Japan, one of the world’s foremost hot spring countries, stands shoulder to shoulder with Europe’s most renowned spa destinations. Soaking in warm waters while feeling the changing seasons and a deep connection with nature—“onsen = ONSEN”—is a uniquely Japanese aesthetic and truly the culmination of Japanese culture.
Hokkaido boasts the largest number of hot spring areas in Japan, making it a very special region that attracts hot spring lovers from around the world. Among its many celebrated springs, the one gaining attention from beauty aficionados as “a hot spring like a skincare lotion” is Tokachigawa Onsen, which bubbles up along the majestic Tokachi River. What kind of hot spring is it? Let’s take a closer look at its charms.
Contents
- One of the few in Japan: the ancient plant-derived “Moor Onsen”
- A historic hot spring once used as a healing retreat by the indigenous Ainu people
- Easy access from the nearest airport. Perfect for a first onsen trip!
- Refresh your body and mind by immersing yourself in Tokachi’s nature and hot springs
- The Tokachigawa Onsen area: a hidden gem of Hokkaido with a strong local feel
One of the few in Japan: the ancient plant-derived “Moor Onsen”
The greatest feature of Tokachigawa Onsen lies in its plant-based natural hot spring known as Moor Onsen. This onsen is created when groundwater passes through layers of plants (peat layers) that have accumulated over thousands to tens of thousands of years, resulting in water rich in plant-derived organic components. With a mildly alkaline quality and excellent heat-retention and moisturizing effects, the amber-colored waters—evoking a sense of ancient romance—gently soothe the fatigue of travelers.
Compared to mineral-based hot springs, Moor Onsen is extremely rare, and even in hot-spring-rich Japan, only a handful of places offer genuine natural Moor Onsen. For this reason, it has been selected as a “Hokkaido Heritage,” a designation reserved for treasures and resources worthy of being preserved for the future.
Check the benefits of Moor Onsen!
Benefits: Neuralgia, muscle pain, chronic skin conditions, recovery after illness, fatigue recovery, health promotion, chronic gynecological conditions, sensitivity to cold, and more
The water has a faint amber hue and a silky-smooth texture that clings gently to the skin. Packed with the blessings of ancient plants and rich in natural moisturizing components, it leaves the skin deeply hydrated—earning it the nickname “the hot spring for beautiful skin.” Be sure to experience this exceptional spa indulgence at Tokachigawa Onsen♪
A historic hot spring once used
as a healing retreat by the indigenous Ainu people
The term “Moor” in Moor Onsen originates from the German word “Moor” (meaning wetland or peat). However, there is a legend that the Ainu—the indigenous people of Hokkaido who once lived around the Tokachigawa Onsen area—called this place “the medicinal swamp.” Long before it became known as a hot spring resort, it served as a healing retreat for local people. This rich history and cultural background further enhance the value of Tokachigawa Onsen.
Easy access from the nearest airport.
Perfect for a first onsen trip!
Tokachigawa Onsen is located in Otofuke Town, near the center of the Tokachi Plain surrounded by magnificent nature, and its accessibility is another major attraction. From Tokachi-Obihiro Airport, which is connected to Cheongju and Incheon in Korea by direct Aero K flights, it takes about 40 minutes by car. From JR Obihiro Station, the nearest terminal station, it’s only about 15 minutes. With flat roads and few traffic lights, access is smooth and easy—especially when using a rental car.
There are also regular bus services from both the airport and the Obihiro Station bus terminal, making travel by public transportation convenient and worry-free. For timetables and fares, be sure to check the bus company’s official website.
Refresh your body and mind by immersing yourself
in Tokachi’s nature and hot springs
As mentioned above, the vast Tokachi Plain and rich natural surroundings spread out around Tokachigawa Onsen. Nestled within this landscape are around 15 cozy accommodations, including hotels, B&Bs (Bed and Breakfasts), and nature-oriented lodges. In addition to large public baths and open-air baths, some facilities offer private reservable baths or guest rooms with their own baths, allowing you to choose according to your preferred style. Some hotels also offer day-use bathing, providing a wide range of ways to enjoy the onsen.
Obihiro–Tokachi is a treasure trove of the world-rare “moor hot springs.” From neighborhood bathhouse-style spots rooted in local life to premium s...
Check Japan’s onsen rules!
Location: Inside Tokachi Ecology Park (near Tokachigawa Onsen)
Access: About 20 minutes by car from JR Obihiro Station; about 20 minutes by car from Otofuke-Obihiro IC
Period of use: Around November to late March (winter only; depends on events)
Spring quality / features: Moor Onsen from Tokachigawa Onsen. Wooden building with a roof; free of charge. Towels available for purchase (fee required)
＼Points to note when visiting／
Check official information
As usage periods and opening hours may vary depending on event schedules, checking official information is the most reliable approach. Since it is linked to event seasons (such as winter festivals), be sure to confirm the latest availability via sources like Jalan.net, FourTravel, Asoview!, or the Tokachi Ecology Park official website (search with keywords such as “Winter Festival in Ecopark”).
The foot bath at “Roadside Station Garden Spa Tokachigawa Onsen,” which is open year-round (hours: 9:00–21:00, open daily), is also very popular. Located within a roadside station featuring restaurants and shops offering local gourmet foods, it boasts excellent views from the foot bath and is sure to leave you feeling refreshed!
Tokachigawa Onsen is a highly appealing destination, but compared to famous Hokkaido tourist spots like Sapporo and Furano, it remains relatively unknown. With fewer visitors, it offers a hidden retreat where you can avoid crowds and enjoy the authentic atmosphere of a traditional hot spring town at a leisurely pace.
Whether you enjoy autumn foliage, snowy open-air baths, or strolling through the onsen town in a yukata for Instagram-worthy photos, why not treat yourself to a truly special hot spring experience at Tokachigawa Onsen?
