Frontier Furanui Onsen

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Frontier Furanui Onsen: A Cozy Escape in Kamifurano

Nestled in the serene landscape of Hokkaido, just a quick 12-minute stroll from Kami-Furano Station, lies the delightfully nostalgic Frontier Furanui Onsen. A haven for weary travelers and locals alike, this charming hot spring inn provides not only the perfect respite but also a convenient launchpad for exploring the picturesque Furano and Biei regions. With its close proximity to popular spots like the Goto Sumio Museum and the scenic Hinode Park, you’ll be well-positioned to soak in both culture and comfort.

A Unique Hot Spring Experience

Let’s talk onsen. The main attraction here is Furanui Onsen’s celebrated carbonated hot springs, renowned for their skin-nourishing properties. Imagine luxuriating in a bath that leaves your skin feeling so smooth, you might wonder if you’ve stumbled upon the secret to eternal youth. The onsen offers two distinct bathing temperatures for your soaking pleasure: a cooler bath at 31°C (straight from the source, no less) and a warmer bath heated to a soothing 40-42°C.

But it’s not just any hot water. The springs are infused with sodium bicarbonate chloride, which promises to rejuvenate tired skin, easing away the effects of long travel days—or just life in general. There’s something inherently therapeutic about sitting in these mineral-rich waters, contemplating the secrets of Japanese wellness culture.

Onsen Facilities to Soothe the Soul

Here’s what you’ll find in the bathhouse:

  • Indoor Baths: One at a brisk 31°C, and one sensibly heated to 42°C for those of us who appreciate a bit more warmth.
  • Sauna: Open from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM for all your detox needs.
  • Natural spring water: The source bath boasts free-flowing, unadulterated spring water, while the main bath enjoys partially circulated water to ensure a steady flow for all.

With its laid-back ambiance and throwback public-bath vibe, Furanui Onsen exudes a certain nostalgic charm that draws both tourists and locals in droves. Pro tip: Arrive early to avoid the midday crowd surge. Locals have a habit of popping in throughout the day—understandably, given the soothing surroundings.

Day Trip Bathing Fees (Because Everyone Deserves a Soak)

  • Adults: 700 yen (600 yen on those special discount days)
  • Children (3-12 years): 350 yen
  • Children under 3: Free, because even toddlers need a spa day
  • Day Trip Bathing Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Monthly Specials to Tempt You Back

For those who like a little extra with their onsen experience, Furanui Onsen offers monthly treats:

  • Ice Cream Day: Visit on the 5th of any month and the children in your life (or the children inside you) will be rewarded with free ice cream.
  • Silver Day: If you’re 65 or over, mark your calendar for the 15th of the month when you can soak your weary bones for just 350 yen.
  • Customer Appreciation Day: Every 26th of the month, visitors get a discount coupon for their next visit, ensuring you’ll keep coming back for more.

Accommodation at Frontier Furanui: A Blend of East and West

Whether you’re a fan of futons or prefer a good old-fashioned bed, Frontier Furanui Onsen has something for everyone. The hotel offers a mix of Japanese-style and Western-style rooms, comfortably hosting up to 80 guests. Each room comes equipped with the basics: flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, and all the cozy vibes you’ll need after a day of exploring or soaking.

The culinary offerings here are no afterthought either. Guests are treated to seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients, with dishes that proudly showcase Hokkaido’s bounty. Dinner, served in the on-site restaurant, is a celebration of regional produce, from crisp vegetables to rich, tender beef.

  • Japanese-style rooms: 17
  • Western-style rooms: 2
  • Annex rooms: Available for those traveling in larger groups
  • Accommodation fee: From 8,200 yen for one night, including two meals

Dining and Delightful Nibbles

If the onsen doesn’t fully immerse you in the local culture, the food certainly will. Frontier Furanui’s restaurant serves both breakfast and dinner, with a menu built around Hokkaido’s seasonal ingredients. Expect a farm-to-table feast featuring local vegetables and meats.

For those prone to mid-soak hunger pangs, vending machines dotted around the facility offer light snacks and refreshments. Because who wouldn’t want to complement their hot spring session with a quick snack?

Amenities: The Little Extras That Make Life Easier

  • Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel (because we live in the 21st century, after all)
  • Free parking for up to 80 vehicles, including buses and trucks—so go ahead and bring the whole family.
  • Designated smoking areas, because some habits die hard.
  • Rental Towel Set: 300 yen for a bath towel and face towel.
  • Tebura Set: For the all-in-one experience: admission, bath towel, and face towel, neatly priced at 1,000 yen.

How to Get There

  • By Train: A 12-minute walk from Kami-Furano Station on the JR Line. For those coming from Sapporo, taking the train via Asahikawa is your best bet for minimal transfers and quicker travel.
  • By Car: Frontier Furanui’s large parking lot is ready to accommodate your car, bus, or even your trusty truck. From Asahikawa Airport, it’s a mere 40-minute drive to hot spring bliss.

Contact Information

  • Address: 4-4-25 Shinmachi, Kamifurano-cho, Sorachi-gun, Hokkaido, Japan
  • Phone: +81 167-45-9779 (in Japanese)
  • Email: info@furanui.com (also in Japanese)
  • Website: Frontier Furanui Onsen

Final Thoughts: A Relaxing Retreat Awaits

In summary, if you’re searching for a blend of old-world charm, traditional Japanese hospitality, and restorative onsen relaxation, Frontier Furanui Onsen is a must-visit. Whether you’re dropping in for a quick day soak or planning an extended stay, this gem in Kamifurano provides the ideal setting to unwind, rejuvenate, and explore the surrounding natural wonders of Furano and Biei. Ah, the pleasures of Hokkaido.