Makkari Onsen (真狩温泉)

Makkari Onsen: The Cinematic “Front Row” Spa at the Base of Ezo Fuji

Makkari Onsen is a destination for those who want to soak in the presence of greatness. Located in a quiet agricultural village at the southwestern foot of Mount Yotei—Hokkaido’s iconic “Ezo Fuji”—this hot spring offers arguably the best unobstructed mountain view in the entire prefecture. Far from the busy ski hubs of Niseko, Makkari maintains a serene, pastoral atmosphere where the rhythm of life is dictated by the soil and the seasons. Known for its world-class lily bulbs and its connection to Japanese “Enka” royalty, Makkari is a place where you can feel the true essence of Hokkaido’s frontier spirit. Whether you are recovering from a summit climb or simply watching the clouds dance around the volcano’s peak from a hand-built rock bath, Makkari Onsen provides a restorative soak that is as visually stunning as it is physically healing.

Key Information

The Healing Waters: Volcanic Minerals and the “Slipper” Tradition

The springs of Makkari are a direct byproduct of the dormant volcanic heat of Mount Yotei. Scientifically, the water is a complex blend of sodium chloride and sulfate. The chloride ions lock in body heat, making it a “Spring of Warmth,” while the sulfate content provides a natural anti-inflammatory effect for sore muscles and joints. The water is used in a “Gensen Kakenagashi” (100% natural flow) style, ensuring that the mineral concentration—including high levels of metasilicic acid—remains pure. A unique cultural quirk of Makkari is the annual Slipper Table Tennis Tournament held in January, where players use onsen slippers as paddles, celebrating the fun and community spirit that has defined this village since the springs were first developed for the pioneers.

Top 5 Recommended Ryokans & Stays

• Makkari House (Boutique/Modern): A stylish, minimalist lodge that offers personalized service and exceptional views of Mount Yotei. It is favored by international hikers and food lovers.
• Lily Garden Cottage (Family/Nature): Located near the flower fields, these independent cottages are perfect for families who want to experience rural life with modern comforts.
• SAUNA & Villa takibi (Luxury/Glamping): A new concept facility offering high-end private villas with individual saunas and outdoor hot tubs, overlooking the farming plains.
• The Westin Rusutsu Resort (Nearby Luxury): Located just 15 minutes away, this serves as a five-star base for those who want resort amenities with day-trip access to the Makkari springs.
• Makkari Youth Hostel (Budget/Solo): A high-quality budget option known for its friendly atmosphere and deep knowledge of the local hiking trails.

Must-Visit Public Baths (Soto-yu)

The Makkari Onsen public facility is the undisputed center of life here. For only 600 yen, you get access to a large indoor mineral pool and the iconic Mt. Yotei View Rotenburo. The outdoor bath is built from local river stones and features a layout that ensures the mountain is perfectly framed from every angle. For a quick break, the Makkari Flower Center Footbath is free and offers a relaxing rest for your feet surrounded by seasonal blossoms. Note: Unlike Niseko’s international spas, Makkari remains a very “local” experience—bring your own towel or buy one for a small fee.

Walking Guide & Scenic Spots

The “Yotei Panorama Walk” is the highlight of the village. Start at the Makkari Flower Center, which features a vast garden of lilies (peaking in July). Next, walk to the Takashi Hosokawa Monument; by pressing a button, you can hear the famous songs of this Enka legend as you look at the mountain. For adventurers, the Makkari Trailhead is the best route for climbing Mt. Yotei, offering a more gradual ascent than the Kutchan side. For a peaceful detour, visit the Yotei Spring Water Park in nearby Kyogoku to see the 80,000 tons of crystal-clear water that gushes from the mountain base daily.

Local Gastronomy & Souvenirs

Makkari is the “Vegetable Capital” of the region. You must try the Yurine (Lily Bulb) Croquettes, a sweet and savory specialty found at the onsen restaurant. Another local delicacy is Makkari Herb Pork, which is raised on a diet of local herbs, resulting in tender, fragrant meat. For souvenirs, look for Lily Bulb sweets and local Makkari Craft Beer. Don’t miss the Boulangerie Jin, a world-famous bakery tucked into a forest near the onsen that serves artisan bread baked in a wood-fired oven.

Cultural & Historical Context

Makkari’s history is a story of agriculture and resilience. Established by pioneers in the late 19th century, the village found its soul through the music of Takashi Hosokawa, one of Japan’s most successful Enka singers, who was born here. The onsen development followed the agricultural boom, serving as a social hub for farmers to rest their bodies after the harvest. The connection to the land is sacred here; Mount Yotei is considered a Kamuy (deity) that provides the water, the heat, and the fertile soil that sustains the community.

Practical Travel Tips

Transportation: Public buses are infrequent; renting a car from Sapporo or Chitose is highly recommended to see the flower hills and the bakery. Seasonality: July is best for lilies and mountain views; February is best for “yukimiburo” (snow-view bathing) and winter camping. Cash: Small eateries and the public onsen often do not accept credit cards; carry Japanese Yen. Tattoos: The public onsen has a strict No Tattoo policy; guests with ink should consider booking a private villa at “takibi.”

2025-2026 Latest Updates

In early 2026, Makkari will introduce a new “Agri-Tourism Thermal Pass,” allowing visitors to combine a morning harvest experience at local farms with a discount on an afternoon soak at the onsen. Additionally, the SAUNA & Villa takibi has recently expanded its facilities to include a Finnish-style “Snow Sauna” experience for the 2025-2026 winter season.

Safety & Manners

When using the outdoor bath, be mindful of the local residents; Makkari is a quiet village, and loud conversations can carry across the fields. In the onsen, always sit on the provided stool while washing and never place your towel in the water. If you are visiting to see the lilies, please stay on the designated paths to avoid damaging the delicate crops. Finally, take your trash back to your hotel to help keep Makkari the cleanest village in Hokkaido.