Several guests noted the hotel is off the beaten path and that a car (or taxi) is advisable to visit nearby attractions; lack of nearby restaurants and transport options can limit independent exploration.
Limited on‑site facilities and activities
Reviewers mentioned few facilities (e.g., no fitness centre or extensive public areas) so there isn’t much to do on site beyond relaxing, which some view as a feature but others as a limitation for longer stays.
Laundry capacity can be insufficient at busy times
Although washers and dryers are available, guests reported long waits when the property is full because there are few machines, suggesting capacity can be an issue.
Dinner variety and portion comments for longer stays
A few guests found multi‑night dinner menus somewhat repetitive (similar sauces/dishes across nights) and one review mentioned portions could be small; some would like more variety across consecutive nights.
Occasional communication and logistical hiccups
A minority of guests experienced language or communication difficulties when contacting staff in advance, and there were isolated practical issues (e.g., taxi toll/payment arrangements, an AC becoming stuffy at night) that caused minor inconvenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kasho Gyoen has 23 Japanese-suite rooms; most rooms are designed for two adults and the property generally accepts children aged 13 and older.
Yes — every guest room features an en-suite open-air hot-spring bath drawing from the local Usubetsu spring.
All rooms include private open-air baths for guests; the ryokan also offers spa and in-room massage treatments for additional privacy and relaxation.
The property lists a shuttle service; guests should request and confirm shuttle pickup times and locations in advance.
The ryokan is in Jozankei about 30–40 km from central Sapporo; typical options are highway bus or taxi from Sapporo, a direct drive of around 60–90 minutes from New Chitose, or the hotel shuttle if prearranged.
Japanese is the primary language, and staff can assist in English; other language support such as Chinese or Korean may be available.
Dinner is served at the on-site restaurant featuring seasonal Hokkaido ingredients with an Italian-influenced menu, and breakfast is offered on property with local-style options; notify the hotel ahead for dietary needs.
Pets are not permitted on the property; since every room has a private onsen, you effectively have a private bath with your room and can book private spa treatments if desired.
The ryokan sits inside Shikotsu-Toya National Park with garden and forest walks, a scenic pond, nearby Jozankei Dam, seasonal hiking and skiing opportunities, and village hot-spring sights to explore.
Standard check-in starts at 14:00 with check-out around 11:00; late arrivals should be advised to the hotel in advance. There are limited shops on-site, so guests can ask the front desk for the nearest convenience stores in Jozankei village or bring essentials with them.