About Hokkaido
Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost major island, renowned for its vast natural landscapes. Covering about 22% of Japan’s total area, it features majestic mountains, expansive plains, and beautiful lakes and rivers with scenic views in every season. Cool summers and heavy snowfall in winter make it famous for ski resorts. The traditions of the Ainu people and the legacy of Meiji-era pioneering give Hokkaido a unique cultural charm. Below, we introduce three carefully selected luxury hotels in Hokkaido.
Top 3 Luxury Hotels in Hokkaido
1. The Windsor Hotel Toya Resort & Spa
Source: The Windsor Hotel Toya Resort & Spa
Highlights
The Windsor Hotel Toya Resort & Spa is a premier luxury resort perched on a hilltop overlooking Lake Toya in Hokkaido, offering luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining, and a wealth of activities.
Spectacular Location
The hotel commands panoramic views of Lake Toya and Uchiura Bay. The open-air bath “Sansen” offers exceptional views in a sukiya-style hot spring facility.
Luxurious Accommodations
Various room types from suites to standard rooms, all with high-quality amenities. “Premiere Style” guests enjoy a private salon, valet parking, and complimentary Crystal Blue Club access.
Dining
Nine restaurants offering Japanese, Western, Chinese, and teppanyaki cuisine crafted with fresh local ingredients.
Relaxation
The Crystal Blue Club features an indoor pool and athletic facilities, free for guests. Spa treatments are also available. Seasonal outdoor activities include golf and horseback riding in summer, skiing in winter.
Nearby Attractions
Lake Toya — Beautiful lakeside scenery with boat cruises offering panoramic views. Lake Toya Onsen provides hot spring relaxation nearby.
Showa Shinzan — A volcanic mountain formed between 1943-1945. The Volcano Village offers educational exhibits about volcanic history.
Mount Usu — An active volcano with ropeway access to the summit, offering views of Lake Toya and the Pacific Ocean.
Access
- Website: https://www.windsor-hotels.co.jp/en/
- Access: Shuttle bus from JR Toya Station (reservation required)
- Google Maps
2. Shikotsu-ko Tsuruga Bessou Aonoza
Source: Aonoza Official Website
Highlights
Aonoza is a luxury resort situated on the shores of Lake Shikotsu, one of Hokkaido’s most pristine caldera lakes known for its extraordinary “Shikotsu Blue” transparency.
Lakeside Location
All rooms offer views of Lake Shikotsu, famous for its blue-tinged clear water known as “Shikotsu Blue” that captivates visitors throughout the four seasons.
Private Villa-Style Suites
Each of the spacious suites is designed like a private villa with its own spa. In-room jet baths offer views of the lake, blending modern design with luxury.
Hot Springs & Relaxation
The hot springs are known as “Beauty Baths” with a silky-smooth mineral quality. Exclusive spa and esthetic services are available for complete rejuvenation.
Kaiseki Dining
The restaurant serves Japanese kaiseki cuisine crafted with fresh local ingredients. Private dining rooms ensure an intimate experience.
Nearby Attractions
Lake Shikotsu — A caldera lake surrounded by mountains, offering kayaking, diving, and nature walks. The “Lake Shikotsu Blue” is a must-see natural phenomenon.
Tarumae-zan — An active volcano near Lake Shikotsu, popular for hiking with views of the lake and the Pacific Ocean from the summit.
Access
- Website: https://www.aonoza.com/
- Access: About 1 hour from New Chitose Airport by car
- Google Maps
3. Kappo Ryokan Wakamatsu
Source: Wakamatsu Official Website
Highlights
Wakamatsu is a traditional Japanese ryokan (inn) in Hakodate, combining kaiseki cuisine with hot spring baths and a warm, personal hospitality that embodies the essence of Japanese omotenashi.
Oceanfront Hot Springs
The open-air hot spring baths overlook the Tsugaru Strait, offering views of the ocean and, on clear days, the coastline of Aomori Prefecture across the water.
Kaiseki Cuisine
As a “kappo ryokan” (cuisine-focused inn), Wakamatsu specializes in kaiseki dinner courses featuring the freshest seafood from Hakodate, including squid, crab, and sea urchin prepared by skilled chefs.
Nearby Attractions
Mount Hakodate Night View — One of Japan’s three great night views, the glittering cityscape seen from the mountain summit is unforgettable.
Goryokaku — A star-shaped Western-style fort from the Meiji Restoration era, beautiful with cherry blossoms in spring.
Hakodate Morning Market — Fresh seafood market near Hakodate Station, famous for squid fishing and seafood rice bowls.
Access
- Website: https://www.wakamatsuryokan.com/
- Access: About 15 minutes by car from JR Hakodate Station
- Google Maps
