Kashoutei Hanaya

The staff were wonderful and did everything they could to get us to the plane on time at the end of our stay. We also had a peaceful, beautiful onsen, with the sound of a waterfall to relax to. Our Japanese-style room had traditional bedding that was very comfortable, and we could control the AC ourselves. Meals were traditional Japanese food served in the room, with some dishes cooked in front of us. There were complimentary amenities and drinks, including beer and sake. The staff went out of their way to help whenever we needed anything. Definitely recommend!

We had dinner and breakfast served in the room, and both were great. They adjusted the menu for dietary preferences, too. Kashoutei Hanaya is small and cozy, a short walk from the main shopping area, and offers a free shuttle to and from Noboribetsu station. The onsen is small, but there were few guests, so it didn’t feel crowded. Staff were friendly and attentive, and the service was excellent. There’s also a free drinks bar with alcohol. A lovely place to unwind.

I stayed two nights and enjoyed four generous, delicious meals, with a different menu on the second day. They were all up to the standard I’d expect from this kind of ryokan. I love onsen, and despite being 100% sulphur, this water felt gentler on my skin than the more acidic sulphur baths in Zao, Yamagata or Hakone. The rotenboro was a little cooler than the indoor bath and dreamy in the snow. After three or four soaks a day, I felt increasingly soupy. Tattoos are accepted. Hanaya is set a little apart for a quiet stay, though the main shops in Noboribetsu are only a 5-7 minute walk away. The staff were incredibly helpful by email before I arrived and during the stay. There’s a free shuttle from Noboribetsu Station, handy if you don’t have a car but want to take day trips. The lobby has free drinks around the clock and there’s a small shop. Heated floors on the main level were nice for lounging. My one complaint is the bedroom lighting: I wish it were warm like the lighting downstairs, since the different light types in the rooms can feel jarring. It was Setsubun while I was there. Oni came to visit, and they threw peanuts everywhere instead of soybeans. It was a lot of fun for the kids and adults alike. I’d make a point of staying here again on my next trip to Hokkaido.

The room was small, but cozy, clean, and well kept, and that was all I needed. They provided amenities, unlimited drinks, and great service. The food was one of the best feasts I had on this trip, and the onsens were lovely for warming up in the winter. Everyone was so sweet and hospitable, and the views were beautiful. One of my favorite hotels. I’d love to come back with someone next time.