Bourou NOGUCHI Noboribetsu (Adult Only)
8,5/10 Excellent - Based on 30 reviews
Bourou NOGUCHI Noboribetsu is an adult-only ryokan set above the steam-scarred valley of Noboribetsu in Hokkaido that blends restrained modernism with Japanese detail. Suites are the property’s focus and each is arranged around a private thermal bath: large windows frame mountain or forest views while an in-room onsen invites long, quiet soaks. The hotel presents itself as a ryokan with private onsen in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido and keeps a reservation-led rhythm that limits public circulation to preserve a calm, restorative atmosphere.
Room categories stretch from compact junior suites to expansive executive suites, all appointed with hardwood floors, separate living areas, yukata robes and complimentary beverages; many suites include tatami areas and massage chairs. Beyond the private in-room baths guests can reserve the open-air baths, a stone sauna or a bedrock bath for private use, and a spa menu provides massages and therapies on request. Dining follows a seasonal, multi-course pattern served in private dining booths assigned per suite, allowing guests to experience refined Japanese and fusion cuisine without leaving their party.
Practical amenities include free Wi‑Fi, on-site parking and a shuttle service to major transit points available by advance reservation, and the property enforces an over‑13 age policy to maintain its adult-oriented tone. The location places guests within easy reach of the volcanic Jigokudani (Hell Valley) and the wider Noboribetsu Onsen area, making this ryokan with onsen in Hokkaido a quiet base for hot-spring trails and nearby attractions. Overall, expect a curated stay centred on privacy, thermal bathing and seasonally driven cuisine.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Bourou NOGUCHI Noboribetsu (Ad…
Positive Reviews
High-quality, artful meals
Multiple guests praised the food as delicious and beautifully presented, often likening the meals to kaiseki standards; breakfast and dinner were highlighted as a major strength.
Excellent onsen (private and outdoor)
Reviewers repeatedly praised the hot spring water and facilities — private in-room baths and the outdoor onsen were especially appreciated, with some noting 24-hour warm flow.
Friendly, helpful staff
Staff were described as genuinely kind and attentive; reviewers noted helpful, patient service even for guests who don’t speak Japanese.
Spacious, comfortable rooms and premium dining environment
Guests reported roomy, clean accommodations and a high-quality dining atmosphere; the property felt luxurious and relaxing for short retreats.
Peaceful, restorative setting
Many found the ryokan exclusive, quiet and ideal for relaxation or a short restorative getaway.
Negative Reviews
Not accommodating to dietary restrictions
At least one guest with coeliac disease reported poor accommodation for gluten-free needs and warned that the property may not be suitable for guests with serious allergies.
Location and accessibility limitations
Several reviews mentioned limited nearby shopping, a somewhat remote setting, and difficulty walking to attractions in icy conditions; one comment also noted an indistinct, dimly lit entrance.
Maintenance and cleanliness concerns in spots
Some guests reported issues such as unpleasant odor in the elevator, stains or old marks in room baths, and an aged/dated feel to private shower facilities.
Smoking smell and policy inconsistency
A few reviewers experienced strong cigarette odours in rooms that were presented as non-smoking, and noted ashtrays or lighters present, causing discomfort.
Amenity/portion mismatches
Isolated reports noted advertised amenities missing in-room (e.g., massage chair not present on arrival) and that kaiseki portions may be small for big eaters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The property is listed as adult-only and requires a minimum age to check in (guests should confirm the exact minimum when booking).
Most suites are designed for two adults; selected luxury suites with a tatami area can accommodate up to four guests. Check the specific room type when booking.
Yes. Every suite includes its own outlook hot-spring bath for private use, in addition to the hotel’s public baths and open-air onsen.
In-room baths are private by default; the hotel also offers public indoor and open-air baths and reservable relaxation menus such as a stone sauna (advance reservation may be required).
Yes. The hotel runs a shuttle between New Chitose Airport and JR Sapporo Station and the ryokan; seats are limited and must be reserved in advance, with designated pickup points at the airport arrival lobby and Sapporo station.
Jigokudani (Hell Valley) is about a 15-minute walk from the property, and Noboribetsu Bear Park is a short funicular ride away, making major local sights easily reachable.
The property serves kaiseki-style meals that blend Hokkaido ingredients with Japanese and Western influences, often in private dining rooms; a bar and light lounge services are also available.
Pets are not accepted. There are convenience stores and local shops in the Noboribetsu Onsen area within a short walk or drive, with larger supermarkets located in central Noboribetsu.
Standard check-in is in the afternoon and guests are asked to inform the hotel of their expected arrival time; check-out is in the morning. Specific hours and late-arrival instructions should be confirmed at booking.
The hotel provides English-language information on its website and staff can assist international guests, though the level of English may vary; it is advisable to communicate special requests in advance.
