Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen is one of the three major hot spring resorts in Hokkaido, and is easily accessible by air. In this article, we will tell you why Yunokawa Onsen is so popular, what the quality and effects of its spring water are, as well as tourist spots and tips on how to get there.

Yunokawa Onsen, known as the inner sanctum of Hakodate, will be the ultimate relaxation to spice up your trip.

Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen in Hokkaido

An attractive location surrounded by sky and sea

Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen is located in Hokkaido, the northernmost part of Japan, and is an onsen town with an attractive location overlooking the Tsugaru Strait. Not only does it face the sea, but it is also close to mountains such as Mount Hakodate, so you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of both the sea and the mountains at the same time. You can enjoy a stroll along the coastline while feeling the sea breeze, overturning the image that "onsen = mountainous areas."

One of Hokkaido's three major hot spring resorts

Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen, one of the "Three Great Hot Springs in Hokkaido," boasts one of the largest hot spring volumes in the prefecture. It is said that the daily output is 7,000 tons, and it is characterized by a constant supply of abundant, fresh water to each facility. The high-quality hot springs produced by this blessed environment have been treasured as therapeutic baths since the Edo period. There are many stories about Yunokawa Onsen, including the story of a feudal lord being cured of an incurable disease there, and the history of Enomoto Takeaki of the former Shogunate army using it as a recuperation site for wounded soldiers.

Why is Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen recommended?

The charm of a fusion of history and modernity

Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen is a mysterious place where Japan's good old hot springs culture and modern tourist elements coexist. Many people have visited the area for treatment and recuperation since the Edo period, and since the Meiji period it has flourished as an entertainment district. While historical buildings remain, modern hotels and inns have also sprung up, providing a full range of comfortable facilities to meet the needs of tourists.

The secret behind its popularity, attracting 1.3 million visitors a year

What is it that continues to attract so many people as Hokkaido's leading tourist destination?

Easy access

Its convenient location, just a five-minute drive from Hakodate Airport, is a big attraction for both domestic and international travelers, allowing you to make the most of your stay.

A wide variety of spring qualities and quantities

Its proven efficacy, backed by a culture of therapeutic bathing, and its high spring water output, one of the highest in Japan, have captivated hot spring fans around the world.

Diversity of tourism resources

Besides hot springs, there are many other exciting spots to explore, such as the night view of Mt. Hakodate, the exotic architecture of Motomachi, and delicious seafood.

Historical background

In addition to hot springs, there is a wealth of content to deepen your learning, such as the Battle of Hakodate and the development of transportation infrastructure during the Meiji period.

These multifaceted attractions combine to attract 1.3 million guests a year. In fact, it is also popular with overseas travelers, who appreciate the ease of being able to enjoy natural hot springs on the same day they arrive on an international flight.

What is the quality and effects of Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen's waters?

Characteristics of transparent "white water" and reddish brown "red water"

What is noteworthy about Yunokawa Onsen is that there are two types of hot spring water with different spring qualities. One is the clear "white water". It is mainly a sodium-calcium chloride spring and is rich in carbon dioxide. Generally, chloride springs are thought of as having a high heat retention effect, but white water has a refreshing feel to it and is smooth to the touch on the skin.

The other is the reddish brown "Akayu". This spring contains a lot of iron, and since it only springs from a limited number of places, there are not many facilities where you can experience it. However, it is a very popular spring quality due to its rarity and visual impact. Since you can take in iron, it is expected to have a beneficial effect, especially for those who are prone to poor circulation or anemia.

A variety of beneficial effects for neuralgia and poor circulation

These two springs have been reported to have various health benefits.

Relief of neuralgia and muscle pain

It gently warms your body after exercise or desk work.

Improves sensitivity to cold and anemia

Iron-rich red water is said to be particularly effective.

Chronic skin disease and stress relief

The moisturizing power of chloride springs also helps to alleviate rough skin and fatigue caused by stress.

The strength of Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen is that you can enjoy the hot springs to the fullest no matter what season you visit, thanks to the difference in spring quality and the ingenuity of adjusting the water temperature. You can warm up thoroughly in a slightly hot bath, or take a long, leisurely bath in lukewarm water.

Tourist spots you'll want to visit at Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen!

A popular area where you can enjoy everything from tradition to nature

Yukura Shrine

The first place you should visit is Yukura Shrine, which is said to be the birthplace of hot springs. The crocodile bell (a prefectural cultural property) dedicated in 1654 still remains, making it a must-see for history buffs. There is a free foot bath in the shrine grounds, so it is recommended to take a break after visiting the shrine.

Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden

In winter, you can see the unique sight of monkeys bathing in hot springs. In the greenhouse, mangoes and bananas grow, creating a tropical atmosphere that you wouldn't expect to find in Hokkaido.

Nezaki Coast

Known as a beach that incorporates the ancient Japanese gardening technique of "shakkei," the 360-degree panoramic view is a highlight. Depending on the season, you can get a clear view of the Shimokita Peninsula on the opposite shore, creating a scene that will have you wanting to take a photo. Nearby is Kosetsuen, a nationally designated garden of scenic beauty, where visitors are enchanted by the beautiful sight of around 1,800 plum trees in full bloom in spring.

Enjoy the night view and delicious seafood

When you think of Hakodate, many people probably imagine its night view. The night view from Mount Hakodate, which is about a 20-minute drive from Yunokawa Onsen, is so spectacular that it is called one of the three best night views in the world. From the observation deck, a sea of lights like jewels spreads out, and those who see it for the first time are so moved that they are left speechless. It is often a little chilly at night, so it is best to go after warming up in a hot spring.

And don't forget about Hakodate cuisine. The city is famous for squid, but other dishes, such as salt ramen, scallops, and seafood bowls, are all made with fresh local ingredients. The hot spring town is dotted with long-established Japanese sweets shops, and grilled dumplings and pie buns are also very popular souvenirs.

Only 5 minutes from the international airport! Easy access for overseas travelers

Convenient way to get from Hakodate Airport to the hot spring town

Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen is also convenient for tourists from overseas. It is surprisingly close to Hakodate Airport, about 5 minutes by car or 8 minutes by shuttle bus. If you use a taxi, it is easy to get around even when you have a lot of luggage.

If you are taking the Shinkansen, it takes about 30 minutes from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station on the Hakodate Teizan Bus, or 30 minutes on the tram from Hakodate Station to Yunokawa Onsen, where you will arrive at the end of the line. If you are using a rental car, it takes about 40 minutes from the Onuma Park IC on the Do-o Expressway via the Hakodate Shindo. With a variety of transportation options available, it is attractive to be able to choose the one that best suits your travel style.

Multilingual services and tips to enrich your trip

The tourist information center at Yunokawa Onsen has pamphlets in English and Chinese, and most major hotels have English-speaking staff on hand. Some hotels can also provide Korean language support if you inquire in advance, making it easy to guide guests from overseas. Route bus and tram maps also have English notation, making it easy to travel around without feeling like you have to worry about the language barrier.

Furthermore, at the center of Yunokawa Onsen, there is a free foot bath called the "Yumeguri Butai," which serves as a place for interaction between locals and tourists from other countries.

summary

Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen is a famous hot spring in Hokkaido that perfectly blends history and nature, modern comfort and traditional hot spring therapy culture. It is also very easily accessible by air, so its greatest appeal is that you can enjoy the hot springs to your heart's content even on a limited itinerary. You can experience two unique types of spring water, red water and white water, and enjoy the abundant amount of water gushing out, making it a must-see spot for hot spring lovers.

In addition to the hot springs, there are plenty of other things to enrich your trip, such as the night view of Mt. Hakodate, fresh seafood, historic shrines and botanical gardens. Multilingual services for overseas travelers and comfortable transportation are also available, so anyone can visit with peace of mind.

We can confidently say that if you are going to a hot spring in Hokkaido, you should definitely go to Yunokawa Onsen, which offers such high levels of quality that we recommend you go and experience it for yourself.