Okujozankeionsen Kashogyoen 奥定山渓温泉 佳松御苑 奧定山溪溫泉佳松御苑旅館

Kasho Gyoen Oku-Jozankei is an intimate hot-spring auberge with just 23 suites, set in the Oku-Jozankei area of Sapporo’s southern district. Surrounded by untouched forest and a large pond garden within Shikotsu-Toya National Park, it is known as a “cuisine-focused retreat” where guests can enjoy fine dining and a quiet, nature-rich environment. The property opened in June 2018 and underwent a major renovation in 2022, expanding its restaurant and lounge toward the pond side. Its 3,000-tsubo (approx. 10,000 m²) grounds create a serene setting ideal for slow, restful stays.

The inn is located at 857 Jozankei, Minami-ku, Sapporo. Set farther up the valley from the main Jozankei Onsen town, it sits in a secluded enclave embraced by forest and river. Travel time is about one hour from central Sapporo and around 90 minutes from New Chitose Airport via highway. The official website also lists shuttle services for guests, taxi arrangements, and fixed-rate transfers to nearby golf courses, offering several transportation options beyond self-driving.

The grounds feature a 3,000 m² garden passed down from the previous generation, along with a large reflective pond surrounded by forest. From the lobby lounge and pondside terrace, guests can enjoy seasonal views mirrored on the water—fresh spring greens, deep summer foliage, vivid autumn colors, and winter snow scenes. A section of the terrace extends over the pond, bringing the water and forest even closer.

All 23 guest rooms are traditional Japanese-style suites equipped with private forest-view hot spring baths. Layouts typically combine a living area with sofa seating, a bedroom with low beds, and a tatami space, offering ample comfort for longer stays. Through large picture windows, guests can look out over the forest, pond, or nearby mountains. Rooms include standard amenities such as TV, refrigerator, coffee machine, Wi-Fi, and a spacious in-room onsen bath fed by natural hot spring water.

The hot springs draw from the “Usuppetsu Onsen” source in Oku-Jozankei. The spring type is calcium–sodium bicarbonate, known in Japan as one of the “Three Great Beautifying Springs.” It is said to gently exfoliate the skin while leaving it smooth after bathing. All rooms are supplied with this water, allowing guests to enjoy the hot springs privately at any time while taking in forest views.

The public bath complements the in-room baths and includes indoor and open-air tubs designed to showcase the surrounding forest and garden. While the water is heated or diluted as needed, the natural qualities of the spring are preserved, providing a comfortable temperature for extended soaking.

Dining is centered on seasonal “Oku-Jozankei Italian,” a cuisine concept that blends Italian techniques with Japanese sensibilities. The head chef—well-versed in local ingredients—creates multi-course menus featuring seafood, meats, and vegetables sourced from Hokkaido and nearby areas. While Italian in foundation, the courses incorporate Japanese elements such as dashi, careful plating, and traditional tableware. Dinner is a full course from appetizers to dessert, paired with selections including Hokkaido wines.

Breakfast is served either as a semi-buffet or a Japanese–Western course. Dishes typically include Hokkaido rice, miso soup, grilled fish, small side dishes, breads, eggs, and salads, offering a satisfying start to the day. On some evenings, the inn provides a light late-night snack such as rice balls and drinks—an appreciated touch for guests who prefer relaxing in their room until late.

Facilities include a pond-view lobby lounge, restaurant, esthetic treatment salon, lounge bar, vending machines, and a self-service laundry. Spa treatments focus on body and facial care that pair well with hot-spring stays, making them suitable for post-travel relaxation or celebratory visits. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, including rooms, lounge, and terrace areas.

The inn is operated as an adults-oriented retreat, welcoming guests aged 13 and above. Reviews frequently highlight its quiet atmosphere, cleanliness, attentive service, high-quality meals, and the appeal of the private in-room hot spring baths. Many guests note the scenery, cuisine, and room comfort as standout features.

Overall, Kasho Gyoen Oku-Jozankei is an auberge-style hot spring retreat where guests can enjoy suite accommodations with private forest-view baths, seasonal “Oku-Jozankei Italian” dining, and the tranquility of a pond garden within national park surroundings. It is ideal for couples, pairs, and small groups seeking a peaceful stay focused on scenery, hot springs, and cuisine rather than large-scale resort activities.