Yunokawa Onsen

Southeast of Hakodate, at the lowest reaches of the Matsukura River, springs Yunokawa Onsen. Facing the Tsugaru Strait, it ranks among the three great hot spring resorts of Hokkaido alongside Noboribetsu and Jozankei. Records say a lord of the Matsumae domain healed an illness here in 1653, making it one of Hokkaido oldest springs, and its clear, easygoing chloride water warms the body.

Highlights

- A seaside hot spring town facing the Tsugaru Strait with heat-holding chloride water - An excellent location reachable easily by tram - The fishing lanterns of squid boats swaying on the sea from summer to winter

Enjoying the Seasons

From June to December, the lanterns of squid boats on the Tsugaru Strait, seen while soaking, are a sight unique to Hakodate. It pairs easily with city sightseeing such as the Mount Hakodate night view and the morning market, and the grand strait views can be enjoyed all year.

Access and Basic Information

- About 5 minutes by car from Hakodate Airport - About 20 minutes by car from JR Hakodate Station, also reachable by tram - Right by the Yunokawa Onsen tram stop - Spring type is sodium and calcium chloride spring

A Quick Tip

Salty water keeps you from chilling after the bath. Easy to drop by before or after Hakodate sightseeing, it makes a fine soak to warm a body cooled by night-view watching.