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Just an hour from Sapporo, Jozankei Onsen welcomes visitors with mountain scenery, soothing baths, and seasonal activities inside Shikotsu-Toya National Park.

Two children stand on rocks in a shallow, clear river surrounded by lush green trees near Jozankei Onsen. A red bridge spans the background with forested hills behind it. The peaceful scene is bright and serene.

A Hot Spring Town in the Mountains

Jozankei Onsen sits in the northern part of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, surrounded by rivers, gorges, and forests. Despite its natural setting, it’s close enough to Sapporo for a day trip or overnight escape.

Throughout the year, the area draws visitors for skiing in winter, fruit picking and rafting in summer, and vibrant foliage in autumn. With more than 20 hotels and ryokan, it’s easy to find a place to stay and explore on foot.

Where We Stayed: Hana Momiji Hotel

A traditional Japanese tatami room at Jozankei Onsen features a low dining table with floor chairs, shoji screens, a TV, and a cozy seating area by a large window overlooking greenery. The room is neatly arranged and warmly lit.

We stayed at Hana Momiji, a popular onsen ryokan with warm hospitality and views of the Toyohira River.

Highlights we enjoyed:

  • A lobby lounge with complimentary tea, wine, and steamed manju
  • Indoor and outdoor baths, plus private onsen rooms by reservation
  • Relaxation areas with massage chairs and tatami floors

Checking in felt special, especially when we found freshly steamed manju waiting for us.

Kaiseki Dinner at Hana Momiji

A colorful Japanese kaiseki meal at Jozankei Onsen features assorted small dishes, vegetables, seafood, and desserts arranged neatly on trays and plates, showcasing elegant presentation and vibrant ingredients.

Dinner was the highlight of our stay. Our kaiseki meal included:

  • Assorted appetizers of seafood, tofu, and vegetables
  • Sashimi featuring tuna, shrimp, and local salmon
  • Grilled crab and beef
  • Abalone in clear soup
  • Simmered vegetables and a light dessert

Each course was beautifully presented, and the flavors showcased Hokkaido’s seasonal ingredients.

Hot Spring Experience

The onsen at Hana Momiji had both indoor and outdoor baths with scenic views of the valley. Saunas, private baths, and tatami rest areas made it easy to relax after a long day.

If you’re visiting Japanese hot springs for the first time, we recommend reading our Onsen Etiquette Guide to understand the customs.

Jozankei Nature Luminarie

Large rocks at Jozankei Onsen are illuminated with colorful, galaxy-like projections featuring star and nebula patterns, set against a dark background.

From July to October, Futami Park hosts Jozankei Nature Luminarie, an evening light display along the suspension bridge and river cliffs. Lights and music transform the forest into a magical riverside walk. It’s family-friendly and one of the best things to do after dark.

Things to Do Around Jozankei Onsen

A small, brightly lit Japanese shrine at night near Jozankei Onsen features orange and white walls, with trees on either side. The interior displays flowers and figures on an altar.
  • Free Footbaths: Scattered across town, many open to the public.
  • Iwato Kannondo Temple: A 120-meter worship cave with 33 statues, beautifully lit at night.
  • Sapporo Lake and Jozankei Dam: A short drive from town with lake views, trails, and lookouts.
  • Autumn Leaves: From late September to mid-October, maple trees turn bright red and orange.

How to Get to Jozankei Onsen

By Car

  • From Sapporo Station: about 40 minutes.
  • From New Chitose Airport: about 1 hour 30 minutes.

By Bus

  • From Sapporo Station: Jotetsu Bus to Jozankei, about 70 minutes.

Driving Notes

  • Mountain roads are scenic and well-maintained. In winter, rent snow tires or a 4WD car.

Pro Tip: Some ryokan offer shuttles. Confirm schedules before you go.

Is Jozankei Onsen Worth Visiting?

Two smiling children stand in a warmly lit room with an autumn-themed mural, orange carpet, and a traditional Japanese display in the background, capturing the cozy ambiance of Jozankei Onsen.

Jozankei Onsen is one of the most convenient hot spring towns to visit from Sapporo. Whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple, or solo, it offers a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation. With river views, soothing baths, and seasonal attractions like the Nature Luminarie, it’s a place we left feeling recharged.

Jozankei Onsen is one of the most accessible hot spring towns to reach from Sapporo. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike can enjoy its blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. Between river views, calming baths, and seasonal highlights like the Nature Luminarie, we left feeling completely refreshed.

More to Explore Nearby

Jozankei Onsen is a tranquil hot spring resort nestled in a scenic mountain gorge near Sapporo, making it a perfect spot for relaxation while remaining close to Hokkaido’s main urban and cultural attractions.

  • Sapporo City – Head a short distance north to the major regional hub of Hokkaido to explore its vibrant downtown, famous beer gardens, and seasonal events like the renowned Snow Festival.
  • Otaru Canal Area – Visit this beautiful port city, known for its preserved historical buildings, iconic gas lamps, and delicious seafood restaurants lining the picturesque canal.
  • Shiroi Koibito Park – Visit this theme park dedicated to the famous local cookie, where you can tour the factory and enjoy the beautiful European-style gardens and cafes.
  • Lake Toya – Head south to this major caldera lake located in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park, offering tranquil views, boat cruises, and evening fireworks displays in the summer.

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