Takeyama Kogen Onsen (竹山高原温泉)

Introduction: The Golden Moor Oasis near Hokkaido’s New Baseball Frontier

Located in the rolling, forested hills of Kitahiroshima City, just a short drive from central Sapporo and the airport, lies Takeyama Kogen Onsen (竹山高原温泉). This hot spring is a beloved local secret that has recently gained international attention due to its proximity to the “ES CON FIELD HOKKAIDO” (F Village), Japan’s most advanced baseball stadium. Takeyama Kogen is famous for its rare and potent “Moor” (peat) water—a “fossil spring” that looks like translucent amber. For the international traveler, Takeyama Kogen Onsen offers a perfect blend of modern Hokkaido excitement and traditional thermal healing. It is a place where you can soak in “Beauty Waters” while surrounded by lush greenery, breathe in the fresh forest air, and enjoy a high-quality retreat that serves as a bridge between the urban energy of Sapporo and the quiet pastoral landscapes of the interior.

Key Information Table

The Healing Waters: The “Ancient Silk” of the Kitahiroshima Hills

The water at Takeyama Kogen Onsen is a world-class Moor Spring (モール温泉). Unlike volcanic springs that derive minerals from rocks, Moor water is an organic gift filtered through layers of ancient, buried plant matter.
The Visuals: The water is a stunning golden-amber or “coffee-brown” color.
The Sensation: It is incredibly slippery and smooth—often described as “liquid moisturizer.” The high concentration of humic and fulvic acids acts as a natural exfoliant.
The facility features one of the largest outdoor Rotenburo baths in the region, built with massive volcanic rocks. Soaking here in winter, as the steam rises into the cold air and the surrounding forest is buried in white snow, provides a meditative experience that feels worlds away from the nearby city.

Top Recommended Stay: Takeyama Kogen Onsen Hotel

• Takeyama Kogen Onsen (Hotel Section): A warm, wooden lodge-style hotel that offers spacious Japanese and Western rooms. It is famous for its “Ginger Pork” and “Tokachi Beef” dinners. Staying here allows for early morning access to the baths, which is the most peaceful time to see the forest wildlife. It is the premier choice for baseball fans who want to relax after a game at the nearby stadium.
• Kitahiroshima City Hotels: For those who prefer a more urban base, several modern business hotels are located near JR Kitahiroshima Station, allowing for a quick taxi ride to the onsen.

Must-Visit Neighborhood Spots: Baseball and Cycling

ES CON FIELD HOKKAIDO (F Village): A 10-minute drive away. This is a must-visit even if there is no game. It features a craft brewery, high-end restaurants, and even a sauna that overlooks the field.
Elfin Road (Cycling Path): A spectacular dedicated cycling path that connects Sapporo to Kitahiroshima. You can rent a bike and ride through the forest directly to the vicinity of the onsen.
Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo Kitahiroshima: A 15-minute drive for those seeking world-class shopping at discounted prices.

Local Gastronomy: The Bounty of the Hills

Food in Kitahiroshima is defined by the high-quality produce of the surrounding farms.
Kitahiroshima Potatoes & Corn: Try the local snacks sold at the Michi-no-Eki (Roadside Station) nearby.
Vegetarian/Vegan Survival:
For Vegans: Kitahiroshima has several organic cafes due to its status as a “satellite town.” At the onsen restaurant, request the “Vegetable Curry” (ensure no meat dashi) or fresh Soba. The local **”Kitahiroshima Tofu”** is also highly recommended for its rich soy flavor. We suggest checking the “F Village” food hall for modern vegan-friendly international options as well.

Cultural & Historical Context

The town of Kitahiroshima was settled in the late 19th century by pioneers from Hiroshima Prefecture in Honshu—hence the name “North Hiroshima.” They brought with them a resilient spirit and agricultural techniques that turned the marshy land into a productive paradise. Takeyama Kogen Onsen was discovered during the Showa era and has since served as a vital wellness spot for the community. Today, it represents the town’s evolution into a world-class sports and wellness destination.

Practical Travel Tips for International Visitors

• Tattoo Policy: Takeyama Kogen Onsen is a popular local spot. Small tattoos are generally fine; for large pieces, using a waterproof cover sticker is recommended. The facility is busiest on weekend afternoons (especially during baseball season), so visit on a weekday morning for a more private experience.
• Language Support: Basic English signs for the bath rules are available. The ticket vending machine is straightforward. Staff are used to international baseball fans and will help through gestures and translation apps.
• Cash & Payments: The hotel accepts major credit cards. However, the day-trip bath entry machine is cash-only (JPY).
• Access Advice: If you are traveling by train, get off at JR Kitahiroshima Station. A 10-minute taxi is the easiest way to reach the onsen. During the baseball season, shuttle buses from the stadium area often make it easier to navigate the town.

2025-2026 Latest Updates

In 2025, Takeyama Kogen Onsen launched a “Baseball & Bath” discount package for ticket holders of ES CON FIELD. For the 2026 season, the facility is upgrading its “Forest Sauna” to include an outdoor “Snow Plunge” area for the winter months, enhancing the traditional Finnish-style thermal experience.

Safety & Manners

In the onsen, always rinse your body thoroughly before entering the tub. Because the Moor water is dark and slippery, walk slowly on the tiled floors. If you are coming from a baseball game, ensure you are not wearing loud merchandise or making noise in the bath—this is a place of deep relaxation for the locals. Finally, respect the quiet of the surrounding forest; Takeyama Kogen is a sanctuary for local birds and deer, so avoid loud behavior in the outdoor areas.