"Even for a ryokan, Hinanoza, in Japan’s northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido, is in a tranquil, secluded place. Set on Lake Akan, deep in the old-growth forest of Eastern Hokkaido, the ryokan is within range of no less than four national parks — known for natural features from volcanoes to rugged coasts and wildlife from grizzly bears to Japanese red-crowned cranes. You could spend a very long time wandering through all the landscapes and gawking at the animals, but at Hinanoza nature is close enough at hand that you could just as easily stick around long enough to watch the seasons change from the comfort of your private suite." - Tablet Hotels