Joanna James
An onsen is a natural hot spring and Hokkaido in Japan is one of the best destinations in which to experience its restorative effects. These are some of the top onsens to be found here where you can not only soak in a hot spring but discover local culture and captivating attractions too.
The town of Jozankei, around 60 minutes from central Sapporo, is home to an onsen and offers visitors plenty to discover within the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. In the town, one will find a variety of ryokan which are Japanese-style inns that also provide day visitors access to their hot spring baths. You can even find foot baths in the town that you can enjoy for free! Apart from the refreshing hot spring waters, Jozankei is also known for its spellbinding fall scenery, while the Iwato Kannondo cave temple is worth a visit too.
Amongst the most well-known hot spring resorts in Hokkaido, Noboribetsu boasts no less than eleven different thermal water types with varying mineral content and other elements that offer health benefits too. You can reach the town from the JR Noboribetsu Station by bus (takes about 15 minutes), while Noboribetsu can be easily explored on foot. If you are visiting for the day, you can make use of the hot spring baths at a ryokan or the Sagiriyu Public Bath which features indoor baths.
Originating from beneath the Niseko Mountain Range and Mount Yotei, hot spring waters rich in minerals can be found in Niseko. Accommodation options here provide access to several key hot spring baths as well as popular ski areas. Well worth experiencing are the hot springs at Yukichichibu within easy reach of hotels such as Chatrium Niseko Japan. At this site, you will find sulphur-rich waters that have a restorative effect on the skin; another significant feature is the special mud that has minerals too and which can be applied on the face and body for a unique onsen experience.
The Tokachigawa onsen in the Hokkaido region is known as being ideal for skin moisturising; it is termed as a "moor hot spring" since the waters are rich in organic matter be it from native plants or reeds which have mixed with water deep underground. Apart from moisturising and beautifying the skin, the hot spring waters are said to help with easing muscle pains, stiff shoulders and arthritis. Those visiting this town close to the Tokachi River can also look forward to witnessing migratory swans arriving in winter and the related Hakucho Festival (Swan Festival).
Situated a short drive from the Hakodate Airport, Yunokawa is another popular part of Hokkaido known for its onsen. You can experience the hot spring waters at one of the many inns or properties here be it on a day or overnight visit; some of these hot spring baths even have ocean views. The waters are rich in elements like sulphur, calcium chloride and sodium providing several health benefits too. On your trip, make sure to head to the Hakodate City Botanical Garden where you can see snow monkeys (Japanese macaques) enjoying hot springs during winter!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
