Featured Hotels Near Sapphire pond

Stay at Shirakaba So, Higashikawa Onsen Inn, a traditional Japanese ryokan nestled amidst forested hills overlooking Chōbatsu Pond. Each room features tatami flooring and direct views of the pond’s tranquil waters, perfect for morning meditation or evening stargazing. The inn offers private open-air baths where guests can soak while surrounded by seasonal foliage—especially magical during autumn when maples paint the landscape. Just a 5-minute walk leads to the pond’s scenic trail, ideal for early risers seeking misty reflections. Breakfast includes locally sourced Hokkaido ingredients, enhancing the authentic rural experience.

Yes, Shirakaba So, Higashikawa Onsen Inn is just a 5-minute walk from Chōbatsu Pond’s scenic trail. The 1.2-kilometer loop path winds along the shoreline with wooden boardwalks and viewing platforms, perfect for leisurely strolls or light hiking. Spring brings cherry blossoms, autumn transforms the trees into fiery reds, and winter offers serene ice-covered waters beneath snow-laden branches. The inn provides complimentary snowshoes and walking poles for safe exploration across seasons. Additionally, every Saturday night features a special nighttime lantern tour, illuminating the pond’s quiet beauty with soft glow—offering an unforgettable, intimate experience.

Yes, Shirakaba So, Higashikawa Onsen Inn offers private outdoor onsen bookings in a secluded garden setting. The hot spring water comes from a natural spring, rich in minerals and known for its soothing properties. Surrounded by bamboo fences and pine trees, these private baths provide complete tranquility—only the sound of nearby streams and birdsong breaking the silence. Some rooms feature dual indoor/outdoor bathing areas paired with a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, allowing guests to enjoy matcha and wagashi after soaking. This experience is often described as a "meditative dialogue with nature"—ideal for travelers seeking deep relaxation. Book via the HopeGoo platform in advance to secure availability during peak season.