12 Best Ryokan Sapporo Travelers Love
Last Updated on December 12, 2025 by Audrey
Looking for the best ryokan Sapporo guide? Here are the top places to stay with onsen!
Do you have an upcoming trip to Sapporo and you’re looking to experience traditional Japanese hospitality? Then staying at a ryokan or Sapporo onsen hotel is a must.
Sapporo is a bustling city, and it's a bit harder to find traditional ryokan and onsen here. You'll find most sites directing you to go to Jozankei, a hot spring town located an hour away, to seek out an onsen. But what if you want to stay in the city while still experiencing a relaxing onsen experience?! Look no further.
During my visits to Japan, I've stayed in multiple onsen, and during my last trip to Sapporo, I researched extensively on the best onsen and ryokan right here in this city.
I've compiled them into an easy-to-read list so that you can experience an authentic ryokan experience and a luxurious soak in an onsen without needing to venture hours away. Let's get started!
Top 2 picks: Best Ryokan Sapporo Onsen Hotels
12 Best Sapporo Onsen and Ryokan Hotels
Here are the best onsen hotels and ryokan in Sapporo, compiled in a concise list for you.
For Romantic Luxury
Here are the top 12 best onsen hotels and ryokan that I found located in Sapporo. Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, family, or group, there's going to be an option that will suit you here!
1. Onsen Ryokan Yuen ($$$)
- ⭐ Perfect for: Couples, Adults, Zen Seekers, Luxury Minimalists
- 💎 Known For: Authentic ryokan experience, serene atmosphere, retreat-like stay
- 💦 Onsen Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m, and 3:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
- ☀️ Day Visit Option: No
- 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: Yes, you can use the onsen as long as you cover tattoos with stickers (the hotel sells stickers for 200 yen).
- 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
It’s extremely rare to find a ryokan with an onsen in Sapporo itself. I think Onsen Ryokan Yuen is the best ryokan in Sapporo, and here's why!
With beautiful, serene rooms decorated in a traditional modern style, a sauna, and a hot spring bath, 3-star ryokan Yuen is ideal for travelers looking for an authentic high-end ryokan experience without leaving the city.
The onsen is definitely the highlight of Yuen, featuring Karurusu hot spring water transported from Noboribetsu, in a soft stone open-air bath.
👉 Pro Tip: I recommend staying at least 2 nights to receive the best ryokan experience. That's enough time to fully enjoy a delicious dinner and breakfast, and pamper yourself in the onsen
Overall, the quiet luxury and attention to fine details make Yuen the best ryokan in Sapporo. Though I found a couple of other ryokan in Sapporo, the quality of the rooms, meals, and service in Yuen feel superior. Staying here is like a special pampering.
"It was a healing, zen-like stay, which allowed me to escape from the hectic city-life. The room with the loft was quite spacious, and the pillows and blankets were immensely comfortable, such that lying on it was akin to sinking into a luscious, fluffy marshmallow."
- Audrey (Read more reviews)
2. Hotel Monterey edelhof ($$$)
- ⭐ Perfect for: Couples, Luxury Enthusiasts, Business travelers
- 💎 Known For: European luxury, prime location, amazing city views, on-site fine dining, spa
- 💦 Onsen Hours: 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM
- ☀️ Day Visit Option: No
- 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: No
- 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
Hotel Monterey Edelhof is a modern Western-style hotel with a large onsen, sauna, and massages available at the Karlovy Vary Spa.
The spacious rooms are styled with European accents and induce an elegant old-world charm. This hotel could be a good option if you haven't really traveled to Asia before and want to dip a toe into Japanese culture, instead of diving head first.
All rooms in the main building are on the 16th floor or higher with a breathtaking city skyline view. It's also in a prime location being a 7-minute walk from Sapporo station, right next to the Sapporo Clock Tower and Odori Park.
While this location is a great option for couples, rooms can also accommodate up to 4 people. Luggage service is available.
"The Monterey Edelhof is a modern and beautiful hotel, inside and outside. Halfway between Sapporo and Odori Stations and within a short walking distance of both, it is conveniently located. Rooms are large and beds are comfortable."
Ariel (Read more reviews)
3. Sapporo Prince Hotel ($$$)
- ⭐ Perfect for: Families, Couples, Business travelers, Luxury lovers
- 💎 Known For: Stunning views, prime location, on-site dining
- 💦 Onsen Hours: 5:00 A.M – 10:00 A.M, and 4:00 P.M. – 12:00 A.M.
- ☀️ Day Visit Option: No
- 🖋️ Tatto Friendly: No
- 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
Sapporo Prince Hotel is an upscale hotel with stunning views of the Sapporo city skyline viewable from the guest rooms, onsen, and the restaurants.
I previously stayed at Prince Hotel and found the customer service to be exceptional. The rooms were spacious, elegantly designed with a simple yet sophisticated style, and filled with luxurious amenities.
For relaxation, the public onsen has incredible skyscraper views, perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring the city. You'll also have incredible views during dinner, with teppanyaki, Chinese, and French dining options on the 28th floor.
The hotel is conveniently located just a three-minute walk away from Odori Park and the subway station, making it extremely easy to get to the city's main attractions.
Plus, the complimentary shuttle service makes getting around even more convenient, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.
"The hotel was spotless, very clean. The breakfast was delicious with lots of local specialties. The staff was very helpful and friendly. The view from the 19th floor was great. The free shuttle to the train station was also a big plus."
Alexandra (Read more reviews)
4. JR Tower Nikko Sapporo ($$$)
- ⭐ Perfect for: Luxury stays, families, couples, day trips
- 💎 Known For: Best location, food, top-of-the-line service, amazing views, convenience
- 💦 Onsen Hours: 6:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m (Hotel guests only), and 12:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m.
- ☀️ Day Visit Option: Yes, visitors can pay 3,300 yen to enter the spa ($20)
- 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: No
- 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
This four-star hotel has it all. It’s located inside the train station, making transportation easier than, well, anything really. When I visited Sapporo, we made a stop at Sapporo Station every single day, sometimes multiple times in one day.
If you stay here, it'll be extremely easy for you to travel all throughout the city and beyond. You’ll have all the restaurants and shops to choose from, plus the hotel itself has two restaurants that offer panoramic views of the city on the 35th floor of the building.
Photo Credit: JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo
There's a public onsen with skyline views, a sauna, a hot tub, and a spa and wellness center.. on top of the train station! It’s simply beautiful and top-of-the-line! Visitors can add on a relaxing massage for an extra cost.
👉 Pro Tip: The onsen facility only allows guests 18 and over, so children unfortunately aren't allowed.
If you plan on traveling around Hokkaido, and don’t mind a splurge, this is the best luxury onsen option in Sapporo.
"It’s been my 3rd time to stay in this hotel within (an) 18-month period. It’s very convenient as it’s just above the Sapporo station and at the same time, it has parking. This hotel never disappoints me!"
Clara (Read more reviews)
5. Blue Hotel Octa ($)
- ❤️ Perfect for: Couples, Adults, Date night, Romantic or spontaneous travelers
- 💎 Known For: Intimate atmosphere, unique design, couple-focused amenities
- 💦 Onsen Hours: Anytime, the hot spring baths are in-room.
- ☀️ Day Visit Option: No
- 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: Yes, each room has a private onsen.
- 🏩 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
Full disclaimer, Blue Hotel Octa is a sleek and modern love hotel for adults only. I have to be honest, I've always wanted to visit a love hotel. I'm just so curious. And maybe you are too.
Anyway, the rooms in Blue Octa all feature a private bath featuring hot spring water from Octa Onsen.
It may not be a traditional style onsen, but you do get to bathe in hot spring water and still reap the health benefits. Who would have thought that a love hotel would be the best place for a private onsen in Sapporo?
There is a bar and karaoke room conveniently located inside, and the front desk is manned 24 hours. You can also book a room overlooking the Sapporo racecourse to watch some thrilling horse races.
👉 Pro Tip: Blue Octa Hotel only allows guests 18 and over. Obviously.
"The room and spa bath were very pleasant, with a view over the race course. Room service was efficient, tasty and reasonably priced. Good value compared to a downtown hotel for a weekend stay."
Chris (Read more reviews)
Budget Sapporo Onsen Hotels
6. APA Hotel TKP Sapporoeki-Kitaguchi Excellent ($$)
- ⭐ Perfect for: Budget, Solo travelers, Backpackers
- 💎 Known For: Affordable rates, Convenient location, Friendly service
- 💦 Onsen Hours: 3:00p.m.-10:00a.m
- ☀️ Day Visit Option: No
- 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: Unable to determine
- 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
I've personally stayed at an APA Hotel in Sapporo and think they're great! I wish mine had an onsen, but in general the services and features of APA Hotels a terrific value.
They're affordable, the front desk is very helpful and kind, and they have simple, functional amenities that cater to the needs of budget-conscious travelers. TKP Sapporoeki-Kitaguchi has great amenities, as well as both an indoor and outdoor onsen to use!
There is an on-site breakfast buffet that guests can enjoy, or you can walk to the Lawson and Family Mart which is conveniently next to the hotel.
It’s a few blocks up north from Sapporo Station and is a quick 7-minute walk. Guests can easily explore Sapporo's stop attractions like Odori Park and Hokkaido University Museum. Parking is available for only 1,500 yen a night if you have a car.
"The location is very near to the Sapporo Station, (it's) so convenient. The hotel has all the facilities and amenities we need (kettle, coffee and tea sachet, vending machine, coin laundry, hot bath, delicious breakfast)... I would say that they really pay attention to details!"
Vera (Read more reviews)
7. La'gent Stay Sapporo ($$)
- ⭐ Perfect for: Budget travelers, Adults, Couples, Business Travelers
- 💎 Known For: Central location, large rooms, convenience
- 💦 Onsen Hours: 6:00 AM-9:30 AM and 3:00 PM-1:00 AM
- ☀️ Day Visit Option: Not listed
- 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: Unable to determine
- 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
La’gent Stay is a 5-minute walk from Odori Station and close to all the main attractions. It features a stunning natural hot spring bath and a second sea-themed onsen. Afterward, you can book massages if you'd like!
There is an excellent breakfast buffet, an on-site restaurant serving Western and Japanese food, and a ship-themed bar where you can enjoy an evening cocktail.
The best feature though? La'gent Stay also has a convenient Family Mart on the first floor for when you want to grab a late-night snack after unwinding in the onsen!
Located in a great spot, the hotel is located across the popular Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade. I spent a lot of time shopping here during my time in Sapporo, and they have great vintage thrift options as well as a Mega Don Quijote.
Odori Park, Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Sapporo TV Tower are only a few minutes' walk away. Nijo Market is conveniently close by as well.
"The hotel exceeded our expectations--great breakfast, friendly staff, and fantastic location! The rooms were very clean and we looked forward to the hotel breakfast every morning!"
Elise (Read more reviews)
For Families or Groups
8. Nakamuraya Ryokan Sapporo ($$)
- ⭐ Perfect for: Families, Large Groups, Cultural Travelers, Solo Travelers
- 💎 Known For: Authentic Ryokan, Japanese-style rooms, 24-hour onsen
- 💦 Onsen Hours: 24 Hours
- ☀️ Day Visit Option: No
- 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: No
- 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
Nakamuraya Ryokan Sapporo is an affordable, authentic ryokan rarely found in Sapporo! The cozy hotel is locally owned and carries a homey, family vibe. It carries a rich history and the staff are so hospitable.
Traditional Japanese rooms can accommodate up to 6 people here, with comfortable futons and tatami mats. The main highlight of this ryokan is the 24-hour public onsen! There are also baths in each room for additional privacy and convenience.
I think Nakamuraya provides a traditional ryokan experience while still providing modern amenities like TVs and vending machines. If you prefer a local, family atmosphere, this authentic ryokan would suit you.
It’s a 10-minute walk from the train station, next to the Hokkaido Government Office, Hokkaido University, and Odori Park.
“All night onsen and lovely, friendly staff who were always helpful and available! Great location near the main station as well as the city’s happening downtown - and just across the road the botanical gardens for a quieter time.”
Johannes (Read more reviews)
9. Yamahana onsen tonden Japanese inn ($$)
- ⭐ Perfect for: Budget travelers, Families, Large Groups, Long-Term Stays
- 💎 Known For: Apartment living
- 💦 Onsen Hours: 24 hours as its an in-room onsen, but you need to call to refill the spring water.
- ☀️ Day Visit Option: No
- 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: Yes
- 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
If you're looking for an apartment-style place, or if you're visiting Sapporo with a large group of people, Yamahana Onsen Tonden is an excellent option.
This 2-star ryokan provides a large, clean apartment with a large onsen readily available, as well as a fully stocked kitchen, dining room, and living room area that can comfortably fit up to 6 people.
When looking at this onsen, I felt like it's more like a special Airbnb that provides an in-room onsen. If you're looking for a hotel with an onsen, you'll probably like the next hotel better.
“The property is spacious, very accommodating, and is perfect for long stays. Everything was wonderful during my stay. It is an incredible experience having a hot spring bath in your room!”
Ben (Read more reviews)
10. Jasmac Plaza Hotel ($$$)
- ⭐ Perfect for: Couples, Families, Business Travelers
- 💎 Known For: Convenient location, relaxation amenities, on-site dining
- 💦 Onsen Hours: 10:00 AM-12:00 AM (Opens at 12:00 PM on Mondays)
- 5:00 AM-9:00 AM for hotel guests only (Closed Mondays)
- ☀️ Day Visit Option: Yes, adults pay 2,500 yen ($16) and children pay 1,300 yen ($8).
- 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: No
- 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
Jasmac Plaza Hotel is an exceptional choice suitable for any traveler, located right in the heart of Susukino, Sapporo's vibrant nightlife district.
You'll find large, comfortable rooms ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring. There are four different types of onsen available, plus a sauna.
There are three on-site restaurants offering a range of cultural cuisines, from local Hokkaido dishes to Western and Chinese cuisines. With family-friendly amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, this hotel is perfect for groups visiting Sapporo.
The hotel is close to Nakajima Koen Park, a popular landmark that features outdoor activities with playgrounds, a serene pond, a zoo, and an observatory.
“The hot spring bath was amazing. We got new towels every day and all the amenities were there. The breakfast was also delicious, and I wanted to stay several nights and try everything.”
Michiko (Read more reviews)
11. HOTEL MYSTAYS PREMIER Sapporo Park ($$)
- ⭐ Perfect for: Large Groups, Families
- 💎 Known For: Modern amenities, Fitness center, On-site dining
- 💦 Onsen Hours: 5:30 AM-10:00 AM, 3:00 PM-1:00 AM
- ☀️ Day Visit Option: Unable to determine
- 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: Unable to determine
- 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
Hotel Mystays is great stay for large groups or families, featuring large rooms with lots of comfortable, modern amenities. Cribs are also available upon request!
The highlight of this hotel is its awesome onsen that also has a facility for kids that includes baby soap, bathing mats, chairs, and toys. Massage services are also available.
A fitness center and several restaurants are on-site. Breakfast can either be a Japanese set menu or you can choose to eat at the international buffet. Either way, you'll get to taste dishes locally produced in Hokkaido.
Hotel Mystays is only a 4-minute walk to Nakajima station and Nakajima Park, so families are conveniently located next to many family-friendly attractions such as the zoo, park, and observatory.
“We rented a room with 4 beds and it was perfect, located on the 24th floor with stunning views, the facilities are excellent and the in house onsen is fantastic.”
Alexander (Read more reviews)
12. Chateraise Gateaux Kingdom Sapporo ($$$)
- ⭐ Perfect For: Families, Couples, Wellness seekers, Foodies
- 💎 Known For: On-site Dining, Wellness facilities, Family-friendly amenities
- 💦 Onsen Hours: 10:00 AM-23:00 PM
- ☀️ Day Visit Option: Unable to determine
- 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: No
- 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
Chateraise Gateaux Kingdom offers a unique escape in northern Sapporo, and is perfect for families or couples looking to unwind at a resort. While it is located a bit further from Sapporo's city center, the hotel provides a complimentary shuttle.
I found that Chateraise Gateaux is ideal for guests who want a chill weekend by the pool and onsen. If you'd rather stay at the resort and explore it's numerous amenities and are less concerned about city attractions, this is the hotel for you.
There are extensive wellness options for guests to enjoy, including nine public baths and saunas, a fitness center, and several swimming pools. Tons of dining options are available, with four on-site restaurants serving a variety of Western, Chinese, teppanyaki, and Japanese cuisine .
Whether you’re relaxing in public baths, enjoying a delicious meal, or taking a dip in the pool, Chateraise Gateaux Kingdom is an excellent choice for a family getaway focused on fun and relaxation.
“Loved the location - beautiful view. The hotel was so beautiful and I loved all the shops in the hotel too. The rooms were nice and spacious. Loved every minute at Gateaux Kingdom!”
Amalie (Read more reviews)
🏨 Looking for other hotel options in Sapporo? Check out my other post about the Best Places to Stay in Sapporo!
What to Expect from Ryokan and Onsen Hotels
Ryokan and onsen hotels are a bit different. You may have a ryokan (traditional Japanese hotel) with an onsen (hot spring bath) in it, while on the other hand, an onsen hotel is just that: a hotel with an onsen.
An onsen is a facility service that can be offered regardless of whether the facility is a hotel or ryokan. On the flip side, you could stay at a ryokan that doesn't have an onsen available. Hope that makes sense. If it doesn't, keep reading, I'll point out a few more differences.
Sapporo Onsen and Ryokan FAQ
What's the difference between an onsen and ryokan?
A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn, known for its tatami-matted rooms, futon bedding, and impeccable service, often including kaiseki meals.
An onsen, on the other hand, refers specifically to hot springs, which are naturally heated by geothermal activity, offering mineral-rich waters that are strongly believed to have multiple health benefits. They're perfect for soaking your muscles on a cold winter night in Sapporo.
Some ryokan feature onsen baths, giving you the best of both worlds—luxurious accommodations and rejuvenating baths.
Will I be allowed to go in onsen with tattoos?
That's a tricky one, and I feel you because I also have a lot of tattoos. I'll be perfectly honest, most hotels will not allow you to use the public onsen with visible tattoos. If it's something easily covered up, sometimes they have large bandages you can put over them.
However, if you have large tattoos your best bet is to rent a private onsen for an hour or book a hotel that offers a private onsen. I'm looking more into hotels that provide this amenity, so stay tuned!
Are Ryokan cheaper than Hotels?
No, ryokan are not cheaper than hotels. In fact, I would say that staying in a ryokan will be most expensive than staying in a hotel.
If you think about it, when you stay in a ryokan you're paying for Japanese course set meals (breakfast and dinner, usually), as well as an onsen if they have one available.
If you thought Japanese customer service was outstanding, you'll be absolutely blown away when you stay at a ryokan, which provide an even greater level of hospitality. You're essentially paying a premium for the cultural experience and the meals.
In general, ryokans can cost between 15,000-25,000 yen ($95-$150) per night, but the extremely nice ones can cost 50,000 ($300) per night.
How many days should I stay in a ryokan?
I believe that you should stay at least 2 days in a ryokan.
One day isn't enough time to experience the Japanese hospitality and cultural customs of a ryokan. You'll be pressed for time to enjoy the ryokan's amenities, but the point of staying at a ryokan is to relax and unwind.
Two days give you enough time to enjoy their breakfast and the kaiseki dinner, and ample time to enjoy the freebies (like the onsen or included hotel amenities). The kaiseki dinners are usually the same, so the meal might start to feel repetitive after three days.
I personally love traveling around the area, and usually leave my hotel in the morning and don't return until later at night. If you stay in a ryokan during your whole trip, you may feel like you're wasting money if you're out exploring instead of staying in the ryokan.
One last thing is that ryokans are meant to be very hospitable, but you may get tired of it. I found that as an American, I started to feel a little suffocated after a few days. 2-3 days is plenty of time to stay at a ryokan.
Is there private onsen in Sapporo?
Technically, Blue Hotel Octa and Yamahana Onsen Tonden are private onsen, but if you want a traditional Japanese-style ryokan with a private onsen, then they are not what you're looking for.
Blue Hotel offers a modern bath with running hot spring onsen water, while Yamahana Onsen offers an in-room bath but is styled like an apartment.
If you're open to venturing a bit further from Sapporo, then I recommend checking out my Sapporo onsen guide which recommends some amazing ryokan with private onsen.
HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED IN SAPPORO?
3-5 days is ideal to explore most of Sapporo and Hokkaido.
I truly recommend allowing 5-7 days for your trip to the Hokkaido region. That way, you’ll get around 3 days to enjoy Sapporo and another 2 days to take day trips to the areas I mentioned!
If you’re really pressed for time, 3 days is enough to enjoy Sapporo, and you can squeeze a day trip in if you don’t mind missing out on some of Sapporo’s attractions. You’ll have enough time to explore the main highlights, try the local specialty dishes, and get a feel for the city.
If you can, I recommend spending another few days exploring the nearby areas in Hokkaido to fully appreciate everything in the Hokkaido region. You can check out a sample of things to do in my 5-day Sapporo Itinerary.
Final thoughts
There you have it, the best onsen hotels and ryokan Sapporo has to offer! If you've never experienced a ryokan before, then I definitely recommend booking one for a few days. It's a wonderful opportunity to experience Japanese hospitality, and the kaiseki course meals are delicious.
I loved enjoying a relaxing bath in the onsen after a long day of traveling. The onsen rejuvenates your body and soothes your aching feet, and overall is a special, memorable experience that is quintessential to Japan.
I hope you're able to find the right ryokan or onsen hotel that suits your needs, and let me know if you find any great hotels that aren't on this list so I can add them! Feel free to comment or email if you need any help planning your trip!
More Sapporo posts:
What Are the Best 5 Star Hotels in Sapporo? Top 11 Luxury Picks
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