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Jozankei Onsen: Sapporo's Hidden Retreat of Scenic Gorges and Healing Waters

Published May 9, 2026·3min read

Just an hour from central Sapporo, Jozankei Onsen is a tranquil hot spring resort nestled in a scenic gorge. Known as "Sapporo's inner parlor," it boasts a rich history, abundant hot springs, and stunning natural beauty that changes with the seasons, offering a perfect escape from the city.

Onsen in Jozankei Onsen - Shogetsu Grand Hotel
Shogetsu Grand Hotel
Onsen in Jozankei Onsen - Jozankei View HotelOnsen in Jozankei Onsen - Jozankei Onsen Hotel Milione
Table of Contents
  1. Overview
  2. Signature Spring Quality & Benefits
  3. Water Characteristics & Best Season
  4. Access
  5. Nearby Sightseeing & Local Cuisine

ANALYSIS REPORTS IN THIS AREA

See the onsen of Jozankei Onsen

Onsen analysis reports visualized by minerals, pH, temperature, and a 5-axis profile. Swipe to see other facilities.

Hokkaido ・ 南区

Shogetsu Grand Hotel

Jozankei Onsen
SPRING TYPE
Chloride Spring
aka "熱の湯"

Salt content forms a protective barrier on the skin and prevents moisture and heat from escaping the body even after bathing. Boosts heat retention and has moisturizing effects.

See features & indications
Bathing indications
Cuts and grazesPeripheral circulatory failurePoor circulationDepressionXeroderma
Drinking indications
Atrophic gastritisConstipation

※ Only at facilities permitted to serve drinking water. 200–500 mL/day recommended.

Definition :Primary anion: chloride ion.
Source: 環境省「あんしん・あんぜんな温泉利用のいろは」(監修:日本温泉気候物理医学会)Read full article
CHARACTER
Toyohira River Spring

Discovered in 1866 by the monk Miizumi Jozan, the Jozankei Onsen sources naturally gush from the rocky bed of the Toyohira River. The water bubbles up abundantly at about 8,600 liters per minute across the town. Established in 1934, Shogetsu Grand Hotel generously draws from five of these sources to provide free-flowing spring water for its baths. Bathing in this clear, slightly salty water allows you to deeply soothe your mind and body while admiring the beautiful seasonal changes of the valley.

AI GENERATED
pH
6.4Neutral
0 acidic14 alkaline
TEMP
77.5
Very Hot Spring
5 AXIS
1234StimulationBactericidalSkin BeautyHeat RetentionRelaxation

Scores are calculated from mineral analysis data based on the Mineral Spring Analysis Guidelines (Ministry of Environment, Japan). They are unrelated to facility atmosphere or service quality.

KEY MINERALS
Metaboric acidColumn
140 mg/kg

Undissociated boric acid with antibacterial action that keeps the skin surface clean.

Metasilicic acidColumn
144 mg/kg

A natural moisturizer also used in skincare lotions. Forms a thin veil on the skin to reduce moisture loss after bathing.

Chloride ionColumn
1492 mg/kg

Boosts after-bath warmth and warms the body from the core.

Bicarbonate ionColumn
307 mg/kg

Softens dead skin cells for a silky bathing feel.

Sodium ionColumn
927 mg/kg

Gentle warming effect that helps you stay warm after bathing.

Overview

The history of Jozankei Onsen began in 1866 when the ascetic monk Mizumi Jozan discovered the source of the springs with the guidance of the local Ainu people and established a spa. The onsen's name is derived from his. Known as "Sapporo's inner parlor," it has developed as a popular health resort for citizens and tourists due to its easy access from central Sapporo.

The onsen town stretches along the Toyohira River valley, boasting a beautiful landscape in harmony with its rich nature. The beauty of the gorge, which shows different expressions with each season—fresh green in spring, deep green in summer, vibrant foliage in autumn, and snowy landscapes in winter—captivates visitors. The town is also dotted with free footbaths (ashiyu) and handbaths (teyu), allowing visitors to casually enjoy the hot springs while strolling.

Signature Spring Quality & Benefits

Chloride

Jozankei Onsen's signature water type is the Sodium Chloride Spring. It is colorless, transparent, and has a mild salty taste. When you bathe, the salt content adheres to the skin, preventing sweat from evaporating and providing a high heat-retention effect. For this reason, it is also called "Netsu no Yu" (waters of warmth), warming the body from its core.

  • Cuts
  • Poor circulation
  • Sensitivity to cold
  • Dry skin
  • Weak gastrointestinal function

Water Characteristics & Best Season

Jozankei Onsen has 56 spring sources, with a total output of 8,600 liters per minute, making it extremely abundant. The source temperature is high, ranging from 60 to 80°C (140-176°F), so many facilities allow guests to enjoy fresh, free-flowing hot spring water (gensen-kakenagashi) without adding cold water or reheating.

While the scenery is beautiful year-round, the autumn season (late September to mid-October), when the entire gorge is ablaze with color, is breathtaking. Additionally, bathing in an open-air bath (rotenburo) while the snow falls silently is a special experience unique to winter.

Access

Haneda Airport (HND)Travel timeabout 3 h 30 min
RouteFly to New Chitose Airport (approx. 1.5 hrs), then take the direct bus. Use a Suica or Welcome Suica card for easy payment on local transport.
New Chitose Airport (CTS)Travel timeabout 1 h 40 min
RouteTake the direct bus 'Kappa Liner' from the airport.
Tokyo StationTravel timeabout 8 h 30 min
RouteTake Hokkaido Shinkansen to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto, then Limited Express 'Hokuto' to Sapporo Sta. From Sapporo, take a bus. The JR Pass is recommended.
Shin-Osaka StationTravel timeabout 11 h
RouteTake Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen to Tokyo, then Hokkaido Shinkansen/Limited Express to Sapporo Sta. From Sapporo, take a bus.

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Nearby Sightseeing & Local Cuisine

  • Hoheikyo Dam: A spectacular sight, especially known for its autumn foliage.
  • Futami Tsuribashi (Suspension Bridge): A symbolic bridge in Jozankei, near the legendary 'Kappa-buchi' (Kappa Pool).
  • Jozankei Farm: Enjoy seasonal fruit picking and jam-making workshops.
  • Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort: A popular ski destination known for its high-quality powder snow.
  • Footbaths & Handbaths: Dotted around the onsen town for a quick, relaxing dip.
  • Onsen Manju: The classic hot spring snack; steamed buns filled with sweet bean paste.
  • Genghis Khan (Jingisukan): A representative Hokkaido dish of grilled mutton and vegetables.
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References

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