Jozankei Onsen, nestled amidst the mountains of Hokkaido, offers a haven for travelers seeking rejuvenation, breathtaking natural landscapes, and a taste of local culture. Renowned for its abundant natural hot springs and diverse activities, Jozankei Onsen promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
Embracing the Healing Waters:
- Hot Spring Delights: Immerse yourself in the renowned hot springs, the heart and soul of Jozankei Onsen. Choose from various public bathhouses (“sento”) or private baths (“onsen”) offered by numerous ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) and hotels. Explore the diverse hot springs, each with unique mineral compositions and therapeutic benefits.
- Ryokan Experience: Experience the essence of Japanese hospitality by staying at a ryokan. Savor delicious meals featuring seasonal ingredients, unwind in comfortable tatami-mat rooms, and enjoy private or communal hot spring baths.
- Open-Air Baths: Embrace the natural beauty of Jozankei Onsen by soaking in open-air baths, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a truly immersive experience.
Exploring Beyond the Springs:
- Hiking Adventures: Lace up your boots and explore the diverse network of hiking trails traversing the scenic mountains surrounding Jozankei Onsen. Breathe in the fresh mountain air, witness cascading waterfalls, and discover hidden natural gems.
- Kappa Folklore: Delve into the playful local legend of the kappa, mischievous water sprites. Spot playful kappa statues scattered throughout the town, visit the Kappa Land amusement park, or enjoy kappa-themed snacks and souvenirs.
- Jozankei Nature Center: Learn about the region’s unique ecosystem and diverse flora and fauna at the Jozankei Nature Center. Explore interactive exhibits, participate in guided nature walks, or simply relax amidst the serene natural surroundings.
Cultural Delights:
- Traditional Crafts: Discover the exquisite craftsmanship of the region by exploring local shops and workshops. Purchase unique souvenirs like hand-painted ceramics, intricate wood carvings, and traditional folk art pieces.
- Festivals and Events: Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by witnessing lively festivals and events held throughout the year. From the winter illuminations festival to the summer kappa festival, experience the energy and traditions of Jozankei Onsen.
- Jozankei Shrine: Visit the Jozankei Shrine, a historical landmark dedicated to the deity believed to be responsible for the hot springs. Observe the traditional Shinto architecture, participate in a purification ritual, and gain insights into the spiritual significance of the hot springs.
Savoring Local Delights:
- Hokkaido Cuisine: Indulge in the diverse flavors of Hokkaido cuisine, featuring fresh seasonal ingredients and unique dishes like “jingisukan” (grilled lamb) and “ishikari nabe” (salmon hot pot).
- Local Specialties: For a taste of local flavors, try “Jozankei soba” (buckwheat noodles) or “inewaka” (sweet rice dumplings), regional specialties unique to Jozankei Onsen.
- Fresh Seafood: Enjoy the bounty of the nearby sea by sampling fresh seafood dishes at local restaurants. Savor delicious options like sushi, sashimi, and seafood hot pots.
Jozankei Onsen offers a perfect blend of relaxation, stunning natural beauty, and cultural immersion. From soaking in the healing hot springs and exploring scenic landscapes to delving into local traditions and savoring delicious cuisine, Jozankei Onsen promises a rejuvenating and unforgettable visit for everyone.
Things to do in Jozankei Onsen
Tickets and Passes
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Reaching the relaxing retreat of Jozankei Onsen is easy and convenient:
- Bus: Direct buses operate regularly from Sapporo, offering a comfortable and scenic route to Jozankei Onsen. The journey takes approximately one hour.
- Shuttle Bus: Many major hotels in Jozankei Onsen offer free shuttle services from Sapporo and nearby transportation hubs.
- Train + Bus: Take a JR Hokkaido train to Sapporo Station or nearby stations like Makomanai Station. From there, transfer to local buses bound for Jozankei Onsen.
- Car: Driving offers flexibility and scenic views along Hokkaido’s well-maintained roads. If you’re traveling from Honshu (Japan’s main island), you’ll take an undersea tunnel followed by Hokkaido’s road network.
Tip: If you’re staying at a ryokan, inquire about shuttle bus availability for the most convenient option.
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Klook.com“Jozankei Spa.” by MIKI Yoshihito. (#mikiyoshihito) is licensed under CC BY 2.0.