Sounkyo Onsen

Near the center of Hokkaido, within Daisetsuzan National Park, lies Sounkyo. It is a grand gorge where sheer cliffs stretch about 24 kilometers along the Ishikari River, with a hot spring town nestled in its embrace. The clear, mild simple spring is gentle on the skin, letting you soak at ease amid majestic nature.

Highlights

- The gorge beauty of columnar-jointed cliffs and the Ryusei and Ginga waterfalls - Mountain scenery enjoyed from the Daisetsuzan Kurodake ropeway - The winter tradition of the Sounkyo Onsen Ice Falls Festival

Enjoying the Seasons

Summer bustles as a base for gorge hikes and Kurodake climbs, while autumn dyes the gorge with splendid leaves. From late January to mid March the Ice Falls Festival is held on the Ishikari riverbed, and at night the ice sculptures glow in seven colors, spreading a fantastical world.

Access and Basic Information

- About 30 minutes by bus from JR Kamikawa Station - About 30 minutes by car from Kamikawa-Sounkyo IC on the Asahikawa-Monbetsu Expressway - Roughly one hour and 30 minutes by car from Asahikawa Airport - Spring type is simple spring

A Quick Tip

Nights at the Ice Falls Festival turn bitterly cold, so solid winter clothing is a must. Warm your chilled body slowly in the inn gentle waters after viewing.