Ryounkaku Onsen
Ryounkaku Onsen: Hokkaido’s Heavenly Hot Spring Getaway
Perched on the slopes of the Tokachidake Volcano, 1,280 meters above sea level, Ryounkaku Onsen is a sight to behold, a retreat where you can almost touch the sky. As Hokkaido’s highest hot spring inn, it treats visitors to awe-inspiring panoramic views, with scenes straight out of a dream—volcanic landscapes, rolling seas of clouds, brilliant autumn foliage, and starry night skies that seem impossibly close. It’s an absolute must-visit for hikers, skiers, photographers, or anyone looking for a slice of serenity in the mountains.
History and Legacy
Opened in 1968, Ryounkaku Onsen is steeped in local history. The discovery of the hot springs came during a 1960s survey of Mt. Tokachi, sparking the ambitious plan to build an inn on this remote and rugged terrain. Constructing this alpine hideaway was no small feat—everything from building materials to supplies had to be transported by hand or horse up the unforgiving slopes. The name “Ryounkaku” translates as “an accommodation above the clouds,” a fitting tribute to its lofty location.
Key Features
1. Outdoor and Indoor Baths
The onsen’s claim to fame is its stunning outdoor baths, which offer breathtaking views of Tokachidake and its wild surroundings. There are two main natural hot springs to choose from:
- Oiwa no Yu: A reddish-brown, iron-rich spring known for its skin-tightening and beautifying effects. You’ll leave feeling like you’ve just gotten the best spa treatment nature can offer.
- Koiwa no Yu: A slightly cooler, acidic spring that’s perfect for soothing sore muscles, especially after a day of mountain trekking or skiing. Ideal for cold weather, it’s a comforting cocoon of warmth.
In the winter months, the temperature in the outdoor baths can drop, so warming up in the indoor baths afterward is highly recommended.
2. Hot Spring Quality and Benefits
Ryounkaku Onsen draws from two distinct types of natural springs, each with its own therapeutic benefits:
- Iron-Bearing (Ⅱ) Aluminum-Calcium Sulfate Hot Spring: Known for its strong bactericidal properties, this spring is especially effective for chronic skin conditions, cuts, and burns. Beyond its healing powers, it promotes hematopoiesis (the formation of blood cells) and offers firming, moisturizing, and beautifying effects for the skin.
- Acidic Hot Spring: This spring is a multitasker, aiding in conditions like hypertension and arteriosclerosis while also providing elastic and smooth skin. It creates a protective film, leaving your skin soft, hydrated, and glowing.
Visitor Information
- Day Trip Bathing Fees
Adults: 800 yen
Children (6-12 years old): 400 yen
Children under 5: Free - Opening Hours
8:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Last admission at 7:30 PM) - Towel Rental
Hand towel (for sale): 250 yen
Bath towel (for rent): 300 yen - Facilities
Guests can relax in a cozy lounge area, where free green tea and water are provided. There are vending machines stocked with drinks and snacks for a quick bite after a long soak. The locker room is well-equipped with all the essentials—hairdryers, shampoo, and body soap—so you won’t need to bring much with you.
Accommodation
Ryounkaku Onsen isn’t just for day-trippers. With 13 guest rooms, it’s an ideal base camp for backcountry skiers, avid hikers, and nature lovers who want to stay a little longer and soak up the scenery (and the hot springs). The inn’s remote location gives visitors access to hiking trails and ski routes just a stone’s throw away, making it the perfect pit stop for outdoor adventurers.
Access and Transportation
- By Car: The drive to Ryounkaku Onsen from Furano takes about 40-50 minutes. However, if you’re planning a winter visit, note that the road between Shirogane and Tokachidake is closed. Instead, you’ll need to approach from Kamifurano.
- By Bus: Public transport is another option, with a 50-minute bus ride available from JR Kamifurano Station (for 500 yen one-way).
Winter Travel Tip: If you’re visiting in early May, snow tires are still a good idea as the roads may be snow-covered. Better yet, opt for bus travel during snowy weather—it’s safer and lets someone else do the navigating.
Contact Information
For more details or to make a booking, you can reach out via the following:
- Phone: +81 (0) 167-39-4111 (in Japanese)
English Line: +81 90-6379-4417 (Available 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM JST, except Saturdays) - Email: ryounkaku.onsen@gmail.com
- Address: Tokachidake Onsen, Kamifurano-chou, Sorachi-gun, Hokkaido, Japan
- Website: Ryounkaku Onsen Official Site
Conclusion
Whether you’re yearning for a relaxing dip after a long hike, seeking the perfect photo of Hokkaido’s dramatic landscapes, or simply needing to escape into nature for a bit of peace and quiet, Ryounkaku Onsen offers an unparalleled experience. Its high-altitude location gives you views that are truly above and beyond, and the hot springs provide both relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether it’s for a day trip or a multi-day adventure, Ryounkaku Onsen is not just a retreat—it’s a place where you can feel like you’ve slipped above the clouds and left the world behind.