My family and I recently visited Roadside Station Garden Spa Tokachigawa in Otofuke, Hokkaido, and we had a wonderful time. We especially enjoyed the moor onsen, a unique hot spring with mineral-rich water, where we could relax in both indoor and outdoor baths while wearing swimsuits. The spa was perfect for all of us, from kids to adults. We also explored the dining area and the market, sampling local dishes and picking up fresh produce and souvenirs.
The hands-on workshops, like ice cream and cheese-making, were a fun experience for the whole family. Easily accessible from Obihiro, Garden Spa Tokachigawa felt like a peaceful retreat where we could enjoy both relaxation and the local Tokachi culture together.
If you’re driving around Hokkaido and need a pit stop, this is certainly better than your typical rest stop. We came on Friday and there was plenty of space and the restrooms were clean.
Come for a quick soak…
The onsen is nice but... as someone who lives in Japan, I don’t really like to wear swimwear in the onsen (if it’s mixed, let’s be naked with towels). Also, I don’t want to listen to cheesy music when bathing, I want to listen to the wind and the water.
There are small store for local products, public bath, and bakery, pizza 🍕 and chicken 🐔 restaurants
It is mostly an outdoor onsen that is mixed, although there is an indoor mist sauna and an indoor pool. During the middle of the day, it is rather quiet. While it was not the best onsen I’ve been to, it was not a bad experience.
