Joanna James
The northernmost of Japan's main islands, Hokkaido is loved for many things – volcanoes, ski areas and relaxing hot springs, or onsen, as they are known popularly in the East Asian nation. A comforting dip in soothing hot water while enjoying spectacular views – no one could say no to that.
The incredible hot springs galore that filter over a whopping 10,000 litres every day make Noboribetsu one of the most popular onsen towns in all of Japan. The town's ideal location between Hakodate and Hokkaido's capital city, Sapporo, makes it a refreshing stop to treat yourself to a soothing dip. The serene nature surrounding Noboribetsu also adds to the delight of the visitors to the town. Jigokudani, popularly known as "Hell Valley" is only a short trek away and welcomes you to volcanic steam vents, oddly coloured rivers and lakes, and other appealing wonders of nature.
For those in Sapporo, Jozankei Onsen is the perfect getaway to get yourself some indulgent pampering. A short 50-minute drive away from the capital city, the onsen is set along the banks of the Toyohira River within the sanctuary of the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. During the month of October is when the onsen is arguably the most beautiful as the town gets covered with a profusion of vivid fall leaves. The scenery around the town is breathtaking, to say the least, which is just as comforting as a soothing dip.
Toyako Onsen's scenic location on the southern banks of the eponymous lake makes it a spot particularly loved by tourists to Hokkaido. While the picturesque views of Toyako Lake and the splendour of the dramatic Mount Usu are the biggest draws of the onsen town, the volcanic sights in the vicinity are just as fantastic. The fairly newly erupted Mount Showa is clearly a highlight and Usuzan's west crater is a popular choice among the outdoorsy for its abandoned zombie-apocalypse-like walking trail.
What sets Tokachigawa Onsen apart from the bunch is the onsen town's unique plant-derived hot springs. The spring water, which flows from the riverbank of the Tokachi River, is said to possess a combination of minerals and sediments that makes for a skin-moisturising effect similar to that of a spa treatment. This reputation of Tokachigawa makes the onsen town popular among the ladies, both locals and tourists alike.
Nestled at the foot of the Niseko Mountain Range, Niseko Hot Spring Village is like no other onsen town, brimming with the soul-relaxing serenity of central Hokkaido. Aside from the comforting hot springs galore, the snow-covered mountains also make the village a top destination for snowboarding and skiing. For vacationing tourists in Niseko, accommodation choices are also plentiful with hotels and resorts such as Chatrium Niseko Japan.
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.
