Inn features
- Hot spring
Only features verified through published information or reporting are shown.
This article is a research guide based on official information as of 2026-08-16 and information from the Shiraoi Tourism Association. This is not an actual accommodation coverage article. Please check the accommodation business days, hot springs, and availability of cats and dogs before making a reservation.
About the photo: it does not show this inn or its resident cats
This illustration does not document the rooms or cats currently in residence.
Illustrative image (not a photograph of resident cat or inside the inn) / Photo: Hasan Ölker (Pexels)
“Guesthouse Tarakoyu” located in Kojohama Onsen in Shiraoi-cho, Hokkaido, is a small inn attached to a hot spring facility that inherited the local public bath. The Shiraoi Tourism Association says that the staff will be staffed by dogs and cats.
Hot spring guest house with cats and dogs
You can check if cats are present in the area’s official facility information, but it says that you may not be able to see them. Since the time and place where you can interact with them is not specified, the classification is C: “You can meet resident cats (interaction unconfirmed).”
This facility has not only cats but also dogs. If you don’t like animals or have allergies, be sure to ask about their range and areas where animals are not allowed before making a reservation. If you can’t find the cat, don’t call for help, but if the cat shows up, give priority to the facility’s guidelines.
Enjoy Kojohama Onsen up close
Tarakoyu’s main feature is that you can enjoy hot springs as part of the local daily life. Unlike the luxurious public baths of large inns, this facility is based on a public bath, so you need to understand the size of the bathroom, equipment, hours of use, and private rental conditions before choosing one.
Please check the latest local information regarding spring quality, temperature, whether or not water is added, and cleaning times. Those who are not accustomed to hot springs should avoid long baths and drink plenty of water. For hygiene reasons, separate the areas where cats and dogs are present from the changing rooms and baths.
Please check the days of the week when you can stay.
The official website announces that accommodation began in 2024, and the business information updated in 2025 states that accommodation is available on Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Please be sure to specify and confirm your desired date, as there may be changes or reserved dates.
At guesthouses, toilets, sinks, and kitchens may be shared. If you sort out the guest room configuration, meal provision, bedding, lights out time, and rules for bringing things in before making a reservation, you will be less confused by the differences from inns.
How to spend your time at Kojohama
Kojohama is close to the sea and hot springs, and is also known for its seafood. If you don’t have a fixed time to meet the cats and instead focus on hot springs, local food, and seaside scenery, you can enjoy your stay even on days when the animals are resting.
Restaurants and shops may have limited hours of operation depending on the day of the week. If you are staying without meals, check with your hostel to find out where you will have dinner and breakfast, and if you need to prepare food before you arrive.
Access and winter precautions
The location is 48-1 Kojohama, Shiraoi-cho. Please check the official guide for specific routes by train or car, and parking locations. In winter, it is necessary to take into account snowfall, freezing, and early sunsets, and to allow plenty of time for travel.
If you are visiting by public transportation, check the distance from the nearest station, the number of trains, and whether taxis can be arranged. If you will be late for check-in, please contact the property immediately.
Basic information
| Item | Contents |
|---|---|
| Facility name | Guesthouse Tarakoyu |
| Address | 48-1 Kojohama, Shiraoi-cho, Shiraoi-gun, Hokkaido 059-0641 (local address: 〒059-0641 北海道白老郡白老町字虎杖浜48-1) |
| Cat | Staff cats (dogs also present) |
| Distance with cat | C/Presence confirmed, contact conditions unconfirmed |
| guest-room visits | unconfirmed with current information |
| Features | Attached to Kojohama Onsen’s public bath |
| Phone | 080-3930-9880 |
| Official website | Guesthouse Tarakoyu |
Location and Google Maps
Guesthouse Tarakoyu (ゲストハウスたらこ湯)
〒059-0641 北海道白老郡白老町字虎杖浜48-1
Summary
Guesthouse Tarakoyu is a facility that combines a small inn with cats and dogs and a daily bath at Kojohama Onsen. Contact with animals is not guaranteed, but it is a unique option for those who can make the hot springs and the area the center of attention.
Please check business days, shared facilities, meals, and winter access before making a reservation, and interact with cats and dogs at their own pace.
Related articles
- List of cat accommodations in Hokkaido
- Points to consider when choosing a cat inn with a hot spring
- How to think when you can’t meet a cat
