Furano La Terre Onsen
Furano La Terre Onsen: A Tranquil Haven Amid Hokkaido’s Natural Beauty
If ever there was a place designed to soothe both body and soul, Furano La Terre Onsen is it. Nestled snugly in the picturesque Nakafurano region of Hokkaido, this little slice of heaven offers a retreat from the rigors of modern life. Just a seven-minute stroll from Nishinaka Station (though, one could easily argue it deserves a much grander entrance), La Terre provides not only some of the finest natural hot spring baths in Japan but also cozy lodgings and jaw-dropping views of the Tokachi mountain range. And let’s not forget the onsen’s enviable proximity to lavender fields and lush forests, making it a must for anyone hoping to reconnect with nature in all its lavender-scented glory.
Hot Springs and Heavenly Baths
At Furano La Terre Onsen, the bathing experience is nothing short of a symphony of serenity. The springs here are a mix of both high-temperature and low-temperature baths, each offering its own set of healing properties—perfect for all manner of ailments, from sore muscles to existential ennui. The pièce de résistance is, of course, the open-air bath. Picture yourself soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters, gazing out over the Tokachi mountains, with the delicate perfume of blooming lavender hanging in the air—or if you visit in winter, a snow-draped wonderland.
Indoor and Outdoor Baths
- Open-Air Bath: Perfect for taking in the beauty of the surrounding landscape, be it the lavender fields in summer or the snow-covered panorama in winter.
- Japanese Cypress Bath: Renowned for the soft, woody scent that wafts through the air as you bathe, this is more than just a soak—it’s an aromatic experience.
- Cave Bath: Now, how often do you get to say you’ve bathed in a cave? A truly unique offering, the cave bath is all about atmosphere and tranquility.
Indoors, the relaxation continues with 11 Japanese-style baths and 10 Western-style baths, which alternate daily between men and women, just to keep things interesting.
Hot Springs Overview: The Science Behind the Soak
The magic behind these soothing waters lies in their rich mineral content. The spring here is classified as a sodium-calcium chloride spring, a hypotonic alkaline source with a pH of 7.5 (for those of us who pay attention to such things). The water, slightly yellow and carrying a faint metallic aroma with a subtly tart taste, clocks in at a comfortable 41.8°C—just right for a long, leisurely soak.
Therapeutic Benefits
- For Bathing: Ideal for relieving nerve pain, joint aches, muscle soreness, poor circulation, and the chronic exhaustion that often comes with modern life. If you’re battling digestive issues or simply looking to recharge, these waters are your new best friend.
- For Drinking: Yes, you can drink it! (Though, as with all good things, there are limits—certain health conditions apply.) If you’re plagued by chronic digestive issues or constipation, a sip or two might just do the trick.
Day Trip Bathing: A Quick Dip in Paradise
If you’re short on time, Furano La Terre Onsen welcomes visitors for day trips, offering full access to its extensive baths and even a meal or two to complete the experience.
Day Trip Fees
- Adults (13 and older): 980 yen
- Children (ages 4-12): 500 yen
- Children under 3: Free
Bathing hours run from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with the last entry at 9:00 PM—so there’s plenty of time to soak away your worries.
Amenities: Everything You Didn’t Know You Needed
You’d be hard-pressed to find an onsen that pampers its guests more than this one. The array of amenities includes all the essentials and then some. Whether it’s shampoo and conditioner, facial cleansing foam, or moisturizing creams, La Terre has you covered. For the ladies, there’s even a luxurious sake lees pack to rejuvenate the skin, while the men can enjoy an invigorating hair tonic.
Dining at Flower Hanahana Restaurant
Post-bath hunger pangs are best dealt with at the Flower Hanahana Restaurant. With a menu that spans everything from hearty rice bowls and noodles to full set meals, there’s something for every palate. Fancy something sweet? The soft-serve ice cream is a favorite, and for those seeking refreshment of a different kind, a cold beer awaits. The restaurant is wonderfully family-friendly too, with a kids’ corner designed to keep the little ones entertained while you relax.
Business Hours: Open until 9:00 PM (last orders taken at 8:30 PM).
Accommodations: Rest Your Weary Head
If you’ve been sufficiently charmed by Furano La Terre Onsen’s offerings (and really, how could you not be?), staying the night is an option well worth considering. The rooms offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making them an excellent base for exploring the Nakafurano and Furano areas. Accommodation options range from traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats and futon beds to Western-style rooms, all equipped with the modern conveniences you’d expect: private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and air conditioning.
The hotel is conveniently located just 2 km from JR Nakafurano Station, about a 15-minute drive from the Furano area, and 30 minutes by car from Biei.
Contact Information
- Phone: +81 167-39-3100
- Email: yoyaku@f-laterre.com
- Address: Hokkaido Sorachi-gun Nakafurano-cho, East 1 Line North 18, Hokkaido 071-0706
- Website: Furano La Terre Onsen Official Site
Conclusion: A Rejuvenating Escape
In short, Furano La Terre Onsen offers a perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and luxury. Whether you’re here for a day trip or planning a longer stay, you’ll leave feeling utterly rejuvenated, with memories of lavender fields and mountain views dancing in your mind. There’s really no better place to unwind and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Hokkaido.