Ryotei Hanayura
8,9/10 Excellent - Based on 446 reviews
Ryotei Hanayura is a compact, traditionally styled ryokan set in the onsen district of Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, combining classic Japanese architecture with contemporary comforts. The property presents an intimate scale—approximately 23 guestrooms—arranged around landscaped courtyards and views of the surrounding hills, with easy access to the area’s signature volcanic scenery and hot-spring attractions. Public bathing areas and outdoor thermal facilities form part of the onsen offering, making the ryokan a practical base for guests who want a concentrated hot-spring experience near major local sights.
Guest accommodation favours tatami-floored rooms and suites, many designed to accommodate families or small groups with futon bedding and seating alcoves; a significant portion of rooms include private open-air baths, while others provide access to shared indoor and outdoor onsen pools. Room amenities typically include refrigeration, tea facilities and en-suite washrooms, and the property features timber-lined bathing spaces—some described as cypress-style—to enhance the bathing atmosphere. The ryokan enforces standard onsen etiquette and may restrict public-bath access for guests with visible tattoos.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Ryotei Hanayura
Positive Reviews
Authentic traditional ryokan experience
Multiple guests praised the genuine ryokan atmosphere — tatami-style rooms, comfortable futons, vintage charm and thoughtful in-room touches (e.g. complimentary drinks, small amenities) that reinforced an authentic Japanese stay.
Attentive, accommodating staff
Reviewers highlighted very helpful and polite service: staff arranged late check-in dinners, adapted meals for dietary restrictions, made last-minute changes when needed and provided personalized, friendly assistance.
High-quality meals (kaiseki) and good breakfast
Many guests described the kaiseki dinners and breakfasts as delicious, beautifully presented and memorable, often citing Hokkaido/local ingredients and overall excellent dining experiences.
Excellent onsen facilities — private and public
Guests appreciated both the private in-room hot-spring baths and the public onsen: water quality and temperature were praised, and using a private onsen with outdoor air/view was described as very relaxing.
Convenient location and transport options
The hotel is conveniently located for visiting Jigokudani/Hell Valley (walking distance), with nearby footbaths, available shuttle service from Sapporo and free parking, making it easy to reach local attractions.
Negative Reviews
Occasional dining inconsistency or rushed service
A few guests reported inconsistent dining experiences — for example a first-night meal that appeared pre-plated and dry, and being rushed through a multi-course dinner much faster than expected.
Some rooms and furnishings feel dated or worn
Several reviews noted older decor or worn elements (low/spartan furnishings, occasional carpet odor) that made parts of some rooms feel dated rather than modern.
Limited English spoken by staff
Some visitors found staff English proficiency limited and needed to use translation apps; while service remained good, language barriers were mentioned as a potential inconvenience for non-Japanese speakers.
Room temperature / air-conditioning issues
A number of guests found rooms warm on arrival or had difficulty adjusting the air-conditioning to their preferred temperature, especially during summer stays.
Old elevator and related safety/comfort concerns
At least one reviewer reported the elevator seemed very old-fashioned and closed quickly, causing discomfort and a safety concern when attempting to enter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room capacities vary by type; most rooms are designed for two adults while some larger or family-style rooms can sleep three to four using futons—check the specific room details when booking.
The property has public hot-spring baths and some room types include private open-air onsen baths for in-room use.
There is a scheduled pick-up/bus service from Sapporo that requires advance reservation; there is no regular door-to-door airport shuttle, so guests commonly use airport buses, trains, or taxis.
New Chitose Airport is roughly a 60–75 minute drive from the ryokan (about 60–70 km), and JR Noboribetsu Station is about 15–20 minutes away by taxi or local bus.
Staff can assist in Japanese and typically provide support in English and Chinese.
Guests can expect traditional ryokan elements such as tatami rooms and seasonal kaiseki-style dinners; yukata and basic cultural hospitality practices are typically provided.
Major local sights like Noboribetsu’s Jigokudani (Hell Valley) and Sengen Park are within a short walk of the property, typically 5–15 minutes depending on the exact route.
You can take a local bus (about 20 minutes) or a taxi (around 15 minutes) from JR Noboribetsu Station to reach the ryokan.
Standard check-in is from 14:00 to around 18:30 and check-out is in the morning, commonly between 07:30 and 10:00—confirm times on your reservation.
Pets are not permitted; the ryokan welcomes families and offers family-friendly room options, there is on-site dining serving kaiseki and breakfast, and convenience stores and additional restaurants are a short walk away.