[Korean Guide] Hokkaido Sapporo Lake Toya Hoheikyo Hot Spring Noboribetsu Bus Tour (Minimum 4 people, Hot Spring Ticket Included)

Yes, international guests are generally welcome at Japanese onsen, including Hoheikyo Hot Spring and Noboribetsu Onsen. Many onsen in popular tourist areas of Hokkaido have adopted more inclusive practices, sometimes providing English signage or information. It's important to understand and respect common onsen etiquette, such as washing thoroughly before entering the bath, refraining from wearing swimsuits (unless in a designated mixed or outdoor bath), and maintaining a quiet atmosphere to ensure a comfortable experience for everyone.

Non-Japanese visitors should be aware of a few key practices for enjoying onsen. Always remove all clothing in the changing room before entering the bathing area and wash thoroughly at the designated shower station before getting into the hot spring. While many tourist-friendly onsen in Hokkaido are becoming more accommodating, some traditional establishments may have restrictions on tattoos, so it's advisable to check beforehand if you have prominent tattoos. Also, use the small towel for modesty, but do not let it touch the bathwater.

Knowing a few key terms can enhance your onsen experience. "Onsen" (温泉) is the general term for a hot spring. "Rotenburo" (露天風呂) refers to an outdoor bath, which offers scenic views, while "Uchiyu" (内湯) is an indoor bath. "Kakeyu" (かけ湯) is the practice of pouring hot water over yourself to cleanse before entering the main bath. "Yukata" (浴衣) is a traditional Japanese robe often provided for relaxation after bathing.

Noboribetsu Onsen is highly distinctive for its dramatic volcanic landscape, particularly its famous Jigokudani (Hell Valley). This area features active steam vents, sulfurous streams, and bubbling hot pools, creating a surreal, otherworldly atmosphere with strong mineral scents and vivid rock formations. The onsen itself is renowned for offering nine different types of natural spring waters, each with unique mineral compositions believed to offer varied health benefits, making it a powerful and diverse hot spring destination.

At Hoheikyo Hot Spring, visitors can expect a deeply relaxing onsen experience amidst a serene, natural mountain setting. It is particularly celebrated for its expansive rotenburo (outdoor baths) that provide stunning views of the surrounding forests and mountains, which are especially beautiful during autumn foliage or in winter with snow-covered landscapes. The spring water is known for its smooth texture, offering a soothing and restorative soak after a day of sightseeing.

The onsen experiences at Hoheikyo Hot Spring and Noboribetsu Onsen offer distinct atmospheres. Hoheikyo provides a tranquil, picturesque setting, celebrated for its natural outdoor baths seamlessly integrated with lush mountain scenery, ideal for a peaceful retreat. In contrast, Noboribetsu is characterized by its powerful volcanic activity at Jigokudani and a wider array of mineral-rich spring waters, offering a more dramatic and varied therapeutic hot spring experience. Each offers a unique facet of Hokkaido's onsen culture.

Lake Toya is a striking caldera lake famous for its nearly perfect circular shape and the steam that often rises from its surface. Visitors can appreciate the expansive, serene waters and the four forested islands within the lake. The Sairo Observatory provides a spectacular elevated vantage point, offering panoramic views of Lake Toya, the islands, and the surrounding volcanic peaks like Mount Usu and Showa-shinzan, making it an excellent spot for photography and enjoying Hokkaido's natural beauty.

Fukidashi Park is a highly regarded stop, primarily celebrated for its pristine natural spring water, which originates as meltwater from the iconic Mount Yotei. This water is recognized as one of Japan's 100 best natural waters, and visitors can directly collect it to drink, appreciating its refreshing purity. The park also features beautiful walking paths, small waterfalls, and vibrant greenery, creating a peaceful and picturesque environment perfect for a rejuvenating break.