Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Net, reported and compiled by Chen Guanxin
As autumn winds blow, the weather in Hokkaido has reached the point where a jacket is necessary. Soaking in warm hot springs and savoring delicious seafood are two of the best ways to experience the essence of Hokkaido this season. In Hokkaido, there are four major hot spring resorts: Lake Toya Onsen, Jozankei Onsen, Noboribetsu Onsen, and Shirogane Onsen, as well as Hakodate Morning Market seafood...<横丁、札幌二条市场、札幌市中央卸卖市场以及钏路和商市场等4大活力生鲜鱼市场，等著暖活旅人的身子，满足旅人的胃与心。
Autumn in Hokkaido brings the first chill, making it the perfect time to enjoy the local hot springs and fresh seafood. (Image provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
Hokkaido’s 4 Major Hot Spring Resorts
Lake Toya Onsen – Fun in the Mountains and Hot Springs
Nestled beside Usu Volcano and Showa Shinzan, Lake Toya is a volcanic crater lake and the third largest in Japan, known for its beautiful scenery throughout all seasons. The lakeside is lined with numerous hot spring hotels, and the walking path around the lake features various sculptures made from different materials and in unique poses—perfect for nature-loving families and couples to enjoy hot springs and strolls.
[Transportation]
1. Take the Limited Express “Super Hokuto” (ス0?尋?倍罰) from JR Sapporo Station to Toyako Station (approx. 1 hour 39 minutes), then take a bus from JR Toyako Station to Lake Toya Onsen (approx. 22 minutes, get off at the final stop).
2. Take the Limited Express “Super Hokuto” (ス0?尋?倍罰) from JR Hakodate Station to Toyako Station (approx. 1 hour 44 minutes). Then take a bus from JR Toyako Station to Lake Toya Onsen (approx. 22 minutes, get off at the final stop).
An island floating in the lake is often shrouded in mist. (Image provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
Jozankei Onsen – The Closest Hot Spring to the Airport for Autumn Foliage Viewing
Jozankei Onsen once ranked first in a national hot spring competition in Japan. This resort changes its charm with the seasons, offering uniquely beautiful views. Its proximity to Sapporo—just a 1.5-hour drive—makes it one of Hokkaido’s top hot spring destinations.
[Transportation]
Take a bus bound for Jozankei from the bus terminal near JR Sapporo Station and get off at Jozankei Station (approx. 1 hour 20 minutes). To travel between Jozankei Onsen and Lake Toya Onsen, you can take buses operated by Dentsu Bus, Dōnan Bus, or Chūō Bus (approx. 1 hour 50 minutes).
Enjoy the autumn foliage when visiting Jozankei Onsen. (Image provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
Noboribetsu Onsen – A Hot Spring Theme Park with 11 Different Types of Springs
The name “Noboribetsu” in the Ainu language, the language of Hokkaido’s indigenous people, means “white, muddy river” or “dark river.” What the Ainu referred to as the white, muddy river is now ranked among the top three hot spring resorts in Japan.
The hot spring sources in the Noboribetsu area come from sulfur rising from Mount Yama and Hell Valley, as well as the strong brine springs emerging from Oyunuma and the onsen town. Thanks to continuous modern development, the area is now dotted with luxury hotels and ryokans, making it one of the top hot spring destinations in the Orient. With up to 11 different types of spring water and a daily discharge of over 10,000 tons, it is a famous hot spring spot in Japan. Coupled with nearby theme parks, golf courses, and ski resorts, Noboribetsu fully lives up to its reputation as a leisure travel destination, attracting tourists from home and abroad year-round.
[Transportation]
1. Take the Limited Express “Super Hokuto” (ス0?尋?倍罰) from JR Sapporo Station to Noboribetsu Station (approx. 1 hour 9 minutes), then take a bus from JR Noboribetsu Station to Noboribetsu Onsen (approx. 13 minutes, buses run 1–4 times per hour).
2. Take the Limited Express “Super Hokuto” (ス0?尋?倍罰) from JR Hakodate Station to Noboribetsu Station (approx. 1 hour 3 minutes), then take a bus from JR Noboribetsu Station to Noboribetsu Onsen (approx. 13 minutes, buses run 1–4 times per hour).
The variety of spring types is the biggest highlight of Noboribetsu Onsen. (Image provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
Shikotsu-Toya National Park’s Shikotsu Onsen – Breathtaking Hot Springs in Nature’s Masterpiece
Located within Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Shikotsu is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including towering mountains, endless green forests, flowing waterfalls, dramatic terrain, and lively wildlife. All of nature’s wonders become even more captivating as they change with the seasons.
The hot spring town is situated in the deep valley of the Daisetsuzan Mountain Range, featuring various therapeutic springs. Most of the hot spring water in the area’s hotels comes from a mix known as “Shikotsu Onsen,” including Shirakaba no Yu, Sakae no Yu, Izumi no Yu, Suzu no Yu, Oku no Yu, Shiratori no Yu, Ginga no Yu, Ryūsei no Yu, and Hoshi no Yu. The breathtaking scenery pairs perfectly with the hot springs.
[Transportation]
Take the Limited Express “Okhotsk” (オホ0?磨?牛) from JR Asahikawa Station to “Kamikawa” Station (approx. 50 minutes), where you can take a Dōhoku Bus bound for Shikotsu Onsen from the bus terminal in front of Kamikawa Station (approx. 30 minutes, 11 buses per day).
Soaking in the hot springs while admiring the Daisetsuzan Mountains is truly a delight. (Image provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
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