10 Best Onsen in Hokkaido: 2025 Guide to Healing Waters & Stunning Views

If you dream of soaking in steaming water and enjoying the healing of natural minerals, Japan is the perfect place. Across the country, there are about 3,000 Japan onsen resorts. In Hokkaido alone, you have countless fascinating choices. It could be a challenge to choose the best onsen in Hokkaido.

For those who want to visit Hokkaido with onsen culture experiences, this article is for you! We collect the 10 best hot springs in Hokkaido and give you advice on how to choose and enjoy an onsen.

Why Hokkaido's Onsen Are Unmatched

Hokkaido is known for beautiful wilderness with off-the-beaten-path gems. With unique volcanic geology, Hokkaido provides unique volcanic hot springs with healing properties.

Volcanic Origins & Mineral-Rich

Waters of hot springs in Japan have a wide range of pH values (pH 1.73 - pH 9.5). The pH value of the hot spring affects its efficacy. Alkaline springs make the skin smoother while acidic waters has an effect on bacteria-killing.

Hokkaido onsen is rich in diverse natural minerals, such as sulfur, sodium chloride, salt, iron, radium, calcium, sodium bicarbonate, etc.

Nature-Integrated Experiences

Relax in open-air hot springs in Japan, overlooking surrounding views of volcanoes, ocean horizons, or even UNESCO wetlands. It is a unique experience you should add to your Hokkaido trip.

Cultural Immersion: Ryokan Etiquette & Traditions

Hokkaido onsen ryokan has traditional architecture, tatami flooring, futon bedding, and public or private hot springs, which allow you to enjoy Japanese culture and traditions. You can also enjoy Japanese breakfasts and kaiseki meals.

Top 10 Best Onsen in Hokkaido (Expert-Picked)

Here we'll introduce the 10 best onsen towns, including family-friendly hot springs you can visit during your Hokkaido trip. Some open-air onsen are in natural settings with views of maple forests and snow-capped mountains. Indoor onsen would give you a more intimate atmosphere.

1. Noboribetsu Onsen – Most Diverse

Noboribetsu Onsen (登別温泉) is the best onsen in Hokkaido and one of the best onsens in Japan. Noboribetsu Onsen has nine different types of hot spring waters, such as sulfur, alum, sodium bicarbonate, radium, iron, salt, etc.

Various types of hot spring water are suitable for the needs of different family members. It is claimed that sulfur springs are good for skin health, and acidic springs can be used for sterilization.

Apart from the onsen hot springs, this onsen town also has Noboribetsu Jigokudani Valley (Hell Valley) worth exploring, which is also the source of Noboribetsu's hot springs. You can see the unique landscape of snow-covered sulfur craters, which formed after volcanic eruptions. When you stroll around in Noboribetsu, don't forget to look for oni (demons), which may interest the kids.

2. Jozankei Onsen – Easy Access

Jozankei Onsen (定山渓温泉) is close to Sapporo and can be reached within approximately 1 hour by car. There are 56 hot springs, rich in sodium chloride and sulfur.

After hiking the charming Jozankei mountain, it is most enjoyable to take in a sodium chloride onsen for muscle relief. One of the best times to visit Jozankei is in autumn, when you can appreciate the colorful autumn leaves at an indoor or outdoor hot spring.

Besides enjoying the Hokkaido hot springs, you can also visit other tourist attractions, such as Jozankei Futami Park, the Shiraito Falls, and Futami Suspension Bridge.

3. Niseko Onsen – Best for Snowscape

If you enjoy skiing in Hokkaido, Niseko Onsen is the best for you. Niseko Ski Resort is one of the best Hokkaido ski resorts, which is known for its best Japan powder and ski slopes.

Staying at Niseko Onsen, you can head for the ski resort and the hot spring within a relatively short distance. It is delightful to warm up at a natural onsen after a day at Niseko Village. Niseko Grand Hotel offers mixed-gender hot spring baths, which families can choose.

4. Sounkyo Onsen – Daisetsuzan National Park

Sounkyo Onsen (層雲峡温泉), famous for stunning autumn foliage, is located in Daisetsuzan National Park. Sounkyo Onsen is one of the best Hokkaido hot springs for cascade views and abundant outdoor activities.

Explore numerous hiking trails at Sounkyo Gorge and visit the impressive waterfalls (Milky Way Falls and Shooting Star Falls). You can take part in the Sounkyo Onsen Ice Fall Festival with beautiful nighttime illuminations from late January to mid-March.

5. Toyako Onsen – Scenic Lake View

Toyako Onsen (洞爺湖温泉) is located by Lake Toya, a famous sightseeing spot with pristine waters and breathtaking views. Toyako Onsen was formed after volcanic eruptions, offering therapeutic waters. The calcium-sodium springs can alleviate chronic pain.

It is easy to find an onsen hotel for gorgeous views of Mt. Yotei and Lake Toya. You have something to do here all year round, such as cycling, camping, admiring summer fireworks, and the winter Illumination Tunnel.

6. Kawayu Onsen – Strong Acidic Waters

Kawayu Onsen (川湯温泉) is a part of Akan Mashu National Park. The waters of Kawayu Onsen come from Mt. Io (Sulfur Mountain) and are particularly acidic. There is a free public foot bath (ashiyu) for visitors to bathe their feet. It is said that the spring waters here can improve blood circulation and be effective for chronic dermatitis.

7. Yunokawa Onsen – Breathtaking Ocean View

Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen (湯の川温泉) is regarded as one of the three major Hokkaido hot springs. Yunokawa Onsen's hot springs with chloride are beneficial to the skin and blood circulation.

There is a free seaside footbath near the Yunokawa Onsen tram stop. Don't miss Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden, where you can see snow monkeys soaking in the hot springs from December to May.

8. Asahidake Onsen – Alpine Escape

Asahidake Onsen (旭岳温泉) is a Hokkaido onsen at the foot of Mount Asahidake, supplied with hydrogen carbonate springs, which have the effect of smoothing skin.

Like Sounkyo Onsen, Asahidake Onsen is also a popular base to explore Daisetsuzan National Park. It is close to the Asahidake Ropeway. You can ascend to volcanic craters and embark on sunrise hikes.

9. Lake Shikotsu Onsen – UNESCO Geopark Hot Spring

Lake Shikotsu Hot Spring (Shikotsuko Onsen, 支笏湖温泉) is on the shore of Lake Shikotsu in Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Lake Shikotsu Onsen is also a Bijin no Yu Onsen (Beauty's Hot Spring) thanks to its effect of moisturizing and smoothing the skin. You can enjoy picturesque volcanic landscapes and watch the birds.

10. Shiretoko Onsen – World Heritage Site

Shiretoko (Utoro) Onsen (ウトロ温泉) is one of the most popular onsen areas in Shiretoko Peninsula. Utoro Onsen is an ideal place for nights when visiting Shiretoko. From the open-air onsens, you will have a chance to appreciate a panorama of the Sea of Okhotsk. In the Utoro area, you can also experience drift ice walking.

How to Choose the Perfect Onsen in Hokkaido

Prioritize Water Type Based on Needs

Different hot springs have their own benefits. Sulfur onsen is beneficial for skin conditions. Salt spring can promote circulation. Onsen with iron helps retain heat and regulate menstrual disorders.

Family-Friendly vs. Adults-Only

Lake Akan Onsen (Akanko Onsen) is family-friendly, offering Ainu culture immersion and outdoor relaxation activities. Dai-ichi Takimotokan in Noboribetsu offers a heated pool, waterslide, and kiddie pool.

Family can also use a Hokkaido onsen ryokan with private onsen, such as Akan Yuku no Sato Tsuruga and Yunokawa Onsen Heiseikan Shiosaitei. For an adults-only hotel, you can consider Bourou Noguchi Noboribetsu.

Seasonal Considerations

Many Hokkaido onsen offer a beautiful view, especially open-air onsen. Japanese onsen experiences vary with the changing seasons. You can choose a snow-viewing onsen in winter. Lakeside baths are perfect for a summer experience. An onsen surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring or vibrant autumn leaves shouldn't be missed.

Travel Tips for Onsen Enthusiasts

Booking Ryokans with Onsen Access

We highly recommend staying overnight at a Hokkaido ryokan with private onsens. The ryokan is a kind of Japanese traditional hotel, where you can fully enjoy the Japanese traditional atmosphere and hot spring baths.

Japan Onsen Etiquette

Be Naked. If you are hesitant, ask the resort whether you can wear a swimsuit before booking. Or you can consider a private onsen.

Don't let your hair touch the hot spring water. Towels and bath towels should not be put in water either.

Shower before soaking in a hot spring.

People with tattoos may be denied entry to some hot springs.

Photography Etiquette

To respect others' privacy, photography is prohibited in public indoor and outdoor onsen because everyone is naked in the onsen. If you want to capture the scenery around, ask the resort you are visiting.

Beyond the Bath

Sapporo Snow Festival

Every February, Sapporo holds a one-week Sapporo Snow Festival. The 2026 Sapporo Snow Festival will be held from February 4th to 11th. You could admire the most magnificent snow and ice sculptures with stunning illuminations at night in Odori Park, Susukino, and Tsudome.

Shiretoko National Park Drift

Ice Tours Starting from late January, you can see drift ice in the sea near the Shiretoko National Park. You can embark on an ice walk tour from Utoro Onsen and dress in a drysuit to walk on drift ice. You can expect wildlife-watching and drift ice cruises.

Hokkaido Sake Brewery Visits

Japanese sake should be on your list when you travel to Hokkaido. Asahikawa's Takasago Sake Brewery is a good destination. You would have an opportunity to explore the sake brewery and learn about the brewing process. Then, why not stay at an onsen ryokan in Asahikawa and relax in a hot spring?

Local Gourmet

For foodies, delicious Hokkaido food accounts for half. Don't miss must-try gourmet food, such as 'Genghis Khan' barbecued lamb, soup curry, freshly-caught seafood, ramen, and dairy products.

FAQs about Hokkaido Onsen

1. Are tattoos allowed in Hokkaido onsen?

Policies vary. Traditionally, Most hot springs in Japan prohibit people with tattoos. However, today you can find some tattoo-friendly onsens in Hokkaido, like Hoheikyo Onsen. Please confirm with the onsen whether they accept tattoos before your visit.

You can also consider hotels and ryokans with private hot springs in rooms, or rent private hot springs.

2. Best time to visit for fewer crowds?

Weekdays in late autumn or early spring. And there are fewer people in the late evening.

3. Can children go to onsen in Japan?

Yes. Young children usually need to be accompanied by adults when entering the hot spring. Older children should take baths separately by gender. Some hot springs may have certain regulations for children.

Plan Your Hokkaido Trip with Hi Five Trip

Soaking in onsens is a great way to experience Japanese culture and tradition. If you have no idea about your Hokkaido travel, consider contacting our travel experts to help you with a Hokkaido tour package with Japanese onsen baths.