Top Hotels in Hokkaido for Snow, Spas, Food and Views
Japan’s northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido is not just a place, it’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave. The island is a fusion of stunning landscapes, fascinating history and some of the most extraordinary food you’ll ever taste, and amazing hotels.
Hokkaido is home to some of the world’s most lavish hotels, and what truly sets these stays apart is the unparalleled warmth of the people, state-of-the-art dining and the magical adventures waiting around every corner. Here’s a look at some of the best luxury hotels in Hokkaido—each with its own unique story—where every experience is a tribute to the island’s stunning beauty and rich history.
Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono (Kutchan)
Niseko is famous for its perfect powder snow, and there’s no better place to experience it than at the Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono. This region has become a world-renowned destination for winter sports enthusiasts, but its roots go deeper than that. Originally settled by the indigenous Ainu people, Niseko’s breathtaking landscapes were once revered as sacred. Today, it’s an idyllic haven for those seeking adventure and peace.
After an exhilarating day on the slopes, relax and indulge in the finest cuisine at the hotel’s world-class restaurants. Try a warm bowl of Hokkaido miso ramen; its rich, comforting flavors are the perfect end to a cold day. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of Sapporo’s finest beer, a true local specialty!
Step outside to enjoy skiing or snowboarding with breathtaking views of Mount Yotei. When you return to the hotel, unwind with a soothing hot spring bath or a rejuvenating spa treatment, all before enjoying a gourmet dinner designed to bring out the best of Hokkaido’s seasonal ingredients.
Hotel Sosei Sapporo MGallery Collection (Sapporo)
Sapporo is the largest city in Hokkaido, and it’s a place where old meets new in the most captivating ways. Originally developed during Japan’s Meiji Era, it has since flourished into a modern metropolis, rich with history, culture and an undeniable charm. The Hotel Sosei Sapporo MGallery Collection is an oasis in the city, offering both luxury and convenience, perfectly situated to explore Sapporo’s vibrancy.
Sapporo is the birthplace of miso ramen and sapporo beer, and these local treasures are just the beginning. Try fresh Hokkaido crab, considered some of the best in the world, or indulge in seafood donburi, a bowl of rice topped with a bounty of fresh fish, giving you a true taste of the sea.
Spend your days discovering Sapporo’s highlights, from the iconic Sapporo TV Tower to the charming historical district. And when the snow falls, the Sapporo Snow Festival starts! This is one of Japan’s most iconic winter events, attracting millions of visitors from around the world each year.
Held every February, this magical festival transforms the city into a winter wonderland, with stunning snow sculptures, intricate ice carvings and vibrant displays of light. Through massive snow statues and smaller, intricately crafted pieces, the festival showcases the creativity and artistry that flourishes in the cold of winter. Visitors can also enjoy snowboarding, skiing and warm food to keep spirits high during the chill. It’s a must-visit for anyone in Hokkaido during the winter season.
The Lake Suite Ko no Sumika (Lake Toya)
Lake Toya is a place that feels timeless, and its history dates back thousands of years. The lake was formed by a volcanic eruption, and the surrounding area is known for its active geothermal activity. For centuries, it has been a sanctuary for those seeking peace and healing. Today, the Lake Suite Ko no Sumika offers an experience as serene as the lake itself, with breathtaking views and unparalleled luxury.
The culinary experiences here are unmatched, with a focus on fresh local ingredients. Don’t miss Hokkaido dairy, which is world-renowned for its rich flavor, whether in ice cream, cheese or butter. Pair it with freshly caught fish from the lake, prepared with the utmost care and expertise. If you have time, you can always take a taxi (10 min) or a bus (30 min) to Toyako for amazing sushi!
What we most recommend is taking a boat cruise across Lake Toya’s shimmering waters, where you can see incredible panoramic views of the mountains. For the ambitious traveler, you can even hike to the top of Mount Usu to witness the majesty of an active volcano. Afterward, relax in the hotel’s private onsen, where the warm mineral waters soothe away any lingering tension, all while you take in the mesmerizing views of the lake.
Zaborin Ryokan (Niseko)
Niseko offers so much more than just skiing. Nestled deep in the wilderness, Zaborin Ryokan is an exclusive retreat where nature and luxury blend effortlessly. Here, the Ainu people’s ancient reverence for the land still resonates. The resort’s private villas with private onsen provide an intimate experience surrounded by nature’s most tranquil beauty.
Kaiseki, the traditional Japanese multi-course meal, is an experience in itself at Zaborin. Feast on seasonal vegetables, delicate fish and the finest cuts of Hokkaido beef, all prepared with artful precision. Each dish is a celebration of the island’s rich natural bounty, including Hokkaido pumpkin, a sweet and earthy delight.
Disconnect from the world in your private villa, where the only sounds are those of the forest and the soft crackling of the onsen waters. Spend your days walking through Niseko’s serene forests or taking a private nature tour, learning about the flora and fauna that make this place so unique.
Tomamu Resort (Akaigawa)
Tomamu is unlike any place you’ve ever been. Known for its Ice Village—a magical winter destination where everything from the hotel rooms to the sculptures is made entirely of ice—this resort is a true winter fairy tale. But Tomamu offers more than just icy charm; it’s a year-round escape into a world of adventure.
In the winter, Tomamu offers hot pot, a steaming bowl of broth filled with fresh vegetables, seafood and meat, perfect for warming up after a day in the snow. During the warmer months, indulge in Hokkaido melon, a sweet, juicy fruit that’s grown with care precision.
This winter, be sure to take a trip to the Ice Village, where you can enjoy a drink at a bar made entirely of ice or sleep in an ice room that feels straight out of a dream. When the seasons change, explore the surrounding forests, hike the trails and enjoy the beauty of Hokkaido’s lush green landscapes.
Whether you’re exploring the vibrant cityscape of Sapporo, relaxing by the serene waters of Lake Toya, indulging in the exclusive comforts of Niseko’s Zaborin Ryokan or embracing the magical winter wonderland at Tomamu Resort, each destination promises a unique adventure. Hokkaido’s charm lies in its ability to captivate all your senses, making it the perfect place for both relaxation and exploration this winter.