The Lake Suite Ko No Sumika

Dinner was a highlight: it combined a set course with a buffet, and the buffet had great steak, chicken rice, and dairy desserts. The set menu changed each evening too, so I got to try plenty of different dishes. My friend and I missed breakfast both mornings because neither of us is much of a morning person. I only wish I’d had more room for food. The hotel faces Lake Tōya, and the view from just about everywhere feels like a postcard. Its modern design mixes nicely with traditional Japanese touches, and both the lobby and rooms looked flawless. From arrival, I felt a long way from the city. The staff were warm all the way through our two-day stay. The shuttle from downtown Sapporo was especially handy with luggage. I found Kono Sumika on social media while planning my first trip to Hokkaido. I’ve always liked Japanese Onsen Culture, but I’m pretty introverted and prefer more privacy. My previous private onsen stay at Ryōfūkaku impressed me, but Kono Sumika took things further. There was a fireworks show from a boat on Lake Tōya each night during the autumn season. I expected something small, like the weekend shows at Darling Bay, but it lasted a full 10 minutes and left me speechless. On the second night I put my phone away and watched with my own eyes. The fireworks are seasonal, so check the hotel’s information ahead of time if you’re interested. It was a 10/10 two-night stay for us. We wanted to extend, but the hotel was fully booked. I’d love to make up for that next time. Highly recommended if you enjoy onsens, want privacy, or are after some quiet time with family or someone special.

We had a lovely first stay here and would book again next time. The hotel is luxurious, with a great view of Lake Toya from the entrance and reception. Our kaiseki dinner and breakfast were served as set meals, and we enjoyed both without worrying about the taste. The onsen walk and ferry terminal are within walking distance. We booked the Willer Bus, which stopped right outside, so we didn’t have to carry our luggage far.

The private onsen in the room was a standout for me. It opens onto the balcony and shares the room’s panoramic view of Lake Tōya. You can also watch the nightly fireworks from the room, balcony, or hot spring. The hotel launches them every night, which felt special and authentic. The staff were incredibly hospitable, waving and bowing whenever I came or went. The facilities felt authentic and well done, and the newer side of the hotel had modern features like automatic Japanese toilets. We also went to the water park, which had fun slides and an exciting wave pool. Every room had a sweeping lake view, and the wifi worked well throughout the hotel. There were two buffets, one fancier than the other, and we picked the more upscale one. From the Japanese buffets we’ve visited, we’ve noticed there are often limited choices, and this one was the same. I’d recommend the hotel to friends, though its high price might make them hesitate.

The food was decent, though not the best. What really stood out was how pleasant the room and the hotel’s overall look were, along with the beautiful view and attention to detail. The room was very soundproof, and the service felt organized and friendly. A top-tier stay and experience. This deserves a 5-star rating, as another reviewer said.