Don't miss the serene and rejuvenating journey of soaking in an onsen in your Japanese adventure. Here are 7 hot spring destinations in Hokkaido tailored for discerning travelers seeking an upscale onsen experience.
Japan is one of the few countries in the world with abundant hot spring sources, thanks to its mountainous volcanic terrain. With approximately 150 hot springs and 1,400 smaller branches scattered across the country, Japan boasts a wide range of hot spring experiences, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 60°C, and even nearing 100°C in places like Ogama Onsen in Nagano. The formation of these onsens in Japan can be attributed to several factors:
• Underground magma from volcanic eruptions heats underground water veins.
• Ancient fossilized organisms partly decompose, enriching the water with minerals.
• Pure water passes through a portion of the Earth's mantle, getting heated in the process.
Traditionally, the Japanese would often enjoy open-air onsens, but nowadays, indoor bathing has become more common. To experience an onsen, one must venture into Japan's rural areas, where one can relax and unwind in the warm embrace of the water.
What is onsen?
In Japan, Onsen is defined as natural hot spring water containing minerals, water vapor, and other gases (primarily hydrocarbons) that naturally erupt from the ground, meeting specific requirements. If the water temperature is 25 degrees Celsius or higher, it qualifies as an Onsen. Additionally, if it contains certain mineral concentrations, even at temperatures below 25 degrees Celsius, it is still recognized as an Onsen.
Benefit of onsen
You'll find numerous benefits when soaking in hot springs, where both physical and mental well-being take precedence. Here are the compelling advantages of indulging in Onsen baths:
Serenity for the Soul
Step into the tranquil world of hot springs, a paradise designed to help you relax and alleviate stress. The warm water creates a weightless sensation, gently easing your body into a peaceful state. With temperatures ranging from 37 to 40 degrees Celsius, the hot springs stimulate the autonomic nervous system, fostering a serene atmosphere conducive to deep and restful sleep.
Enhanced Blood Circulation
In the mineral-rich waters of Onsen baths, you'll be replenished with elements like calcium and sodium bicarbonate. As these minerals envelop your body during bathing, they help improve blood circulation and enhance oxygen distribution in the body. These soothing effects contribute to lowering blood pressure.
Gentle Pain Relief
Through the therapeutic method of thermal therapy when soaking in Onsen baths, you'll alleviate discomfort in muscles and joints. The warmth seeps into tired muscles, dilating blood vessels and reducing inflammation. Muscles become less fatigued and swollen.
Calorie Burn
A calorie-burning process occurs when you soak in hot springs. Though exertion is minimal, the thermal energy still acts as a catalyst for high-energy expenditure. Imagine spending 20 minutes soaking in a hot spring with a temperature of 42 degrees Celsius, boosting metabolic processes to burn over 220 kilocalories.
Radiant Skin
Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy the "miracle cure" of Onsen baths, enriched with minerals like silica and sulfur. These substances work wonders, smoothing and softening the skin while combating issues like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Sulfur aids in healing to expedite the recovery process for cuts and wounds. Steam completes the beauty regimen, detoxifying and moisturizing the skin, leaving it brighter and healthier.
Sensory Restoration
Elevate your senses while bathing in Onsen, with temperatures exceeding 42 degrees Celsius, awakening the sympathetic nervous system. You'll feel alert and invigorated, transforming your time spent soaking in hot springs into a rejuvenating source of energy for both mind and body.
How to take an onsen bath
To enjoy an Onsen experience properly, start by finding the appropriate changing room according to your gender. These facilities typically feature separate bathing areas for men and women. In these rooms, you'll find space to undress and store belongings, sometimes including amenities like hairdryers. It's important not to wear swimsuits into the baths to maintain cleanliness. Two types of towels are commonly provided: a small one to cover yourself while bathing and a larger one for drying off in the changing room.
Depending on the Onsen facility, before entering the baths, it's customary to cleanse your body thoroughly with either shower water or by scrubbing with soap. Ideally, bring your own soap, shampoo, and towel. Make sure the small towel doesn't touch the water.
Pay attention to the rules of the bathing area, such as refraining from speaking loudly, swimming, or submerging your head in the water. Additionally, in Japanese culture, tattoos are associated with organized crime gangs. Therefore, some Onsen may not welcome guests with tattoos. If you have tattoos, it's advisable to inquire with the Onsen facility beforehand. Taking photos is generally not permitted to ensure privacy. If you wish to capture the surrounding scenery, ask the staff beforehand.
You can drink bottled water to stay hydrated. Most importantly, avoid consuming alcoholic beverages before entering the baths, as prolonged exposure to hot water while intoxicated can pose health risks.
After soaking, use a small towel to dry off and keep the floor dry. Rest, stay hydrated, and be cautious of slippery floors to ensure you have a relaxing and safe experience.
Top 7 Hokkaido Onsen
1. Niseko Station Hot Spring Kiranoyu
Nestled conveniently in the heart of Kirakaido, right in front of Niseko Station, is the inviting haven known as "Kiranoyu." This day-trip hot spring beckons not only to locals but also to those exploring the wonders of Niseko.
Enveloped by nature and housed in a distinctive structure, Kiranoyu offers a tranquil retreat to rejuvenate both the mind and body. Drawing from the soothing hot spring water, Kiranoyu enhances your relaxation with a jacuzzi in the expansive Western-style public bath. The bath's temperature hovers between 30 to 35 degrees, available on odd-numbered days for men and even-numbered days for women.
Open hours: 10 am - 9:30 pm (Closed: 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month)
Address: 33 Chuodori, Niseko, Abuta District, Hokkaido 048-1512, Japan
Telephone: +81136441100
2. Yukichichibu Onsen
Yukichichibu is nestled within the enchanting Yumoto Onsenkyo. This bathing facility boasts seven outdoor baths with panoramic views of Mount Nitonupuri. Immerse yourself in nature as you soak in the open-air baths or indulge in the therapeutic mud baths exclusive to the women's section.
Unwind amidst the winter charm, with the mountains as your backdrop, as Yukichichibu warmly welcomes visitors even during the colder months. The facility provides a cozy rest area and a charming cafeteria, inviting you to linger and savor the tranquil ambiance.
In addition, the sulfur component in the hot spring is a type of hydrogen sulfide, ensuring you an enjoyable bathing experience. Yukichichibu's hot springs are renowned for their effectiveness in alleviating conditions such as nerve pain, lower back pain, chronic eczema, and joint-related mobility disorders, as well as supporting recovery from fatigue.
Open hours: 12 - 7 pm (Monday - Friday), 10 am - 7 pm (Saturday - Sunday). Closed: Every Tuesday (excluding public holidays, year-end and New Year holidays, and Golden Week).
Address: 680 Yuzato, Rankoshi-cho, Isoya-gun, Hokkaido, 048-1321, Japan
Telephone: +81136582328.
Bathing fee: Adults 700 yen / Elementary school students 300 yen
3. Goshiki Onsen
Discover the allure of hot springs at Goshiki Onsen, where nature's wonders unfold in two captivating settings: the expansive public bath and the open-air Karamatsu no Yu, offering panoramic views. Fresh from the underground, this 100% pure hot spring, celebrated by avid enthusiasts, is renowned for its efficacy against conditions like chronic eczema, neuralgia, and atopic dermatitis.
Big bath
Named for its five distinct spring types, Goshiki Onsen boasts a unique charm with waters that showcase different hues, thanks to sulfur content. Acidic and sulfur-infused, the hot spring is a rich source of magnesium, sodium, calcium, nitrate, and chloride, delivering natural nutrients. Immerse yourself in the smooth, clear water, renowned for its therapeutic effects on neuralgia, frozen shoulders, women's ailments, and high blood pressure. A haven for hot spring treatments, Goshiki Onsen is also a recommended retreat for skiing and snowboarding or mountain climbing enthusiasts.
Gaze upon the breathtaking vistas of Niseko Ampuri and Iwaonupuri as you indulge in the special ambiance of open-air hot springs. Whether surrounded by the chirping of birds amidst lush greenery in summer or enveloped in a silver-covered landscape in winter, your bathing experience is elevated by the soothing and awe-inspiring scenery.
Open hours: Check-in from 2:00 pm
Day trip bath
Summer (May to November) 9:00 am to 8:00 pm
Winter (December to April) 10:00 am to 7:00 pm
Address: 673 Yunosato, Rankoshi, Isoya District, Hokkaido 048-1321, Japan
Telephone: +81 136 58 2707
4. Yugokorotei
Step into the lap of luxury and unwind in the embrace of our rejuvenating geothermal hot spring. Imagine a haven where the thermal waters, untouched and pure, flow from their source at a balmy 54 degrees Celsius, creating an oasis of relaxation. This natural gift, unaltered before gracing our bathing areas, invites you to surrender to its therapeutic warmth.
As you soak in the geothermal goodness, let the stresses of daily life dissipate, allowing your body to find relief from its aches and pains. This experience is more than just a soak; it's a journey into the heart of tranquility, where the untouched purity of our hot spring becomes a source of rejuvenation for your body and soul.
Join in Yugokorotei where nature's bounty meets the pinnacle of relaxation, and every dip becomes a celebration of well-being. Indulge in the luxury of a 100% natural geothermal hot spring, and let the warmth of its healing embrace transport you to a realm of pure bliss.
Open hours: 6:00 am - 12:00 am
Address: 438 Niseko, Abuta District, Hokkaido 048-1511, Japan
Telephone: +81 136 58 2500
Fee: Adults 1,200 yen / Junior high school students 1,100 yen / Elementary school students 500 yen / Infants free
5. Yusenkaku
Big bath
Start a journey of relaxation in a slightly alkaline 'sodium-chloride/hydrogen carbonate spring' - affectionately known as the 'beauty bath.' This natural oasis, akin to liquid soap, delicately softens dirt and sheds dead skin cells, emulsifying sebum for effortless removal. Revel in the aftermath as your skin emerges silky-smooth, courtesy of the chloride ions delivering a profound moisturizing effect that warms your body to its core. The abundance of metasilicic acid, a natural moisturizing ingredient, adds a touch of magic to this restorative experience.
Open-air bath
Beyond the allure of large bathtubs, hot baths, and jacuzzi, discover further delights with open-air baths, cold baths, dry sauna, and wet sauna. As a testament to the commitment to inclusivity, a wheelchair-accessible family bath, available by reservation, complements expansive offerings.
Jacuzzi bath
Yusenkaku's 'Beauty Bath' is not only a haven for individuals seeking rejuvenation but is also cherished by families. Embrace the opportunity to luxuriate in comprehensive amenities and let the essence of tranquility envelop you.
Open hours: Day trip bathing 10:00-21:30 Last reception 21:00
(Open from 12:00 on Mondays/Tuesdays if Monday is a holiday)
Address: 114-5 Konbumachi, Rankoshi, Isoya District, Hokkaido 048-1302, Japan
Telephone: +81 136 58 2131
6. Kyogoku Fureai Kyogoku Onsen
Located near Fukidashi Park, Kyogoku Onsen beckons as a perfect escape for a quick and rejuvenating hot spring experience. With the stunning backdrop of Mt. Yotei, immersing yourself in the open-air bath is not just a simple soak; it's a blissful journey into tranquility.
Enjoy the landscape of Mt. Yotei from the hot spring.
As you surrender to the soothing waters, the majestic view of Mt. Yotei unfolds before you, turning your relaxation into a truly magical moment. Kyogoku Onsen provides more than just a hot spring getaway—it's a retreat into nature's embrace, where the combination of therapeutic waters and breathtaking scenery creates an unparalleled sense of calm.
Jet bath/daily hot water
Indulge in the luxury of this magnificent location, where every visit becomes a serene escape into the beauty of Kyogoku Onsen.
Natural hot spring bath
Bubble bath
Open hours: 10 am - 12 am daily
Address: 68 Kawanishi, Kyogoku, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0131, Japan
Telephone: +81 136 42 2120
7. Kogane Hot Spring
Outdoor hot spring
Kogane Hot Spring offers a variety of nine natural hot spring styles, situated against the backdrop of lush green mountains. Nature bestows this tranquil hot spring, providing a rejuvenating experience. Immerse yourself in the revitalizing hot bath, where the beauty of changing seasons and the brilliance of stars above heal your daily fatigue in luxurious sensory delight. The outdoor hot spring in the Japanese garden, set amidst the breathtaking nature of Mt. Hachimen, showcases the versatile beauty of all four seasons. This amenity is complimentary for guests, allowing them to fully appreciate its wonders.
Large publish bath
Indulge in a comprehensive wellness experience at Kogane Hot Spring, offering an array of facilities under various categories, including hot springs, large public baths, outdoor hot springs, saunas, family hot springs, and cold baths. The inviting bath texture is characterized by low tension and low alkaline properties, creating a soothing environment for relaxation. Beyond the blissful ambiance, these natural hot springs bring forth healing benefits, targeting ailments such as rheumatoid arthritis, neuralgia, and poor blood circulation. Immerse yourself in this therapeutic haven, where the synergy of tranquil surroundings and health-promoting features awaits.
Family private hot spring
Open hours: 10 am - 12 am daily
Address: 258-1 Kogane, Rankoshi, Isoya District, Hokkaido 048-1323, Japan
Telephone: +81136582654
Fee: Outdoor, public bath (sauna included): Adult JPY600, Child JPY300 (elementary school kid). Free admission for children under elementary school. Rental family hot spring: JPY 2,000 (60 mins on weekdays, 45 mins on weekends).
Note: In case of intense winter winds and snowfall, the roads may be impassable, potentially affecting your access to the venue or return journey. We recommend checking the current situation or reaching out to onsen facilities in advance for updated information.
