Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

About 60 minutes by car from downtown Sapporo, Jozankei Hot Spring is a long-loved hot spring area with excellent access. Along the mountain stream of Toyohira River, the hot spring town offers free foot baths and hand baths, allowing visitors to easily experience high-quality hot spring water.

At the entrance of the hot spring town, the foot bath “Ashi-no-Fureai Taro-no-Yu” welcomes guests with a cute statue of “Kappa Taro.” Thanks to the roofed structure, you can enjoy the foot bath comfortably without worrying about the weather. After warming your feet, why not try your luck by drawing a fortune slip from the vending machine?

Another highlight is the symbolic “Kappa Family Wishing Hand Bath” in the center of town. When you pour hot spring water into the kappa statue’s plate, it flows out from its mouth—an amusing mechanism that delights visitors. It is said that if you purify your hands with the flowing water and recite a wish, your dream may come true.

Located in Toyako Town, Toyako Hot Spring is a popular hot spring resort that stretches along the picturesque shores of Lake Toya. Visitors can unwind while gazing out at the lake, which transforms with the seasons—cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, brilliant foliage in autumn, and tranquil snow scenes in winter.

Scattered along the lakeside promenade are free footbaths and handbaths, where you can relax and enjoy the warmth of the hot spring water while taking in the natural scenery. Whether you're strolling after breakfast or resting after a day of sightseeing, these spots offer a peaceful moment to refresh both body and mind.

Each season brings a new expression to Lake Toya. No matter when you visit, you'll be welcomed by breathtaking views that soothe the soul. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a warm footbath while you reset your travel pace and soak in the serenity.

Noboribetsu Hot Spring is one of Japan’s most renowned hot spring resorts, celebrated for its abundant water volume and 9 distinct types of spring water. As you stroll through the hot spring town lined with hotels and traditional inns, the scent of sulfur fills the air, creating a truly authentic onsen atmosphere.

One of the must-see spots is Oyunuma, where about 130°C sulfur springs violently erupt from the ground. A 15-minute walk along a scenic trail from Oyunuma leads you to a unique natural foot bath, where thermal water flows directly from the hot spring source.

This rustic spot is equipped only with wooden benches and logs — a truly untouched outdoor experience. As you soak your feet in the warm, milky-white water scented with sulfur, you’ll feel your whole body slowly warming up from within. After a refreshing forest walk, treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in this natural foot bath surrounded by untouched scenery.

Yunokawa Hot Spring is counted among Hokkaido’s three most famous hot spring resorts. Just a 5-minute drive from Hakodate Airport, this hot spring town is known as the closest hot spring resort to an airport in Japan. Its rich history and healing waters have been loved for generations.

One of the highlights is the free public footbath “Yumeguri Butai,” conveniently located right in front of the “Yunokawa Onsen” streetcar stop. It's a popular gathering spot for locals and travelers alike—perfect for a quick break while shopping, waiting for the streetcar, or simply strolling around the area.

The footbath is covered, so you can enjoy it even on rainy days. In colder months, it warms you up gently from the inside out. It’s open year-round from 09:00 to 21:00. Don’t forget to bring a towel to dry your feet afterward!

Nestled on the southwestern shore of Lake Nukabira, Nukabira Hot Spring Village is a serene hot spring area set deep within untouched nature. Known for its abundant natural spring water, every inn in the village offers authentic hot springs with free-flowing water directly from the source.

The charming hot spring town features a café and a hot spring park with a free footbath, making it a perfect stop during a stroll or a drive. The footbath, using natural spring water, is open to the public at no cost.

Whether you're enjoying the lush greenery of early summer or the vibrant autumn foliage, it's the perfect place to relax and take in the view while soaking in water known for its skin-beautifying properties.

Please note that most facilities are closed for the winter season from mid-November to mid-April.

Located on the southern shore of Lake Akan, Akanko Hot Spring is a popular hot spring town filled with hotels, inns, restaurants, and souvenir shops. This historic hot spring area is known as the birthplace of hand baths, and throughout the town, you’ll find many free hand and foot baths that are open to the public.

One must-visit spot is Benkei Foot Bath (open from April to late December), which sits along the lakeside promenade. It offers the perfect location to soak your feet while gazing out at the beautiful Lake Akan. It's also a great place to relax before or after exploring nearby natural sites like Bokke, a geothermal mud volcano area.

Don’t miss the Akan Marimo Foot Bath “Ure Kari Pu”, which opened in April 2022. It offers a relaxing environment with Wi-Fi access, making it a convenient place to rest during your sightseeing around Lake Akan.

Located at the base of the still-active Mt. Io, Kawayu Hot Spring has long been cherished as a therapeutic hot spring resort. The hot spring water, known for its strong acidity and natural sterilizing properties, is also popular as a “beautifying bath” that leaves your skin feeling smooth and refreshed.

A river of hot spring water flows through the town, filling the air with gentle steam. All around the onsen town, you’ll find many spots where you can casually enjoy hand and foot baths—perfect for a relaxing break while strolling.

One of the local favorites is the indoor foot bath inside JR Kawayu Onsen Station. With underfloor heating and shelter from rain and snow, it’s a warm and welcoming spot even in the coldest months.

At Kawayu Shrine, you can purify your hands with 100% free-flowing hot spring water at the temizuya (purification basin). This naturally sterilized hand bath offers not only physical cleansing but also a moment of spiritual refreshment.

Perfect for a Road Trip Break in Hokkaido, many Michi-no-Eki (roadside stations) feature hot spring footbaths that are perfect for a refreshing break. These free facilities not only help relieve fatigue but also let travelers enjoy the soothing effects of local hot springs without having to fully bathe. If you're on a driving trip across Hokkaido, make sure to take advantage of these unique rest stops.