Kashoutei Hanaya
8,9/10 Excellent - Based on 610 reviews
Kashoutei Hanaya is a compact, 21-room ryokan with onsen in Noboribetsu that combines traditional Japanese-inn layouts with contemporary comforts. The property emphasizes private in-room dining, offering seasonal multicourse kaiseki presented on original Arita-yaki tableware, and presents a modest garden and lounge areas intended for quiet relaxation. Guestrooms span Japanese, Western and hybrid styles, and an executive floor provides added amenities such as espresso machines and complimentary local confections; the atmosphere is intentionally small-scale and service-focused rather than grand.
The hot springs are drawn directly from Jigokudani and supplied as 100% free-flowing sulfur water, producing the milky-white baths characteristic of the area; guests can use indoor and open-air communal baths and can also book private bathing sessions where available. The onsen is complemented by a sauna, spa treatments and a post-bath lounge that overlooks the garden, allowing multiple visits throughout a stay. These facilities suit travellers seeking a ryokan with onsen Hokkaido experience focused on thermal therapy and local mineral benefits.
Practical services include a limited-seat pickup from JR Noboribetsu Station by reservation, a daytime self-service drink buffet and staff assistance with short transfers to nearby attractions such as Hell Valley, the bear park and local shrines. Guides and association listings note accessibility features (no-step entrance, wheelchair support) and small, attentive service standards; the property’s compact scale, in-room meals and available private-bath options make it convenient for visitors who prefer quieter evenings and easy access to Noboribetsu’s hot spring town.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Kashoutei Hanaya
Positive Reviews
Very good onsen (hot spring) experience
Multiple guests praised the onsen as relaxing, clean and authentic — an enjoyable place to unwind. Although the baths are small, visitors appreciated the calm atmosphere, late opening hours and even that tattooed guests were allowed in some facilities.
Outstanding meals (kaiseki) and breakfast
Many reviews highlight exceptional dinners and breakfasts, often served in-room in traditional style. Food was described as carefully presented, local, seasonal and memorable.
Attentive, helpful and welcoming staff
Staff were repeatedly described as very friendly, attentive and service-oriented — helping with station pickups/shuttle, luggage, local directions, special requests (e.g., vegetarian meals) and small thoughtful gestures like umbrellas.
Complimentary drinks and small extras
Guests appreciated free drinks available in the lobby (sake, beer, coffee) and other thoughtful touches (beer offered, snacks, assistance preparing brought items), which added value to the stay.
Traditional, clean and comfortable ryokan with pleasant setting
Reviewers liked the ryokan’s traditional, cosy atmosphere, tidy rooms and comfortable bedding. The property’s garden, quieter vibe compared with larger resorts, and good value for the area were also noted.
Negative Reviews
Onsen and facilities can be small or dated
Several guests noted the onsen is quite small and can feel limited in capacity; a few mentioned parts of the onsen or exterior could benefit from refreshing or updating.
Remote location relative to main sights
Multiple reviews mention the ryokan is a bit removed — typically a 15–20 minute walk to Hell Valley or the village center — so expect some extra walking or to use the shuttle/car.
Limited or inconvenient parking
At least one guest cited parking as an issue, implying limited parking availability or inconvenience for guests with cars.
Variable English proficiency among staff
A few reviewers reported inconsistent English skills across staff members, requiring use of translation tools in some interactions.
Rooms may lack soundproofing
One review specifically noted that a room experienced noticeable noise transfer, indicating some rooms are not well soundproofed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types include single, twin, Japanese-style rooms and family rooms (including triple and quadruple layouts); maximum occupancy varies by room so please check the room description when booking. Cribs and extra beds are not provided.
The ryokan offers natural sulphur hot spring baths with both indoor and open-air (outdoor) communal facilities, typically available during your stay. Bathing areas are shared rather than private.
Private onsen use is not standard; guests should contact the ryokan in advance to ask about any possible private or reserved access options. Availability is limited and cannot be guaranteed.
A free shuttle service runs between the ryokan and JR Noboribetsu Station or Noboribetsu Onsen Bus Terminal but seats are limited and must be requested in advance. New Chitose Airport is about 1.5 hours away by car or a combination of train and bus.
Staff can assist in Japanese and English. For complex requests, emailing the ryokan in advance is recommended.
Kaiseki-style meals are the highlight and are normally served in your room; dinner service is typically between 17:30 and 19:00 with breakfast served in the morning. Please inform the ryokan of your expected arrival time so dinner can be arranged.
Jigokudani (Hell Valley) is about a 15-minute walk, the ropeway to Noboribetsu Bear Park is roughly a 10-minute walk, and Date Jidaimura (Edo Wonderland) is a short bus or car ride. The ryokan can advise on local routes and sell some attraction tickets at reception.
From JR Noboribetsu Station take a local bus or request the ryokan shuttle; the ryokan is a short walk from Noboribetsu Onsen Bus Terminal (around 5–10 minutes). There is also free on-site parking if you travel by car.
Standard check-in begins at 14:00 and check-out is by 10:00; the ryokan asks guests to inform them of expected arrival times and notes guests should arrive by the dinner cutoff (around 19:00) if they wish to be served dinner. Special requests or late arrivals should be communicated in advance.
Pets are not allowed at the property. Convenience stores and small shops on the main onsen street are within walking distance for basic supplies and snacks.