Lake Shikotsu Tsuruga Bessou Ao no Za しこつ湖 鶴雅別荘 碧の座 碧之座支笏湖鶴雅別墅

Lake Shikotsu Tsuruga Bessou Ao no Za is an ultra-luxury ryokan with just 25 suites, located in the Shikotsu Onsen area of Chitose, Hokkaido. Set within Shikotsu-Toya National Park—about one hour by car from Sapporo and roughly 40 minutes from New Chitose Airport—it offers a serene environment surrounded by forest and the deep blue waters of Lake Shikotsu. Opened in May 2019, it is positioned as the flagship property of the Tsuruga Group’s “Za” series.

The hotel’s concept is “A Noble Azure Retreat.” At the heart of the lobby stands an eight-meter stratified art wall symbolizing the flow of time from Jomon culture to Ainu culture and into the present day. Natural materials such as earth and shell are incorporated into the artwork, creating a unified sense of place. Interiors feature deep blues inspired by the famed “Shikotsu Blue,” combined with earthy browns reminiscent of Hokkaido’s forests and landscape, resulting in a modern yet tranquil expression of northern Japan’s heritage.

The ryokan offers 25 suites across four categories, each exceeding 100 m² and designed as private lake-view villas. The “Suite Resort” and “Suite Sky Resort” types (approx. 100–120 m²) offer expansive balconies and elevated views. The “Suite Villa” (120–140 m²) includes a dining kitchen, while the “Executive Suite Villa” spans over 200 m² across two floors—ideal for families or multigenerational stays. Some suites feature adjoining or connecting configurations, allowing two rooms to link seamlessly while maintaining privacy, making the property suitable for larger groups.

All suites include both an open-air onsen bath and an indoor jetted bath with direct views of Lake Shikotsu. The hot spring water is a sodium bicarbonate spring, known for its smooth texture and moisturizing qualities—often referred to as a “beautifying bath.” The generously sized tubs accommodate 3–4 guests comfortably, allowing you to bathe at any time without leaving your room. While the property does not have a public bath, guests have access to the large baths at the sister hotel, Tsuruga Resort Spa Mizu no Uta.

Meals are centered around kaiseki cuisine at the on-site restaurant Mizushiro. The menu highlights seasonal ingredients from across Hokkaido’s mountains and seas, served in a serene private-dining setting under the theme “Simple yet Luxurious.” The separate 8-seat teppanyaki venue Seisui offers a personalized dining experience where guests can discuss preferred cooking styles and portion sizes with the chef, making each course feel curated and seasonal.

Public areas include the fireplace-centered “Lounge Seiyou,” a culture lounge offering hands-on activities, and the bar lounge “Seiran.” Cultural experiences include indigo-dyeing workshops, Japanese tea ceremonies, Ainu-inspired photo sessions, and a letter-writing service—all designed to deepen your connection with local traditions. Indigo-dyeing items such as handkerchiefs or T-shirts can be taken home as souvenirs, and many of these experiences are included in the room rate.

The bar lounge provides an all-inclusive beverage service, featuring beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options. While some premium wines and whiskies incur an extra charge, most drinks are included. Complimentary champagne, siphon-brewed coffee, and late-night snacks create a relaxed, anytime-welcome atmosphere. Reviews often highlight the variety of drink options and the freedom to enjoy them in the bar or in-room.

Additional on-site facilities include a spa, a cigar room, and a boutique offering carefully selected, high-quality local goods. The hotel also provides information and arrangements for seasonal outdoor activities around Lake Shikotsu, such as sightseeing cruises, canoeing, clear kayaks, diving, and winter ice-walking experiences.

For access, a complimentary shuttle runs between the hotel, JR Chitose Station, and New Chitose Airport (advance reservation required), making the location convenient even for guests without a car. Those driving can reach the property in about 40 minutes from the airport via Routes 36, 16, and 453, though winter travelers are advised to allow extra time and use vehicles equipped for snowy conditions.

Overall, Lake Shikotsu Tsuruga Bessou Ao no Za is a luxury retreat for guests who want spacious lake-view suites with private hot springs, combined with refined dining, thoughtful cultural experiences, and the pristine nature of Lake Shikotsu. Rather than a fast-paced sightseeing itinerary, it is best suited for travelers who want to slow down, savor the environment, and enjoy a deeply immersive, restorative stay.