Yuni Onsen (由仁温泉)

Yuni Onsen: The “Coffee Water” Moor Spring and Botanical Escape Near Sapporo

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Yuni Town, just an hour’s drive from the bustling streets of Sapporo, lies Yuni Onsen (由仁温泉). Known colloquially by its flagship facility “Yunni-no-yu,” this destination has gained a cult following among locals and savvy travelers for its “Black Water”—a rare Moor (peat) spring that looks like freshly brewed coffee. It is a place where the air smells of herbs and pine, and the water feels like liquid silk against the skin. For those arriving in Hokkaido via New Chitose Airport, Yuni Onsen serves as the perfect “first stop” or “final soak.” It offers a sophisticated blend of traditional thermal bathing, European-style botanical gardens, and the rustic charm of Hokkaido’s agricultural heartland. Whether you are a solo traveler seeking a quiet retreat or a family looking for a spacious resort, the dark, mysterious waters of Yuni provide a unique aesthetic and therapeutic experience.

Key Information

The Healing Waters: The Organic Silk of the Moor

The defining feature of Yuni Onsen is its Moor Spring (モール温泉) quality. Unlike volcanic hot springs that derive minerals from rocks, Moor springs derive their properties from ancient, buried organic plant matter. The water filters through layers of peat, infusing it with humic acid and complex organic compounds. The result is a striking dark brown water, often described as “cola-colored.” This organic richness makes the water incredibly slippery and alkaline, which gently exfoliates the skin, removing dead cells and leaving a moisturizing film behind. This is why Yuni is celebrated as a “Bijin-no-yu” or “Hot Spring of Beauty.” The thermal properties are also excellent for retaining heat; the “after-heat” effect keeps your body core warm for a significant time, making it a favorite during the cold Hokkaido winters.

Top Recommended Stays & Bases

• Yunni-no-yu (The Main Resort): A beautiful log-cabin style building that feels like a grand mountain lodge. It offers spacious Japanese and Western rooms and is famous for its excellent breakfast buffet featuring local Yuni vegetables.
• Yuni Garden Cottages: Located near the botanical garden, these are ideal for travelers who want a “country cottage” experience surrounded by flowers and herbs.
• Sapporo City Hotels: Since Yuni is only 60 minutes from Sapporo, many visitors choose to stay in the city and drive to Yuni for a relaxing day-long getaway.
• New Chitose Airport Hotels: For those with early morning flights, staying in Yuni the night before offers a much more relaxing “Hokkaido-style” end to their trip compared to an airport hotel.

The Herb Gardens of Yuni: A Sensory Botanical Journey

Directly adjacent to the onsen is the Yuni Garden, one of Japan’s largest British-style botanical gardens. The garden is famous for its seasonal displays, particularly the Kochia (summer cypress) in autumn, which turns the hillsides into a sea of fluffy crimson. The garden also features over 100 varieties of herbs, and the onsen facility incorporates these into their wellness programs. The “Herb Sauna” inside Yunni-no-yu uses these locally grown plants to create a fragrant, therapeutic steam that clears the mind and respiratory system. Walking through the gardens before a soak is the recommended way to spend a full afternoon here.

Walking Guide: Kochia Hills and Ishikari Plain

A stroll around the Yuni area offers gentle, rolling scenery typical of Hokkaido’s farming heartland. The Kochia Hill is a must-visit in September and October for photographers. For a wider perspective, the Mikuni Mountain Lookout provides a panoramic view of the Ishikari Plain and the distant peaks of the Yubari range. The town is also very bicycle-friendly, and rental cycles are available for those who want to explore the local farms and roadside stations at a slower pace.

Local Gastronomy & Souvenirs

Yuni is famous for its Onions and Sweetcorn. The local “Yuni Soup Curry” is packed with these sweet, farm-fresh vegetables and is a top seller at the onsen restaurant. Another specialty is “Yuni Tofu,” known for its rich soy flavor and silky texture. For souvenirs, the “Herb Tea” from Yuni Garden is highly prized, as is the “Yunni Cider,” a refreshing soda that is perfect after a long, hot soak in the dark moor waters. Don’t forget to check the “Roadside Station” (Michi-no-Eki) for fresh seasonal produce to take back to your accommodation.

Cultural & Historical Context

The name “Yuni” is derived from the Ainu word “Yu-un-ni”, which literally means “Place where there is a hot spring.” This shows that the indigenous Ainu people recognized the geothermal potential of this land centuries ago. Historically, the area was a center for coal mining, but as the mines closed, the town successfully reinvented itself through “Green Tourism” and agriculture. Yuni Onsen is the symbol of this successful transition—turning a natural geological resource into a world-class wellness destination.

Practical Travel Tips

Crowds: Because of its proximity to Sapporo, it gets very busy on weekend afternoons. Visit on a weekday or during the “morning bath” (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM) for a peaceful experience. Transport: While reachable by train and shuttle, a car is better for exploring the surrounding gardens and farm shops. Skin Care: The water is very alkaline; while great for most, those with extremely sensitive skin should rinse well after bathing. Tattoos: Stickers are available at the front desk for covering small tattoos.

2025-2026 Latest Updates

For the 2026 season, Yuni Garden has announced a new “Night Garden & Onsen” package, allowing visitors to view the illuminated Kochia hills after sunset before taking a late-night bath. Additionally, the facility has expanded its “Workation” space, providing high-speed Wi-Fi and quiet booths for digital nomads who want to work while looking out over the Hokkaido forest.

Safety & Manners

The Moor water is naturally slippery; please walk slowly on the tile floors to avoid accidents. In the herb sauna, be mindful of others and do not pour excessive water on the stones (Löyly) without checking with fellow bathers. As with all Japanese onsens, wash your body thoroughly before entering the communal tubs. By following these simple manners, you contribute to the serene and healing atmosphere that makes Yuni Onsen such a beloved local treasure結構です。