Kawayu Hot Spring

The Highly Acidic Hot Spring Gushing in Akan-Mashu National Park

A hot spring resort known for its highly acidic water sourced from Mt. Io (Sulphur Mountain), an active volcano in Akan Mashu National Park. Visitors can also observe the breathtaking diamond dust phenomenon in winter.


The greatest draw of Kawayu Onsen is its exceptional water quality. The highly acidic water, rare even in Japan, boasts a strong acidity of pH 1.6 to 1.8. This unique quality has made it popular for centuries, thanks to its excellent bactericidal properties and its skin-beautifying effect, which leaves the skin smooth and soft. The thermal warmth of the hot springs penetrates deep into the body's core. Throughout the onsen town, you can easily enjoy the local bounty at free-flowing footbaths (ashiyu).


Located in a region of severe cold, Kawayu Onsen offers a unique winter spectacle. During the coldest months, the "Diamond Dust" phenomenon—where frozen water vapor glitters in the clear air—can be observed. After witnessing this beautiful, fantastical sight, the highly acidic hot water is the perfect cure, warming your body and soothing your fatigue. Enjoy this unforgettable, sensory experience unique to winter in Kawayu.

  • * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
Nearest airports
New Chitose Airport Sapporo Okadama Airport Hakodate Airport Okushiri Airport Asahikawa Airport Wakkanai Airport Rishiri Airport Okhotsk Monbetsu Airport Memanbetsu Airport Nemuro Nakashibetsu Airport Tancho Kushiro Airport Tokachi Obihiro Airport

Hot spring information

Spring quality/Indications (for bathing)

Chloride springs
Cuts, peripheral circulatory failure, cold constitution, depression, dry skin

Sulfate springs
Cuts, peripheral circulatory failure, cold constitution, depression, dry skin

Acidic springs
Atopic dermatitis, psoriasis vulgaris, glucose tolerance disorders (diabetes), impetigo

Sulfur springs
Atopic dermatitis, psoriasis vulgaris, chronic eczema, impetigo (including peripheral circulatory failure for hydrogen sulfide-type sulfur springs)

Ferruginous springs (potable spring water)
Iron-deficiency anemia

General Information

Postal code
〒088-3465 
Address
北海道川上郡弟子屈町川湯温泉
Telephone Number
015-483-2670(Kawayu Onsen Tourism Information Center)
Directions
●By bus: About 10 minutes from JR Kawayu Onsen Station
●By car: About 110 minutes from Doto Expwy Akan IC
●By car: About 70 minutes from Memanbetsu Airport
Website

Lake Mashu Tourism Association

* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.

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