TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Jozankei Onsen, located in Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, is one of Sapporo's most famous hot spring resorts. It is said to have opened between the late Edo and Meiji periods and has developed as a tourist destination. Surrounded by lush mountains and rivers, the hot spring town is located in a location where you can enjoy the beauty of the Toyohira River valley.
The hot springs are mainly sodium and calcium chloride springs, which are relatively gentle on the skin and are said to be effective in easing coldness and relieving fatigue. There are many inns and hotels, and the area is characterized by the wide variety of bathing styles available, including open-air baths, private baths, day-trip bathing facilities, and foot baths.
There are plenty of things to do besides hot springs, such as natural scenery that changes with the seasons (fresh greenery, autumn leaves, snowy scenery), as well as the surrounding dams, valleys, and hiking trails.It is also popular for day trips as it is easily accessible from central Sapporo.
Highlights
- Hot springs in the hot spring town: Enjoy a variety of hot springs, from long-established inns to newer establishments. The appeal is the luxurious view of the mountain stream from the open-air bath.
- Footbath spots: There are free or low-cost footbaths in the hot spring town, so you can easily take a break from your stroll.
- Autumn foliage and the beauty of the valley: The autumn foliage is particularly spectacular, and the view from the promenade along the valley is popular.
- Hoheikyo (Hoheikyo Dam and Hoheikyo Onsen): The dam and hot spring facilities are must-see tourist attractions in the area. You can also enjoy nature walks around the dam, foot baths, and restaurants.
- Snowy scenery and winter illuminations: In winter, the hot spring town is enveloped in snow, creating a more atmospheric atmosphere. Accommodations and the surrounding area are sometimes lit up and winter festivals are held.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train + bus (public transportation is common)
- From central Sapporo: Take the Namboku Subway Line from Sapporo Station or Odori Station to Makomanai Station (approximately 14-20 minutes), then transfer to the Jotetsu Bus (Jozankei Line) for approximately 40-50 minutes to the Jozankei Onsen bus stop.
- Routes and schedules change depending on the season, so please check the timetable in advance.
- car
- From central Sapporo: Approximately 60 minutes via National Route 230 (towards Jozankei) (varies depending on traffic conditions and season).
- In winter, snowfall and frozen roads occur, so it is recommended to bring winter tires and chains.
- From New Chitose Airport
- The average trip takes about 90 to 120 minutes in total, including a train to Sapporo (about 40 to 50 minutes on the express train) and a bus to Jozankei. Depending on the season, there may be direct buses from the airport or Sapporo to Jozankei (please check the operating information in advance).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip: 3-6 hours for a hot spring bath and a stroll around the area. If you combine a day trip to the hot spring with a light meal, a foot bath, and a walk, you can enjoy it in half a day to a full day.
- One night stay: If you want to enjoy the hot springs at your leisure and also enjoy sightseeing in the surrounding area (Hoheikyo Gorge, hiking, and an evening stroll around the hot spring town), one night stay is the standard. If you are looking for a special experience, we recommend staying more than one night.
Nearby spots
- Hoheikyo Dam (Hoheikyo) and Hoheikyo Onsen: The dam's scenery and strolls around the area, as well as day trips to the hot springs and the famous curry, are popular.
- Jozankei Nature Trail/Valley Walking Path: Enjoy the scenery of the four seasons on this walking route along the mountain stream.
- Photo spots (mountain streams, suspension bridges, etc.): There are many photogenic spots scattered around the hot spring town.
- Sightseeing in Sapporo: If you return to central Sapporo, you can easily access major tourist spots such as Odori Park, Susukino, and the Clock Tower.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion
- Both accommodation and day-use facilities are crowded on weekends, consecutive holidays, during the autumn foliage season (around October), and the New Year holidays. Early reservations are especially recommended during the autumn foliage season.
- Hot Spring Manners
- Please pour water over yourself before entering the bath and stay quiet in the bath area. Please also follow the rules for pouring water over yourself after using the sauna and for using the washing area.
- Each facility has restrictions regarding tattoos (you may be denied entry or asked to cover them), so please check with the accommodation or facility in advance.
- What to wear and what to bring
- As this is a mountainous area, it can get chilly in the mornings and evenings. Please bring warm clothing appropriate for the season.
- In winter, roads can be icy and snowy, so if you are travelling by car, be sure to use winter tires and chains.
- Walking and Barrier-Free
- The hot spring town and promenades have steps and cobblestone areas, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please note that some facilities are not fully barrier-free, so please check beforehand.
- Nature conservation and garbage
- To protect the natural environment, please take your trash home or dispose of it in designated areas. Be careful not to light fires outside of designated areas or to damage the vegetation.
Supplementary Information (Travel Tips)
- Make reservations early for popular accommodations (especially during autumn foliage season and long weekends).
- Day-trip bathing hours and fees vary by facility, so please check the official information before visiting.
- Services such as sightseeing in the area and whether or not there is a shuttle bus vary depending on the accommodation, so it is best to inquire.
