Jozankei, Hokkaido Complete Guide | Hot Springs, Tourism, and Access Information at Sapporo’s Hidden Gem
Jozankei (定山渓), a representative hot spring resort in Hokkaido, is a hot spring village located approximately 30 km southwest of central Sapporo. With approximately 2.4 million visitors annually, it is a popular hot spring destination that has long been cherished as “Sapporo’s hidden gem.” This article introduces the charm of Jozankei comprehensively, from the history of Jozankei Hot Spring to the latest ways to enjoy it, recommended accommodations, and access methods.
History and Origin of Jozankei Hot Spring
The history of Jozankei Hot Spring dates back to 1866 (Keio 2). It began when a Buddhist monk named Bisen Josan (later renamed Josan) discovered this hot spring while exploring upstream of the Toyohira River during his ascetic practices, settled here, and opened a hot spring spa. The name of this monk, Josan, became the origin of the current place name “Jozankei.”
Now, 158 years after the spring’s opening, Jozankei has developed into one of Hokkaido’s premier hot spring towns, located within the Shikotsu-Touyou National Park, with diverse accommodations ranging from modern hotels to charming traditional inns lining its beautiful gorge. While situated near the major city of Sapporo, its environment surrounded by abundant nature continues to captivate many tourists.
Hot Spring Quality and Efficacy of Jozankei Hot Spring
Jozankei Hot Spring boasts abundant hot spring water, with approximately 8,600 liters of hot spring water gushing forth every minute. The primary spring quality is sodium chloride spring, characterized by its colorless and transparent appearance with a slightly salty taste. The source temperature is high at 60-80 degrees Celsius, and many facilities use the water as-is without dilution.
Efficacy of Hot Spring
The chloride spring at Jozankei Hot Spring is expected to have the following benefits:
- Relief of neuralgia and muscle pain: Hot spring components warm the body from its core and promote blood circulation
- Improvement of joint pain and frozen shoulder: Thermal effects expand joint range of motion
- Improvement of cold sensitivity: The heat-retaining effect unique to chloride springs keeps the body warm even after bathing
- Fatigue recovery: Effects to soothe daily stress and fatigue
- Cuts and burns: Salt forms a film on the skin surface, providing moisturizing effects
The hot spring village has more than 20 springs, and many accommodations own their own unique spring sources, allowing guests to experience subtly different water textures depending on the lodging.
Access Methods from Sapporo to Jozankei
One of Jozankei’s major attractions is its convenient access from central Sapporo. At approximately 30 km and a travel time of about one hour, it is also popular as a day-trip hot spring destination.
Access by Car
About one hour southwest from central Sapporo via National Route 230 (Ishiyama-dori). From New Chitose Airport, it takes approximately two hours. During winter, studless tires are essential due to the possibility of icy roads and snow. The Jozankei hot spring village has parking areas at each hotel and inn, and parking spaces are also provided at day-trip hot spring facilities.
Access by Bus
Jotestu Bus (Regular Route Bus)
- From Sapporo Station Bus Terminal to “Jozankei Hot Spring”
- From Makomanai Station on the subway to “Jozankei Hot Spring”
- Travel time: approximately 75-90 minutes
- Fare: 780 yen one-way (from Sapporo Station)
Kappa Liner (Reservation-based Transfer Bus)
- Direct service from Sapporo Station North Exit and Susukino to each hotel in Jozankei Hot Spring village
- 14 departures daily (reservation required)
- Travel time: approximately 60 minutes
- Fare: approximately 1,000 yen one-way (varies by hotel)
Free Transfer Bus
Many hotels and inns operate free transfer buses from Sapporo Station and New Chitose Airport. Advance reservations are often required, so it is recommended to confirm when making your accommodation reservation.
Recommended Hotels and Inns at Jozankei Hot Spring
The Jozankei hot spring village has diverse types of accommodations. Here we introduce some of the most popular hotels and inns.
Jozankei View Hotel (Grand Velle Hotels & Resorts)
A resort hotel boasting the largest scale in Jozankei Hot Spring. Its greatest feature is “Lagoon, the Kingdom of Water,” an indoor heated amusement facility with water slides and pools that is extremely popular with families. The hot spring and open-air bath are spacious, and you can view the scenic beauty of the Jozankei gorge from the large public bath. The buffet-style meals offer abundant selections, featuring dishes made with abundant Hokkaido ingredients.
Jozankei Hot Spring Jozankei Daiichi Hoterru Suizantei
A luxury inn with the concept of “an adult’s hideaway.” All rooms feature either an open-air bath or a panoramic bath, making it recommended for those who prioritize private time. The cuisine features kaiseki dishes using seasonal Hokkaido ingredients, with each dish carefully prepared and enjoyable to both the eye and palate. You can spend quality time in a quiet, tranquil atmosphere soaking in superior hot springs.
Jozankei Shika no Yu
A long-established inn located in the center of Jozankei Hot Spring. Its pride is pure hot spring water delivered directly from the source, maintaining the atmosphere of a traditional hot spring spa. Despite reasonable rates, it receives high praise for the quality of its hot spring and delicious cuisine. It is a popular inn with a welcoming atmosphere and many repeat customers.
Jozankei Banseikaku Hotel Millione
A hotel standing on an elevated position overlooking the entire Jozankei hot spring village. The panoramic open-air bath offers spectacular views, particularly breathtaking during the autumn foliage season. The facility features multiple baths, allowing guests to enjoy bathing at different locations. The buffet restaurant offers freshly prepared dishes at a live kitchen, with steak and crab being particularly popular.
Jozankei Hana Momiji
A hot spring inn with a charming Japanese modern atmosphere. Guest rooms feature calm Japanese spaces for comfortable relaxation. The large bath and open-air bath are spacious, allowing guests to enjoy bathing while feeling the nature of Jozankei. Meals consist of seasonal kaiseki cuisine, where guests can savor Hokkaido’s delicacies from both sea and mountains.
Jozankei Tsuruga Resort Spa Mori no Uta
A spa resort with the concept of “conversing with the forest and experiencing healing.” The interior design themed around forests is distinctive, creating a non-everyday space. Beyond hot springs, wellness experiences are abundant, including spa treatments and yoga programs. The buffet restaurant features locally sourced cuisine that prioritizes local production for local consumption.
Grand Bresson Hotel Jozankei
A new-style hotel that rebranded and reopened in 2023. Its distinctive feature is a modern and refined spatial design. The hot spring is pure water delivered directly from the source, and the open-air bath allows you to hear the murmuring of the Toyohira River. The cuisine features Japanese and Western fusion course dishes, with creative cooking utilizing Hokkaido ingredients.
Jozankei Hot Spring Nukumori no Yado Furukawa
A long-established inn valuing “the spirit of hospitality.” It operates with personal room attendants providing meticulous service. The hot spring features 100% direct delivery from the source and is well-regarded for its superior water quality. Meals consist of seasonal kaiseki cuisine, with attention paid to dishware and plating.
Jozankei Yuraku Souan (Kyoritsu Resort)
A luxurious hot spring inn with open-air baths in all guest rooms. Guest rooms feature Japanese modern design with a layout emphasizing privacy. Kyoritsu Resort’s distinctive hospitality services, such as late-night ramen and post-bath ice cream, are also abundant. This is especially recommended for couples.
Sightseeing Spots in Jozankei
Jozankei offers attractions beyond hot springs, including beautiful natural scenery.
Toyohira Gorge Dam
An arch dam representing Hokkaido, located further upstream from Jozankei Hot Spring. The area surrounding the dam lake is known as a prime spot for autumn foliage, with breathtaking crimson foliage scenery spreading from early to mid-October. The dam site is accessible by electric bus, and the views from the observation deck are spectacular.
Toyohira Gorge Hot Spring
A day-trip hot spring facility near Toyohira Gorge Dam. Its pride is an open-air bath with 100% pure spring water, popular for its open atmosphere surrounded by nature. After enjoying the hot spring, it is also recommended to try jingisukan or curry at the attached Indian curry restaurant.
Jozankei Walking Trail
Several walking trails are developed along the Toyohira River flowing through the center of the hot spring village. Spots such as “Futami Suspension Bridge,” “Futami Park,” and “Shigure Bridge” offer scenic gorge views. Particularly during autumn foliage season, the contrast between colored leaves and the gorge is beautiful, drawing many tourists.
Kappa Fuchi
A symbolic spot referencing the “Kappa Legend” of Jozankei. Various kappa statues are installed on the banks of the Toyohira River, making it a popular photo spot. It is recommended to stop by during a walk through the hot spring village.
Jozankei Farm
An agricultural tourism facility offering fruit picking and pizza-making experiences. From summer to autumn, seasonal fruit picking is available, including strawberries, cherries, blueberries, and prunes. Fresh fruit sweets and jams are also sold.
Jozankei Shrine
A shrine dedicated to the protective deity of Jozankei Hot Spring, enshrining Bisen Josan, the founder of the hot spring. Located on a hilltop of the hot spring village, it has a quiet, tranquil atmosphere. It is cherished by locals as a pilgrimage site during New Year’s visits or hot spring trips.
Seasonal Pleasures of Jozankei
Jozankei is a hot spring resort where you can enjoy the natural beauty of each season. Here we introduce the unique charms of each season.
Spring (April-June)
The season when Jozankei’s nature awakens with snowmelt. Fresh greenery is beautiful, and the mountains are dyed in vibrant green. From late May, mountain vegetables become available, and seasonal vegetables appear in inn cuisine. After Golden Week, the area is relatively quiet, allowing for leisurely hot spring trips.
Summer (July-August)
A popular season as a summer retreat, cooler than Sapporo city. The Toyohira River offers trout fishing and canoe experiences. In July, “Jozankei Hot Spring Gorge Koinobori” is held, with approximately 400 koinobori swimming above the Toyohira River—an awe-inspiring sight. Fireworks displays are also held in the evenings, becoming summer attractions.
Autumn (September-November)
The most beautiful season in Jozankei. From late September to mid-October, autumn foliage reaches its peak, with the entire gorge dyed in red and gold. Tourist bus tours such as “Jozankei Autumn Foliage Kappa Bus” operate, allowing efficient visits to foliage spots. Foliage illuminations are also held, allowing guests to enjoy magical nighttime foliage.
Winter (December-March)
A season of beautiful contrast between snowy scenery and hot springs. From late January to early February, “Jozankei Hot Spring Snow Lantern Path” is held, with the hot spring village enveloped in the magical light of snow candles. Winter activities such as snowshoe trekking and wakasagi fishing are also abundant. Snowy open-air bathing is an exceptional experience.
Activities to Enjoy at Jozankei
Canoeing and Rafting
Summer-only canoe and rafting experiences are available on the Toyohira River. Guided tours operate safely within the Shikotsu-Touyou National Park’s pristine stream. Beginner-friendly courses are available, making this popular with families.
Trekking and Hiking
Several trekking courses are available around Jozankei. Options range from beginner-friendly walking trails to full-scale mountaineering courses depending on skill level. Autumn foliage season trekking is especially recommended, offering an exceptional experience walking through the colored forest.
Cycling
Electric-assist bicycle rental services are available, allowing cycling around the hot spring village. The cycling road along the Toyohira River offers scenic views and pleasant cycling experiences.
Fruit Picking
At Jozankei Farm, various fruit picking experiences are available by season. Tasting freshly picked fruit is a unique pleasure of agricultural tourism facilities, particularly popular with families.
Snowshoe Trekking
A winter-only activity where guests wear snowshoes (Western-style gaiters) and walk through snow-covered forests. Guided tours allow guests to track animal footprints and learn about winter nature.
Day-Trip Hot Spring Facilities at Jozankei
You can enjoy Jozankei Hot Spring without staying overnight.
Toyohira Gorge Hot Spring
As previously mentioned, an open-air bath with 100% pure spring water is its pride. Many day-trippers from Sapporo visit this popular facility. Operating hours are 10:00-22:30 (last entry 22:00).
Jozankei Banseikaku Hotel Millione Day-Trip Bathing
A day-trip bathing plan available to non-overnight guests. The panoramic open-air bath views can be enjoyed on day-trips. Advance reservations are recommended.
Jozankei View Hotel Day-Trip Plan
A day-trip plan allowing use of “Lagoon, the Kingdom of Water,” popular with families. The appeal of enjoying both hot springs and a pool is notable.
Kokoro no Sato Jozankei
A dedicated day-trip hot spring facility. Infrared sauna and esthetic services are also available, allowing guests to spend a full relaxing day. A dining area offers cuisine using Hokkaido ingredients.
Cuisine at Jozankei Hot Spring Village
The hot spring village features dining establishments and cafes enjoyable even on day-trips.
Daikokuyaショップ
“Hot spring buns” are a popular specialty of Jozankei Hot Spring. Freshly made buns are fluffy with a subtle hot spring aroma. Perfect as a companion for walking tours.
J·glacée
A cafe offering gelato made from Jozankei fruits. Seasonal limited-edition flavors appear, offering new tastes with each visit.
Jozankei Farm Restaurant
A restaurant within Jozankei Farm. Dishes made from homegrown vegetables and fruits are available. Stone-oven pizza is particularly authentic.
Iwado Kannon-do Teashop
A tea shop along the walking trail. Offering amazake and warm tea for a rest break. A cozy spot preserving the old-fashioned atmosphere.
Events and Festivals at Jozankei Hot Spring
Jozankei Hot Spring Gorge Koinobori (Late April – Mid-May)
A spring tradition where approximately 400 koinobori swim above the Toyohira River. The sight of koinobori swimming against blue skies and fresh greenery is awe-inspiring.
Jozankei Hot Spring Fireworks Festival (Specific dates June-October)
Fireworks displays held 1-2 times monthly from summer to autumn. Fireworks echoing through the gorge and blooming in the night sky illuminate the hot spring village.
Jozankei Nature Luminarie (June-October)
Light art exhibitions at Futami Park. A fantastical space where nature and technology merge. Recommended for evening walks.
Jozankei Hot Spring Autumn Foliage Illumination (Early to Mid-October)
During foliage season, foliage spots throughout the hot spring village are illuminated, offering magical foliage experiences different from daytime viewing.
Jozankei Hot Spring Snow Lantern Path (Late January – Early February)
A winter tradition where approximately 2,000 snow candles illuminate the hot spring village, creating a fantastical world of snow and light.
Travel Planning Tips for Jozankei Hot Spring
Best Season
Autumn foliage season (early to mid-October) is most popular but crowded. For leisurely experiences, fresh greenery season (May-June) or snowy hot spring viewing (January-February) is recommended. Weekdays are relatively quieter with easier-to-find discount plans.
Recommended Stay Duration
Day-trips allow sufficient enjoyment, but 1-2 nights are recommended for leisurely hot spring enjoyment and surrounding sightseeing. With two nights, you can also visit nearby attractions like Lake Shikotsu and Otaru.
Budget Guide
Accommodations with 2 meals included average 15,000-30,000 yen per person per night. High-end inns offer plans exceeding 40,000 yen. Day-trip bathing costs 1,000-2,000 yen.
Packing List
- Summer: Light jacket (cool mornings and evenings), insect repellent, sunscreen
- Winter: Winter clothing, non-slip shoes, gloves, hat (for outdoor sightseeing)
- Year-round: Camera (many scenic spots), towel (for day-trip bathing)
Nearby Attractions to Visit with Jozankei
Sapporo City
Accessible in approximately one hour from Jozankei. Clock Tower, Odori Park, Susukino and other attractions make combining Sapporo tourism with Jozankei recommended.
Lake Shikotsu
Approximately one hour by car from Jozankei. Known as Japan’s northernmost non-freezing lake with high transparency. Canoe experiences and cycling are available.
Otaru
Approximately 1.5 hours by car from Jozankei. Popular for canal-side townscapes, glass crafts, and seafood cuisine. 2-3 day plans combining Jozankei hot spring and Otaru tourism are popular.
Niseko
Approximately two hours by car from Jozankei. Summer outdoor activities and internationally renowned winter ski resorts attract visitors. With abundant hot springs, hot spring tours combining Jozankei and Niseko are enjoyable.
Conclusion: Fully Enjoying Hokkaido’s Charm at Jozankei Hot Spring
Jozankei Hot Spring is Hokkaido’s representative hot spring resort, featuring excellent accessibility of approximately one hour from Sapporo, abundant nature, quality hot springs, and comprehensive accommodations. Enjoyable both as day-trips and overnight stays, with seasonal natural beauty and diverse activities and events available.
After 158 years since opening, Jozankei continues to be cherished as “Sapporo’s hidden gem” while constantly presenting new attractions. Healing your body in historic hot springs, soothing your mind with beautiful nature, and savoring Hokkaido’s delicious ingredients creates a luxurious experience.
When visiting Sapporo, please extend your stay to visit Jozankei Hot Spring. Special time away from daily life awaits you.
