The sprawling Zaborin Ryokan on Japan's northernmost island of Hokkaido promises a heavenly relaxing vacation with all the understated elegance for which the country is famous. Surrounded by meadows and forests, and with some of Asia's best ski slopes on its doorstep, this luxury guesthouse is ideal for nature lovers and discerning travelers longing for a true Zen retreat. Just 15 modern villas, each with a mineral-rich indoor and outdoor onsen bath, offer private views of lush greenery through floor-to-ceiling windows. Whether enjoying a traditional tea ceremony, a massage, a book by the fireplace, or a long hike in nature, relaxation and tranquility are the ultimate goals here.
Immerse yourself in authentic Japanese traditions, indulge in the famous "omotenashi" hospitality, and find well-deserved relaxation in this peaceful place. A massage room is available for both couples and individual massages. The Hanazono Forest is a wonderful place for hiking and cycling in every season. Visit the Yoichi distillery to taste the local Nikka whisky, or enjoy a wine and sake tasting or a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the hotel. The resort of Niseko is also one of Japan's most fashionable winter destinations – a true paradise for snowboarders and skiers.
The 15 intimate villas fall into two categories: choose the Washitsu Villa and sleep in traditional style on tatami mats with Japanese futons, or opt for the Yoshitsu Villa and enjoy a heavenly Western bed. Each villa has a small dining area and a large living room with luxurious sofas, and floor-to-ceiling windows offer beautiful views of the forest. The undisputed highlight is the traditional indoor and outdoor onsen tubs filled with geothermal water.
With ingredients picked and caught by hand from the forest and nearby lake, Zaborin's head chef will delight you every day. In the morning, you can choose between Japanese specialties and a classic Western breakfast. In the evening, a multi-course seasonal Kita Kaiseki menu awaits you in the dining room – a northern interpretation of the strict Kyoto Kaiseki dish, which is considered one of the most extraordinary forms of cuisine. Pudding and tea are served in the lounge after dinner. Make yourself comfortable by the fireplace and enjoy a local wine or sake from the wine cellar.
Sitting, reading, gazing out of the window at nature, enjoying a hot bath, and simply doing nothing. If that sounds like paradise to you, then a break at Zaborin Ryokan in Hokkaido is just the thing. The name is derived from the meditative Zen word "zabo," which means "to sit and forget," and "Rin," which means "forest." Nestled in its own small pine forest, this picturesque inn welcomes you as a refuge from all the stressful influences of everyday life. Relaxation is the ultimate goal here—but it is not achieved through elaborate wellness programs, but rather through a well-thought-out Zen concept that follows proven Japanese traditions. The lobby impresses with its clean lines, cement beams that look like birch trees, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an open fireplace that burns all year round. The 15 magnificent villas are all separate from each other and arranged in a large oval, in the center of which is a small forest and a footbath onsen.
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