Complete Guide to Ashibetsu Hot Spring: Enjoying Beautiful Skin Waters and Starry Skies at Hokkaido’s Only National Health Resort Hot Spring
Ashibetsu Hot Spring, located in Ashibetsu City, Hokkaido, is a special hot spring destination where you can enjoy a rich natural environment, high-quality hot springs, and a spectacular starry sky. In 1986, this hot spring became Hokkaido’s only hot spring designated as a “National Health Resort Hot Spring” by the Environmental Agency (now the Ministry of the Environment), and it is known as a premium hot spring that meets strict standards in all aspects: hot spring volume, efficacy, and environment.
This article will comprehensively convey the charm of Ashibetsu Hot Spring. We will introduce information you should know before visiting, including the hot spring’s mineral composition and effects, access methods, accommodations, surrounding tourist attractions, and the stargazing experience unique to Ashibetsu, known as the “Land of Falling Stars.”
Ashibetsu Hot Spring: Hokkaido’s Only National Health Resort Hot Spring
History and Characteristics of Ashibetsu Hot Spring
Ashibetsu Hot Spring is located in Ashibetsu City, Hokkaido, in the Abashiri-cho Abuya area, and is also locally known as “Abuya Hot Spring.” This nickname derives from the fact that the area where the hot spring is located was once the site of the “Abuya Coal Mine of Abuya Mining Company.” This region, which has a history of coal mining, was subsequently reborn as a hot spring resort and has now become one of Hokkaido’s representative health resort hot springs.
In 1986 (Showa 61), Ashibetsu Hot Spring was designated as Hokkaido’s only “National Health Resort Hot Spring” by the Environmental Agency (now the Ministry of the Environment). This designation is an honor given only to hot springs that meet all strict standards, including having abundant hot spring water, possessing excellent therapeutic effects, and having surrounding environments suitable for recuperation.
Overview of Ashibetsu City and Its Natural Environment
Ashibetsu City is a nature-rich municipality surrounded by forests covering 90% of its area. Blessed with clear air and abundant greenery, you can enjoy beautiful scenery that changes with the seasons. Particularly at night, thanks to the low light pollution, a magnificent starry sky spreads overhead, and the city is known nationwide as the “Land of Falling Stars.” It has also been recognized by the Ministry of the Environment as a “Star Town” and is popular as a renowned spot for astronomical observation.
Ashibetsu Hot Spring is situated in such a quiet, nature-rich environment, making it an ideal health resort where you can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and slowly heal both body and mind.
Ashibetsu Hot Spring’s Mineral Composition and Effects: The Secret of the “Beautiful Skin Waters”
Details of the Spring’s Mineral Composition
The greatest characteristic of Ashibetsu Hot Spring lies in its excellent mineral composition. The hot spring is classified as a sulfur spring, characterized by its silky texture and high moisturizing properties. It is also nicknamed the “Beautiful Skin Waters” and is particularly popular with women.
Ashibetsu Hot Spring has two source springs from which approximately 600 liters of hot spring water naturally flows per minute. Thanks to this abundant volume of hot spring water, you can enjoy fresh hot spring water with direct spring flow. Hot spring water that naturally flows is said to contain more natural hot spring components and have higher efficacy compared to artificially pumped hot spring water.
The distinctive sulfur aroma of sulfur springs enhances the hot spring atmosphere while providing relaxation effects. After bathing, the skin remains moist with sustained moisturizing effects over a long time, making it especially recommended for those struggling with dry skin.
Hot Spring Effects and Applicable Conditions
Ashibetsu Hot Spring’s sulfur water is known for its various health benefits. The main applicable conditions are as follows:
Benefits for Skin Diseases
- Atopic dermatitis
- Psoriasis vulgaris
- Chronic eczema
- Impetigo
Sulfur springs are particularly effective for skin diseases and have long been cherished as “hot springs that cure skin ailments.” The sulfur components soften the skin’s keratin and promote metabolism, supporting the improvement of skin troubles.
Benefits for the Circulatory System
- Improvement of peripheral circulation disorders
- Relief of cold sensitivity
- Promotion of blood circulation
The components contained in the hot spring dilate blood vessels and improve blood circulation. This allows for expected relief of symptoms such as cold hands and feet, stiff shoulders, and lower back pain.
Other Benefits
- Fatigue recovery
- Stress relief
- Relief of muscle and joint pain
- Improvement of neuralgia
Through the synergistic effect of the hot spring’s thermal effects and sulfur components, both body and mind can be refreshed. In particular, bathing in a nature-rich environment provides even higher relaxation effects.
Ashibetsu Hot Spring Starlight Hotel & Ofuro Café Hoshi Yuukan
Overview of the Facility and Concept
The central accommodation and day-use hot spring facility at Ashibetsu Hot Spring is the “Ashibetsu Hot Spring Starlight Hotel & Ofuro Café Hoshi Yuukan.” In December 2019, the restaurant and large public bath underwent major renovations and reopened as Hokkaido’s first “Ofuro Cafe Resort.”
“Ofuro Cafe” is a concept-based bathing facility with 13 locations primarily in Saitama Prefecture throughout the country, with Ashibetsu being the only location in Hokkaido. Rather than just enjoying hot springs and saunas, you can have meals at the cafe, spend time reading in the reading space, and the facility is designed as a leisurely space where you can spend the entire day.
The facility’s concept is “Ashibetsu’s Nature and History.” The space is designed to fully convey the charm of the region, and the restaurant, which emphasizes local production for local consumption, allows you to taste dishes made with ingredients from Ashibetsu and Hokkaido.
Attractions of the Bathing Facilities
Large Public Bath
In the spacious large public bath, you can fully enjoy fresh hot spring water with direct spring flow. From the large windows, you can view the seasonal natural landscape, providing an open and liberating bathing experience.
Outdoor Bath
Surrounded by nature, the outdoor bath is one of the greatest attractions of Ashibetsu Hot Spring. During the day, you can bathe while gazing at the lush forest, and at night, you can bathe while looking up at the starry sky. Bathing in nature that changes its appearance by season is a luxury experience you cannot have in the city.
Sauna
With the renovation, sauna facilities have also been enhanced. By alternating between hot springs and sauna, you can achieve even higher refreshing effects.
Star Viewing Terrace
The rooftop star viewing terrace is a special space unique to Hoshi Yuukan. After bathing, you can relax while viewing the starry sky and fully experience the charm of the “Land of Falling Stars” Ashibetsu.
Restaurant and Cafe
The renovated restaurant emphasizes local production for local consumption, offering cuisine prepared with local ingredients and fresh Hokkaido ingredients. Menus using ingredients from Ashibetsu and regional flavors are one of the pleasures of visiting along with the hot spring.
The cafe space allows you to enjoy coffee and light meals while relaxing. The reading space is also well-equipped, and after bathing in the hot spring, you can spend leisurely time reading books or enjoying your own pace of relaxation.
Accommodation Facilities
At the Starlight Hotel, accommodation is also available. Guest rooms designed with the concept of “Ashibetsu, the Land of Falling Stars,” allow you to enjoy nature in all seasons. At night, you can also view the starry sky from your room, making for a special stay that cannot be experienced in the city.
At the adjoining “Minshuku-sha Ashibetsu,” you can stay at more affordable prices, allowing you to choose according to your budget.
Access Methods to Ashibetsu Hot Spring
Access by Car
From Sapporo
- Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes
- Route: Via Dōō Expressway
From Sapporo, access is relatively easy, making it ideal for a day-trip drive. The scenery along the way is beautiful, and the drive itself is enjoyable.
From Asahikawa
- Travel time: Approximately 1 hour
- Route: Via National Route 38
Access from Asahikawa is also easy, and a travel plan combining Asahikawa sightseeing is recommended.
Access by Public Transportation
Using JR
- Disembark at JR Ashibetsu Station
- From Ashibetsu Station to the hot spring:
- Kira Kira Bus: Approximately 18 minutes
- Taxi: Approximately 10 minutes
When using JR, the typical route is to take an express train from Sapporo Station to Takikawa Station, then transfer to the Nemuro Main Line heading to Ashibetsu Station.
Shuttle Service
For guests staying overnight, you may be able to use a shuttle service available by advance reservation. For details, please contact the facility directly.
Starry Sky Experience: The Charm of “Land of Falling Stars” Ashibetsu
Appeal of Stargazing
One of the greatest attractions of Ashibetsu Hot Spring is the spectacular starry sky. Ashibetsu City has been designated as a “Star Town” by the Ministry of the Environment, where you can view beautiful stars in an environment with minimal light pollution.
The area surrounding Ashibetsu Hot Spring, away from city lights, is particularly well-suited for stargazing. On clear nights, the Milky Way and countless stars are clearly visible to the naked eye, revealing a spectacular sight that can never be experienced in the city.
Astronomical Observation Experience with Stargazing Guides
At Ashibetsu Hot Spring Starlight Hotel & Ofuro Café Hoshi Yuukan, astronomical observation experience programs led by “stargazing guides” are also conducted. With guides possessing specialized knowledge providing easy-to-understand explanations of constellations and celestial bodies visible each season, even beginners can enjoy the experience.
Experience Contents
- Seasonal constellation explanations
- Observation using astronomical telescopes
- Advice on starry sky photography
- Answers to questions about astronomy
Such experiences, combined with the hot spring, become even more special memories. You can spend a luxurious time unique to Ashibetsu by soaking in the outdoor bath while gazing at the stars and subsequently listening to expert explanations.
Seasonal Highlights of the Starry Sky
Spring (March-May)
- Big Dipper easily visible
- Spring Triangle (Arcturus, Spica, Denebola)
- Spring constellations such as Virgo and Leo
Summer (June-August)
- Season when the Milky Way is most beautiful
- Summer Triangle (Vega, Altair, Deneb)
- Summer constellations such as Scorpius and Sagittarius
- Perseid Meteor Shower (mid-August)
Autumn (September-November)
- Great Square of Pegasus
- Observation of Andromeda Galaxy
- Autumn constellations such as Cassiopeia and Pegasus
Winter (December-February)
- Orion easily visible
- Winter Triangle (Sirius, Procyon, Betelgeuse)
- Observation of the Pleiades (Subaru)
- Clear air makes stars more vivid
Tourist Attractions Around Ashibetsu Hot Spring
Michi-no-Eki Star Plaza Ashibetsu
About 10 minutes by car from Ashibetsu Hot Spring, “Michi-no-Eki Star Plaza Ashibetsu” is a popular spot where you can purchase local specialty products and fresh agricultural products. There is an abundant selection of vegetables and processed products from Ashibetsu as well as souvenirs from Hokkaido.
The restaurant serves dishes made with local ingredients, with Genghis Khan (grilled mutton) and dishes using Ashibetsu rice being particularly popular. Stopping by before or after the hot spring to enjoy local flavors is also recommended.
Star-Descending Land Centennial Memorial Hall
A museum where you can learn about the history and culture of Ashibetsu City. Exhibitions on coal mining history, natural environment, and stars allow you to understand the charm of Ashibetsu from multiple perspectives. Visiting together with the hot spring deepens your understanding of Ashibetsu.
Ashibetsu Municipal General Gymnasium “Kira Kira Hall”
A comprehensive gymnasium with well-equipped sports facilities. After relaxing in the hot spring, you can also enjoy light exercise.
Mount Ashibetsu
Popular with mountain climbing enthusiasts, Mount Ashibetsu, at 1,726 meters, offers beautiful alpine plants during summer. From serious mountaineering to light trekking, it can be enjoyed at various levels.
Canadian World Park
A themed park recreating Canadian culture and architecture. While only portions are currently open, its unique atmosphere is popular as a photography spot.
How to Spend Time at Ashibetsu Hot Spring: Sample Plans
Day-Use Plan
Morning
- 10:00 Arrival at Ashibetsu Hot Spring
- 10:30 Bathing at Ofuro Café Hoshi Yuukan
- 12:00 Lunch at the restaurant (dishes using local ingredients)
Afternoon
- 13:00 Reading or relaxation in the cafe space
- 14:30 Another bath or sauna
- 15:30 Shopping at the roadside station
- 16:30 Return trip
1-Night 2-Day Plan
Day 1
- 14:00 Check-in
- 15:00 Hot spring bathing
- 17:00 Local exploration
- 18:00 Dinner
- 19:30 Stargazing on the star terrace
- 20:30 Another bath (outdoor bath under the stars)
- 22:00 Relaxation in your room
Day 2
- 7:00 Morning bath
- 8:00 Breakfast
- 9:00 Local sightseeing (roadside station, memorial hall, etc.)
- 11:00 Final bath before check-out
- 12:00 Check-out
Astronomical Observation Experience Plan
Plans that include astronomical observation experiences with stargazing guides allow you to enjoy Ashibetsu’s starry sky more deeply. As advance reservations are often required, confirm when making accommodation reservations.
Tips for Enjoying Ashibetsu Hot Spring
Best Seasons to Visit
Ashibetsu Hot Spring can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers different charms.
Summer (June-August)
Optimal season for stargazing. The Milky Way is beautiful, and the climate is warm and pleasant. However, there may be crowds during summer vacation periods.
Autumn (September-November)
Fall foliage is beautiful, the air is clear, and the starry sky is lovely. The warmth of the hot spring is pleasant during this season.
Winter (December-February)
Soaking in an outdoor bath surrounded by snow is exquisite. The air is most clear and stars appear most vividly. However, caution is needed when driving on snowy roads.
Spring (March-May)
As snow melts, fresh greenery becomes beautiful. Relatively uncrowded, allowing for leisurely time.
Useful Items to Bring
- For stargazing: Binoculars, star chart, camera (tripod is convenient for star photography)
- Warm clothing: Essential warm attire, especially during nighttime stargazing and winter months
- Insect repellent spray: Many insects in summer
- Skincare products: Post-bath moisturizing care
Reservation Tips
Weekends, holidays, and summer vacation periods tend to be crowded, so early reservations are recommended. Plans including stargazing experiences are particularly popular, so reservations at least one month in advance are ideal.
Even for day-use bathing, weekends may be crowded, so visiting on weekdays allows for more leisurely enjoyment.
Basic Information About Ashibetsu Hot Spring
Facility Name
Ashibetsu Hot Spring Starlight Hotel & Ofuro Café Hoshi Yuukan
Location
Ashibetsu City, Abashiri-cho Abuya, Hokkaido
Mineral Type
Sulfur spring
Effects
Atopic dermatitis, psoriasis vulgaris, chronic eczema, impetigo, peripheral circulation disorders, fatigue recovery, and more
Source Spring Temperature
Natural flow (approximately 600 liters per minute)
Operating Hours
- Day-use bathing: 10:00-22:00 (Reception until 21:00)
- Accommodation: Check-in 15:00, Check-out 10:00
※May vary by season
Fees
- Day-use bathing: Around 800 yen for adults (varies by period)
- Accommodation: Varies by plan
※Please confirm details on the official website
Parking
Free parking available (approximately 100 spaces)
Inquiries
Please contact directly via the official website or phone
Conclusion: Refresh Both Body and Mind at Ashibetsu Hot Spring
Ashibetsu Hot Spring, as Hokkaido’s only designated National Health Resort Hot Spring, is a charming destination with three perfect elements: excellent mineral composition, a rich natural environment, and a spectacular starry sky. Known as “Beautiful Skin Waters,” the sulfur spring is effective for skin diseases and peripheral circulation disorders, making it ideal for health promotion and beauty.
The “Ofuro Café Hoshi Yuukan,” which underwent renovation in 2019, has been reborn as a complex facility that offers more than just hot springs, including a cafe, restaurant, and reading spaces where you can enjoy yourself all day. From meals prepared with careful attention to local production for local consumption to well-equipped sauna facilities and the rooftop star viewing terrace, the facility offers special experiences to all visitors.
Ashibetsu’s greatest charm, known as the “Land of Falling Stars,” is undoubtedly its magnificent starry sky. The night sky, so beautiful that it has been recognized by the Ministry of the Environment as a “Star Town,” is a breathtaking sight that can never be seen in the city. Through astronomical observation experiences with stargazing guides, you can gain specialized explanations and touch upon the mysteries of the universe more deeply.
The accessibility—approximately 1 hour 40 minutes from Sapporo and approximately 1 hour from Asahikawa—is another appealing factor. While a day visit is sufficient to enjoy the area, overnight stays provide even more enriching experiences, including morning baths and nighttime stargazing.
Nearby tourist attractions such as the roadside station and memorial hall, combined with the hot spring, allow you to fully enjoy Ashibetsu’s charms. Seasonal natural landscapes, cuisine prepared with local ingredients, and warm hospitality will heal visitors.
For those seeking to escape daily hustle and bustle and refresh both body and mind, those looking for high-efficacy beautifying hot springs, those who wish to gaze upon a starry sky, and those who want to fully immerse themselves in Hokkaido’s great nature, Ashibetsu Hot Spring is an ideal travel destination. By all means, visit this special hot spring resort and experience the charm of the “Land of Falling Stars.”
