Otaru Kourakuen

One of the most memorable ryokan stays I’ve ever experienced. The garden, painted in rich autumn colours, felt like a private dream — quiet, untouched, and entirely my own. (Stayed on 31st Oct 2025) The cuisine was exquisite, and every gesture of hospitality felt warm and genuine. I found myself wishing I had booked two nights instead of one. I hope I can return in spring someday, to see the cherry blossoms.

No amount of words can express how I feel about this resort. The stay included dinner plus breakfast. The private bath at the backyard is so relaxing. You don’t have to worry about seeing other people and you can go anytime. Highly recommended for any travelers who want to maximum the experience

We travelled by rental car so the location wasn't a problem and not far from Otaru canal and main attractions. The staff's service was superb. The whole hotel is tatami floor. There were small events like Japanese dancing for guests and camping with free snacks. The hotel's garden was nice. I really enjoy staying at the hotel.

My first visit to Otaru was truly unforgettable, all thanks to my experience at this wonderful hotel! Located just a pleasant 20-minute drive from Otaru Station, the hotel is nestled in a tranquil, private area that feels like stepping into a captivating wonderland. I was delighted to discover a bus stop right across from the hotel, making it effortlessly convenient to explore the surroundings.From the moment we arrived, the staff welcomed us warmly by name, and they were incredibly helpful with our luggage. Taking off our shoes upon entering the hotel created a feeling of comfort and cleanliness that made us feel right at home. After a smooth check-in process, during which they confirmed our breakfast time, the staff graciously guided us through the hotel, sharing helpful information about opening hours for various amenities.Our room was beautifully adorned in traditional Japanese style, complete with an open-air bath. Enjoying this serene experience during the winter was simply magical! We also savored a delectable Kaiseki dinner in our room, which was not only a feast for our taste buds but also left us delightfully satisfied.The onsens were a real highlight, featuring an adjacent sauna. With daily alternating access for women and men every other day, we were able to enjoy both during our stay. Families will find this hotel exceptionally accommodating, thanks to its variety of playrooms and relaxation spaces catering to guests of all ages. Plus, the complimentary refreshments and bar in the lobby until 10 PM added a lovely touch to our experience.Breakfast was a true delight, with a peaceful view of the snow outside the restaurant, enhancing the serene atmosphere. On our departure day, the hotel thoughtfully arranged a shuttle bus to take us to the JR station, making our exit seamless and convenient. Looking back, our only regret is that we stayed just one night—I can't wait to return and immerse myself in a different season's beauty. This hotel is now firmly on my list for future visits, and I’m already looking forward to the next adventure!

Exceptional hotel. Staff amazing . Despite language problems they were so helpful and smiling. Nothing was a problem. Had a room with a private onsen and western beds. Wonderfully relaxing and such a peaceful spot. Dinner in the room was outstanding as was breakfast. Sadly only had one night. Feel so relaxed. A welcome oasis in our two week tour of Hokkaido.

One of my favourite ryokans so far 🤍 We stayed there on Christmas Eve 2023, it was one of the best stays we had in Japan. I’ve been to many many ryokans and Kourakuen have to be top 5 of my fav. We booked over 5 months in advance for a private outdoor onsen and it was totally worth it. Highly recommend booking super early in advance if you could for a great deal and selection of rooms. Food was perfect - the in room dinner was amazing. Loved all their selections and the service was 10/10. From reception, to everyone at the lobby, the gift shop, and spa - all the staffs were very welcoming and amazing. Breakfast was wonderful as well. I got a private room to ourselves - it was one of the best Christmas morning I’ve had. Their public bath was spacious and the outdoor ones were very nice and comfortable. Would definitely go back when I have a chance! Much love from @bos.recc :)

Very comfortable and welcoming. All staffs are great and they have free Happy hour & BBQ (bacon and marshmallow) in onsen hotel, it was so much fun. The hotel is also beautiful, clean, quiet, and comfortable. Favorite part of a wonderful onsen in Otaru. Highly recommend the stay. The food and place are wonderful.

Very nice rooms and clean environment. Superb onsen with little details such as iced popsicles. Dinner is excellent too with after dinner bonfire for marshmallows bbq. Staff is so friendly and helpful . Esp the very helpful and sweet English speaking Korean lady . Landscaping is also wonderful. Will stay again

First stay at an onsen and it was amazing. There are way cheaper alternatives available, but I have tattoos so it would be hard to find a place run by the yakuza and be comfortable being nekked with the other ladies. Onsen etiquette whether private or not- shower and clean your body before you enter the hot spring completely naked. Ladies and men with long hair, tie it up. This resort is well worth the money for me. Private onsen/hot bath outside with private shower and toilet. The dinner was served in our own room due to our small party and that was a great experience to try while in Japan. The dinner is many several small dishes that will fill you up. While there is no shuttle into the resort, they offer a shuttle out at 1030am to Otaru-chikkou and the bigger Otaru JR station. They will stow your luggage if you get there before check in as well as put in your room and when you take off your shoes at the front, they end up cleaning your shoes for you. Great service! There is a bus you can take from the JR Otaru station. It is bus 13 heading to Asarigawa Spa and it stops right in front of the resort at Kourakuen. I got the Japanese Western room with the private onsen and it was pricey, but well worth it. Breakfast is served in the main dining hall the next morning and they ask you what time you prefer to show up. There are other sides next to your eating room such as natto, raw egg, orange juice and coffee. Be sure to wear the yukata included in your room and experience it all. :)

Japanese style hotel with an onsen. We just did a day use onsen which was very reasonable, ¥1100 each including rental towels. Rental yukatas are available too. The onsen was relaxing and quiet. By the end, I was the only one bathing and it was a Sunday afternoon. Very friendly staff!

Best ryokan I've been to! Although it was on the more expensive end, it was so worth it!!!! As soon as you drive onto the property, on a road lined with cherry blossom trees, you're in awe. It's like you're exiting the real world and entering another world filled with beauty and serenity! You are then greeted by staff at the front entrance. Service is first class. The place is super clean and beautiful. Get the meals to get the full ryokan experience. The food looks beautiful and tastes yummy! The indoor and outdoor onsen are so relaxing, super clean and beautiful. I usually use onsen only once at a ryokan but I ended up using it 3 times at this place! We were able to use the private onsen for 45 minutes which we didn't get charged extra for. There was a sauna and a massage chair in the private onsen room too! No big tour groups when we were there, mostly locals. Very peaceful place. The garden surrounding the ryokan is also so pretty with koi ponds, walkways, flowers... I want to go back in the autumn to see the autumn colors!