Overview of “Yunokawa Onsen”
“Yunokawa Onsen” is a hot spring resort located in Hakodate, Hokkaido, and is selected as one of the top 100 famous hot springs in Japan. This hot spring area faces the Tsugaru Strait and forms part of a group of hot springs surrounding Mount Yokotsu.
The history of “Yunokawa Onsen” is very old, dating back to 1453 when a woodcutter discovered the spring. He healed his arm pain with the spring water, and later in 1653, the lord of the Matsumae clan, Matsumae Chikatsumaru, came to cure a serious illness through hot spring therapy and fully recovered, further spreading the name of “Yunokawa Onsen.”
Features and Enjoyment of “Yunokawa Onsen”
One of the features of “Yunokawa Onsen” is its diverse spring quality. There are two types: clear, carbonated white water and reddish water. These hot springs have varying flow rates depending on atmospheric pressure and tide levels, offering a different experience each time you visit.
Here are some spots to enjoy the hot springs:
- Yukura Shrine: Widely known as the guardian deity of the hot springs, this shrine enshrines Yakushi Nyorai (the Medicine Buddha).
- Monument of the Origin of Yunokawa Onsen: A spot where you can feel the history of “Yunokawa Onsen.”
- Footbath Spots: Recommended spots include the footbath stage “Yumeguri Butai” and the monkey hot spring at Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden. Especially in winter, the sight of monkeys bathing in the hot spring is very popular among tourists.
Tourist Spots and Gourmet Around “Yunokawa Onsen”
Around “Yunokawa Onsen,” there are many attractive tourist spots where you can enjoy the nature of the four seasons.
For example, “Kosetsuen,” the only nationally designated scenic spot in Hokkaido, offers beautiful scenery in every season. Additionally, there are “Hakodate Park” with beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and “Goryokaku Park” with stunning snow scenes in winter.
Regarding gourmet, “Yunokawa Onsen” has many locally beloved shops.
- Yakidango Gintsuki: Enjoy skewered dumplings with a chewy texture.
- Coffee Room Kikuchiya and Maruyamaen Chaho: Spend a relaxing time at these Japanese cafes and tea shops.
- Craft Beer Restaurant Endeavour: Enjoy delicious food with locally brewed craft beer.
In this way, “Yunokawa Onsen” is not only about hot springs but also rich in tourist spots and gourmet, ensuring that visitors are never bored. Why not choose “Yunokawa Onsen” as your next travel destination?
Access
- About 5 minutes by car from Hakodate Airport
- Shuttle bus from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station
- Accessible from the “Yunokawa Onsen” tram stop or “Yunokawa” tram stop via Hakodate City Tram
Using the city tram makes it easy to visit “Yunokawa Onsen,” making it a convenient means of transportation for many tourists.
Official website: https://hakodate-yunokawa.jp/
