Complete Guide to Naganuma Onsen | The Charm and How to Enjoy Hokkaido’s Top-Class Hot Spring with Abundant Hot Water Flow
“Naganuma Onsen,” located in Naganuma Town, Yubari District, Hokkaido, is a full-fledged natural hot spring facility boasting one of Hokkaido’s highest water discharge rates, with excellent access just about one hour by car from Sapporo. With abundant hot water at approximately 1,150 liters per minute, the luxury of source hot spring water with no circulation, and a fusion with Naganuma Town’s unique Genghis Khan (lamb BBQ) culture, it has become a notable hot spring spot within the prefecture.
This article comprehensively introduces information you should know before visiting Naganuma Onsen, including its spring quality, facility features, pricing system, access methods, and surrounding tourist spots.
Basic Information about Naganuma Onsen
Location and Contact Information
Address: 6-line East, 4 North, Naganuma Town, Yubari District, Hokkaido
Phone Number: 0123-88-2408
Official Website: https://www.naganuma-onsen.com/
Business Hours and Rates
Day-use Bathing Hours: 9:00 AM–10:00 PM (Last admission at 9:30 PM)
Bathing Fees:
- Adults: 700 yen (Naganuma Town residents: 650 yen)
- Children (Elementary School): 300 yen
- Infants: Free
Accommodation:
- Check-in: 3:00 PM
- Check-out: 10:00 AM
- Reservations available by phone or through various booking sites
Access Methods
By Car:
- From Sapporo: Approximately 1 hour via National Route 274 (approximately 32 km)
- From New Chitose Airport: Approximately 30 minutes (approximately 25 km)
- From Naganuma Town center: Approximately 2.5 km
By Public Transportation:
- Approximately 10 minutes by taxi from “Naganuma Station” on the JR Chitose Line
- Since the number of bus routes is limited, access by car is more convenient
Parking: Free parking available (large vehicles can also park)
Naganuma Onsen’s Greatest Appeal: Hokkaido’s Top-Class Water Discharge Rate
Abundant Hot Water at 1,150 Liters per Minute
The greatest feature of Naganuma Onsen is undoubtedly its overwhelming water discharge rate. With a discharge of approximately 1,150 liters per minute, it boasts one of the highest rates among hot springs in Hokkaido. This abundant water volume enables a complete source hot spring flow system, allowing you to enjoy constantly fresh hot water.
The hot spring that uses “100% source water” without any addition of water or heating is a luxurious environment where you can fully experience the effects of the hot spring itself. Unlike recirculation-style hot springs, all the hot water flowing into the bathtub is supplied directly from the source, which is also superior in terms of hygiene.
Characteristics of Spring Quality and Effects
Spring Quality: Iodine-containing Sodium Chloride Strong Salt Spring
Source Temperature: 51°C
pH Value: 7.8 (Weakly Alkaline)
Naganuma Onsen’s spring quality is a type called “strong salt spring,” characterized by high salt concentration. This spring quality has the following excellent properties:
Heat Retention Effect: As salt adheres to the skin, body temperature does not drop easily even after bathing, preventing the feeling of cooling off. Even in winter Hokkaido, warmth lasts for extended periods.
Skin Beauty Effect: The weakly alkaline spring at pH 7.8 is gentle on the skin and has the effect of softening old keratin. After bathing, skin is reported to become smooth and supple.
Main Effects:
- Neuralgia, muscle pain, joint pain
- Cold sensitivity, fatigue recovery
- Chronic dermatitis, cuts, burns
- Chronic gynecological conditions
- Health promotion
Designation as a National Health and Recuperation Hot Spring Area
On July 1, 1988, Naganuma Onsen was designated as a “National Health and Recuperation Hot Spring Area” by Environmental Agency Notice No. 18. This is a title given to hot springs where the therapeutic effects of hot spring use are fully expected and the area is suitable as a healthy resort. It is proof of comprehensive evaluation including spring quality, surrounding environment, and accessibility.
Abundant Hot Spring Facilities and Their Appeal
Enjoying Hot Spring Experiences in Diverse Bathing Pools
Naganuma Onsen is equipped with various types of bathing pools, allowing you to enjoy hot springs without getting bored.
Granite Outdoor Bath:
The outdoor bath made of granite allows you to feel Hokkaido’s nature while bathing. You can spend time in an open-air hot spring while enjoying views of the four seasons. From spring’s new greenery to summer’s blue sky, autumn foliage, and winter’s snow-viewing bath, you can enjoy different expressions for each season.
Large Public Bath (Indoor):
The spacious indoor bath is divided into a high-temperature bath and a low-temperature bath, allowing you to bathe at your preferred temperature. Wide windows frame the rural landscape of Naganuma Town, and with the facility positioned on elevated land overlooking the Ishikari Plain, the views are excellent.
Jacuzzi and Jet Bath:
Jacuzzi and jet baths that provide massage effects through water flow are also equipped. They are ideal for post-sports fatigue recovery and easing daily fatigue.
Sauna:
After sweating in a high-temperature sauna, cool down in an ice bath. Alternating between hot and cold baths promotes blood circulation and is expected to regulate the autonomic nervous system.
Facility Equipment and Amenities
Changing Room: Spacious lockers are provided in the dressing room, with hair dryers and wash basins also fully equipped.
Rest Area: A comfortable rest room allows you to relax after bathing, making extended stays comfortable.
Barrier-Free Design: The facility is designed to be wheelchair-accessible.
Naganuma Onsen as an Accommodation Facility
Room Types and Accommodation Plans
Naganuma Onsen can be used not only for day bathing but also as an accommodation facility. Rooms are mainly Japanese-style and accommodate families and group trips.
Appeal of Accommodation:
- Unlimited bathing in source hot spring water
- Meals using local Naganuma Town ingredients
- Reasonable accommodation rates
- Convenient as a base for Hokkaido travel, being close to New Chitose Airport
Three Consecutive Years as #1 in Jalan Hot Spring Tour Stamp Rally
In the 2019 Jalan Hot Spring Tour Stamp Rally, it won first place for three consecutive years. This shows high user ratings and popularity. The high-quality source hot spring and excellent cost-performance are reasons for its support.
Experiencing Naganuma Town’s Genghis Khan Culture
Genghis Khan Sheep Journey
Naganuma Town is known as a region with deeply rooted Genghis Khan culture. In the annex on the second floor next to Naganuma Onsen, “Genghis Khan Sheep Journey,” a popular set allows tasting and comparing seasoned Genghis Khan from three local shops.
Naganuma Three Major Genghis Khan Comparison Set:
- A luxurious set where you can enjoy Genghis Khan from three long-beloved local specialty shops at once
- Experience the fun of comparison tasting with each having different seasonings and sauces
- A hot spring and Genghis Khan set is ideal for creating memories of a Hokkaido trip
Naganuma Tofu Workshop’s Source Spring Tofu
“Source Spring Tofu” made using 100% Naganuma-grown soybeans and the source water of Naganuma Onsen is also one of the specialties. The mineral components of the hot spring add a unique depth to the tofu’s flavor, making it popular as a souvenir.
Surrounding Facilities and Activities
Naganuma Community Park
Naganuma Onsen is located within “Naganuma Community Park,” which features various leisure facilities in addition to the hot spring.
Tennis Court: After playing on full-scale tennis courts, you can soothe fatigue in the hot spring, offering an ideal way to spend your time.
Auto Campground: A popular campground for families is also equipped. A luxurious experience combining outdoor camping and hot spring bathing is possible.
Expansive Green Space: The park features a spacious lawn ideal for picnicking and walking.
Tourist Spots in Naganuma Town
Rural Landscape and Pastures: Naganuma Town is a region with expansive rural scenery and pastures characteristic of Hokkaido. The scenery during drives is also enjoyable.
Agricultural Product Direct Sales Shop: As agriculture thrives in Naganuma Town, direct sales shops with fresh vegetables and fruits are scattered throughout.
Hilly Landscape Views: The view overlooking the Ishikari Plain from the hilly terrain is spectacular and is also popular as a photography spot.
History of Naganuma Onsen
From Opening to Present
1987 (Showa 62): Opened as the municipal “Naganuma Onsen.” It was established for the purpose of promoting residents’ health and tourism development.
July 1, 1988 (Showa 63): Designated as a National Health and Recuperation Hot Spring Area by Environmental Agency Notice No. 18. Designation just one year after opening testifies to the high quality of the hot spring.
Present: It has grown into a comprehensive hot spring facility that combines day-use bathing and accommodation, loved not only by local residents but also by tourists from the Sapporo area and outside the prefecture.
Recommended Plans by Usage Scene
As a Day-use Hot Spring
Day Trip Drive from Sapporo: Taking advantage of the excellent accessibility, approximately 1 hour from Sapporo, it is ideal to stop by on a weekend drive. You can enjoy hot spring bathing and Genghis Khan lunch and return to Sapporo in the evening.
Before or After Using New Chitose Airport: Taking advantage of being just 30 minutes from the airport, enjoying Hokkaido’s last hot spring before and after flights is also popular.
As an Accommodation Facility
Base for Hokkaido Tourism: Positioned midway between Sapporo and New Chitose Airport, it is convenient as a base for central Hokkaido sightseeing. The reasonable accommodation rates are also attractive.
Sports Training Camp: The facility accommodates sports training camps using tennis courts and campgrounds, with group use also possible.
As a Gathering Place for Local Residents
With resident pricing, it functions at a price point accessible to local residents. It also functions as a place for health promotion and community gathering.
Precautions and Helpful Information When Visiting
Crowded Time Periods
Weekdays: Relatively uncrowded, allowing you to enjoy the hot spring leisurely.
Weekends and Holidays: Crowds tend to gather from afternoon to evening. Early morning after opening or evening is recommended.
National Holidays and Tourist Season: Crowding is expected during Golden Week, summer vacation, and autumn foliage season, so earlier time slots are recommended.
Regarding Accommodation Reservations
Advance reservations are essential if you wish to stay overnight. Especially on weekends and holidays, reservations fill up quickly, so booking as soon as your plans are set is recommended.
Reservation Methods:
- Phone Reservation: 0123-88-2408
- Internet Reservation: Jalan.net, Rakuten Travel, Kakaku.com and other booking sites
- Reservation through official website
Recommended Items and Etiquette
Items Convenient to Bring:
- Towels (rentals available)
- Change of clothes after bathing
- Beverages for hydration
Hot Spring Etiquette:
- Always rinse off before bathing
- Do not put towels in the bathtub
- Tie up long hair
- Rinse off sweat from sauna use before entering the bathtub
Bathing Tax and Accommodation Tax Information
In the case of accommodation use, bathing tax is levied separately from accommodation fees. This tax is used for hot spring area environmental improvements and tourism promotion.
Bathing Tax: 150 yen per adult (non-taxable for children under 12)
※No bathing tax is charged for day-use bathing
Announcements and Latest Information about Naganuma Onsen
The latest information on facility operating hour changes, event information, and rate revisions is updated regularly on the official website. It is recommended to check the official site for the latest information before your visit.
Official Website: https://www.naganuma-onsen.com/
Seasonal events and special plans may be implemented, so regular checks may allow for more affordable enjoyment.
Summary: The Comprehensive Appeal of Naganuma Onsen
Naganuma Onsen is highly evaluated by hot spring enthusiasts as a source hot spring with abundant flow boasting Hokkaido’s top-class discharge rate of approximately 1,150 liters per minute. It is a precious facility where you can experience genuine hot springs in a luxurious environment of 100% source water without water addition or heating.
With excellent accessibility—approximately 1 hour from Sapporo and approximately 30 minutes from New Chitose Airport—it is easy to use as both a base for Hokkaido tourism and as a day-use hot spring. The reasonable day-use bathing fee of 700 yen is also one of its attractions, allowing you to enjoy full-scale hot springs affordably.
Beyond the hot spring itself, you can experience Naganuma Town’s proud Genghis Khan culture at “Sheep Journey,” enjoy the specialty “source spring tofu” made with source water, and the surrounding tennis courts and auto campground offer additional entertainment options.
Multiple bathing facilities including outdoor bath, indoor bath, jacuzzi, and sauna, along with high-quality hot springs designated as a National Health and Recuperation Hot Spring Area, soothe the minds and bodies of all who visit. The achievement of winning first place three consecutive years in the Jalan Hot Spring Tour Stamp Rally demonstrates high user satisfaction.
Surrounded by Hokkaido’s majestic nature, a hot spring where you can gaze at rural landscapes and pastures provides a special time that allows you to forget urban hustle and bustle. Whether for family trips, couples, friends, or solo travel, Naganuma Onsen is a must-visit renowned hot spring when visiting Hokkaido.
At Naganuma Onsen, where you can simultaneously enjoy genuine source hot spring water, Naganuma Town’s food culture, and Hokkaido-characteristic scenery, please spend a luxurious time refreshing both mind and body.
