Onsen Guide Overview

An onsen is a Japanese hot spring that has natural minerals in the water that adds to the texture and smell of the bath. We traveled all over Hokkaido from Lake Toya to the Daisetsuzan National Park to experience the top onsens. As we stopped by each onsen we saved detailed notes and made many observations that we wished we were aware of before arriving. Japan has over 3,000 onsens and this guide will help you navigate the top onsens in Hokkaido based on what you’re looking for.

Take a look at our guide intro to understand how we’ve written this guide and for helpful background information!

Onsen Guide Filters

Location: Niseko Area / Northern Hokkaido

Rating: 1/5 | 2/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 5/5

Authenticity: 1/5 | 2/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 5/5

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Hōheikyō Hot Spring

Hōheikyō Hot Spring was listed as #1 in Japan by TripAdvisor in 2013 for “Day Trip Hot Spring Facility”.

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Hotel La Vista Daisetsuzan

Hotel La Vista Daisetsuzan is near the base of the Asahidake Ropeway and uses hot water from a natural source along the Yukomabetsu River.

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Forest SPA

Forest SPA is located across the river south of downtown Asahikawa.

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A-BRAND Golf Club

A-BRAND Golf Club is an elegant and large stone castle that looks like it should be located in rural Scotland.

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Yugokorotei

Yugokorotei has a very large open-air outdoor bath with a constant supply of fresh hot spring water.

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Makkari Hot Spring (真狩温泉)

Makkari Hot Spring (真狩温泉) has a direct view of the iconic Mount Yotei from its open-air outside bath, which is hand built out of local stones.

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