Enjoy Yunokawa Onsen, One of Hokkaido’s Three Major Hot Spring Resorts

[Last update 2024/12/31]
Yunokawa Onsen is located in the scenic city of Hakodate and has long been cherished as one of Hokkaido’s top three hot spring areas. Easily accessible from Hakodate Airport and popular tourist spots, it offers a perfect opportunity to unwind. After exploring the historic streets of Motomachi or enjoying a romantic tram ride, you can relax with a smoothing foot bath to rejuvenate both your mind and body.

The History of Yunokawa Onsen

Ranked as one of Hokkaido’s three major hot spring resorts, the name ‘Yunokawa’ is believed to derive from the Ainu words ‘yu’ (hot water) and ‘pettsu’ (river). The history of Yunokawa dates back to 1653 during the Edo period.

Takahiro, the ninth lord of the Matsumae clan (known by his childhood name, Senshomaru), was suffering from an incurable illness. According to legend, his mother, Seiryoin, had a dream in which it was revealed that he would be cured by the hot springs to the east of Matsumae Castle. After Takahiro received treatment at the hot springs, he made a full recovery. In gratitude, the Matsumae clan rebuilt the Yakushido Hall and donated a crocodile bell. This event is said to mark the origin of Yunokawa Onsen.

What to See at Yunokawa Onsen

1. Yukura Shrine – The Legendary Origin of Yunokawa Onsen

An old story tells of a woodcutter resting on a hill where Yukura Shrine now stands. He noticed steam rising from a nearby marshland and used the hot spring to relieve his body aches. In gratitude, the woodcutter built a small shrine near the hot spring and dedicated a Buddha statue he had crafted. This is believed to be the origin of the present-day Yukura Shrine in Yunokawa Onsen town.

To the right of the main hall stands a sacred rabbit. Legend has it that stroking this rabbit will grant your wishes. The shrine grounds also feature a 370-year-old sacred Onko tree (yew), so be sure to look for it if you’re interested. Other notable sights include the “Monument marking the origin of Yunokawa Onsen,” the “Ginkgo tree of matchmaking – Yukura Great Ginkgo,” as well as the “Lucky Big Mallet” and “Lucky Small Mallet”. Amidst the sacred atmosphere, you can truly feel the rich history of Yunokawa Onsen. 　 　

Yukura Shrine offers a wide variety of omamori (lucky charms) and omikuji (fortune-telling slips). Among them, the 15 types of “Ezo omikuji”, which are exclusive to Hokkaido, are especially popular. One unique type, the “Ikasu omikuji” allows you to use a fishing rod to pull in a divine fortune slip, delighting many visitors. The “Saruyama Onsen omikuji”, available only in winter, lets you feel the charms of the changing season. If you enjoy collecting omamori and omikuji, this is a delightful spot where you lose track of time!

• Address: 2-28-1 Yukawacho, Hakodate, Hokkaido
• Access: A 1-minute walk from Yukawa tram stop
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2. Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden ~ Monkey Mountain Hot Springs in Winter!

If you visit Yunokawa Onsen in the winter, be sure to check out the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden. From December to May every year, you can enjoy watching monkeys bathe in the hot springs at Saruyama Onsen. This adorable sight is very popular with tourists and provides a relaxing experience.

The sight of the monkeys soaking in the hot springs while surrounded by snow is sure to make you smile. You can also enjoy feeding the monkeys by purchasing food at the ticket counter. The monkeys perform adorable tricks that capture the attention of visitors, who cheer and clap in delight.

In addition to Saruyama Onsen, the botanical garden offers several other attractions, including a tropical plant greenhouse, vibrant flower beds, small play areas, and a foot bath, making it an ideal destination for families.

• Address: 3-1-15 Yukawacho, Hakodate, Hokkaido
• Access: Take the 96 line to Hakodate Station and get off at Tropical Botanical Garden (travel time: approx. 20 minutes)
• Opening hours:
  • April to October: 9:30 to 18:00
  • November to March: 9:30 to 16:30
• Closed: December 29th – January 1^st
• Admission fee:
  • General: 300 yen
  • Elementary and junior high school students 100 yen
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• Leaflet

3.“Yunokawa Onsen Footbath – Hot Spring Tour Stage” – Enjoy a relaxing moment in the soothing warmth

“Yunokawa Onsen Footbath Yumeguri Butai,” located near the “Yunokawa Onsen” tram stop on the Hakodate City Tram, is a popular spot among locals. This footbath is open to the public free of charge, making it accessible to everyone. Especially during the winter, dipping your cold feet into the hot spring water provides instant warmth and relaxation. Be sure to stop by and enjoy a peaceful moment in this simple yet beautiful hot spring experience.

• Address: 1-16-5 Yukawacho, Hakodate, Hokkaido
• Access: A 1-minute walk from the Yunokawa Onsen tram stop
• Opening hours: 9:00-21:00
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4. Enjoy the Traditional Flavors of Hakodate at a Long-Established Restaurant

The Yunokawa Onsen area is home to many long-established and popular restaurants that continue to preserve traditional flavors. After a leisurely stroll through the hot spring town, you can enjoy delicious food. At the Yakidango Gingetsu, a dumpling shop with nearly 60 years of history, you can enjoy traditional Japanese grilled ‘dango’ dumplings with a chewy texture, available in flavors like sesame, soy sauce, red bean paste, seasonal varieties. Loved by both locals and tourists for many years, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the delicious food while strolling through the charming townscape!

• Address: 2-22-5 Yukawacho, Hakodate, Hokkaido
• Access: A 5minute walk from the Yunokawa tram stop
• Business hours: 8:30～17:30
• Closed: Irregular holidays

Yunobura Hands-On Activities – Enjoy Yunokawa Onsen Without Staying Overnight

“Yunobura” is a website that provides tourist information and allows for online reservation of experience activities in the Yunokawa Onsen area. Through the platform, visitors can easily book a variety of activities provided by the inns in Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen. The site features private baths that are particularly popular with international tourists, as well as affordable bathing packages, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the hot spring experience of Yunokawa Onsen without needing to staying overnight.

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Access to Yunokawa from Various Transportation Options

• Hakodate Airport (5 minutes by Hakodate Teiso Bus) → Yunokawa Onsen

• Hakodate Station (approx. 30 minutes by Hakodate City Tram) → Yunokawa Onsen
• Hakodate Station (approx. 30 minutes by Hakodate Bus) → Yunokawa Onsen

• Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station → (approx. 1 hour 7 minutes by Hokkaido Tourist Bus) → Yunokawa Onsen

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Lastly

Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Yunokawa Onsen and enjoy the surrounding scenery and local history. Hidden stories and delightful surprises await in the corners and alleys of the town, and you might even stumble upon beautiful spots by chance. If you’re visiting Hakodate, be sure to explore the Yunokawa Onsen area and enjoy a relaxing walk through this picturesque town where nature and history blend seamlessly. Experience the unique charm and rich culture of the local area.