Biei Shirogane Onsen (美瑛白金温泉)

Biei Shirogane Onsen: The Platinum Fountain of Youth in the Hills of Biei

Biei Shirogane Onsen is a hidden sanctuary of healing, nestled at the base of the majestic Tokachi Mountain Range in central Hokkaido. Known as the “fountain of youth” and the “hot spring where you forget your cane,” this resort is famous for its powerful medicinal waters and its proximity to some of Japan’s most ethereal natural wonders, including the Shirogane Blue Pond. The approach to the town is a journey through the “White Birch Corridor,” a 4-kilometer stretch of elegant trees that provides a stunning seasonal backdrop. Whether you are seeking relief from physical ailments or a quiet retreat amidst alpine beauty, Shirogane offers a pure, “platinum” experience found nowhere else on earth.

Key Information

The Healing Waters: Science and the Platinum Discovery

The history of Shirogane Onsen is a testament to human perseverance. Discovered in 1950 by the then-mayor of Biei, Mr. Kakuichi Kougami, the source was reached after years of difficult drilling into the volcanic bedrock. Upon seeing the hot water gush forth from 399 meters underground, he proclaimed it was “as precious as platinum,” giving the town its name (Shirogane means platinum/white gold). Scientifically, the water gushes at a temperature of approximately 50°C. While colorless and transparent at the source, the high concentration of magnesium and iron causes the water to turn a unique light brown, cloudy hue upon contact with the air. This “earth-toned” water is exceptionally rich in minerals that promote blood circulation and skin metabolism, leading to its reputation for curing those who arrive needing walking aids.

Top 5 Recommended Ryokans

• Mori no Ryotei Biei (Luxury/Boutique): A highly refined inn located in a quiet forest setting. It features independent cottage-style rooms with private open-air baths and serves exquisite Kaiseki cuisine made with Biei’s world-class produce.
• Biei Shirogane Onsen Aonobi Yuyu (Modern/View): Recently rebranded, this hotel offers stylish rooms with panoramic views of the canyon. The “Canyon View Suites” feature massage chairs and private hot spring tubs overlooking the Shirahige Falls.
• Shirogane Park Hills (Family/Resort): A large-scale resort perfect for groups and families, offering a fitness center, indoor pool, and spacious communal baths with multiple temperature zones.
• Mori no Shizuku RIN (Nature/Heritage): Formerly the Taisetsuzan Shirogane Kanko Hotel, this property is designed with forest motifs and offers large open-air baths where you can breathe in the scent of birch and pine.
• C Hotel Biei Shirogane (Pet-Friendly/Unique): One of the few luxury options that allow travelers to stay with their pets, featuring modern river-view rooms and high-quality local dining.

Must-Visit Public Baths (Soto-yu)

For day travelers, the Yudokoro Tsuewasure no Yu is the iconic public bathhouse of Shirogane. Reopened in 2024, this facility focuses on the traditional experience of the “cane-forgetting” water. It is a simple, rustic building that allows you to feel the mineral potency of the springs for a modest fee of 300 yen. For a more comprehensive resort-style day bath, Shirogane Park Hills offers access to its large baths for approximately 1,000 yen, including access to a sauna.

Walking Guide & Scenic Spots

The Shirogane area is a photographer’s paradise. Start at the Shirahige Falls (White Beard Falls), located right in the center of the onsen town. This unique waterfall is fed by underground springs that burst from the cliffside into the cobalt-blue Biei River. From there, take the Shirakaba Walking Trail, a 3-kilometer path through the birch forest that connects the onsen town to the Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoi-ike). The pond’s surreal turquoise color is the result of aluminum from the hot springs mixing with the river water. For a hidden gem, visit the Fudou Waterfall, a 25-meter terraced fall where the water is ice-cold even in summer, surrounded by 88 stone Buddha statues.

Local Gastronomy & Souvenirs

Biei is the “Bread Basket of Hokkaido.” Try Biei Pork, which is famous for its sweetness and fine texture, often served as Tonkatsu or in a Shabu-shabu style at local ryokans. For a casual meal, KINGBEAR Biei offers legendary soup curry made with Biei’s famous potatoes and onions. Souvenirs to look for at the Roadside Station Shirogane BIRKE include Blue Pond-themed snacks (like blue beer and blue pudding) and Biei-wheat-based breads and pastries. Don’t miss the fresh Biei Jersey Milk, which is incredibly rich and creamy.

Cultural & Historical Context

The landscape of Shirogane was dramatically shaped by the 1926 eruption of Mt. Tokachi. The massive mudflow that followed carved the river valleys but also deposited the minerals that fuel today’s hot springs. The “White Birch Corridor” actually grew wild as a natural recovery of the land after the disaster. Today, the town maintains a deep respect for the volcano, which is monitored by the Tokachidake Volcanic Gallery (VOLGA), a facility where visitors can learn about the mountain’s power and the history of Biei’s pioneers.

Practical Travel Tips

Transportation: Public buses from Biei Station run only a few times a day; renting a car from Asahikawa or Biei is highly recommended to see the Blue Pond and the flower hills efficiently. Winter Gear: In winter, the paths to the Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls are extremely icy. Wear boots with good grip or purchase “ice spikes” from a convenience store. Tattoos: Most Shirogane hotels allow guests with tattoos to use their baths if they are small and covered, but for larger tattoos, booking a private bath at Mori no Ryotei or Aonobi Yuyu is the safest option.

2025-2026 Latest Updates

The Shirogane Blue Pond Illumination is a major highlight for the 2025-2026 season, running from October 24, 2025, to April 22, 2026. The lighting patterns change throughout the winter to tell a 10-minute story. Additionally, the Shirahige Falls Illumination is now a permanent, year-round attraction, offering a mystical night view of the blue river and white ice crystals in winter.

Safety & Manners

When walking the nature trails, stay on the marked paths to protect the fragile alpine ecosystem. In the onsen, remember that Shirogane’s water is earth-toned and mineral-heavy; it can stain light-colored towels if you dip them in the water. Always rinse your body before entering the tub to maintain the purity of the “Platinum” water. Finally, be mindful that mountain weather can change in minutes—always carry a light jacket, even in summer.