Kawayu Hot Spring

Volcanic Power, Winter Magic, and One of Japan's Most Unique Hot Springs

Nestled by active Mt. Io in Akan-Mashu National Park, Kawayu Onsen is famous for its rare highly acidic waters. In winter, visitors can witness the magical Diamond Dust phenomenon shimmering in the air.


Kawayu Onsen is one of Hokkaido's most distinctive hot spring towns, located at the foot of active Mt. Io (Sulphur Mountain). Its unique waters are among the most acidic in Japan, with a pH of 1.6 to 1.8. Created by the volcanic forces of Mt. Io, these waters offer an invigorating sensation and a refreshing feel on the skin. Long favored by travelers seeking the raw energy of the earth, this remarkable hot spring provides an authentic bathing experience.


The town features several free-flowing footbaths where visitors can enjoy the warm waters while wandering through sulfur-scented streets. In winter, the rare Diamond Dust phenomenon may appear, with tiny ice crystals sparkling as they drift through the crisp air. Surrounded by the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Akan-Mashu National Park, Kawayu Onsen offers the perfect way to relax and recharge while experiencing one of Hokkaido's most unforgettable natural settings.

  • * 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 70 minutes from Memanbetsu Airport
●By car: About 110 minutes from Doto Expwy Akan IC
Website

Official site

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

This attraction on sample itineraries

[Memanbetsu Airport IN & OUT / 2 Nights 3 Days] Panorama of Mt. Tento Observatory and Bihoro Pass & Kawayu Onsen and Kussharo Onsen... Eastern Hokkaido Tour to Enjoy Scenic Views and Hot Springs
[Memanbetsu Airport IN & OUT / 2 Nights 3 Days] Panorama of Mt. Tento Observatory and Bihoro Pass & Kawayu Onsen and Kussharo Onsen... Eastern Hokkaido Tour to Enjoy Scenic Views and Hot Springs
https://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/en/spa/plan/detail_60.html
[Memanbetsu Airport IN → Kushiro Airport OUT / 2 Nights 3 Days] Kushiro Marshland, Lake Akan, Lake Mashu... A Trip to Experience the Majestic Nature and Ainu Culture of Eastern Hokkaido
[Memanbetsu Airport IN → Kushiro Airport OUT / 2 Nights 3 Days] Kushiro Marshland, Lake Akan, Lake Mashu... A Trip to Experience the Majestic Nature and Ainu Culture of Eastern Hokkaido
https://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/en/plan/detail_63.html

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