Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Yunokawa Onsen is a hot spring resort facing the Tsugaru Strait in the southern part of Hakodate City, Hokkaido. Its discovery has been known since ancient times, and it has been popular with fishermen and travelers. Its proximity to Hakodate city and Hakodate Airport makes it a convenient base for sightseeing. As it stretches along the coast, many inns offer views of the sunset and the sea as you soak. The water is mainly chloride spring water (a type of spring with excellent heat retention properties) that is said to be resistant to chilling, and is said to be good for relieving fatigue and cold sensitivity. There is a wide variety of facilities, from large hotels to small inns with natural hot spring water and day-trip bathing facilities, and it is popular with a wide range of people, from families to couples and solo travelers.
Highlights
- Open-air baths overlooking the sea: There are many inns and day-trip facilities where you can bathe while looking out at the Tsugaru Strait, and the sunset views are especially popular.
- Footbaths and public baths: There are many free and paid footbath spots scattered around the area that you can easily stop by during your walk.
– Stroll around the hot spring town after your bath: At night, the combination of the lights of the inns and the sea breeze is very picturesque. There are also plenty of restaurants and souvenir shops.
- Convenience as a base for sightseeing in Hakodate: Easy access to major tourist spots such as the night view of Mt. Hakodate, Hakodate Morning Market, and Goryokaku, allowing you to combine sightseeing with hot springs.
- Local cuisine: Many lodgings offer dishes made with seafood (squid, scallops, fish, etc.), allowing you to enjoy fresh seafood.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
From Hakodate Airport: Approximately 5-10 minutes by car. Many accommodations offer airport transfers, making it convenient for stopping by immediately after arrival.
From JR Hakodate Station: Approximately 15-25 minutes by car, local bus, or Hakodate tram (depending on traffic conditions). It is common to take a bus or taxi from Hakodate Station.
- Hakodate City Tram (streetcar): The line extends almost to the end of the line, and the nearest stop is "Yunokawa" (the timetable changes depending on the season, so it is recommended to check in advance).
- By car: Head towards Hakodate via the Hokkaido Expressway. In winter, roads may be affected by frozen surfaces and snowfall, so you will need to bring winter tires.
- Parking: Many accommodations have parking facilities (both free and paid). Please check the facility information if you are using the facility for day trips.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip bathing: Bathing time plus rest will take approximately 1-2 hours (2-3 hours if you include a foot bath and meals).
- Half-day sightseeing + bathing: If you combine sightseeing in Hakodate city, you can spend half a day to a full day (sightseeing in the morning, hot springs in the evening, etc.).
- Accommodation (Relaxed): Two days and one night is the norm. Enjoying dinner and breakfast, and soaking in the hot springs both at night and in the morning will increase your satisfaction. Two nights will give you plenty of time to explore the surrounding area.
Nearby spots
- Mount Hakodate: Famous for its night view. Accessible by ropeway or car. About 15-25 minutes by car from Yunokawa.
– Hakodate Morning Market: A market offering fresh seafood. Many people visit for sightseeing and dining. Located around Hakodate Station, it takes about 20 minutes by car.
– Goryokaku (Goryokaku Tower): A historical tourist attraction. Also popular as a cherry blossom viewing spot in spring. Approximately 20-30 minutes by car.
Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden: A nearby botanical garden and animal exhibit facility. Events are sometimes held depending on the weather (opening hours and exhibits vary by season).
- Hakodate Airport: Close to the airport (about 5-10 minutes by car). Convenient for early morning or night flights.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Golden Week, summer vacation, New Year's, consecutive holidays, and weekends are crowded with overnight stays and day trips. Early reservations are essential for popular accommodations.
- Bath etiquette: Please observe general hot spring etiquette, such as pouring water over yourself and rinsing your body before bathing, not putting towels in the bath, and avoiding monopolizing the bath for long periods of time.
- Regarding tattoos: Many hot spring facilities in Japan may restrict entry to people with tattoos. Please check with the facility in advance to see if you can cover your tattoos with stickers or use a private bath or family bath.
- Winter precautions: Snow and ice occur in Hakodate in winter. Be prepared for road conditions, delays to public transportation, and reduced visibility due to accumulated snow, and be sure to bring winter tires and take measures to protect yourself from the cold. It gets chilly at night, so be sure to take precautions against catching a cold after a bath.
- Spring quality and physical condition: Spring quality (chloride springs, etc.) has beneficial effects on the body, but if you have a chronic illness or are pregnant, please consult your doctor or the hotel staff in advance.
– Environmental Consideration: Hot springs are a precious resource. Please follow the facility's instructions when handling the hot spring source and equipment, and dispose of trash in the designated area. Staying quietly is a sign of consideration for those around you.
Recommended usage
– If you want to visit casually for a day trip, try the foot bath → day trip bath → seafood lunch nearby.
- If you want to enjoy it thoroughly, we recommend staying overnight and enjoying dinner (seafood), the night view, and a morning bath the next morning.
– If you have tattoos or value privacy, it’s a good idea to reserve a hotel with a family bath or private bath in advance.
If necessary, we can also provide a list of recommended accommodations (day trip facilities, accommodations with natural hot springs, etc.) and seasonal enjoyment (cherry blossoms in spring, cool breezes in summer, snowy scenery and hot springs in winter). Please let us know what information you would like.
