Ryounkaku
9/10 Exceptional - Based on 126 reviews
Ryounkaku occupies a mountain-top site at roughly 1,280 meters on the slopes of Mount Tokachidake in the Tokachidake Onsen area of Kamifurano, Hokkaido. This remote ryokan with onsen places emphasis on natural scenery — rooms and common spaces frame volcanic ridgelines, alpine plants and the seasonal “sea of clouds” that gathers in the valleys. Its location makes it a practical base for day hikes, landscape photography and winter-sports visitors; access is commonly by a one‑hour drive from Asahikawa airport or by local bus from Kamifurano, and road conditions can be affected by snow outside summer months.
The property’s bathing facilities source two distinct springs: a brown, iron-rich water and a lower-temperature acidic spring, both delivered directly from the source and used without filtration. Guests can choose between indoor and open‑air public baths that afford wide mountain views; outdoor bathing availability can be limited in cold weather and the acidic spring may be reduced or unavailable seasonally. Day‑use bathing hours are offered for non-residents, and the layout and signage focus on practical guidance for safe use of the baths at high altitude.
Accommodation is presented in a straightforward, traditional style with many rooms oriented toward the landscape; communal amenities are nature-focused rather than luxurious. Meals feature regional dishes with vegetarian options on request, and staff provide guidance for local trails such as the approach to the Ansei crater and longer ascents into Daisetsuzan National Park. Travelers should check current road, bus and onsen conditions before departure and expect a quiet, serviceable inn tailored to mountain visitors seeking an authentic ryokan with onsen experience in Hokkaido.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Ryounkaku
Positive Reviews
Spectacular mountain location and views
Multiple guests praised the ryokan’s position high in the mountains — dramatic, unobstructed views, ideal for hiking, backcountry skiing and starting trails from the door. Reviewers described the setting as breathtaking, perfect for snow and nature experiences.
Unique and relaxing onsen experience
Reviewers highlighted the onsen as a major draw: outdoor baths with views, water flowing from the mountain, a rock/cave-style bath and very hot spring water. Many called the baths unforgettable and a key reason to return.
Excellent, varied food and breakfasts
Dinner and breakfast received frequent praise for quality, variety and thoughtful choices (including European options like croissants and tailored hiking breakfasts). Guests described meals as superb, fresh, and memorable.
Very friendly, attentive staff and hospitality
Staff and owners were repeatedly noted as exceptionally kind, helpful and accommodating (early check-in, assistance with hikes, special breakfasts). The warm service contributed strongly to the overall experience.
Homely, peaceful atmosphere suited to outdoor activities
Many reviewers said the ryokan felt homely and cozy, offering a peaceful retreat. Guests appreciated the traditional ryokan experience, availability of gear for snow walks, and suitability for both skiing and mountain trekking.
Negative Reviews
Remote location and limited nearby services
The ryokan’s remoteness appealed to many but also caused drawbacks: needing a car or long drives, no lunch options or stores within an hour, and advice to stop at convenience stores before arriving for trail food.
Shared/public bathrooms and limited in-room facilities
Several guests noted the absence of in-room toilets and reliance on shared facilities. Some found the shared toilets inconvenient (including a preference for sit-down/bidet toilets) despite being clean and well managed.
Some facilities are dated or need maintenance
Multiple reviews mentioned slightly worn or dated facilities — examples include tired onsens, older bath areas, and general need for occasional maintenance or upgrades.
Bugs, ventilation and lack of air conditioning
Outdoor onsen users reported insects in the baths (normal for open-air tubs but off-putting to some). Other guests mentioned windows that can’t be opened and no air conditioning, making it hard to sleep in warmer months.
Onsen access/scheduling and design limitations
A few reviewers found the onsen arrangement limiting: the two bath areas are different and are switched between male/female at set times, so guests bathing only once per day may miss one of the experiences; one onsen layout was also noted as harder to navigate with small children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room capacity varies by room type; there are no cribs or extra beds available, so add the correct number and ages of guests when you book and check the room details.
The ryokan has two main bath areas with indoor and outdoor baths drawing two spring types (iron and acidic); the baths swap between men and women by timetable and offer expansive mountain views.
Private/reservable baths are not listed among the standard facilities; the property operates gender-separated public baths and day-use access—contact the ryokan directly for any special private-bath requests.
There is no regular airport shuttle listed; Asahikawa Airport is the closest and the ryokan is about one hour by car from there.
Take the Tokachidake-line bus from Kamifurano (about 40 minutes to the final stop) or drive; free parking is available and 4WD with snow tires is required in winter conditions.
Some staff can assist in English and an English contact number is provided; if you need specific language support, notify the ryokan in advance.
Expect natural, free-flowing iron and acidic springs with indoor and open-air baths and panoramic views; outdoor baths or acidic springs may be limited or colder in winter for safety, so check current onsen status before visiting.
The ryokan has an on-site restaurant serving dinner and breakfast (vegetarian options noted); the location is remote on the mountain, so the nearest convenience stores and supermarkets are in Kamifurano—plan supplies accordingly.
Standard check-in hours are from 15:00 to 18:00 and check-out from 07:30 to 10:00; inform the property of your expected arrival time in advance and note the property enforces a 23:00 curfew for entering or leaving.
Pets are not allowed; children of all ages are welcome but cribs and extra beds are not available, so confirm room occupancy and any children's meal needs when you book.