Tenninkyo Onsen (天人峡温泉)

Tenninkyo Onsen: The Celestial Sanctuary Hidden Within Hokkaido’s Deepest Gorge

Tenninkyo Onsen is a destination for the true wanderer—a place where the veil between the human world and the realm of the gods feels thin. Tucked deep within the southeastern foothills of Daisetsuzan National Park, this secluded hot spring village is carved into a dramatic canyon along the rushing Chubetsu River. Surrounded by vertical basalt cliffs and the echoes of Japan’s most majestic waterfalls, Tenninkyo offers a raw, unfiltered experience of Hokkaido’s volcanic heart. Known as the “backyard retreat” of central Hokkaido, it has avoided the over-commercialization of larger resorts, preserving a quiet, lodge-style atmosphere that prioritizes deep healing and profound silence. Whether you are trekking to find the “angel’s robe” at Hagoromo Falls or soaking in iron-rich waters as the mist clings to the ancient rock walls, Tenninkyo provides a spiritual and physical reset found nowhere else in the north.

Key Information

The Healing Waters: Volcanic Magma and Negative Ions

The waters of Tenninkyo are a direct gift from the tectonic activity that shaped the Daisetsuzan mountain range 30,000 years ago. Scientifically classified as sodium bicarbonate saline springs, the water is naturally tinted with a faint earth-brown hue due to its high iron content. The source gushes at approximately 45°C to 50°C and is used in a “Gensen Kakenagashi” (100% natural flow) style, ensuring the minerals are absorbed effectively by the skin. The high concentration of bicarbonate acts as a natural cleanser, softening the skin’s surface and removing oils, leading to its nickname as a “Beauty Bath.” Furthermore, the village’s position at the base of massive waterfalls creates an environment rich in negative ions, which are believed to reduce stress and improve respiratory health, making even a short soak feel remarkably restorative.

Top 5 Recommended Ryokans

• Oyado Shikishimaso (Heritage/Boutique): The heartbeat of the village. This 20-room historic lodge features beautiful cypress and marble baths with views of the mountain stream. Dressed in traditional “samue” attire, the staff provide world-class Hokkaido hospitality and creative local cuisine.
• Tenninkyo Grand Hotel (Currently Closed): While several larger buildings in the gorge are currently inactive, they stand as silent monuments to the area’s long history. For active stays, guests currently focus on the high-quality service at Shikishimaso.
• La Vista Daisetsuzan (Nearby Hub): Located about 20 minutes away in Asahidake, this luxury lodge serves as an alternative for those wanting a resort-style base with easy day-trip access to Tenninkyo’s waterfalls.
• Asahidake Onsen Hotel Bear Monte (Adventure Base): A sister property in the nearby highlands, offering large-scale buffets and access to the Asahidake ropeway, perfect for combining with a Tenninkyo hike.
• K’s House Hokkaido (Budget/Hostel): Also located in the neighboring Asahidake area, this is the top pick for international backpackers who want to explore the gorge on a budget.

Must-Visit Public Baths (Soto-yu)

Tenninkyo maintains a rustic, community-led spirit. The Tennyo no Ashiyu (Celestial Maiden Footbath) is a free public facility located right at the entrance of the onsen town. It offers tired hikers a chance to rest their feet in mineral-rich water while surrounded by the canyon’s basalt pillars. While independent bathhouses are limited, Oyado Shikishimaso offers day-use bathing for approximately 1,000 yen, allowing non-guests to experience their legendary stone outdoor baths that overlook the Chubetsu River.

Walking Guide & Scenic Spots

Exploration on foot is mandatory to appreciate the gorge’s scale. Start with the boardwalk path from the village to Hagoromo Falls (Angel’s Robe Falls). With a 270-meter drop cascading over seven tiers, it is the highest waterfall in Hokkaido and ranked in Japan’s Top 100. Continuing deeper, hikers reach Shikishima Falls, often called the “Niagara of the East” for its powerful wide flow. Keep your eyes on the cliff faces to spot Shichifuku-iwa (Seven Lucky Gods Rocks)—towering needle-like columnar joints that rise sharply toward the sky. In early October, the entire gorge becomes a tapestry of fiery reds and golds, making it one of the premier autumn viewing spots in Japan.

Local Gastronomy & Souvenirs

The culinary identity of Tenninkyo is defined by Higashikawa Town, a municipality famous for being the only town in Hokkaido with no water mains—everyone drinks natural Daisetsuzan spring water. Try the local Miyazaki Tofu and sake brewed with this water. At local lodges, seasonal Ezo-shika (Venison) and river-caught Iwana (Char) are highlights. For souvenirs, look for woodcraft furniture and “Photography Town” merchandise from Higashikawa, or original “Mountain Pika” goods from the nearby visitor centers.

Cultural & Historical Context

Discovered in 1897, the springs were originally named Matsuyama Onsen. The modern name, Tenninkyo (Heavenly Person Gorge), is tied to the Legend of the Hagoromo. It is said a celestial maiden was found bathing here by a young archer; the beauty of the waterfalls today is a reminder of her flowing robe. The Ainu people have long called this range Kamui Mintara (The Playground of the Gods), treating the geothermal activity with deep spiritual reverence as a sign of the earth’s living spirit.

Practical Travel Tips

Transportation: There is currently no public bus service to Tenninkyo. You must rent a car from Asahikawa or arrange a taxi. Some hotels offer private shuttles for guests only. Winter Travel: The road into the gorge is steep and can be dangerous in heavy snow; winter-driving experience is essential. Derelict Buildings: Visitors should be aware that some older hotel buildings in the area are abandoned; this gives the town a “ghostly” but fascinating atmospheric character, but travelers should stay within active areas for safety.

2025-2026 Latest Updates

The Tenninkyo Nature Trail has recently undergone significant repairs to improve safety following landslides in previous years. In the summer of 2025, new multi-language signage was installed at the Hagoromo Observatory. For 2026, the Asahidake-Tenninkyo Hiking Link is being promoted as a premium “forest bathing” route for experienced trekkers seeking to avoid the more crowded parts of the national park.

Safety & Manners

Tenninkyo is prime Brown Bear territory. Hikers should carry a bear bell and avoid walking the trails at dawn or dusk. In the onsen, remember that the high iron content can stain white towels; avoid dipping them into the water. Always respect the “quiet hours” of the gorge, as the sound of the river is the village’s natural soundtrack. Finally, ensure you pack out all trash to protect the pristine Daisetsuzan ecosystem.