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Jōzankei Onsen: Sapporo's Serene Hot Spring Retreat
Escape to Jozankei Onsen: Sapporo's serene hot spring retreat with stunning nature, therapeutic waters, and seasonal beauty.
Nestled in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Jōzankei Onsen is a renowned hot spring resort just an hour's drive from Sapporo. Discovered in 1866 by the ascetic monk Miizumi Jozan, this 'back parlor of Sapporo' offers a tranquil escape with therapeutic waters and stunning seasonal scenery.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to 840 Jōzankei
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
840 Jōzankei, Sapporo, Jōzankei, Minami Ward, Hokkaido, 061-2301, JP
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Sapporo Station, take the Jotetsu Bus (numbers 7, 8, 7J, 7H, or 8J) or the Kappa Liner express bus to Jozankei Onsen. Buses depart from Sapporo Station Bus Terminal (stop 26 or 27) and arrive at Jozankei Onsen in approximately 60-75 minutes. The fare is around ¥790-¥1400 one way. Alternatively, take the Namboku Subway Line to Makomanai Station and transfer to the Jotetsu Bus number 12, which takes about 50 minutes and costs ¥620.
Taxi
From Sapporo city center, a taxi to Jozankei Onsen takes approximately 22-23 minutes and costs between ¥8,000 and ¥10,000. Taxi stands are readily available at Sapporo Station and in the city center.
Local tips
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Visit in mid-October for the most stunning fall foliage, transforming the entire valley into vibrant reds and golds.
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Take advantage of the free foot baths scattered throughout the town to casually enjoy the hot spring waters.
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For a unique experience, visit Iwato Kannon-do, a temple located in a 120-meter-long cave with 33 Kannon statues.
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Consider staying at a ryokan with private onsen for a more personal and relaxed experience, especially if you have tattoos.
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Check if your hotel offers a free shuttle service from Sapporo Station to save on transportation costs.
Discover more about 840 Jōzankei
Jōzankei Onsen, located in the high cliffs of the Toyohira River within Shikotsu-Toya National Park, has been Sapporo's closest onsen resort since 1866. The area was founded when ascetic monk Miizumi Jozan discovered the hot springs, originally developing it as a therapeutic retreat. The Ainu people also have a connection to the traditions of the area.
Today, Jōzankei Onsen is known for its sodium chloride springs, whose transparent waters contain natural salts that soften the skin and keep bathers warm. The town is home to dozens of ryokan, restaurants and shops catering to hot spring tourists. Many ryokan offer day visitors access to their baths for a fee, and free foot baths can be found around town.
Surrounded by mountains and the Toyohira River, Jōzankei offers beautiful scenery that changes with the seasons. In spring, colorful carp streamers swim above the Toyohira River. Summer brings lush greenery, perfect for rafting and canoeing. Autumn transforms the valley into a tapestry of red and gold, especially vibrant around mid-October. Winter offers snowscapes and access to nearby ski resorts. Popular attractions include the Futami Suspension Bridge, Iwato Kannon-do Temple, and Jozankei Dam.
A brief summary to 840 Jōzankei
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