Hokkaido’s Hot Spring Paradise

A Traveler’s Ultimate Guide to Scenic Onsen Retreats

Diving into Hokkaido’s Hot Spring Kingdom!

Hokkaido stands as Japan’s ultimate hot spring paradise. Surrounded by magnificent nature, these onsen destinations are like otherworldly oases of relaxation. Each season brings a unique charm – snow-covered winters, fresh green springs, lush summers, and vibrant autumn foliage create an ever-changing backdrop for these magical hot springs.

1. Noboribetsu Onsen
2. Jozankei Onsen
3. Toya Lake Onsen
4. Sounkyo Onsen
5. Lake Akan Onsen
6. Shiretoko Five Lakes Onsen

How to Enjoy Hokkaido’s Hot Springs

Choosing the Perfect Hot Spring

Winter is actually the prime season for hot spring visits! Soaking in an outdoor bath while surrounded by snow – known as “yukimi-buro” – is a quintessential Hokkaido experience. Summer offers its own charm, with the region’s cool climate making hot springs particularly enjoyable.

Detailed Exploration of Each Hot Spring Destination

1. Noboribetsu Onsen

Noboribetsu is a flagship hot spring of Hokkaido, famous for its “Hell Valley” – a unique landscape of steaming volcanic terrain. The sulfurous steam and rocky landscape create an almost otherworldly atmosphere. The hot spring town offers numerous ryokans and hotels with diverse spring qualities.

Hell Valley’s billowing white steam and reddish-brown rocky terrain feel like witnessing the earth’s breath. Each ryokan offers distinctive open-air baths, and local seafood cuisine adds to the culinary experience.

2. Jozankei Onsen

Located near Sapporo, Jozankei Onsen offers exceptional urban accessibility while being nestled in rich natural surroundings. The harmony between the river valley and hot springs captivates travelers, providing an escape from city life.

The landscape transforms with each season – fresh green in spring, lush valleys in summer, vibrant autumn colors, and snow-covered winter scenes. Many ryokans offer breathtaking views of the Ishikari River and surrounding mountains.

3. Toya Lake Onsen

Toya Lake Onsen is defined by its stunning lake views and the backdrop of the active Mount Usu. The unique landscape, combining hot springs, natural beauty, and volcanic presence, creates an almost exotic atmosphere.

Lake Toya is a showcase of Hokkaido’s natural beauty. The crystal-clear lake surface reflecting the surrounding mountains looks like a postcard. Soaking in the hot spring while gazing at the lake and volcanic landscape is pure relaxation.

4. Sounkyo Onsen

Situated within Daisetsuzan National Park, Sounkyo Onsen is surrounded by magnificent mountain scenery. Winter is particularly spectacular, with snow formations and winter landscapes complementing the hot spring experience.

Nestled in the embrace of the Daisetsu Mountains, Sounkyo feels like a natural sanctuary. The mountain views from the hot springs are breathtaking. Winter’s ice trees look like frozen sculptures, while summer offers lush greenery and autumn brings spectacular colors.

5. Lake Akan Onsen

Located in eastern Hokkaido’s Kushiro region, Lake Akan Onsen is surrounded by Lake Akan and primeval forests. Here, visitors can experience the magnificent nature and indigenous Ainu culture.

The crystal-clear lake, surrounding primeval forest, and hot springs create a stunning landscape. A lakeside walk offers glimpses of Ainu traditional culture. Many ryokans provide views of the lake and forest from their hot springs.

6. Shiretoko Five Lakes Onsen

Part of the UNESCO World Heritage site Shiretoko Peninsula, the hot springs near the Five Lakes represent a perfect fusion of untouched nature and relaxation.

Shiretoko’s nature feels like the very breath of the earth. Soaking in hot springs while gazing at primeval forests, seas, and mountains helps you forget daily life. Potential wildlife encounters add to the unique experience.

How to Reach Each Hot Spring Destination

1. Noboribetsu Onsen:
– About 1 hour by express train from New Chitose Airport
– About 1 hour by express train from Sapporo Station

2. Jozankei Onsen:
– About 1 hour by bus from Sapporo city center
– About 2 hours by bus or taxi from New Chitose Airport

3. Toya Lake Onsen:
– About 2 hours by bus from New Chitose Airport
– About 2 hours by express train from Sapporo Station

4. Sounkyo Onsen:
– About 1 hour by car from Asahikawa Airport
– About 1 hour by bus from Asahikawa Station

5. Lake Akan Onsen:
– About 1 hour by bus from Kushiro Airport
– About 1 hour by bus from Kushiro Station

6. Shiretoko Five Lakes Onsen:
– About 2 hours by bus or rental car from Memanbetsu Airport
– About 1 hour by bus from Shiretoko-Shari Station

Public transportation and rental cars are recommended for accessing these hot spring destinations. Always check the latest transportation information and plan your trip with some flexibility.