Jozankei Onsen Sapporo
Escape to Jozankei Onsen, a serene hot spring town near Sapporo, offering picturesque bridges, scenic dams, and rejuvenating hot springs.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier bus access
Jozankei Onsen Sapporo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier bus access

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Escape to Jozankei Onsen, a serene hot spring town near Sapporo, offering picturesque bridges, scenic dams, and rejuvenating hot springs.
"A must-visit for a relaxing day trip from Sapporo, with stunning nature and therapeutic hot springs!"
🎯 Book Kappa Liner Bus Early
Reserve your Kappa Liner bus seats in advance, especially during busy seasons, to ensure your trip to Jozankei.
🚶♀️ Walk-in for Hoheikyo Onsen
No reservation needed for Hoheikyo Onsen; you can pay on the spot. Enjoy the outdoor baths!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Futami Tsuribashi Bridge
Jozankei Onsen Town
A picturesque red suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Toyohira River and surrounding nature. Perfect for photos!

Hoheikyo Dam
Near Jozankei Onsen
A majestic dam surrounded by breathtaking scenery, especially beautiful during autumn.

Hoheikyo Onsen
Jozankei Onsen
Famous for its outdoor hot springs with snow views and delicious curry. A must-visit for a relaxing soak.

Jozankei Onsen Town Exploration
Jozankei Onsen Town
Wander through the charming town, sample local treats, and experience a foot bath.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Kappa Liner Bus
Consider a Day Trip vs. Overnight
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Kappa Liner Bus Early
Reserve your Kappa Liner bus seats in advance, especially during busy seasons, to ensure your trip to Jozankei.
🚶♀️ Walk-in for Hoheikyo Onsen
No reservation needed for Hoheikyo Onsen; you can pay on the spot. Enjoy the outdoor baths!
♨️ Try a Foot Bath
Many spots in Jozankei offer free foot baths. Perfect for a quick warm-up and relaxation.
🛍️ Sample Local Bakeries
Don't miss Exclamation Bakery for delicious baked goods and other local eateries.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Kappa Liner Bus Early
Reserve your Kappa Liner bus seats in advance, especially during busy seasons, to ensure your trip to Jozankei.
🚶♀️ Walk-in for Hoheikyo Onsen
No reservation needed for Hoheikyo Onsen; you can pay on the spot. Enjoy the outdoor baths!
♨️ Try a Foot Bath
Many spots in Jozankei offer free foot baths. Perfect for a quick warm-up and relaxation.
🛍️ Sample Local Bakeries
Don't miss Exclamation Bakery for delicious baked goods and other local eateries.
🧳 Pack Light for Day Trips
If visiting for the day, bring only essentials. Lockers are available at most onsen facilities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Jozankei Onsen for its stunning natural beauty, especially the picturesque Futami Tsuribashi bridge and the serene Hoheikyo Dam. The onsen experience, particularly the outdoor baths at Hoheikyo Onsen, is a major highlight, with many appreciating the convenience of day trips from Sapporo. However, some find transportation logistics challenging, especially during peak times, and note that booking the Kappa Liner bus in advance is essential.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is by the Jotetsu Kappa Liner bus from Sapporo Station or Susukino. Book your tickets in advance online. Alternatively, bus route 7J from a specific stop near Sapporo Station can also guarantee a seat.
While some attractions are walkable within the town, others like Hoheikyo Dam and Onsen require bus or taxi. Traffic can be heavy on weekends.
Yes, taxis are available, but it will be significantly more expensive than the bus. The bus is generally recommended for budget-conscious travelers.
The bus journey typically takes about 60-75 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
While the Kappa Liner connects Sapporo to Jozankei, local shuttle services within the onsen town are limited. Walking is often the best way to explore the immediate town area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For popular onsen facilities like Hoheikyo Onsen, walk-ins are usually accepted, and you can pay on the spot. However, booking the Kappa Liner bus in advance is highly recommended.
Yes, some hotels offer day trip bathing tickets that may include bus transport. It's advisable to check with individual onsen facilities or the official Jozankei tourism website.
Yes, several facilities in Jozankei offer private onsen rooms for day use, which are ideal for those with tattoos or seeking more privacy. Hanamomiji is one such option.
Opening hours vary by facility, but most onsen are open from mid-morning to late afternoon or early evening. It's best to check the specific hours for the onsen you plan to visit.
The town of Jozankei Onsen is free to explore. Fees apply only to specific onsen facilities or attractions you choose to enter.
🎫 ♨️ Onsite Experience
Hoheikyo Onsen is highly recommended for its outdoor baths with snow views and unique curry. For a more luxurious experience, consider ryokans with private onsen options.
Generally, it's best to leave your phone outside the bathing areas to respect privacy and avoid damage from water and steam. Some facilities may have designated photo spots.
Bring a small towel for washing and drying, and wear comfortable clothing for after your soak. Most onsen provide shampoo, conditioner, and body soap.
Yes, many private onsen rooms are available for day use, which are ideal for visitors with tattoos who may not be permitted in public onsen.
Explore the Futami Tsuribashi bridge, visit Hoheikyo Dam, hike Mount Hakkenzan, and enjoy the local shops and cafes.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic red Futami Tsuribashi bridge is a must-capture. The scenic views around Hoheikyo Dam and the snowy landscapes in winter are also incredibly picturesque.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photography conditions. Golden hour can be particularly stunning.
Photography is generally not allowed inside the bathing areas of public onsen for privacy reasons. Check with individual facilities for designated photo spots.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for landscapes and details. If visiting in winter, a wide-angle lens can capture the expansive snowy scenery.
Autumn offers vibrant foliage around Hoheikyo Dam and the surrounding mountains. Winter transforms Jozankei into a snowy wonderland, perfect for atmospheric shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as options within the onsen facilities might be limited or pricey. The foot baths are a great, accessible way for children to experience a bit of the onsen culture without full immersion. Ensure you check the specific policies of any onsen you plan to visit regarding children's access and any associated fees.
💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples
Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand across the picturesque Futami Tsuribashi bridge, or take in the serene views of Hoheikyo Dam. Many onsen facilities also offer dining options, allowing for a complete romantic day trip or overnight stay. The tranquil atmosphere of Jozankei makes it an ideal destination for couples seeking relaxation and natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Getting to Jozankei Onsen from Sapporo
For those who miss out on the Kappa Liner or prefer an alternative, bus route 7J from a specific stop near Sapporo Station is also an option that often guarantees a seat. While taxis are available, they are considerably more expensive and not the preferred method for most visitors. The bus journey typically takes around 60 to 75 minutes, offering scenic views as you leave the city behind and enter the mountainous landscape.
Once you arrive in Jozankei Onsen town, many of the main attractions like the Futami Tsuribashi bridge and local shops are within walking distance. However, for destinations slightly further afield, such as Hoheikyo Onsen, you might need to utilize local buses or taxis, though traffic can be a factor, particularly on weekends.
Experiencing Onsen in Jozankei
For those seeking more privacy, perhaps due to tattoos or a desire for a more intimate experience, private onsen rooms are available for day use at several establishments, such as Hanamomiji. These offer a secluded and relaxing soak without the restrictions of public bathing areas. When visiting any onsen, it's customary to bring a small towel for washing and drying, though most facilities provide essential toiletries like shampoo and soap. Remember to respect the onsen etiquette, which often includes washing thoroughly before entering the main bath.
Beyond the hot springs themselves, Jozankei Onsen town offers charming experiences like foot baths scattered throughout the area, perfect for a quick warm-up and a moment of relaxation as you explore. Sampling local delicacies, such as the baked goods from Exclamation Bakery, adds another layer to the Jozankei experience.
Seasonal Beauty and Activities
Winter brings a magical, snowy wonderland to Jozankei. The onsen experience becomes even more enchanting with outdoor baths offering views of falling snow. The town is blanketed in white, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere, perfect for a cozy getaway.
Beyond soaking in the onsen, visitors can enjoy activities like hiking Mount Hakkenzan for panoramic views, exploring the iconic Futami Tsuribashi bridge, and visiting nearby ski resorts like Kokusai Ski Resort during the winter months. The town itself offers a pleasant atmosphere for leisurely strolls, discovering local crafts and enjoying seasonal treats from its bakeries and cafes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit