Yunokawa Onsen (Hokkaido) Complete Guide|History, Access, Recommended Accommodations, Tourist Spots Explained in Detail
Yunokawa Onsen, located in Hakodate City, Hokkaido, boasts a history of over 350 years as a leading hot spring resort in southern Hokkaido. With outstanding accessibility just 5 minutes from Hakodate Airport, abundant hot spring water, and a spectacular seaside location, it is beloved by many tourists throughout the year.
This article provides a comprehensive introduction to the charms of Yunokawa Onsen, including its history, spring quality, recommended accommodations, nearby tourist attractions, and access methods.
What is Yunokawa Onsen? One of Hokkaido’s Three Great Hot Spring Resorts
Yunokawa Onsen is a hot spring resort spread across an area on the eastern side of Hakodate City, facing the Tsugaru Strait. Numbered among “Hokkaido’s Three Great Hot Spring Resorts” alongside Noboribetsu Onsen and Jozankei Onsen, it is used by many travelers as a base for Hakodate sightseeing.
Characteristics of Yunokawa Onsen
- History: A hot spring resort with one of Hokkaido’s most significant histories, said to have opened in 1653 (Shoo 2)
- Spring Quality: Centered on sodium calcium-chloride springs with high heat retention effects
- Location: Approximately 5 minutes by car from Hakodate Airport, also close to downtown Hakodate and convenient for sightseeing
- Accommodations: Diverse options ranging from large hotels to long-established inns and affordable guesthouses
- Hot Spring Town: Picturesque scenery with hot spring inns lined up along the coast overlooking the Tsugaru Strait
History of Yunokawa Onsen|Over 350 Years of Hot Spring Culture
The opening of Yunokawa Onsen dates back to the early Edo period in 1653 (Shoo 2). A legend remains that when the daughter of the Matsumae domain lord fell ill with a difficult disease, she underwent hot spring treatment at this location and was cured, which is said to be the beginning of Yunokawa Onsen.
Development After the Meiji Era
With the Meiji period came the development of Hakodate as a base for Hokkaido’s development, and Yunokawa Onsen was also developed as a hot spring health resort. Taking advantage of its proximity to downtown Hakodate, it became cherished as a bathing place for local residents.
Post-War Touristification
Following the Hokkaido tourism boom after World War II, Yunokawa Onsen developed significantly. The opening of Hakodate Airport in 1961 further improved accessibility. Large hotels were built in rapid succession, transforming it into a modern hot spring resort.
Today, it is evaluated as a well-balanced hot spring resort that maintains traditional hot spring culture while coexisting with facilities equipped with the latest amenities.
Spring Quality and Benefits of Yunokawa Onsen|Healing Effects of Chloride Springs
The primary spring quality of Yunokawa Onsen is sodium calcium-chloride spring. This spring quality has the following characteristics and benefits.
Characteristics of the Spring Quality
- Source Spring Temperature: High-temperature springs of approximately 60-80°C
- pH Value: Neutral to weakly alkaline
- Color and Smell: Colorless and transparent, with a slight salty taste
- Water Volume: Abundant hot spring water allows many facilities to offer source spring flowing baths
Expected Benefits
Chloride springs are also called “warm water,” and the following benefits can be expected:
- Heat Retention Effect: The body remains warm and toasty after bathing, effective for improving cold sensitivity
- Neuralgia and Muscle Pain: Heat effects promote blood circulation, alleviating pain
- Joint Pain and Frozen Shoulder: Support for improving joint range of motion
- Cold Sensitivity: Peripheral blood vessel expansion improves overall blood circulation
- Fatigue Recovery: Hot spring components are absorbed through the skin, providing relaxation effects
- Cuts and Burns: Salt creates a membrane on the skin surface with sterilizing and protective effects
- Chronic Skin Conditions: Moisturizing effects improve skin condition
A major characteristic of chloride springs is that salt remains attached to the skin after bathing, preventing sweat evaporation and thus avoiding rapid cooling. Even in Hokkaido’s cold climate, the heat retention effect persists after bathing, making it particularly suitable for winter hot spring treatments.
Recommended Accommodations at Yunokawa Onsen|Carefully Selected by Purpose
Yunokawa Onsen has approximately 30 accommodations, each with its own character. Here we introduce recommended inns by purpose.
Accommodations with Stunning Ocean Views
Yunohama Hotel
A large hotel famous for its open-air bath with a panoramic view of the Tsugaru Strait. The sunrise visible from guest rooms is particularly spectacular. At the buffet-style meals, enjoy fresh seafood caught in waters near Hakodate.
Heiseikan Kaiyoutei
All guest rooms offer ocean views. The top-floor panoramic public bath allows you to view both the Tsugaru Strait and Mount Hakodate. Dinners featuring seasonal Hokkaido ingredients in kaiseki-style cuisine are highly regarded.
Traditional Inns Offering Historic Hot Spring Culture
Yumoto Takubokutei
A long-established inn with ties to poet Ishikawa Takuboku. Experience source spring flowing bath in a calm, purely Japanese-style atmosphere. The garden open-air bath allows you to enjoy leisurely time while viewing seasonal scenery.
Chikuyou Shinyoutei
A long-established inn with over 100 years of history. Guest rooms in sukiya architectural style convey a sense of Japanese aesthetics. The kaiseki cuisine made with ingredients carefully selected by the head chef offers exquisite dishes to enjoy with both eyes and palate.
Large Hotels for Families and Groups
Hotel Mansou
A large hotel popular for its large public bath with varied bath types. Well-equipped hot spring facilities include open-air baths, saunas, and jacuzzis. The buffet includes demonstration corners enjoyable from children to adults.
Imagine Hotel & Resort Hakodate
Family-friendly facilities with a hot spring pool and kids’ space. Diverse room types available in tatami, Western, and combination styles. A convenient location as a base for Hakodate sightseeing.
Budget-Friendly Accommodations to Enjoy Hot Springs
Hotel Amemiyakan
Enjoy quality hot springs at reasonable prices. Simply appointed yet clean rooms and source spring flowing baths are the attraction. Recommended for those who prioritize Hakodate sightseeing and want to keep accommodation costs down.
Minshuku Kadoya
A small guesthouse with a homey atmosphere. Homestyle cooking and warm hospitality are popular. Local interaction can be enjoyed, experiencing Hakodate’s daily life.
Day-Use Hot Spring Facilities
Enjoy Yunokawa Onsen without staying overnight.
Yunokawa Onsen Foot Bath Yumeguri Stage
A free foot bath facility near the Yunokawa Onsen streetcar stop. Conveniently accessible during sightseeing.
Hotel Mansou (Day-Use Bathing)
Non-guests can use the public bath (confirmation required). Enjoy well-equipped hot spring facilities as a day visitor.
Tourist Spots Around Yunokawa Onsen|Enjoying Together with Hot Springs
Yunokawa Onsen’s location is ideal as a base for Hakodate sightseeing. Enjoy hot springs while visiting surrounding attractions.
Hakodate Municipal Museum
A museum within walking distance of Yunokawa Onsen where you can learn about Hakodate’s history, culture, and nature. Particularly rich are exhibits of pottery excavated from Jomon-period sites and Ainu culture-related displays.
Basic Information
- Address: 17-1 Aoyagi-cho, Hakodate
- Hours: 9:00-16:30 (varies seasonally)
- Closed: Mondays, year-end/new year
- Admission: General 100 yen, Students 50 yen
Hakodate Tropical Plant Garden
A greenhouse utilizing the heat from Yunokawa Onsen’s source spring, displaying approximately 300 species and 3,000 tropical plants. During winter (December-May), “Monkey Mountain Hot Spring” is a main attraction where Japanese macaques can be seen bathing in the hot spring.
Basic Information
- Address: 3-1-15 Yunkawa-cho, Hakodate
- Hours: 9:30-18:00 (11:00-16:30 from November to March)
- Closed: December 29 to January 1
- Admission: General 300 yen, Elementary/Middle School Students 100 yen
Trappistine Convent
A Catholic convent established in 1898 as Japan’s first women’s convent. Attractive sights include beautiful brick architecture and well-maintained gardens. The interior of the convent is not open to the public, but you can purchase cookies and other items made by nuns at the museum and shop.
Basic Information
- Address: 346 Kamiyunkawa-cho, Hakodate
- Hours: 8:00-17:00 (16:30-3:00 from November to March)
- Admission: Free
- From Yunokawa Onsen: Approximately 10 minutes by car
Mount Hakodate
Famous as the “Million Dollar Night View,” Mount Hakodate is approximately 20 minutes by car from Yunokawa Onsen, reaching the summit via the ropeway. Daytime views are also wonderful, overlooking the Tsugaru Strait and Hakodate cityscape. The night view is particularly recommended from dusk through sunset.
Basic Information
- Ropeway Hours: 10:00-22:00 (varies seasonally)
- Round-trip Fare: Adults 1,500 yen, Children 700 yen
- Duration: Approximately 3 minutes
Goryokaku Park
A star-shaped Western-style castle that was the historical stage of the late Edo period. Also known as a cherry blossom viewing spot, approximately 1,600 cherry blossoms bloom in spring. The Goryokaku Tower allows you to view the star shape from above.
Basic Information
- Address: 44 Goryokaku-cho, Hakodate
- Admission: Free (Goryokaku Tower is paid)
- From Yunokawa Onsen: Approximately 15 minutes by car, approximately 30 minutes by streetcar
Hakodate Asaichi (Morning Market)
Hakodate’s kitchen with fresh seafood and agricultural products. Approximately 280 shops line the market where you can enjoy squid fishing experiences and seafood rice bowls. Operating early in the morning, visiting for breakfast is also recommended.
Basic Information
- Address: 9-19 Wakamatsu-cho, Hakodate
- Hours: 6:00-14:00 approximately (varies by shop)
- From Yunokawa Onsen: Approximately 15 minutes by car, approximately 25 minutes by streetcar
Bay Area / Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse
A shopping and gourmet spot created by renovating red brick warehouses from the Meiji era. Experience the historic port town atmosphere of Hakodate while enjoying souvenir shopping and cafe breaks.
Basic Information
- Address: 14-12 Suehiro-cho, Hakodate
- Hours: 9:30-19:00 (varies by shop)
- From Yunokawa Onsen: Approximately 15 minutes by car, approximately 30 minutes by streetcar
Access to Yunokawa Onsen|Airplane, Train, Car
Yunokawa Onsen is exceptionally close to Hakodate Airport, boasting among the best accessibility in the southern Hokkaido area.
Access by Airplane
From Hakodate Airport
- Taxi: Approximately 5 minutes, fare approximately 1,000-1,500 yen
- Shuttle Bus: Hakodate Bus “Route 96 Yunokawa Onsen” approximately 10 minutes, fare 240 yen
- Airport Shuttle Bus: Some hotels operate (reservation required)
Flights to Hakodate Airport take approximately 1 hour 20 minutes from Tokyo (Haneda), approximately 1 hour 50 minutes from Osaka (Itami), and approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from Nagoya (Chubu).
Access by JR/Train
From JR Hakodate Station
- Streetcar: Board the “Hakodate Station” to “Yunokawa Onsen” line, approximately 30 minutes to the terminal, fare 250 yen
- Taxi: Approximately 15 minutes, fare approximately 2,000-2,500 yen
- Shuttle Bus: Hakodate Bus routes approximately 20-30 minutes
Using the Shinkansen
From Hokkaido Shinkansen “Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station”:
- Hakodate Liner to JR Hakodate Station (approximately 20 minutes), then streetcar to Yunokawa Onsen
- Taxi directly to Yunokawa Onsen (approximately 40 minutes, fare approximately 6,000-7,000 yen)
Access by Car
From Hakodate Airport
- Approximately 5 minutes via Prefectural Route 63
From Sapporo
- Approximately 4 hours via Central Expressway/Hakodate New Road
- Approximately 15 minutes from “Hakodate IC” on Hakodate New Road
From Aomori
- Approximately 2 hours via Seikan Tunnel (ferry if used)
Parking Information
Most accommodations feature free parking. Day-use hot spring facilities also have parking, so visiting by car is worry-free.
How to Enjoy Yunokawa Onsen|Seasonal Recommended Plans
Yunokawa Onsen has charms in each of the four seasons. We introduce recommended ways to spend time by season.
Spring (March-May): Cherry Blossoms and Fresh Greenery Season
- Goryokaku Cherry Blossoms: Best viewing late April to early May. Approximately 15 minutes by car from Yunokawa Onsen
- Hakodate Park Cherry Blossoms: Visit cherry blossom viewing spots in the city
- Relax in Hot Springs: Spa treatment to ease spring fatigue
Summer (June-August): Fresh Hokkaido Summer
- Hakodate Port Festival: Held early August, fireworks and citizen parades are highlights
- Onuma Quasi-National Park: Approximately 1 hour by car from Yunokawa Onsen, ideal as a summer retreat
- Seafood Gourmet: Enjoy summer-season sea urchin and scallops
Fall (September-November): Autumn Leaves and Culinary Season
- Autumn Leaf Viewing: Beautiful autumn leaves at Kousetsuen and Miharashi Park (mid-October to early November)
- Autumn Delicacies: Saury, salmon roe, crab, enjoy autumn seafood
- Hot Springs and Autumn Leaves: Luxury time viewing autumn leaves from an open-air bath
Winter (December-February): Snowy Landscape and Hot Spring Season
- Hakodate Christmas Fantasy: Held in December, Bay Area illuminations are magical
- Hakodate Winter Festival: Held in February, snow sculptures and ice carvings line the streets
- Monkey Mountain Hot Spring: Observe monkeys bathing in the hot spring at the Tropical Plant Garden (December-May)
- Hot Spring Indulgence: Enjoy snowy outdoor baths experiencing Hokkaido’s winter
- Crab Cuisine: Snow crab and king crab are in season
Strolling Through Yunokawa Onsen’s Hot Spring Town|Sights and Gourmet
The hot spring town of Yunokawa Onsen offers strolling spots and gourmet experiences.
Yukura Shrine
A shrine cherished as the guardian deity of Yunokawa Onsen. It enshrines “the hot spring deity” as the guardian deity. Within the grounds is “rabbit fortune-telling” with cute rabbit figurines containing fortunes inside.
Foot Bath Spots
Free foot baths are available throughout the hot spring town, ideal for resting while strolling. Soaking your feet while viewing the Tsugaru Strait washes away travel fatigue.
Local Gourmet
Salt Ramen
Hakodate is the birthplace of salt ramen. Nearby shops serve ramen with light, delicate broth.
Seafood Rice Bowl
A luxuriously piled seafood rice bowl with fresh squid, sea urchin, and salmon roe is a must-try in Hakodate.
Squid Sashimi and Squid Noodles
Hakodate’s signature transparent squid sashimi is exquisite with its sweetness and texture. Dishes using freshly caught squid are exceptional.
Lucky Pierrot
Hakodate’s local burger chain. Voluminous hamburgers are popular with both locals and tourists.
Hot Spring Etiquette at Yunokawa Onsen and Bathing Tips
Introduce etiquette and effective bathing methods for enjoying hot springs comfortably.
Basic Hot Spring Etiquette
- Rinse Before Entering: Before entering the bath, splash hot water over your body to remove dirt
- Don’t Put Towels in the Bath: Place towels outside the tub
- Tie Up Long Hair: Tie long hair so it doesn’t touch the water
- Bathe Quietly: Avoid loud talking or noise
- Don’t Swim: Don’t swim or dive in the bath
- Dry Yourself Before Leaving: Dry yourself before returning to the changing room
Effective Bathing Method
Before Bathing
- Avoid bathing immediately after meals or after drinking
- Stay hydrated beforehand
While Bathing
- Begin with half-body baths or foot baths to acclimate to the heat
- Don’t force yourself if the water is too hot; start with short durations
- Aim for 10-15 minutes per bath
- Avoid extended bathing as it strains the body
After Bathing
- Avoid rinsing off hot spring components with shower (except those with sensitive skin)
- Hydrate thoroughly
- Rest quietly for approximately 30 minutes after bathing
Chloride Spring-Specific Tips
For Yunokawa Onsen’s chloride springs, note the following:
- Salt deposits on the skin; those with sensitive skin or wounds should lightly rinse with fresh water after bathing
- High heat retention means continued sweating post-bath. Don’t forget hydration
- Those with high blood pressure should avoid extended soaking; consult a doctor before bathing
Tips for Booking Accommodations at Yunokawa Onsen|How to Get Good Deals
Here are tips for enjoying Yunokawa Onsen affordably.
Peak Seasons and Rates
High Season (higher rates)
- Golden Week (late April to early May)
- Summer vacation (late July to August)
- Autumn leaf season (mid-October to early November)
- Year-end/New Year
Off-Season (lower rates)
- Mid-January to February
- June (no rainy season and pleasant weather, highly recommended)
- Late November to mid-December
Booking Site Utilization
- Early Booking Discounts: Discounts often apply for 30-day or 60-day advance bookings
- Last-Minute Deals: Last-minute discount plans may appear if rooms are available
- Point Rewards: Utilize points from Rakuten Travel, Jalan, etc.
- Official Sites: Check official inn websites as sometimes they offer the best rates
Budget-Friendly Plans
- Weekday Plans: Avoiding weekends and holidays lowers rates
- Multi-Night Plans: 2+ night stays often come with discounts
- Room-Only Plans: Save costs without meals and enjoy Hakodate gourmet dining outside
- Day-Use Hot Spring + Lunch: Budget-friendly bundled plans available without overnight stays
Yunokawa Onsen Q&A|Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is it better to stay in Yunokawa Onsen or downtown Hakodate?
A: It depends on your purpose. Yunokawa Onsen is recommended if you want to primarily enjoy hot springs or prioritize airport accessibility. Conversely, downtown Hakodate is convenient if you plan to focus on Mount Hakodate’s night view, the morning market, and the bay area. Since Yunokawa Onsen is approximately 30 minutes from downtown via streetcar, either location provides good access to major attractions.
Q2: Can I enjoy only day-use bathing?
A: Yes, possible. Many hotels and inns accept day-use bathing. Rates typically range from 500-1,500 yen. However, day-use bathing hours are often limited, so advance confirmation is recommended. Free foot bath facilities are also available for casual hot spring enjoyment.
Q3: How many nights are recommended for staying at Yunokawa Onsen?
A: 2 nights and 3 days are ideal for enjoying both Hakodate sightseeing and hot springs. A typical plan: Day 1 relax in hot springs after arrival, Day 2 tour downtown Hakodate and Goryokaku, Day 3 visit nearby spots before returning. One night is sufficient if focusing solely on hot springs.
Q4: Can families with children enjoy it?
A: Yes, many facilities are family-friendly. Large hotels have kids’ spaces and hot spring pools. Nearby attractions children enjoy include the Tropical Plant Garden’s Monkey Mountain Hot Spring and Mount Hakodate’s night view. Note that some hot springs are quite hot, requiring caution with children’s bathing.
Q5: Is Yunokawa Onsen cold in winter? Does it snow much?
A: Hakodate is relatively warm for Hokkaido with less snowfall than Sapporo. Average winter (December-February) temperatures are approximately -2°C to 2°C. It does snow, but roads are well-maintained. Winter’s snowy hot spring experience offers unique charm. Proper winter clothing ensures comfortable visits.
Q6: Is Hakodate sightseeing convenient from Yunokawa Onsen?
A: Yes, very convenient. A streetcar runs from Yunokawa Onsen to Hakodate Station, with good access to major attractions. Car rental further expands your range. Hakodate Airport’s proximity allows efficient use of arrival/departure days.
Q7: What if the spring quality doesn’t suit my skin?
A: Chloride springs are relatively mild, but sensitive-skin visitors should lightly rinse with fresh water after bathing. Shorter baths or choosing cooler tubs also help. Consult facility staff with concerns.
Q8: What are recommended souvenirs from Yunokawa Onsen?
A: Recommended souvenirs include Trappistine Convent cookies, Hakodate salt ramen, squid products (squid rice, squid salted fish), gakombu seaweed, and Hakodate-exclusive sweets. Purchase at facility shops or Hakodate Airport.
Conclusion: Refresh Mind and Body at Yunokawa Onsen
Yunokawa Onsen is Hokkaido’s representative hot spring resort with over 350 years of history. It combines exceptional accessibility just 5 minutes from Hakodate Airport, abundant chloride spring water, spectacular seaside views overlooking the Tsugaru Strait, and convenience as a Hakodate sightseeing base.
Diverse accommodations range from large hotels to traditional inns and budget guesthouses, allowing choice matching travel style and budget. While enjoying hot springs to relax your body, visit Hakodate’s attractive attractions including Mount Hakodate’s night view, Goryokaku, the bay area, and the morning market.
Yunokawa Onsen displays different seasonal faces—spring cherry blossoms, summer’s refreshing sea breeze, autumn foliage, and winter’s snowy outdoor baths—offering new discoveries regardless of visit timing.
Consider Yunokawa Onsen for your next trip. Warm hot springs, Hakodate gourmet dining, and historic hot spring culture will provide heartfelt healing.
