Chippubetsu Onsen (秩父別温泉)

Introduction: The Sanctuary of Roses and the Bronze Bell of Happiness

Located in the fertile heart of the Sorachi region, surrounded by rolling hills and vast rice paddies, lies Chippubetsu Onsen (秩父別温泉). Known by its facility name “Chippu-no-Yu,” this hot spring is a destination defined by sensory delights: the scent of 3,000 blooming roses, the resonance of Japan’s largest bronze swing bell, and the therapeutic warmth of its saline waters. Chippubetsu is a town that takes pride in its “Slow Life” philosophy. For the international traveler, Chippubetsu Onsen offers a refreshing, community-centered alternative to the massive tourist resorts. It is a place where you can soak in mineral-rich “Beauty Waters,” listen to the deep hum of the “Shinsetsu-no-Kane” bell echoing across the plains, and enjoy some of the most innovative broccoli-based cuisine in the country. It is a destination of pastoral peace and modern wellness, perfect for families and road-trippers exploring central Hokkaido.

Key Information Table

The Healing Waters: The “Silk Wrap” of the Sorachi Plains

The water at Chippubetsu Onsen is a powerful Sodium-Chloride / Bicarbonate Spring. Pumped from deep underground, the water is crystal clear and odorless, with a distinctively slippery, “soap-like” texture.
The Beauty Effect: The bicarbonate ions act as a natural exfoliant, gently removing dead skin cells to reveal smoother skin—earning it the reputation of “Bijin-no-yu” (Beauty Water).
The Heat Effect: The salt content creates a mineral barrier on the skin, trapping body heat and ensuring a deep, lasting warmth. The facility features a large indoor panoramic tub, a “Bubble Bath,” and an outdoor Rotenburo where you can breathe in the scent of the nearby rose gardens during the summer months. The water is used in a 100% natural flow system (Gensen Kakenagashi) for several of the tubs, preserving its unrefined mineral energy.

Top Recommended Stay: Chippu-no-Yu (Hotel Section)

• Chippubetsu Onsen Chippu-no-Yu (秩父別温泉ちっぷ・ゆう＆ゆ): The primary facility for both wellness and lodging. It offers modern Japanese and Western-style rooms. The dining hall is a major attraction, serving “Chippubetsu Broccoli” themed dishes and local Hokkaido beef. It is highly popular with families due to the nearby “Kid’s Square” indoor park. The hospitality is warm and localized, providing a genuine “home-stay” feel in a larger resort setting.

Must-Visit Neighborhood Spots: Bells and Blooms

Rose Garden Chippubetsu: Located right next to the onsen. From late June to October, over 300 varieties and 3,000 bushes of roses bloom here. It is one of the most fragrant and photographic spots in the region.
Shinsetsu-no-Kane (Bell of Sincerity): A massive bronze bell located in the town park. It is Japan’s largest swing bell, cast in the Netherlands. It rings four times a day, and its deep, soulful sound is a symbol of the town’s identity.
Kid’s Square (CUBIC): A fantastic indoor and outdoor playground facility that is a must-visit if you are traveling with children. It features Japan’s largest indoor net-climbing structure.

Local Gastronomy: The Kingdom of Broccoli

Chippubetsu is Hokkaido’s Broccoli capital.
Broccoli Ramen: The onsen restaurant serves a unique green ramen where the noodles and broth are enriched with broccoli powder. It is surprisingly savory and packed with vitamins.
Broccoli Soft Serve: A local favorite dessert that is a must-try for adventurous foodies.
Vegetarian/Vegan Survival: This area is a producer of high-quality Soybeans and Buckwheat.
For Vegans: Try the “Vegetable Curry” (specify no meat dashi) or fresh Soba. The local “Roadside Station” (Michi-no-Eki) sells incredible Steamed Broccoli and fresh local corn in the summer which are 100% vegan snacks. The local Hokkaido Potatoes are also world-class.

Cultural & Historical Context

The name “Chippubetsu” comes from the Ainu word “Chush-pet”, meaning “river with many small bushes.” Historically, the town was settled by pioneers in the Meiji era who turned the challenging plains into one of Hokkaido’s top rice-producing zones. The “Bell of Happiness” was installed as part of a town revitalization project to symbolize peace and connection with the world. The onsen was developed to provide a health center for the community and to celebrate the town’s transition toward floral and family-centered tourism.

Practical Travel Tips for International Visitors

• Tattoo Policy: Chippu-no-Yu is a municipal facility and is generally very tolerant of international guests. Small tattoos are fine; for large pieces, using a waterproof cover sticker is recommended. The facility is busiest on weekend afternoons, so visit on a weekday for a more private experience.
• Language Support: Basic English signs for the bath rules are available. The ticket vending machine uses icons, making it easy to use. The staff are used to families and are very patient with non-Japanese speakers.
• Cash & Payments: The resort accepts major credit cards for room stays. However, the day-trip bath ticket machine and the local park stalls are cash-only (JPY).
• Access Advice: If you are traveling by train, get off at JR Chippubetsu Station. It is a pleasant 10-minute walk to the onsen. However, a rental car is more convenient for exploring the wider Sorachi flower belt.

2025-2026 Latest Updates

In 2025, Chippubetsu Onsen launched the “Rose Petal Bath” event, occurring every Sunday during the peak blooming months of July and August. For the 2026 season, a new “Agri-Tourism” program is being introduced, where guests can participate in broccoli harvesting followed by a specialized “Vitamins and Onsen” health consultation.

Safety & Manners

In the onsen, always rinse your body thoroughly before entering the tub. Because the water makes your skin very slippery, walk carefully on the tiled floors. When visiting the Rose Garden, never enter the flower beds as it can damage the roots. Finally, respect the sound of the Bell; it is a spiritual moment for the locals, so pause for a second and enjoy the resonance when it rings.