Jukai Onsen (樹海温泉)

Introduction: The Emerald Forest Sanctuary of the Hidaka Mountains

Tucked deep within the rugged interior of the Hidaka region, where the mountains are covered in an infinite blanket of native spruce and birch, lies Jukai Onsen (樹海温泉). Known by its facility name “Hidaka Jukai Onsen,” this hot spring is a sanctuary of profound silence and “Forest Therapy.” The name “Jukai” translates to “Sea of Trees,” reflecting the breathtaking views of the Hidaka mountain range that surround the bathhouse. For the international traveler seeking an escape from the “over-tourism” of central Hokkaido, Jukai Onsen offers a pure encounter with the “Quiet North.” It is a place where you can soak in mineral-rich waters while breathing in the oxygen of a primeval forest, witness the winter “Ice Sculptures” of the Saru River, and experience the warm, unpretentious hospitality of a mountain town. It is a destination of environmental purity, alpine grandeur, and a restorative warmth that captures the soul of Hokkaido’s interior frontier.

Key Information Table

The Healing Waters: The “Silk Bath” of the Sea of Trees

The water at Jukai Onsen is a high-quality Simple Spring. While standard springs derive power from intense minerals, a Simple Spring is prized for its balanced concentration, making it exceptionally gentle on the body and suitable for long, meditative soaks.
The Visuals: The water is crystal clear and odorless, with a soft, silky texture.
The Beauty Effect: The weak alkalinity acts as a natural cleanser, gently emulsifying skin oils and leaving you feeling refreshed—the classic “Bijin-no-yu” (Beauty Water) effect.
The facility, Kuroro, features a beautiful outdoor bath (Rotenburo) that looks directly into the “Sea of Trees.” In winter, as the steam rises against the backdrop of the snow-covered Hidaka peaks, the experience is profoundly spiritual. The minerals are particularly effective at soothing the nervous system, providing a “mental reset” for weary travelers.

Top Recommended Stay: Hidaka Jukai Onsen Kuroro

• Hidaka Jukai Onsen Kuroro (日高樹海温泉くるろ): The heart of the area’s wellness. This modern lodge-style facility offers spacious Japanese and Western rooms. The dining hall is a major attraction, serving “Hidaka Venison” and local mountain vegetables. It is a favorite for international hikers and motorcyclists seeking a high-value, quiet stay in the heart of the mountains.
• Hidaka Town Guesthouses: Several small, friendly guest houses in the nearby town center offer a more urban (yet still rural) alternative for those visiting Jukai as a day-trip.
• Hidaka Sangyo Park Campground: For budget-conscious travelers, this nearby campsite allows you to stay in nature and walk to the onsen for your daily soak.

Must-Visit Neighborhood Spots: Rivers and Passes

Hidaka Jukai Road (Highway 274): One of Hokkaido’s most scenic driving routes, crossing the Hidaka Mountains. The viewpoints along the road offer panoramic vistas of the “Sea of Trees.”
Saru River (Sarugawa): A pristine mountain river popular with anglers and canoeists. In spring, the melting snow creates dramatic rapids that can be seen from the riverbank trails.
Hina-no-Mura (Hidaka Alpine Museum): A fascinating museum in the town center that showcases the mountaineering history and unique flora of the Hidaka range.

Local Gastronomy: The Bounty of the Hidaka Forest

Hidaka’s food culture is defined by its rugged landscape.
Hidaka Venison (Ezo Shika): The town is a leader in sustainable venison processing. Try the “Venison Stew” or grilled steaks at the onsen restaurant.
Hidaka Soba: Handmade buckwheat noodles made with pure mountain spring water.
Vegetarian/Vegan Survival:
For Vegans: Try the local Handmade Tofu and “Soymilk Sweets.” At the onsen restaurant, request the “Mountain Vegetable Soba”—specify “Katsuo-dashi nuki” (No fish dashi). The local supermarkets in Hidaka town carry fresh seasonal vegetables for self-catering. We recommend buying the local “Hidaka Honey” as a souvenir.

Cultural & Historical Context

The name “Jukai” reflects the vastness of the Hidaka forests, which were once an important territory for Ainu hunters. Historically, the Hidaka town area was a vital junction for travelers crossing the mountain passes between the east and west coasts. The onsen was developed to provide a place of rest and community for the foresters and hikers who built the town’s economy. Today, it stands as a symbol of rural Hidaka’s commitment to “Forest Wellness,” preserving its pristine water and wood resources for future generations.

Practical Travel Tips for International Visitors

• Tattoo Policy: Kuroro is a municipal-style facility and is generally very tolerant of international guests. Small tattoos are fine; for large pieces, using a waterproof sticker is recommended as a courtesy to the local residents.
• Language Support: Minimal English is spoken. We recommend having a translation app ready. The staff are incredibly kind and used to independent travelers from the nearby Shimukappu and Niseko areas.
• Cash & Payments: The resort accepts major credit cards for overnight stays. However, the day-trip bath ticket machine and the local town shops are cash-only (JPY).
• Access: A rental car is highly recommended. The drive through the Hidaka passes is spectacular but can be challenging in winter due to heavy snow and ice. Use the Mapcode provided for precise navigation.

2025-2026 Latest Updates

In 2025, Jukai Onsen launched a “Forest Meditation Package,” featuring guided early-morning walks through the birch forest followed by a private mineral soak. For the 2026 season, new “Panoramic Benches” are being installed on the ridge behind the onsen for better sunset photography access.

Safety & Manners

In the onsen, always wash your body thoroughly before entering the tub. Because the water is weak alkaline and slippery, walk slowly to avoid falls. If you are hiking in the Hidaka mountains, always check the weather forecast and carry a bear bell, as this is active brown bear territory. Finally, respect the quiet of the mountain valley; many guests come here for the silence of the forest, so keep noise levels down in the guest rooms after 9:00 PM.