Scenic view of Jozankei Onsen. Surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage, the picture showcases a peaceful river flowing through the valley with modern and traditional buildings nestled amidst the colorful hills
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13 Best Onsen in Hokkaido in 2025 (for Onsen Lovers!)

Are you looking for a great onsen in Hokkaido for some solo self-pampering sessions?

Or are you looking to enjoy nature and to be away from the city’s hustle and bustle?

Well, you are on the right site!

I have been to one of Japan’s famous onsen towns and I loved my time there🥰

And there is no other better place than Hokkaido for onsen lovers!

These best Hokkaido onsen combine stunning natural scenery, therapeutic mineral-rich waters, and comfy accommodations to create an unforgettable travel experience for visitors. 

But if you are planning your first Hokkaido onsen trip or going there solo, it can be overwhelming since there are many options to choose from. 

Fret not; this detailed guide will help you navigate the top onsen destinations in Hokkaido, with information like recommended hotels or ryokan to stay at and nearby things to do.

Let’s get into it!

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links and I may get a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. Thank you!

Best Hokkaido Onsen Town: In Short

  1. Noboribetsu Onsen
  2. Jozankei Onsen
  3. Sounkyo Onsen
  4. Kawayu Onsen
  5. Toyako Onsen
  6. Yunokawa Onsen
  7. Tokachigawa Onsen
  8. Lake Shikotsu Onsen
  9. Asarigawa Onsen
  10. Akanko Onsen
  11. Utoro Onsen
  12. Makkari Onsen
  13. Shiriuchi Onsen

Noboribetsu Onsen

Arguably the most famous onsen town in Hokkaido, Noboribetsu Onsen is known for its mineral-rich hot spring waters and stunning natural scenery.

A vibrant landscape featuring a steaming volcanic crater surrounded by rugged hills covered in autumn foliage
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That is because Noboribetsu Onsen boasts 9 whopping hot spring water varieties, each offering unique therapeutic benefits and experiences!

You can find several public baths in this onsen town that cater to day visitors, with fees ranging from 1500 to 2250 yen (US$11-16).

Noboritetsu Onsen is also popular for its vibrant Jigokudani, or “Hell Valley,” featuring dramatic volcanic landscapes and steaming vents.

If you are feeling more adventurous, you can even explore the walking trails and observe the bubbling hot springs up close!

Other activities in Noboribetsu Onsen include walking along the Demon’s Footprint, exploring the historical Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura theme park and indulging in the delicious local cuisine.

Travel tip: Make sure to pack all the things that you need when you are visiting Japan in winter. It is not for the faint-hearted especially when you are visiting Hokkaido in this cold season!

Where to Stay 

Here are the top recommended accommodations for your trip to Noboribetsu Onsen:

  • Dai-ichi Takimotokan: A large ryokan with multiple baths, located about a 5-minute walk from the bus terminal
  • Hotel Mahoroba: Features onsen facilities with over 30 different baths and spas
  • Noboribetsu Grand Hotel: Offers both public and private onsen baths, making it a tattoo-friendly onsen hotel

Getting There

Noboribetsu Onsen is about a 2-hour drive away from Sapporo. 

To reach Noboribetsu Onsen, you can take a bus from Noboribetsu Station. 

The journey takes about 15 minutes and costs 350 yen (US$3) one-way.

If you are flying in, the nearest airport to Noboribetsu Onsen is New Chitose. 

Noboribetsu Onsen is about 1.5 hours away by car or train from the airport.

Jozankei Onsen

Just a 50-minute drive from Sapporo city, Jozankei Onsen is a local-favourite hot spring town located in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park.

Jozankei Onsen boasts 56 hot spring sources with temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Celsius!

Scenic view of Jozankei Onsen. Surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage, the picture showcases a peaceful river flowing through the valley with modern and traditional buildings nestled amidst the colorful hills
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No matter whether you are travelling solo or in a group, you can find numerous ryokans and hotels offering traditional Japanese hospitality and onsen experiences over here. 

Many establishments provide both indoor and outdoor baths, allowing you to soak while enjoying the surrounding scenery.

Some ryokans also accept day visitors for an onsen soak, with a fee ranging from 500 to 2000 yen (US$6-16).

If you travel on a tight budget, you can try out the free foot baths available around the town.

This onsen town in Hokkaido is particularly stunning in autumn (mid-October) when the surrounding forests change colour into fiery, reddish-orange colours.

Apart from onsen soaking, travellers can enjoy scenic walks along the Toyohira River, visit local craft stores and explore Iwato Kannondo Temple.

Where to Stay

Some of the highly-rated places to stay in Jozankei Onsen include: 

  • Okujozankei Onsen Kasho Gyoen: A traditional ryokan with captivating forest views and private onsen bath
  • Jozankei Onsen Yurakusoan: Has rooms with beautiful mountain views and multiple onsen baths
  • Hanamomiji: Offers traditional Japanese-style accommodations with both public and private onsen that are popular among couples

Getting There

If you are not driving, you can take a bus from Sapporo Station to reach Jozankei Onsen.

The duration is about a 75-minute ride and costs 790 yen one-way (US$6).

Sounkyo Onsen

Another best onsen in Hokkaido that you can consider visiting is Sounkyo Onsen.

Located on the northern side of Daisetsuzan National Park, this touristy onsen town sits in a scenic gorge flanked by 100-metre-high forested cliffs!

To book yourself a soothing onsen session, you can stay at any of the traditional ryokans in Sounkyo Onsen.

Outdoor hot spring bath surrounded by natural rock formations and vibrant autumn foliage at Sounkyo Onsen
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Some ryokan also offer entry to their onsen baths to non-staying guests during the day for about 1000 yen (US$11).

If you are looking to try out a public bathhouse, then consider making your way to Kurodake no Yu.

Aside from being a top Hokkaido onsen destination, Sounkyo Onsen also acts as a base with ropeway facilities to Mount Kurodake for hiking activities within Daisetsuzan National Park. 

Sounkyo Onsen is especially beautiful in autumn (September and October) when the surrounding foliage changes colour to vibrant reddish orange. 

This onsen town is also crowded during the winter season due to the lively Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival. 

You can expect to see various tall and large ice structures, snow domes, and to participate in the thrilling snow tubing run in this winter festival.

If you are into waterfalls, you can head over to the nearby Ginga and Ryusei waterfalls too. 

Easily reachable by taxi, these two gorgeous waterfalls cascade down the 100-metre-high cliffside.

Where to Stay

I recommend booking any of these highly-rated ryokans or hotels for your stay in Sounkyo Onsen: 

  • Sounkaku: Features indoor and outdoor hot spring bath and serves buffet for both breakfast and dinner
  • Hotel Taisetsu: Located near Kurodake Ropeway with three different onsen baths surrounding with soothing scenery

Getting There

To reach Sounkyo Onsen, you can take a bus from Asahikawa Station, which is about 2 hours away. 

The fare costs 2140 yen one-way (US$15).

Kawayu Onsen

Located in Akan Mashu National Park in eastern Hokkaido, Kawayu Onsen is known for its acidic hot spring waters that are believed to help in improving skin health.

"Mountain peaks rising above a sea of clouds near Kawayu Onsen in Hokkaido, with distant snow-capped mountains in the background."
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Since Kawayu Onsen is located near Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo, the onsen town is also a popular base for visitors to gather before making their way to the national park. 

Some ryokans in this onsen town also offer entrance for non-staying guests to use the hot spring bath facilities during the day for a fee ranging from 500 to 1500 yen (US$6-16).

But if you are staying overnight here, you can complete your day by relaxing and soaking in the onsen water bath!

Kawayu Onsen is also home to two different museums, namely Eco Museum Center and Sumo Museum.

Travel tip: You can rent shovels from the ryokan where you are staying to dig your own spot. And fret not, you can wear your bathsuit for this outdoor onsen soak!

Where to Stay

  • ARtINn: A comfy hotel with interesting art installations within and around the building and comes with both indoor and outdoor onsen pools
  • Oyado Kinkiyu Annex: Ryokan with tatami floor equipped with onsen bath facilities and serves breakfast 

Getting There

You can take the JR Senmo Line to reach Kawayu Onsen.

After that, take a 10-minute bus ride to get to the onsen town centre. The bus ride costs 290 yen one way (US$4).

Toyako Onsen

Looking to visit one of the best onsen in southern Hokkaido? 

Then make your way to Toyako Onsen!

Toyako Onsen offers breathtaking views of the lake and nearby Mount Usu, making it one of the highly-visited onsens in the region.

There are plenty of accommodations available in Toyako Onsen.

If you want to immerse in the beautiful scenery of the lake with comfort from your room, you can pick any of the onsen hotels alongside Lake Toya. 

Some hotels allow day trippers to use their onsen facilities, for a rate of 500 to 1000 yen (US$6-$11).

You can easily stay for a few days in Toyako Onsen since there are plenty of activities to do here!

Apart from soaking in an onsen bath, you can choose to join a sightseeing cruise of Lake Toya or ride the Mount Usu Ropeway for the spectacular panoramic views. 

A bright yellow boat floats on the calm waters of Lake Toya, with a stunning view of a towering, cone-shaped mountain in the background
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And if you are into fireworks, be sure to visit Toyako Onsen from May to August as there are fireworks shows daily!

Where to Stay

Here are the recommended hotels to stay at Toyako Onsen, ranging from luxurious to budget options: 

Getting There

You can reach Toyako Onsen by taking a 2-hour public bus from Sapporo or New Chitose Airport. 

If you are coming from Tokyo, there are two legs to journey for this. 

First, you board the 4-hour JR Tohoku/Hokkaido Shinkansen ride to get to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto from Tokyo and transfer to the Hokuto limited express for a 2-hour train ride before reaching Toya Station.

This whole Shinkansen journey is covered by Japan Rail Pass and JR East South Hokkaido Rail Pass.

Yunokawa Onsen

If you want to reach Hokkaido onsen town within 10 minutes from the arrival airport, then Yunokawa Onsen suits you best. 

That’s because this popular onsen town is only a 5-minute drive away from Hakodate Airport! 

Its natural spring waters are known for being clear and odourless, besides being rich in sodium and calcium chloride that are believed to heal skin conditions.

A lady is soaking in the indoor onsen bath
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You can find many traditional ryokans and modern hotels in the area that offer hot spring baths with the stunning backdrop of Tsugaru Strait.

Plenty of ryokans also offer day-trip bathing options if you are not staying overnight in this onsen town.

But if you plan to explore Yunokawa Onsen at a slower pace, there are many activities you can do to fill in your days!

In Yunokawa Onsen ,it is not just humans who soak in the outdoor onsen but also the monkeys! You can experience this unique sight at Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden during winter. 

While you are here, make sure not to miss trying out local snacks like the chewy skewered dumplings and soft-serve ice cream after your stroll around the town. 

If you are a solo history buff looking for some interesting things to do, you can consider visiting Shinoritate Castle Ruins. 

Where to Stay

Here are the recommended places to stay for both solo travellers and couples in Yunokawa Onsen:

Getting There

You will find this onsen just a 5-minute drive from Hakodate Airport, making it easily accessible for travellers. 

It is also about 15 minutes by car from Hakodate city centre.

Tokachigawa Onsen

Are you looking to soak in one-of-a-kind onsen water in Hokkaido? 

Then make your way to Tokachigawa Onsen.

That’s because this Hokkaido onsen town is known for its moor hot springs that have an unusually amber colour!

Indoor onsen bath with amber-coloured mineral-rich water at Tokachigawa Onsen, Hokkaido, with a traditional wooden bucket and towel placed nearby.
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The indoor onsen bath in Sanyoan

Tokachigawa Onsen is typically visited by visitors in the winter season as you get to experience several unique events where you are bound to be captivated.

During this cold season, you can head over to the Tokachigawa Swan Festival to see lovely winter light displays. 

You will also get to observe the unreal sight where hundreds of wild swans fly to Tokachigawa during their migratory season in winter.

There is also a natural phenomenon called Unryu (frost smoke) that you can immerse yourself in near the Tokaichi River when you are visiting in January and February.

If you are a fan of skiing, you will be glad to know that Tokachigawa Onsen is located near several ski resorts, making it a breeze to travel back to soak in the onsen after a long day skiing!

Where to Stay

I would recommend staying at least 1 night in Tokachigawa Onsen since there are so many interesting things to do here: 

  • Tokachigawa Onsen Daiichi Hotel: Modern onsen hotel offering comfy rooms with private onsen bath overlooking the river
  • Tokachigawa Moor Onsen Seijyakubow: Popular among couples, this 5-star ryokan offers beautiful rooms equipped with private onsen 
  • Sanyoan: A Japanese ryokan that serves traditional kaiseki dinner and offers both private and public onsen baths

Getting There

You can reach Tokachigawa Onsen by taking a 40-minute bus ride from Obihiro Station. 

If you are flying in, the nearest airport to Tokachigawa Onsen is Obihiro Airport. You can get a rental car to the onsen town and drive for 45 minutes before reaching.

Lake Shikotsu Onsen

If you are into nature and love to visit off-the-beaten-path places, I would recommend adding Lake Shikotsu Onsen to your to-visit Hokkaido onsen list.

A scenic view of Shikotsu-Toya National Park featuring a rocky hiking trail on a mountain slope.
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Located on the shores of Lake Shikotsu, this onsen town boasts several hot springs with mineral-rich waters that are known for soothing the skin.

You can also sign up for a snorkelling or kayaking tour in the crystal-clear Chitose River while you are in Lake Shikotsu Onsen.

If you want to get close to nature, travellers can make their way to Mount Tarumae for some hiking and trekking activities. 

And once you reach the top, you will get to immerse in the stunning scenery of Lake Shikotsu!

Where to Stay

Here are some of the highly-rated hotels to stay near Lake Shikotsu Onsen:

Getting There

Lake Shikotsu Onsen is about an hour’s drive from Sapporo or New Chitose Airport. 

Asarigawa Onsen

Surrounded by lush mountains, Asarigawa Onsen is a tranquil hot spring town located in Otaru, Hokkaido. 

This onsen offers soothing mineral-rich waters that are believed to ease muscle aches and promote overall skin wellness. 

Outdoor view of onsen bath in Asarigawa Onsen in winter, with hot spring water surrounded by snow-covered rocks and bare trees in the background.
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Outdoor hot spring bath of Otaru Asari Classe Hotel

Since it is a recommended base when exploring Otaru, there are plenty of accommodations with onsen baths available to cater to both local and overseas visitors. 

Apart from soaking in the hot springs, you can explore hiking trails in the nearby mountains or visit the Otaru Canal while staying in Asarigawa Onsen.

The onsen town is also one of Hokkaido’s skiing destinations, so you can bring your ski equipment or opt for winter sports activities during the cold season. 

Where to Stay

  • Otaru Asari Classe Hotel: Modern hotel with plenty of facilities including indoor and open-air hot spring baths, sauna, fitness centre and restaurants
  • Winkel Village: Offers cosy cottages and apartments with open-air private hot spring bath catered to large group visitors

Getting There

To get to Asarigawa Onsen, you can take a 20-minute bus ride from Otaru Station. 

If you are driving from New Chitose Airport, it will take about 70 minutes to reach Asarigawa Onsen.

Akanko Onsen

Looking to visit one of the best onsen in eastern Hokkaido? 

Then make your way to Akanko Onsen! 

Located just beside the stunning Lake Akan, this onsen town is also home to Hokkaido’s largest Ainu village called Lake Akan Ainu Kotan.

Over here, you can learn a lot about Ainu history and culture through the craft shops, traditional performances, museum and gallery containing cultural artworks.

There is also a wide range of accommodation options to choose from when you visit Akanko Onsen, including luxurious lakeside hotels to cosy ryokans to budget hotels with onsen facilities.

Scenic view of outdoor bath overlooking a tranquil lake, surrounded by natural rocks and trees, with mountains
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You can enjoy this stunning view while soaking when you stay at Akan Yuku no Sato Tsuruga!

Since Akanko Onsen is part of Akan-Manshu National Park, you will find plenty of opportunities for hiking and enjoying the natural splendour of scenery. 

In winter, you can sign up for a bout tour to see the marimo algae balls or try out fishing on the frozen lake.

Where to Stay

Getting There

To reach Akanko Onsen, take a bus from Kushiro Airport. The journey takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Utoro Onsen

Another best onsen in eastern Hokkaido to go to is Utoro Onsen.

This onsen is a great base for travellers to gather before entering the stunning Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

If you need a guide exploring the area, you can join hiking or sightseeing boat tours and immerse yourself in the spectacular natural surroundings and wildlife watching like deer and foxes!

And before you call it a day, make sure to pamper yourself and dip in the soothing hot springs while taking in the lovely views of the Sea of Okhotsk from the comfort of your ryokan.

Indoor onsen bath with a view overlooking a marina, calm waters, and lush green hills
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Want to have some me-time when visiting Utoro Onsen in Hokkaido? Make sure to get the room with private onsen in Kitakobushi Shiretoko

Where to Stay

Here are the recommended places to stay in Utoro Onsen that cater to both solo and group visitors: 

Getting There

To reach Utoro Onsen, you can take a 3-hour bus ride from Memanbetsu Airport. 

But getting a rental car to get to this Hokkaido onsen town would be ideal in certain seasons since the bus service is only available in summer, Golden Week and winter.

Makkari Onsen

Looking to skip the crowds and prefer to visit the less touristy onsen in Hokkaido instead?

Then Makkari Onsen is your best bet!

You can easily explore the area within 1 day due to its small size. 

And one must not miss using its open-air outdoor hot spring bath that overlooks the beautiful Mount Yotei. 

The outdoor onsen bath in Makkari Onsen with Mt Yotei as the background
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Photo credit to 意地悪爺さん

The entry fee is 600 yen (US$7) for adults and it is recommended to bring your own towel for the soak as towel rental service is not available. 

The onsen also has a sauna and an indoor bath.

While you are in Makkari, you can visit Boulangerie Jin and have a try on their artisanal bakery products like bread and pastries. 

If you can’t get enough of the breathtaking views of Mount Yotei, you can have your meals made from local produce at Pomme Restaurant. 

Where to Stay

Pretty much most visitors head over to Makkari Onsen for a day trip.

 If you are looking for places to stay overnight, here are the recommended places: 

  • Lys Gracieux: A cosy villa with two bedrooms and private parking suitable for a group’s stay
  • EL CAMINO: Cosy tiny house equipped with free WIFI and a patio with stunning mountain views

Getting There

You can take a 3-hour bus ride from Sapporo to Makkari. The fare costs about US$12-$17. 

If you prefer driving, you can rent a car at Sapporo and drive for 2 hours before reaching Makkari Onsen. 

Shiriuchi Onsen

If you want to soak in the oldest hot springs in Hokkaido with a history of over 800 years, then you must not miss out on Shiriuchi Onsen!

Surrounded by layers of lush mountains, Shiriuchi Onsen is a great place to unwind and soak in the mineral-rich hot spring baths. 

Outdoor onsen surrounded by lush greenery
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This unassuming onsen has two indoor rock baths with different water sources. 

There is also a mixed gender open-air outdoor bath available for use, so you can enjoy the view throughout the soaking session.

While you are here in the area, make sure to try out the local specialities, including oysters and sake called Mashiro.

If you are into nature sightseeing, you can also sign up for a 90-minute sightseeing boat tour

This guided tour will bring you to cruise along the hidden gem Yagoshi Coast where you get to immerse in the breathtaking scenery of the blue sea, rocks, and long cliffs. 

Where to Stay

There are not many nearby places to stay in Shiriuchi Onsen. If you plan to stay overnight here, you can consider: 

  • Shiriuchi Onsen Ryokan: Rooms with mountain views with 3 hot spring baths and offers affordable meal plans to their guests

Getting There

You can easily reach Shiriuchi Onsen since it is about an hour’s drive from Hakodate. 

Final Thoughts: Best 13 Onsen in Hokkaido

So there you go – the best 13 onsen in Hokkaido that you can include in your travel itinerary when you are visiting the region! 

Soaking in Hokkaido onsen is a bucket list for almost everyone since it offers a unique and relaxing experience, especially during the winter months. 

You can find many ryokans and hotel options near these hot springs for a comfortable stay.

But if you are short of time, most onsen allow day-trippers to use their onsen facilities at an affordable fee. 

Most Hokkaido onsens listed in this article are also easily accessible by train or bus from major cities, making a trip to these places a breeze.

So is there any other onsen in Hokkaido that I should include in this list?

Would appreciate it if you could share your experience with me! 😊

And for those who are going to Hokkaido soon, have fun yo! 

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