Hakuginso Onsen: Fukiage Hot Spring Health Center
Hakuginso Onsen: A Serene Soak in the Heart of Hokkaido
Perched in the Fukiage Onsen region of Kamifurano, Hokkaido, Hakuginso Onsen is the kind of place that quietly whispers to you, “Relax.” A sanctuary for weary travelers and wellness seekers alike, this hot spring retreat is where relaxation meets rejuvenation, wrapped in the crisp, cool air of Japan’s northernmost island. If you’re looking to steep your bones in therapeutic spring waters, stare dreamily at the forest canopy, and maybe even let the restorative powers of nature work their magic on your tired muscles, Hakuginso is your spot.
A Dip into Variety: The Bathing Options
With 12 baths to choose from, there’s a delightful array of watery wonders waiting. Whether you prefer to bathe in solitude or feel like braving the mixed-gender outdoor pools, Hakuginso’s got you covered.
- 4 male-only baths
- 4 female-only baths
- 4 mixed-gender outdoor baths
Indoor baths are respectfully segregated by gender, giving you the choice to embrace tranquility on your own terms. But for the more adventurous souls, the mixed-gender outdoor baths beckon. Don’t worry if you forgot your swim gear—bathing suits are available to rent for a modest 300 yen. That’s a small price to pay for the privilege of soaking in the splendor of nature while fully clothed.
1. Outdoor Baths (Rotenburo)
Ah, the great outdoors—where better to submerge yourself than in a natural hot spring surrounded by Hokkaido’s lush forests? The outdoor baths are a true highlight here, offering a front-row seat to the seasonal shifts of the landscape. And at night, the only thing brighter than the stars twinkling above is the gentle glow of contentment from your newly relaxed muscles.
One particularly impressive feature is the rotenburo’s one-meter-deep pool. Not only can you soak, but you can even engage in a bit of aquatic calisthenics, should the mood strike.
- Bathing Suit Rental: 300 yen for both men and women.
2. Indoor Baths
For those who prefer their serenity indoors, Hakuginso Onsen’s indoor baths won’t disappoint. Gender-separated and brimming with variety, these baths offer everything from invigorating jacuzzis to the tranquil sleeping baths (yes, that’s a thing—it’s like lying down in a pool, utterly cocooned in warm water). There’s even a rock bath for those who like their relaxation a little more rugged.
Other notable features include:
- Main Rock Bath
- Jacuzzi
- Bubble Baths
- Sleeping Baths (bed-style baths)
- Waterfall Shower
- Sauna (seats 15 people)
The scent of white cedar wafts through the air, enhancing the whole experience with its earthy, calming aroma. And when you’ve had your fill of warmth and water, the second-floor relaxation room is there, waiting to embrace you in soft serenity.
3. Spring Quality and Benefits
Now, this is where things get interesting. The spring water at Hakuginso isn’t just warm—it’s medicinal. Rich in calcium, sodium, sulfate, and chloride, these mineral-laden waters are more than just a pretty face. Flowing naturally at a toasty 47°C, the acidic spring water is touted as a remedy for an impressive range of ailments.
Bathing Benefits Include:
- Relief from muscle and joint pain, neuralgia
- Recovery from fatigue, arteriosclerosis, and chronic dermatitis
- Easing conditions like frozen shoulder and chronic gynecological disorders
If that’s not enough, you can even drink the onsen water, which is said to help with:
- Chronic digestive diseases
- Cholecystitis, gallstones, and constipation
- Diabetes, gout, and obesity
Costs and Timings: Practicalities You’ll Want to Know
Visiting Hakuginso Onsen won’t break the bank, which is just one more reason to take the plunge.
Day Trip Bathing Fees
- Adults: 700 yen
- Junior High/High School Students: 500 yen
- Elementary School Students: 300 yen
Rentals
- Swimming Costume: 300 yen
- Towel Purchase: 200 yen
- Bath Towel Rental: 300 yen
Operating Hours
- Day Bathing: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Last entry at 9:00 PM)
- Morning Bathing: 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM (cleaning from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM)
Staying the Night: Accommodation Options
Once you’re lulled into a state of deep calm by the onsen’s healing waters, why not prolong the experience with an overnight stay? Hakuginso Onsen offers simple, self-catering accommodation, perfectly suited for longer stays. It’s also a great base if you fancy exploring the nearby mountains for a bit of hiking, skiing, or snowboarding.
Lodging Options
- Bunk Beds: 48 berths
- Japanese-Style Rooms: 2 traditional rooms
- Self-Catering Facilities: Equipped for meal preparation
Accommodation Fees
- Adults: 3,100 yen
- Junior High/Senior High Students: 2,100 yen
- Elementary Students: 1,500 yen
- Heating Fee: 150 yen per night (from November 1st to April 30th)
Pro tip: Stock up on supplies before you arrive. There’s no convenience store nearby, so bring your own food unless you’re keen on vending machine snacks and cup noodles (which are available on-site).
Getting There: Access and Transportation
Getting to Hakuginso Onsen is straightforward, though a bit remote, which adds to its charm.
- By Car: It’s roughly a 20-minute drive from JR Kamifurano Station, with free parking for up to 100 vehicles.
- By Bus: Choei Bus offers services from JR Kamifurano Station to Hakuginso Onsen and Tokachidake Onsen (Ryounkaku), with three round trips a day. Fares are reasonable at 500 yen for adults and 250 yen for children.
Contact Information
- Phone: +81 (0) 167-45-4126
- Email: hakuginsou4126@aurens.or.jp
- Address: Fukiage Onsen, Kamifurano-cho, Sorachi-gun, Hokkaido, Japan
In Conclusion: A Haven of Tranquility
Hakuginso Onsen offers more than just a hot bath—it’s a holistic experience, blending the healing powers of natural spring water with the soothing embrace of Hokkaido’s forests. Whether you’re there for a day trip or a longer stay, the combination of warm waters, stunning scenery, and a touch of Japanese hospitality makes it a destination worth sinking into.