Kamihoroso Onsen
Kamihoroso Onsen: A Tranquil Mountain Retreat in Hokkaido
If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping to a peaceful hideaway where the mountains meet the sky and your worries drift away like autumn leaves on the wind, Kamihoroso Onsen might just be your ticket. Nestled 1,200 meters above sea level on the slopes of Hokkaido’s Tokachi Mountains, this serene retreat offers breathtaking views of the Furano Basin, sunsets that seem almost painted, and starry skies so clear, they make city life feel like a distant dream.
It’s the kind of place where the scenery does the talking, and boy, does it have a lot to say—especially come autumn, when the foliage blazes into one of Japan’s earliest displays of seasonal color. Whether you’re a fan of tranquil hot spring baths, dramatic landscapes, or simply want to stop time for a moment, Kamihoroso offers a perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and, well, pure Japanese tranquility.
The Onsen Experience
Kamihoroso isn’t just any hot spring inn; it’s an all-wooden wonder, famous for its baths that seem to soak away stress as effortlessly as you sink into them. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill baths, either—they’re crafted from fragrant yew wood, lending the air a calming, earthy scent that feels as therapeutic as the water itself. And yes, that water is 100% natural hot spring goodness, heated slightly for your bathing comfort.
The baths here are more than just warm and soothing; they come with a pedigree of therapeutic benefits that stretch back centuries. This is the kind of place where the waters promise to ease your neuralgia, relieve those aching muscles, and even help with the odd frozen shoulder. After a long hike or a day of exploring Hokkaido’s wild beauty, you’ll find these rejuvenating springs are the perfect remedy for both body and soul.
Spring Quality
Type: Aluminum-calcium sulfate spring (previously known as a gypsum-containing acidic spring)
Therapeutic Benefits
- Neuralgia, muscle and joint pain
- Frozen shoulder, motor paralysis
- Digestive issues, bruises, sprains
- Arteriosclerosis, cuts, burns
- Recovery from illness, fatigue, and poor circulation
- Overall health promotion
Source Temperature: Around 29°C (but heated for bathing)
And before you pack your towel and think about dropping by for a quick soak, take note: as of April 2023, Kamihoroso’s onsen is reserved exclusively for hotel guests. Day-trippers will have to wait for the inn to post an update on their website about when—or if—those gates will reopen.
Bathing Hours for Guests
- Evening: 15:00 – 24:00
- Morning: 5:00 – 10:00
Culinary Delights
Kamihoroso isn’t just about hot water and mountain views. When it’s time to eat, the inn serves up Hokkaido on a plate—quite literally. The kitchen prides itself on dishes that highlight the region’s best ingredients, and that starts with the star of the show: Furano Wagyu beef. This melt-in-your-mouth delicacy is just one of the many locally sourced treasures that grace the menu, including Hokkaido’s famous rice and seasonal vegetables picked at their peak.
The dining experience here is more than just food; it’s a feast for the eyes and the soul. Every dish is carefully crafted, not only to taste sublime but to look like a work of art. This is the kind of place where you don’t just eat—you savor, marvel, and wonder why all meals can’t be this good.
Dining Highlights
- Furano Wagyu beef (trust me, you’ll want seconds)
- Seasonal, locally sourced vegetables and ingredients
- Freshly harvested Hokkaido rice
A Stay with a View
Accommodation at Kamihoroso complements the stunning landscape that surrounds it. The rooms, furnished in traditional Japanese style, offer panoramic views of the Tokachi mountain range, making it hard to tear yourself away from the window. Whether you’ve spent the day hiking, skiing, or just soaking in the onsen, returning to your cozy room feels like retreating to your own private sanctuary in the clouds.
Adventures Await
Kamihoroso’s location isn’t just about relaxation—it’s also a launchpad for adventure. Outdoor enthusiasts will be thrilled by the wide range of activities available right outside the inn’s doors. Whether it’s trekking up mountain paths, strapping on skis for some backcountry exploration, or simply pointing your camera at the ever-changing scenery, there’s no shortage of ways to soak in nature’s grandeur.
Top Activities
- Mountain climbing and hiking
- Backcountry skiing and snowboarding
- Nature photography
And don’t forget the night sky. With no city lights to dim the view, the stargazing here is nothing short of spectacular. On a clear night, you’ll find yourself staring up at constellations so bright and vivid, it’s almost as if you’re seeing them for the first time.
Access and Contact Information
Kamihoroso Onsen is tucked away in the heart of Tokachidake Onsen, which makes it feel like a hidden gem but does require a little planning to reach. Once you arrive, though, you’ll understand why it’s worth the journey.
- Location: Kamihoroso Onsen, Tokachidake Onsen, Kamifurano-cho, Sorachi-gun, Hokkaido, Japan
- Website: Kamihoroso Onsen Official Site
- Phone: +81 167-45-2970
- Email: info@kamihorosou.com
Final Thoughts
Kamihoroso Onsen is a place where time slows down, the air feels fresher, and nature puts on a show that’s worth the trip alone. Whether you’re soaking in the rejuvenating waters, dining on the finest local fare, or simply gazing out over the majestic Tokachi Mountains, you’ll feel a world away from the stresses of everyday life. It’s the perfect blend of rustic charm, natural beauty, and refined relaxation, offering a true retreat into the heart of Hokkaido.