Jozankei is a historic hot spring town located within Shikotsu-Toya National Park in Sapporo, Hokkaido. The history of the Jozankei Hot Springs dates back to 1866, when Miizumi Jozan, an ascetic monk, discovered the hot springs and opened a healing spa. Over 155 years since the first hot-spring bath opened, drops of water from the mountainous forests amid the abundant natural environment of the ancient volcanic belt penetrate deep into the ground, creating hot springs warmed by the heat of the earth. Known as "Sapporo's relaxation getaway," this peaceful mountain town has earned its reputation as one of Hokkaido's most established hot spring resorts.
The town sits in a beautiful ravine surrounded by pristine forests and the Toyohira River, offering spectacular seasonal scenery throughout the year. Situated within Shikotsu-Toya National Park, the area is blessed with abundant natural surroundings, such as valleys and forests, earning it the nickname "the hidden retreat of Sapporo". The therapeutic mineral-rich waters are sourced from deep within the earth and are particularly renowned for their skin-beautifying properties, with many facilities offering 100% free-flowing hot spring water directly from the source.
Visitors can experience the hot springs at numerous traditional ryokan inns and public bathhouses throughout the town. Several ryokan offer day visitors entrance to their baths for a fee of typically 500 to 2000 yen. Furthermore, free foot baths can be found around town. Beyond the hot springs, the area offers diverse outdoor activities including hiking, river rafting, canoeing, and horseback riding along the dramatic canyon walls. Key attractions include Shiraito no Taki waterfall, Iwato Kannondo temple, Jozankei Gensen Park in the town center, and nearby Hoheikyo Dam and Jozankei Dam.
Jozankei is located approximately one hour by car from central Sapporo and 45-60 minutes by bus. You can reach Jozankei Onsen via car or shuttle bus. Many hotels offer a shuttle bus service from Sapporo Station or Makomanai Subway Station. The Kappa Liner bus departs for Jozankei Onsen from various points in Sapporo. The Jozankei Onsen Direct Bus Line KappaLiner takes about 60 minutes, Route bus Jotetsu Bus takes about 80 minutes, or by car about 50 minutes. Multiple bus companies operate regular services from Sapporo Station and Susukino, making the town easily accessible without a car. While there are no train services to Jozankei, public transportation options like buses are available, making it accessible without a car.
