Horoshin Onsen Hotarukan
7,6/10 Very good - Based on 31 reviews
Horoshin Onsen Hotarukan sits quietly within a forested valley near Numata and presents a straightforward, service-focused stay centered on its thermal offerings. The property operates a public hot spring complex with indoor and open-air baths that overlook the river and surrounding ridgeline; the source is described as a mildly sulfurous cold mineral spring and the spa complex also includes a sauna and a thermal stone mist facility that uses locally sourced bedrock minerals. From early July to early August the adjacent grounds host a seasonal firefly garden and learning pavilion, making the site a seasonal draw for nature-focused visitors.
Guest accommodation ranges from western twin rooms to Japanese-style and mixed suites, each room equipped with standard amenities such as Wi‑Fi and climate control, and most include private washrooms. Communal facilities include a restaurant serving produce from the local area, a small games room and massage services, and practical features like free parking, an elevator and an EV charging point. The ryokan’s public bathing schedule and day-use bathing hours are set to accommodate both overnight guests and local day visitors, and the front desk offers basic concierge support and group shuttle arrangements under specific conditions.
Positioned roughly two hours by car from Sapporo and under an hour from Asahikawa, Horoshin Onsen Hotarukan fits the profile of a countryside ryokan with onsen in Numata, Hokkaido, offering an accessible base for light outdoor activities. Nearby attractions include lakeside park golf and campground facilities, a small fossil-experience museum and a dam with short walking trails; the combination of accessible natural features and on-site bathing makes it a practical choice for travelers seeking a measured, regionally grounded hot-spring experience.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Horoshin Onsen Hotarukan
Positive Reviews
Kind and helpful staff
Multiple guests praised attentive, considerate staff who helped with requests and made guests feel welcome.
Clean and well-kept facilities
Several reviews mentioned the property felt clean and tidy, with a pleasant overall cleanliness and atmosphere.
Relaxing onsen and hot-spring facilities
Guests enjoyed the onsen (including outdoor baths) and found the hot-spring experience relaxing and high quality.
Spacious rooms and facilities
Many guests noted roomy accommodations and expansive common areas, contributing to a comfortable stay.
Family-friendly, welcoming atmosphere
Visitors said the ryokan felt warm and family-like, suitable for families with children and creating a relaxed mood.
Negative Reviews
No slippers with no-shoes policy
One guest strongly objected to the absence of slippers in a no-shoes environment, reporting discomfort and hygiene concerns while walking barefoot in rooms and corridors.
Restaurant limitations and food stock problems
Several reviews reported issues with dining: limited menu options, out-of-stock ingredients leading to small portions, and policies preventing non-meal-plan guests from ordering in the restaurant.
Missing small amenities and inconsistent room supplies
Guests noted missing items such as hand soap in rooms and a hairbrush/brush in the large bath area; one also reported abrasive bed linens and another found a cigarette butt in the room.
Wayfinding and footwear signage unclear
Some guests found it confusing whether shoes were allowed when moving between buildings and found the shoe locker/box process inconvenient.
Occasional maintenance or comfort issues
A few guests encountered problems like heating being turned off (staff provided a portable heater), perception of outdated equipment in places, and staff monitoring meal service timing that made dining feel uncomfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most standard rooms are set up for two guests; children are welcome but the ryokan does not offer extra beds or cribs.
The property offers public hot spring baths, an open‑air bath, a large bathhouse with a sauna and a cold bath, and a hot‑stone sauna; massage services are also available.
Private/family baths are not clearly listed on public booking pages, so please contact the ryokan directly to request or confirm availability.
A regular shuttle is not advertised for individual travelers; some reports note shuttle options for large groups, while public town buses and car access are the usual ways to reach the ryokan.
Asahikawa Airport is the nearest major airport at about 42 miles, roughly 60–75 minutes by car; Sapporo is around a two‑hour drive depending on traffic.
English is limited at the ryokan; staff can assist with basic needs, so bringing a translation app or a few key Japanese phrases is recommended.
Nearby options include local museums, Numata town attractions and Horoshin Dam, and seasonal highlights like firefly viewing in early July to early August.
There is no direct train to the ryokan; take JR to nearby stations (e.g., Ebishima/Ishikari‑Numata) and then the Numata town bus to the Horoshin Onsen stop, or use a rental car or taxi.
Check‑in is typically between 15:00 and 20:00 and check‑out is by 10:00; the property entrance is usually closed between 23:00 and 05:00, so plan arrivals accordingly.
Pets are not allowed and events/parties are restricted; the ryokan has an on‑site restaurant with a breakfast buffet and usually offers dinner plans, while small shops and convenience stores are available in the nearby town for basic supplies.