Hokkaido Hot Spring #2 No.31. Tokachigawa Onsen
Tokachigawa Onsen is known as "beauty hot spring" due to its plant-derived humic acid-rich waters. These waters have been buried underground with natural plants like reeds since ancient times before emerging through geothermal heat. With skin-smoothing and moisturizing effects, it’s especially loved by women.
In addition, the area around Tokachigawa Onsen boasts abundant natural resources and scenic spots, including ecological parks, observation decks, and farms. As Tokachigawa is also a winter habitat for swans, the annual “Tokachigawa White Heron Festival” is held here, featuring colorful triangular pyramid art installations in the snow—a truly beautiful sight.
Hokkaido Hot Spring #3 No.41. Yunokawa Onsen
Located in Hakodate, Hokkaido, Yunokawa is one of the three major hot springs in Hokkaido. Its history dates back as early as 1653, but it gained domestic and international fame after the establishment of an onsen town in 1866. After arriving at “Yunokawa Onsen Station” via Hakodate’s streetcar, you can first soak your feet in the sodium- and calcium-sulfate-rich foot bath at the “Onsen Tour Stage.”
Today, Yunokawa’s overall tourism, shopping streets, and ryokan are very well planned, allowing you to choose your preferred ryokan based on personal taste and location. Additionally, the nearby Tsurukami Shrine is a must-visit spot. Aside from its solemn and elegant shrine, the nearby torii tunnel is also stunningly beautiful.
■ Official Website: Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen Ryokan Cooperative Association
Hokkaido Hot Spring #4 No.50. Akanko Onsen
Lake Akan is a natural crater lake, so it offers carbonate-rich hot springs. There are many hot spring ryokan on the southern shore of Lake Akan, attracting many visitors every winter. The onsen town also features numerous te-dera-yu (hand baths) and ashi-yu (foot baths), making it a very relaxing experience during the cold winter.
In addition, Lake Akan is home to the Ainu people of Japan, so you’ll find many unique indigenous craft shops along the onsen street—perfect for a stroll. Moreover, the area around Lake Akan boasts rich wetland resources, most notably marimo (green algae balls) and trout, making it one of the must-visit spots in Eastern Hokkaido.
Recommended Reading:Experience Something Special This Winter: Explore 5 Hidden Gems in Eastern Hokkaido
Hokkaido Hot Spring #5 No.54. Jozankei Onsen
When it comes to must-visit hot springs in the suburbs of Hokkaido, Jozankei Onsen is definitely the place to go. Just about an hour’s drive from Sapporo, surrounded by valleys and forests, Jozankei is perfect for autumn foliage viewing in the fall and snowy landscapes in the winter, making it one of the most popular choices for a day-trip onsen experience.
Hokkaido Hot Spring #6 No.57. Lake Toya
Lake Toya Onsen is one of Japan’s three major hot springs. The waters are rich in bicarbonate, sulfur salts, and chlorides, offering therapeutic benefits for muscle soreness and relaxation. That’s why it attracts many visitors every winter, with options ranging from day-trip onsen to staying overnight with meals. In addition, there are other nearby attractions such as Showa-san and Usu-zan Ropeway.
Hokkaido Hot Spring #7 No.73. Kawakawa Onsen
Kawakawa Onsen is another very famous hot spring in Hokkaido. The name “Kawakawa” comes from the Ainu language, meaning “hot river.” The hot spring originates from Mt. Iou, a sulfur mountain located about 2.5 km to the south, forming a hot spring river. It was first discovered by local indigenous people and explorers. In the 19th century, mining led to the development of several ryokan, creating the onsen district seen today. It later gained further popularity thanks to the Japanese film “Kimino Na Wa?” (May I Ask Your Name?).
Hokkaido Hot Spring #8 No.82. Shiretoko Onsen
The Shiretoko Peninsula, located in Eastern Hokkaido, has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich natural landscapes. Aside from the well-known Shiretoko Five Lakes, there’s also Utoro Onsen in the central part of the peninsula, also known as Shiretoko Onsen. Since its development in 1971, it has become extremely popular, featuring a variety of hot spring hotels. Isn’t soaking in a hot spring amidst snowy landscapes one of life’s greatest joys?
Recommended Reading:Wild Onsen Experience: Taiwan’s 5 Best Hot Spring Camping Spots
After reading the above introduction to Hokkaido’s hot springs, are you starting to look forward to winter? Hokkaido is vast, and each hot spring has its own unique features and benefits. Before planning your free trip to Hokkaido, why not check out this Hokkaido onsen cheat sheet?
[Authorized Repost by Tripbaa Funbaa!] Original article: [Japan’s Top 100 Hot Springs: Hokkaido Has 8 of Them—Come Soak in Hokkaido This Winter]
Executive Editor: Hovis
Copy Editor: Reese