Fukiage Onsen
Fukiage Onsen: A Steamy Soak in Hokkaido’s Heart of Nature
Nestled snugly on the rugged slopes of Mount Tokachidake in Kamifurano Town, Hokkaido, lies Fukiage Onsen—an open-air bath that offers the very definition of rustic charm. Here, amid the whispering trees and under the ever-watchful gaze of Hokkaido’s wild landscapes, bathers can enjoy the warmth of the mineral-rich waters while surrounded by untamed beauty. This hidden gem has been pulling in visitors for years, largely thanks to its cameo appearance in the beloved Japanese TV drama, From the Northern Country. But even without the on-screen endorsement, Fukiage Onsen is well worth a trip if you’re in search of peace, nature, and, of course, a little thermal indulgence.
Key Features
1. Open-Air Bath Bliss
Fukiage Onsen offers a truly “back to basics” onsen experience, with no frills but plenty of thrills. The mineral content of the water—mainly gypsum salt—makes it colorless, transparent, and odorless, and it bubbles up from the earth at a perfect-for-souls-that-need-soothing 47°C. The setup is simple, with two levels of baths:
- Upper Bath: Much hotter, fed directly from the source.
- Lower Bath: Slightly cooler, ideal for those who enjoy a more mellow soak.
As you slip into the water, the wilderness wraps around you like an old friend. The forest flanks the bath, and you might even catch a glimpse of local wildlife—deer peering curiously from the treeline or a fox scurrying by as if on its daily rounds.
2. No Changing Rooms, No Problem
Here’s where things get delightfully primitive. Fukiage Onsen has no changing rooms—zip, nada. If modesty is a concern, consider bringing a plastic bag to stash your clothes and a towel or swimsuit for a bit of cover. It’s open to all, but don’t expect any luxury amenities. This is as wild as onsen experiences get, complete with zero facilities for toilets. So, a little foresight goes a long way—use the bathroom before you get there, or you may find yourself uncomfortably doing the “I should have gone” dance.
3. 24-Hour Heaven
Not tied down by hours, fees, or schedules, Fukiage Onsen is open around the clock and entirely free. And while any time is a good time for a dip, winter offers something truly spectacular. Imagine lowering yourself into the steaming water while snow softly blankets the surrounding landscape. Nighttime baths come with a celestial bonus—gazing up at a sky studded with stars or feeling snowflakes melt on your skin while immersed in hot water is nothing short of magical.
4. Famous Onsen
Fukiage Onsen’s claim to fame came when actress Rie Miyazawa shared a scene here in the iconic TV series From the North Country. That little moment on screen has since earned the onsen a place in the hearts of drama fans across Japan. But even if you’ve never heard of the show, the onsen’s charm stands on its own as a piece of Hokkaido’s natural and cultural heritage.
Practical Information
- Location: Fukiage Onsen, Kamifurano Town, Sorachi-gun, Hokkaido
- Access: It’s a scenic 40–50-minute drive from Furano.
- Parking: The parking lot is a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it affair. Keep an eye out for a signpost marking the start of the path. It accommodates around 30 cars, and from there, it’s just a three-minute stroll down a narrow path to reach the onsen.
- Price: Free, a word that is music to any traveler’s ears.
- Operating Hours: Open 24 hours a day.
Amenities and Packing Tips
- Toilets: None. Plan ahead.
- Towel Rental: Bring your own.
- Changing Rooms: Again, none. Get creative.
- What to Bring: Swimsuits, towels, plastic bags for clothes, warm clothes in winter, and a flashlight if you’re planning to visit after dark.
Onsen Etiquette: For a Soothing Soak, Follow the Rules
1. Keep It Quiet
This isn’t a pool party—Fukiage Onsen is for peace and quiet. If you feel the urge to splash about or shout, resist it. Most visitors come to bathe in silence, soaking up the solitude as much as the water. Be respectful and let nature do the talking.
2. Cleanliness Is Key
You’re not just soaking for yourself; you’re sharing the experience (and the water) with others. It’s customary to give yourself a quick rinse before slipping into the bath. And remember, soap, shampoo, or any other bathing products are strictly off-limits. This keeps the communal water clean for everyone.
3. Mind the Towel
While your towel is useful for modesty before entering, it’s not welcome in the water. Keep it perched on your head or set it aside to ensure the bath stays clean.
4. Leave the Glassware at Home
Fragile items like glass bottles have no place near the bath. A broken bottle could spell disaster for the barefoot masses.
5. Watch Your Step
The ground around the onsen is notoriously slippery thanks to the minerals in the water. Walk, don’t rush, or you’ll end up doing an unintended—and undignified—slide into the bath.
6. It’s Not a Swimming Pool
Though tempting, resist the urge to swim around. Onsens are for unwinding, not for water sports. Slow, relaxed movements will keep the atmosphere zen-like.
7. Skip the Sake
Soaking in a steaming bath after a drink might sound like fun, but it’s risky. Alcohol and high temperatures are not a healthy mix, and you’ll want to stay alert—both for the heat and for avoiding any slips or spills.
And a crucial reminder: Don’t drink and drive. Japan has strict DUI laws, and getting caught with even the smallest trace of alcohol in your system while behind the wheel could lead to hefty fines, loss of driving privileges, or worse.
8. Leave No Trace
The natural beauty of Fukiage Onsen depends on visitors’ good manners. Carry out what you carry in, and leave the area as pristine as you found it.
Seasonal Splendor
Winter Wonderland: There’s no denying that winter is when Fukiage Onsen really shines. Picture yourself bathing while surrounded by snow, the air cold and crisp while the water keeps you toasty. Adding snow to the water to control the temperature is a local tradition that adds to the charm.
Summer Serenity: In summer, the area turns into a lush green paradise. After a hike on Mt. Tokachidake, nothing beats relaxing in the cooling breeze and warm water of the onsen.
In Conclusion
For those looking to immerse themselves in nature—both literally and figuratively—Fukiage Onsen is a destination that’s hard to beat. Whether you come for the icy winter views or the green summer hikes, the raw, untouched beauty of this onsen is an experience you’ll carry with you long after you’ve towelled off. If authentic, outdoor onsen experiences are what you crave, this unassuming hot spring should be at the top of your Hokkaido itinerary.