Ultimate Relaxation! Hot Springs with Breathtaking Views of the Sea and Lakes
Hokkaido is home to dynamic and awe-inspiring natural landscapes. Imagine soaking in a high-quality hot spring while gazing out over an endless blue sea or a shimmering lake reflecting the surrounding mountains. These panoramic views can only be experienced here.
Treat yourself to a moment of true luxury—immerse your body and soul in nature’s embrace, far from the noise of the city. Whether you’re watching gentle waves or mountain silhouettes mirrored on a tranquil lake surface, this peaceful escape is sure to bring deep relaxation and lasting memories.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
Enjoy a Stunning Ocean View That Stretches to the Horizon! A Hot Spring Resort Overlooking the Sea
Yunokawa Hot Spring (Hakodate City) - Panoramic Views of the Tsugaru Strait
Yunokawa Hot Spring, located in Hakodate, is just a 5-minute drive from Hakodate Airport, offering outstanding accessibility. It is known as one of Hokkaido's three most famous hot spring resorts and is a popular destination for travelers. Many of the hotels and facilities along the coastline boast open-air baths and large communal baths with breathtaking panoramic views of the Tsugaru Strait.
From summer to autumn, the area is illuminated by the glowing fishing lights of the squid fishing boats, creating a magical nightscape known as Isaribi. This enchanting scenery can only be seen during this season, making it a truly special experience.
The hot spring town is conveniently served by streetcars, making it an excellent base for sightseeing around Hakodate. You can easily visit popular spots such as Goryokaku Park, a designated Special Historic Site, the charming Motomachi district with its exotic atmosphere, and the lively morning market near Hakodate Station—all accessible by a single streetcar ride. In the evening, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy the spectacular night view from Mt. Hakodate.
If you’re looking to explore nearby attractions, the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden, located within the Yunokawa Hot Spring area, is highly recommended. In addition to its vibrant collection of tropical flowers and plants, the garden is famous for its Monkey Hot Spring. From December to early May, hot spring water is poured into the monkey bath, and you can watch adorable Japanese macaques leisurely soaking in the warm waters—a heartwarming sight unique to this season.
Utoro Hot Spring (Shari Town) – A Perfect Base for Exploring the Shiretoko World Heritage Site
Utoro Hot Spring is the largest hot spring resort on the Shiretoko Peninsula, located on the western coast facing the Sea of Okhotsk. This area is lined with hotels, inns, and guesthouses, making it an ideal destination for travelers. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the vast Sea of Okhotsk, the magnificent sunsets sinking into the horizon, and the quiet, mystical drift ice that arrives during the harsh winter months. No matter the season, the overwhelming beauty of Shiretoko’s untouched nature awaits you.
Utoro Hot Spring is also the perfect base for sightseeing in the Shiretoko World Natural Heritage Site. Many nature tours and sightseeing cruises depart from here, allowing visitors to fully explore the wonders of Shiretoko’s rich ecosystems.
One thing you must try when visiting Utoro is the local seafood, freshly landed at the nearby fishing port. More than 80% of the catch here consists of salmon and trout, and the coastal fishing industry in Utoro boasts one of the highest yields in Hokkaido. Enjoying seafood bowls and simple, local seafood dishes made from the freshest ingredients at small local diners is highly recommended. Be sure to savor these specialties that you can only taste here!
4 hot spring facilities with ocean views from outdoor baths
- Hiraiso Hot Spring “Ginrinso” (Otaru City)
- Stay at a historically significant Nishin Goten (Herring Palace), designated as a Historic Building by Otaru City. This grand and elegant structure reflects the prosperity of the herring fishing industry in the past and is the only Nishin Goten in Hokkaido where guests can stay overnight.
Located on a scenic hilltop at Hiraiso Cape, the inn overlooks the vast Ishikari Bay. The open-air bath, rich in natural atmosphere, offers a spectacular view across the water. One of the highlights is the breathtaking sunrise over the bay—so beautiful, it leaves you speechless.
Whether you're seeking a relaxing hot spring experience steeped in history or a tranquil getaway surrounded by nature, Ginrinso is the perfect destination. 
- Official site (Japanese)
- Kojohama Hot Spring "Umi no Bettei Furukawa" (Shiraoi Town)
- This seaside facility is renowned for its open-air hot spring where you can feel as if you have the entire Pacific Ocean all to yourself. The spacious and liberating atmosphere unique to the seaside creates an unforgettable experience. Watching the sunrise over the vast ocean from the hot spring is simply breathtaking.
Here, you can fully immerse yourself in the rich natural beauty of Hokkaido. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor local gourmet specialties such as Shiraoi Wagyu beef and tarako (salted cod roe) from Kojohama, delicacies that are unique to this region. 
- Official site (Japanese)
- Mitsuishi Kombu Hot Spring “Kurazo” (Shinhidaka Town)
- Located about a 120-minute drive from New Chitose Airport, Mitsuishi Kombu Hot Spring “Kurazo” offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean from its open-air bath, creating a deep sense of openness and relaxation. On clear nights, you can enjoy a sky full of stars—and if you're lucky, you may even catch a shooting star.
If you wake up a little early and soak in the open-air bath at dawn, you'll be greeted by the peaceful sounds of waves and birdsong, making for a truly refreshing start to your day in Hokkaido.
Be sure to try the special kombu bath featuring locally harvested Mitsuishi kombu, a treasured specialty of the area known for its mineral-rich properties. 
- Official site (Japanese)
- Okhotsk Omui Onsen “Hotel Hinode Misaki” (Omu Town)
- Experience the grandeur of Hokkaido’s natural beauty at Hotel Hinode Misaki, located in Omu Town. This hot spring hotel stands on the scenic cape known as “Hinode Misaki,” offering sweeping views of the Sea of Okhotsk and vast green pastures that stretch out for about 35km along the coastline.
From the glass-walled indoor bath and spacious open-air hot spring, guests can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views unique to eastern Hokkaido. During winter, you may even witness the magical sight of drift ice approaching the shore—an unforgettable seasonal spectacle.
Whether you seek relaxation or a deep connection with nature, this hot spring retreat invites you to unwind in one of Japan’s most serene coastal landscapes. 
- Official site (Japanese)
A Lakeside Hot Spring Retreat Surrounded by Serene Scenery
Lake Toya Hot Spring (Toyako Town) - A Destination Rich in Seasonal Beauty
Lake Toya Hot Spring is located along the southern shore of Lake Toya, offering visitors a peaceful escape amidst breathtaking natural surroundings. Many accommodations here feature panoramic hot spring baths overlooking the lake, allowing guests to soak in mineral-rich waters while admiring the ever-changing reflections on the lake’s surface throughout the day and across the seasons.
From late April to late October, a nightly fireworks display lights up the sky above the lake. Starting at 20:45 and lasting about 20 minutes, these spectacular fireworks can be viewed not only from the lakeside, but also from some hotel large communal baths. It’s a must-see event for anyone visiting Lake Toya Hot Spring during this time of year.
The surrounding area is home to several popular attractions, including the Mt. Usu Ropeway, Showa Shinzan. As part of a UNESCO Global Geopark, the region also offers educational facilities where visitors can learn about volcanic activity and the area's unique geology. With its diverse offerings, Lake Toya is an ideal destination for relaxation, sightseeing, and discovery.
Lake Akan Hot Spring (Kushiro City) - Stunning Mountain Views
Lake Akan is famous for its unique marimo, a special type of moss ball that grows naturally and has been designated as a Special Natural Monument. On the southern shore of the lake, a charming hot spring town awaits, lined with restaurants, souvenir shops, and inviting hot spring inns. Lake Akan is a caldera lake formed by volcanic activity from Mt. Oakan, and the surrounding area is a treasure trove of untouched nature.
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities such as canoeing, fishing, and cycling along scenic routes while feeling the refreshing breeze of Hokkaido’s great outdoors. The area is perfect for those who love to explore and immerse themselves in nature.
Winter brings even more excitement. Ice fishing for wakasagi (smelt), ice skating, and snowmobiling are especially popular. One of the most magical winter sights is the frost flowers that appear on the frozen lake. These delicate ice crystals can only form under rare conditions, so witnessing them is a truly lucky and unforgettable experience.
Nearby, you can visit Ainu Kotan, the largest Ainu village in Hokkaido. Here, you can explore Ainu traditions, see their daily life, and enjoy performances of their traditional dances. It is a wonderful opportunity to experience the rich culture and history of the Ainu people.
After a day filled with outdoor fun and cultural discovery, there is nothing better than soaking in a hot spring while taking in breathtaking views of the lake and mountains. Lake Akan Onsen is the perfect destination to fully enjoy Hokkaido’s beauty, adventure, and relaxation.
Feel the Earth’s Power at "Bokke" – Bubbling Mud Pools in Hokkaido
At Bokke, you can experience the raw energy of the earth as hot mud and water vigorously bubble up from the ground. The word "Bokke" comes from the Ainu language and means "boiling." This natural phenomenon is caused by carbon dioxide gas erupting from underground, making the gray mud pools appear as though they are boiling right on the earth’s surface. Steam rises from the bubbling pools with a rhythmic boko-boko sound, allowing visitors to directly feel the vibrant power of the land.
The Bokke Walking Trail has been carefully maintained, offering an easy and enjoyable stroll through beautiful forests filled with Ezo spruce and Sakhalin fir trees. Along the way, you may encounter wild birds and animals that inhabit the area, adding a touch of adventure to your walk.
This is a perfect spot for those looking for a light hike and a unique chance to witness one of Hokkaido’s dynamic natural landscapes. Whether you are exploring in the morning or afternoon, the Bokke area is easily accessible and offers a refreshing outdoor experience.
4 popular lakeside facilities where you can also enjoy nearby sightseeing
- Marukoma Hot Spring “Marukoma Onsen Ryokan” (Chitose City)
- Located on the shores of Lake Shikotsu, one of Hokkaido’s most scenic natural areas, Marukoma Onsen Ryokan offers a serene and immersive hot spring experience. Its open-air bath, separated only by natural rock formations, is connected directly to the lake—so the water level changes depending on Lake Shikotsu’s tide. This unique feature creates a one-of-a-kind sense of unity with nature while you soak.
The ryokan also features a rare "Ashimoto Yushutsu-yu," a type of hot spring where about 50°C mineral-rich spring water wells up naturally from beneath your feet—a phenomenon found in only about 20 places across Japan. Guests can enjoy this precious hot spring in a peaceful lakeside setting.
From the open-air bath, you'll enjoy a breathtaking view of the mountains reflected on the lake’s surface. No matter the season—spring, summer, autumn, or winter—the scenery offers a different kind of beauty, making every visit special. Watching the soft hues of sunrise or sunset while soaking in the warm water is an unforgettable moment of bliss. 
- Official site (Japanese)
- Shiraoi Hot Spring "KAI Poroto" (Shiraoi Town)
- Located on the serene shores of Lake Poroto, KAI Poroto is a relaxing hot spring inn that blends harmoniously with the surrounding natural beauty. The interior and guest rooms feature stunning designs and artwork inspired by traditional Ainu patterns, creating a unique and welcoming atmosphere.
Every room offers panoramic views of the tranquil Lake Poroto, inviting guests to unwind while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Shiraoi Town is home to the rare and globally valuable "moor hot spring," which is known for its gentle, skin-nourishing qualities. At KAI Poroto, guests can soak in these soothing waters while feeling as if they are floating on the lake itself.
The inn is conveniently located next to Upopoy (the National Ainu Museum and Park), making it an ideal base for cultural exploration. Whether you take a leisurely stroll along the lakeside or simply relax in the peaceful ambiance, your stay promises a luxurious and unforgettable experience. 
- Official site (Japanese)
- Shikaribetsu Kohan Hot Spring “Hotel Fusui” (Shikaoi Town)
- Hotel Fusui is a serene hot spring inn nestled on the shores of Lake Shikaribetsu, the only natural lake in Daisetsuzan National Park. Often called the “Lake in the Sky,” it is the highest-altitude lake in Hokkaido. From the open-air hot spring and spacious indoor baths, guests can take in breathtaking panoramic views of the crystal-clear lake right in front of them.
On clear days, Mt. Tenbo, standing just across the lake, reflects perfectly on the water’s surface, forming a shape that resembles a pair of lips. At night, the lake is enveloped in a sky full of stars, offering a magical and unforgettable bathing experience surrounded by the untouched wilderness of Hokkaido. 
- Official site (Japanese)
- Lake Saroma Hot Spring "Lake Saroma Tsuruga Resort" (Kitami City)
- Nestled on the tranquil shores of Lake Saroma, a scenic spot renowned for its untouched natural beauty and breathtaking sunsets, Lake Saroma Tsuruga Resort offers a soothing hot spring experience in harmony with the surrounding landscape.
Guests can soak in a variety of baths, including an open-air hot spring built from 700 tons of rugged stone that blends into the wilderness, a large indoor bath designed in a traditional Japanese style, and a Nordic-inspired bathhouse with panoramic lake views. Each setting allows you to fully immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere while gazing out over Lake Saroma.
As the sun sets over the lake, the moment of bathing becomes truly blissful. The hot spring water, drawn from underground sources, is rich in iron and other minerals, making it exceptionally rare. Its high heat-retention properties gently warm both body and mind, leaving you deeply refreshed. 
- Official site (Japanese)
Ranking of popular articles
- Hokkaido Summer Travel Guide
- https://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/en/feature/travelguide_summer
- When is the best time to see lavender? Recommended Lavender Spots in Hokkaido
- https://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/en/feature/lavender
- 5 Lavender Fields You Must Visit in Hokkaido During Summer
- https://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/en/feature/lavender-fields-you-must-visit-in-hokkaido-during-summer
- Best Places to View Flowers in Hokkaido vol. 1
- https://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/en/feature/best-places-to-view-flowers-in-hokkaido-vol-1
- Hokkaido Spring Travel Guide
- https://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/en/feature/travelguide_spring