Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Tokachigawa Onsen is a hot spring resort located in Otofuke Town, Kato District, Hokkaido. It is said to have been discovered sometime between the late Meiji and Taisho periods, and developed as a hot spring town surrounded by the lush nature of the Tokachi Plain. Its distinctive spring quality is known as a "moor hot spring," which contains organic matter derived from plants (such as humic substances), giving it a brownish color and making it soft to the touch, making it known as "water for beautiful skin."
From the hot spring town, you can enjoy the Tokachi River, vast farmland, seasonal flowers and snowy scenery, and there are a variety of bathing styles available, including open-air baths, garden baths, foot baths and spa facilities. It is a popular hot spring resort for those seeking recuperation, relaxation and beauty.
Highlights
- Moor spring open-air bath: The soft brown water leaves your skin feeling moisturized.
- Garden bath and observation bath: Located overlooking the Tokachi Plain and Tokachi River, the views change with the seasons (especially the snowy scenery in early spring and the evening scenery in autumn).
- Footbath spots: You can easily enjoy a footbath at hot spring resorts and accommodations. Recommended for taking a break from your stroll.
- Accommodation in the hot spring town: Choose from large hotels to homely inns, all with excellent spa facilities and meals (made with local ingredients).
- Tokachi River Nature: Activities that allow you to experience nature, such as strolling along the river, bird watching, and watching the sunset.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest major station: JR Obihiro Station (Obihiro Station is the nearest hub station).
- Train + Bus: Approximately 30-40 minutes from Obihiro Station by local bus (Tokachi Bus, etc.) or sightseeing bus. Some accommodations offer shuttle services, so we recommend checking in advance.
- By car: It is about 20-30 minutes by car from Obihiro Station, and about 30-40 minutes by car from Tokachi Obihiro Airport. It is also accessible from the Otofuke Obihiro IC on the Doto Expressway.
- Long distance: From Sapporo, it takes about 3.5 to 4 hours by car, or by a combination of express trains and buses within Hokkaido.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip: Bathing and walking takes 2-4 hours. If you include lunch, a foot bath, and use of the facilities, you'll need about half a day.
- Accommodation: Two days and one night is the norm. If you want to enjoy the hot springs thoroughly and taste local ingredients for dinner and breakfast, one night is recommended. If you want to spend a relaxing time, two nights or more is also recommended.
Nearby spots
- Obihiro city: There are plenty of tourist attractions, including gourmet food such as pork bowls, Rokkatei and Japanese confectionery shops, and Obihiro Racecourse (Ban'ei Horse Racing).
- Manabe Garden: A garden where you can enjoy flowers and trees (near Obihiro).
- Tokachi's agricultural landscapes: Seasonal flower fields and vast farmland (spring to summer flowers, autumn harvest scenes, etc.).
- Roadside stations and local direct sales outlets: There are many spots where you can buy Tokachi dairy products, vegetables, and sweets.
Things to be aware of (crowding, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Accommodation and day-use facilities tend to be crowded during Golden Week, summer vacation, and the New Year holidays. The open-air baths tend to be crowded during popular times, so avoid visiting in the early morning or evening hours for a more relaxed bath.
- Color and texture of the hot spring: The moor spring is brown and can be slippery. Please be careful of your step in the bath.
- Bathing etiquette: Please observe general hot spring etiquette, such as pouring water over yourself and washing your body before bathing, not putting towels in the bath, and avoiding bathing after drinking alcohol for a long time.
- Tattoos: Some facilities may refuse bathing if you have tattoos. Please check the rules of the accommodation or facility in advance.
- Seasonal precautions: In winter, roads may become snowy or icy, so if you are traveling by car, you will need studless tires or chains and ample driving time. In summer, be aware of crickets and other insects outdoors, and watch out for changes in the weather in the afternoon.
- Facility opening hours: Day-trip bathing hours vary by facility. If there is a facility you are interested in, please check in advance the opening hours and bathing availability (private use, etc.).
Tokachigawa Onsen, which boasts the natural beauty of the Tokachi Plain and the soft waters of the moor hot springs, is especially recommended for those who want to relax in a hot spring or who are looking for skin-beautifying benefits. Enjoy a flexible stay, from a day trip to an overnight stay, depending on your purpose.
