Nestled in the town of Teshikaga in eastern Hokkaido, Kawayu Onsen is a charming hot spring resort surrounded by breathtaking nature—Lake Mashu to the east and Lake Kussharo to the west. Visitors are enchanted by the changing beauty of the seasons: lush greenery in spring and summer, vibrant foliage in autumn, and serene snowy landscapes in winter.
At the heart of the Kussharo Caldera—Japan’s largest, stretching about 26 km east to west and 20 km north to south—lies Mt. Iou, a still-active volcano. The hot spring waters here are naturally heated by underground magma. Kawayu’s waters are characterized by their rare, strongly acidic composition, a distinctive trait of volcanic springs. Known as a “skin-beautifying bath,” the onsen helps regulate the autonomous nervous system and hormone levels, while also gently exfoliating the skin, leaving it silky smooth. All local facilities proudly offer 100% free-flowing, natural hot spring water, ensuring visitors can fully experience the healing powers of the onsen.
Kawayu Onsen offers more than just a relaxing soak. In addition to full-body bathing, visitors can enjoy a variety of unique experiences throughout the area. Footbaths are scattered around the town for a casual dip, and within the grounds of Kawayu-jinja Shrine, you’ll find a hand bath with water reaching 60 degrees Celsius, as well as a drinking spring said to be even more acidic than a lemon! At the Kawayu Bedrock Terrace and the Misonogawa Walking Trail, you can enjoy natural steam baths, with the paths beautifully illuminated at night for a magical atmosphere. Nearby, the Akaezomatsu Forest, home to towering Sakhalin spruce trees, invites you to unwind with a peaceful forest bath.
Why not treat yourself to the many forms of healing and relaxation that Kawayu Onsen has to offer?
