Hana Momiji 定山渓温泉 花もみじ 花楓葉

Hanamomiji (花もみじ), located in the heart of Jozankei Onsen in southern Sapporo, is a traditional Japanese-style ryokan operated as the sister property of the long-established Shikanoyu. As part of the Shikanoyu Group founded in 1927, the hotel blends the nostalgic charm of a classic onsen ryokan with updates and renovations that bring it to a comfortable mid-scale modern standard. Its address is “Jozankei Onsen Nishi 3-32, Minami-ku, Sapporo,” approximately 50–60 minutes by car from central Sapporo and about 80–120 minutes from New Chitose Airport via the expressway. Reserved shuttle buses from JR Sapporo Station and regular route buses provide convenient access for travelers without a car.

The hotel offers a wide range of room types, from standard Japanese-style rooms to premium rooms on the upper floors. According to the official information, Hanamomiji stands on a site overlooking the Jozankei National Park, and mountain-facing rooms feature sweeping valley views. The top-floor “Premier Floor Urara” consists of just eight guest rooms, all refurbished with private hot spring baths—such as suites with panoramic onsen baths and spacious Japanese-Western rooms. Other floors include 12.5-tatami rooms, rooms with an additional small annex, and larger layouts suitable for couples, families, and multigenerational stays. All rooms are equipped with TV, refrigerator, climate control, yukata robes, towels, and Wi-Fi.

One of Hanamomiji’s defining attractions is its variety of hot spring facilities. On the 12th floor, the panoramic bath “Fugetsu” overlooks the dramatic valley of Jozankei National Park, offering breathtaking seasonal scenery—from vibrant autumn foliage to serene winter snowscapes. On the 2nd floor, the large bath “Momiji-yu,” designed like a traditional Japanese garden, features an outdoor bath where guests can bathe while gazing at lush greenery, autumn leaves, or snowy landscapes depending on the season. Both large baths include indoor and outdoor pools and operate on a men-women rotation schedule depending on the time of day.

The hot spring water is a sodium-chloride spring sourced from three private wells including the famous Shikanoyu spring. Known for its soft feel and strong heat-retention properties, the water (pH 7.1) is said to help with neuralgia, muscle pain, joint pain, fatigue, chronic skin conditions, and poor circulation. The ryokan also offers three private baths: round and square baths on the 2nd floor and the “Ama-no-yu” private bath on the 12th floor. These are available for a fee and by time slot, offering couples and families a quiet, private onsen experience.

Meals focus on seasonal Japanese kaiseki cuisine made with local Hokkaido ingredients. Dinner typically features a multi-course kaiseki meal—appetizers, sashimi, simmered dishes, grilled items, hot pots, rice dishes, and dessert—prepared with an emphasis on seasonal flavors. Spring brings mountain vegetables, summer highlights local produce and seafood, autumn features mushrooms and salmon, and winter includes hearty hot-pot dishes. Breakfast may be served as either a Japanese-Western buffet or a traditional set meal, with grilled fish, small side dishes, salads, rice, bread, and soups.

Facilities include a lobby lounge, reading corner, gift shop, outdoor summer pool, game corner, and table-tennis space—classic features of a Japanese onsen ryokan. The lounge often offers complimentary drinks and massage chairs at certain hours, providing a relaxing spot after bathing. Guests may also have access to the large baths at sister property Shikanoyu (conditions vary), allowing for additional hot spring hopping. Free parking is available, making the ryokan convenient for travelers arriving by car.

Access is straightforward: from JR Sapporo Station’s bus terminal, the Jotetsu Bus to Jozankei Onsen takes about 70 minutes, and the ryokan is within walking distance from the nearest stop. A reserved shuttle bus for hotel guests also departs from JR Sapporo Station’s north exit, providing a comfortable option for those without a vehicle. Situated at the center of the hot spring town, the ryokan is within easy reach of footbaths, walking paths, and local sightseeing spots such as Futami Suspension Bridge—ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the ambiance of the onsen village itself.

In summary, Hanamomiji is a well-balanced ryokan where guests can enjoy panoramic hot spring baths, the garden-style “Momiji-yu,” three private baths, traditional Japanese rooms with valley views, and seasonal kaiseki cuisine. While it is not a flashy large-scale resort, it provides thoughtful hospitality and charming touches typical of a long-established ryokan group. Its comfortable services, convenient location, and relaxing atmosphere make it a fitting choice for couples, families, multigenerational trips, and anyone wanting a classic yet comfortable Jozankei onsen experience.