Zaborin
9,7/10 Exceptional - Based on 118 reviews
Zaborin is a contemporary ryokan tucked into the birch woods of Hanazono near Niseko. Designed around privacy and seasonal light, the property comprises just 15 individual villas that marry minimalist Japanese aesthetics with warm modern materials. The layout places living areas and floor-to-ceiling windows toward the forest and mountain views, creating a quiet, contemplative atmosphere. Operated as a ryokan with private onsen in Niseko, Zaborin emphasizes solitude: public spaces are intimate and the pace is deliberately unhurried.
Each villa is a standalone suite with generous living space, a choice of washitsu (tatami and futon) or yoshitsu (Western bed) sleeping arrangements, and two private onsen baths — one indoor and one covered open-air — supplied by free‑flowing natural spring water. Rooms include underfloor heating, Apple TV, a curated mini‑bar, bespoke Hokkaido pine toiletries and traditional samue and hanten for guests. Dining centres on Kita kaiseki prepared by chef Yoshihiro Seno, served in intimate dining pockets or as a chef’s‑table experience. Within the ryokan there is a tea room, a library, a small bar facing Mt. Yotei, and treatment rooms for private massages.
Logistics are straightforward: the property provides airport transfers, seasonal shuttle service to nearby ski lifts and on‑site parking. Activities change with the seasons — winter skiing at Hanazono and the wider Niseko area, summer hiking, cycling and river pursuits — while the onsen and quiet communal spaces remain the constant. For travellers seeking a discreet, architecture‑led retreat that centres on hot‑spring bathing and seasonal cuisine, this ryokan with onsen in Hokkaido offers an especially measured, restorative stay.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Zaborin
Positive Reviews
Outstanding kaiseki and dining
Many guests praised the meals as a highlight—multi-course kaiseki dinners and breakfasts described as restaurant-quality, meticulously presented, and among the best dining experiences on their trips.
Private in‑room onsens
Private indoor and outdoor onsen baths in the villas are repeatedly mentioned as unforgettable—perfectly temperate, private, and a major reason guests choose the property.
Striking architecture and integration with nature
Reviewers love the modern ryokan design and thoughtful architecture that blends with the forest setting; the minimalist, high‑quality materials and panoramic views create a serene, memorable atmosphere.
Exceptional, attentive service
Staff are described as gracious, highly attentive and helpful—welcome greetings, attentive dining service, and small personal touches contribute strongly to the overall experience.
Privacy, tranquility and spacious rooms with great views
Guests value the peaceful, private setting for relaxation (honeymoons, retreats), the roomy accommodations, and dramatic seasonal views (snow, foliage) that enhance the stay.
Negative Reviews
High price point
Several reviewers noted the property is expensive compared with other ryokan—some felt expectations for every detail should match the steep rate.
Limited daytime dining/activities nearby
Some guests mentioned the hotel does not serve lunch and there are few nearby options or activities, which can complicate longer stays unless planned in advance.
Some maintenance and finish concerns
A few comments flagged exterior finish issues (uneven wood panelling, rotting wood, rust near the onsen) that can clash with the otherwise carefully maintained environment.
Remote location and transport communication
The retreat’s remote setting requires travel; guests noted shuttle/pickup information (e.g., Kutchan Station service) wasn’t always clear beforehand and travel time can be a drawback for some.
Occasional room/linen comfort issues
Minor complaints included bedding that felt too warm for hot sleepers, a few stained sheets/towels reported, short twin beds for some room types, and reliance on room heaters that can make nights chilly for some guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Villas vary in layout and can host couples or small families; some offer an extra 12 m² tatami space for children. No additional rollaway beds or baby cots are available, so check the villa configuration when booking.
Yes — each of the 15 villas includes two private onsens, one indoor and one open‑air, supplied with free‑flowing natural volcanic spring water. Baths are for private use by the villa guests only.
Zaborin can arrange private transfers from New Chitose Airport and offers complimentary pick‑ups from Kutchan train station on request; a seasonal shuttle to Hanazono ski centre is also provided during the ski season. Contact the ryokan in advance to schedule transfers.
Zaborin is approximately two hours’ drive west of New Chitose Airport. Trains and buses to Kutchan or Niseko are possible, with a short onward transfer to the ryokan.
The property operates with multilingual information and English‑language assistance is available to help with check‑in, transfers and service. Staff follow traditional Japanese omotenashi hospitality.
Zaborin serves multi‑course kita kaiseki (chef’s omakase) dinners and Japanese breakfasts, typically served in private dining pockets; robatayaki is available by pre‑booking. Menus focus on seasonal Hokkaido ingredients.
Standard check‑in is between 14:00 and 19:00, and check‑out is between 09:00 and 11:00. If you need different times, contact the ryokan before arrival to request arrangements.
Villas are individual private suites designed for guest privacy, but whole‑property hire is not standard — enquire directly for exclusive‑use options. Pets are not permitted on the property.
The nearest town, Kutchan, is about a 15‑minute drive and has supermarkets, restaurants and basic shops; Niseko resort villages also offer dining and retail options. Self‑drive or arranged transfers are the easiest way to reach local shops.
Zaborin sits near Hanazono ski area (around 7 minutes by car) and offers views of Mt. Yotei; nearby Niseko and Kutchan provide skiing, hiking and local sightseeing. Day trips to Otaru and Sapporo are also common from this base.