Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

The “Fukiage Open-Air Hot Spring,” located on the slopes of Mt. Tokachi, became famous as a filming location for the popular drama “From the Northern Country.” Perched on a cliff along a mountain stream, it offers a truly secluded hot spring experience surrounded by nature.

The spring water, naturally gushing from the mountain, is colorless and clear with a slightly higher temperature, warming you to your core. Open 24 hours a day, it attracts a constant stream of tourists and locals regardless of the season or time.

Please note that there is no changing room, only a simple changing area. Female visitors are recommended to wear swimsuits or wrap a towel while bathing.

Mizunashi Kaihin Hot Spring is a natural open-air bath that emerges on the coast for only a few hours during low tide. The hot spring pools appear right in the sea, offering a dynamic experience that makes you feel completely at one with the Pacific Ocean. The hot spring water, heated by volcanic energy, mixes with seawater to create a perfectly warm temperature. In summer, you can even spot people enjoying a swim nearby.

There are separate changing rooms for men and women, allowing you to change comfortably and with peace of mind.

Please note that the bathing hours vary each day depending on the tide. Be sure to check in advance before your visit.

▶ Hakodate City “Mizunashi Kaihin Hot Spring Bathing Hours Information” (Japanese)

https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2014041800107/

Enjoy a Winter Bath with Swans “Kotan no Yu” (Teshikaga Town)

Located just 5 meters from the shore of Lake Kussharo, Kotan no Yu is an open-air hot spring you can enjoy 24 hours a day. The surface of the bathwater is almost level with the lake, giving you the incredible sensation of soaking directly in the lake itself. In winter, you can watch swans that have migrated from Siberia up close, making it feel as if you’re bathing together with them. The breathtaking panoramic view spreads out before you, and during sunset, the lake glows a stunning golden color, creating an unforgettable scene. Relax in the soothing hot spring and savor a luxurious moment of tranquility.

The bath is divided into separate sections for men and women with large rocks, but the pools are connected underwater, offering a semi-mixed bathing experience. Separate changing rooms for men and women are provided. Bathing in swimsuits or wrapped in towels is also allowed.

Crescent-shaped open-air bath "Wakoto Hot Spring" (Teshikaga Town)

The Wakoto Peninsula juts out from the southern shore of Lake Kussharo. A well-maintained walking trail circles the peninsula, taking about 1 hour to complete, allowing you to fully enjoy the rich forest and stunning lake views. Hot springs bubble up throughout the peninsula, and near the tip at Oyako-tsu Jigoku, scalding hot water—reaching close to 100°C—still gushes out today.

At the base of the peninsula, you will find a mixed-gender open-air bath that is popular with both locals and campers. The clear, colorless water fills a large, crescent-shaped tub, with hot spring water constantly rising from the bed of smooth pebbles at the bottom. Since the area often attracts many tourists, wearing a swimsuit is recommended.

A Communal Bath Surrounded by Primeval Forest "Kuma-no-Yu" (Rausu Town)

Kuma-no-Yu is a free open-air hot spring located on the bank of the Rausu River. With a secluded atmosphere that feels like a hidden paradise, it is a favorite spot for many riders, hikers, and campers. Inside the changing area, you will find the “Ten Rules of Bathing at Kuma-no-Yu” posted, and thanks to the dedicated efforts of local volunteers, the facility is kept clean and well-maintained. The changing rooms and baths are separated for men and women, and the women’s bath has a surrounding enclosure for added privacy and peace of mind.

The spring water is a milky-white chloride hot spring with a distinct sulfur scent. Since the hot spring source is nearby, the temperature tends to be quite high. Listen to the gentle murmur of the river and immerse yourself in the wild, natural atmosphere of the surrounding primeval forest while enjoying a leisurely soak.

Dynamic Wild Hot Spring “Kamuiwakka Hot Falls” (Shari Town)

On the middle slopes of Shiretoko Mt. Iozan, a hot spring gushes out and flows into a river, turning the waterfall itself into a natural hot spring. From the entrance to the upper part of the falls, it takes about 30 minutes for a round trip. Climbing up the warm waterfall stream like canyoning, you will head toward the basin of the first waterfall. Be cautious, as there are steep sections and places where the current is swift. Wearing shoes with good grip or sandals with heel straps is recommended for your safety.

The natural open-air bath at the top of the falls has a water temperature of about 30°C. If you feel cold, do not push yourself—simply enjoy it as a footbath.

This site is usually open for visitors from June to the end of September each year. Since there may be private car restrictions and shuttle bus operations during this period, please make sure to check the official website before your visit.

Iwaobetsu Hot Spring "Sandan-no-yu" and "Takimi-no-yu" (Shari Town)

Iwaobetsu Hot Spring emerges near the Utoro trailhead of Mt. Rausu. Close to the solitary inn “Chi-no-Hate,” you’ll find two wild hot springs nestled in the primeval forest.

One is “Sandan-no-Yu,” which, true to its name, consists of three-tiered hot spring baths. Hot spring water flows down from the upper tier, and the water temperature gradually decreases in the lower tiers. Part of the fun is soaking in each bath to find your ideal temperature. The baths are carved directly into the exposed rocky terrain, giving them a rugged and untamed feel.

About 50m further along the trail lies “Takimi-no-Yu.” This small, cozy bath lets you relax while gazing at a waterfall about 5m high. If the water feels too hot, you can adjust the temperature by mixing in stream water—a delightfully wild experience.

When you make the journey to Iwaobetsu, be sure to visit both of these secluded hot springs. Please note that there are no changing facilities at either bath.

- Access to the hot springs is limited from about late April to late October, as the road to the hot springs is closed during winter.