Otaru Kourakuen

An absolute highlight and the perfect finale to our Sapporo trip—our one-night stay at Otaru Kourakuen gifted our family an unforgettable experience. From the moment we arrived, the entire staff came out to welcome us. During check-in, they kindly guided us through the property, detailed our dining schedule, and explained the hot spring usage with the utmost care. The lounge, styled like a cozy living room, always had drinks ready, making it the perfect spot to chat with family. Our room featured two beds and a traditional futon on tatami mats, providing a spacious and restful sleep for three. While the public baths were not massive, both the indoor and outdoor open-air baths were impeccably clean and uncrowded, offering the peaceful atmosphere of a private bath. We also enjoyed a massage at the spa (additional fee) and played table tennis and Japanese chess in the second-floor activity room. The dinner Kaiseki was exceptionally refined. For an hour, it truly felt like dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Later in the evening, we relaxed by a roaring bonfire in the backyard, gazing at the stars with beer and hot chocolate. Breakfast was served privately for our family, which was another delightful highlight. Everything was profoundly comfortable and the service was flawless. Our only regret is that our tight schedule didn't allow us to stay longer.

Witness first fall of snow at the open air onsen is like a dream come true! Service is impeccable and everyone is so friendly and helpful. Lounge area is romantic with complimentary drjnks and snacks. Unfortunately the campfire is not open until dec. Definitely would love to come back again.

This is my third time staying in Otaru Kourakuen. Positives is that the private open air baths give the optionality of having your own bath vs going to the public ones. Rooms are old but very clean and reflective of traditional Ryokans. The not so great part is the price has really gone up in the last 10 years: perhaps it's peak season, but my first stay was *** per person and this time around was double the cost. That's quite the jump even for inflation in 10 years - my room was also half the size than other Japanese style maisonette rooms I stayed in which does not seem to reflect the square footage advertised on Agoda. Also, they've started adding alot of chlorine in the bath waters which gets me thinking whether this continues to be a traditional Ryokan especially no hot spring tax was collected in departure.

Stayed for two nights in the maisonette with open air bath. The rooms were traditional and homely, baths were hot and staff were extremely friendly. Lounge area was comfortable to relax after a bath and the gardens were gorgeous. Food was excellent although we only had breakfast included. Would love to return