A traditional style ryokan (with physical keys), stayed 1N in a Junior Suite #1046 (on level 4) in Sep 2025, with in-room private onsen bath (42deg temp), highest floor is 10. Hotel is located a good 5min walk uphill from the shopping stretch / Hell Valley, and situated next to a 'river'. For meals, normal seating is available ie not sitting on the floor.
Pro Hotel offers complimentary shuttle bus (2h ride, advance reservation required / 1 toilet stop along the way / XL luggage ok!) to / from Sapporo station (near north exit at bus terminal), pickup is 2pm sapporo to hotel, 10am hotel back to sapporo Room is very spacious (XL luggage ok!), beds come with 2 pillows per person already. Plenty of extra clothing change for personal use eg meal time. Likewise, 2 different types of slippers was provided to move around the hotel Water pressure / control is good in shower area. However, there is only 1 shower head for use (but 2 chairs). Large windows overlooking 'river', with one side window that can open up for fresh air (with insect netting), same for bathroom 2 types of bathing / washing amenities available in toilet. Also, you can request for additional amenities kit via the in-room tablet eg L Occitane, Mikomoto etc, which is complimentary basis on PER guest basis. Panasonic facial steamer avail in room There was night illumination walk at Hell's Valley after dark during our stay there, but it was rather overrated for us. There is also a foothbath by the river 10mins walk from hotel (heading northeast), we did not go as it was raining in the morning.
Con Hotel shuttle bus stops at opposite hotel Sekisuitei instead, so it is unsheltered 50m walk to hotel. However, hotel staff should be there to pick you up upon alighting. Water temp can swing at times eg water becomes very hot suddenly if someone else is flushing the toilet, using outside sink etc, so be prepared as this can become rather dangerous during facial washing, young ones etc The onsen water also keeps flowing, no way to stop it, so have to be careful with parts of the floor flowing with hot water, while showering. There is a one step down between bedroom and living room (about 10cm height), so caution required, especially for seniors or moving around at night Dinner service (we chose 1930h last sitting) was not to our expectation, which is likely due to staff overwhelmed, as there was a good 10 - 15min gap between each serving (or perhaps this is intended since it is not normal kaiseki setting). Somehow, it is very hard to get an English menu (there was none for breakfast, and for dinner, appreciate the staff effort to give us one midway into the course), which means for guests who wants to know what dish is in front of them, Google Translate is a better bet. Tiny gift shop, and items are largely displayed in glass cabinet instead ie can see but cannot touch There is large indoor lounge area, but with no view, so really just for waiting and having some beverages (beer at select time only) & 1 snack in meantime.
Plan wisely on these Hotel shuttle arrives 1 hour after check in time, and departs 1 hour before check out time Dinner timing is 1730, 1800 & 1930, and might not be possible to change on the day. Suggest to go for late one, and explore the small town after check in (like us), which would not take more than 2 hours (including going to Hell's Valley).
Note that the hotel advised advance reservation for taxi service ie 1 day ahead, as taxi is rare and hard to secure on timely basis. It is a 15min taxi ride from hotel to Noboribetsu train station, cost around JPY2.9k.
A day trip to Noboribetsu might be a good...
Read moreAn Unforgettable Ryokan Experience – Pure Perfection at Bourou Noguchi Noboribetsu (April 2025)
We recently stayed at Bourou Noguchi Noboribetsu in the Standard Suite with Scenic View Bath, and from start to finish, our experience was nothing short of extraordinary. Every detail was thoughtfully curated, and the level of hospitality we received was genuinely exceptional.
The suite itself was spacious, elegant, and immaculately clean, with a private scenic-view bathtub that allowed us to soak in the healing Noboribetsu waters in total peace and privacy. The room offered a serene view that made every moment feel like a retreat into nature. For those who enjoy traditional hot spring experiences, the indoor and outdoor onsen facilities on the basement level are equally impressive – beautifully designed, calming, and therapeutic.
Every staff member we encountered was professional, warm, and sincerely eager to help, which made our stay even more comfortable and welcoming. You can really feel the pride they take in delivering top-tier service. Everyone at this hotel was wonderful, and we especially want to mention Ms. Goto at the front desk – she was super friendly and extremely helpful throughout our stay.
The highlight of our stay was without a doubt the Kaiseki dinner included in our plan. Featuring the finest ingredients from Hokkaido, each course was a work of art – beautifully presented and bursting with local flavor. It was a true culinary journey that could easily earn a Michelin star. From the delicate appetizers to the unforgettable main dishes and desserts, everything was balanced, seasonal, and delicious.
If you’re looking for a luxurious, tranquil getaway with top-tier service and exquisite cuisine, I would recommend Bourou Noguchi Noboribetsu with absolute confidence. With access to some of the best onsen waters in Japan, a gorgeous suite, and hospitality that touches the heart, this ryokan truly delivers a...
Read moreFrom getting there to leaving, the Noguchi excelled at ensuring that I had a relaxing, and luxurious stay.
The rooms were spacious and well appointed (key feature: massive ensuite onsen that can comfortably fit 2) alongside complimentary/discounted shuttle bus services (Sapporo Station/Chitose Airport pickups, or drop off- boom directly with hotel for this perk) allow you to get there and leave stress free. Special shoutout to their half board packages that include dinner and breakfast, close to every meal had a few showstoppers- not only were the meals gorgeous, but they were also delicious, and had you leaving the restaurant full.
While this hotel may cater more to a domestic audience, and you shouldn’t expect a high level of English fluency, staff generally speak enough English to get their points across, and they certainly do give it their best efforts. Special shoutout to Sachi-san at the restaurant for her warmth and unparalleled hospitality.
It was great to revisit the place after several decades, while the property has aged a bit since my first visit, it still felt immensely luxurious, and I look forward to...
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