Hokuryu Onsen (北竜温泉)

Hokuryu Onsen: The Sanctuary of Two Million Sunflowers and the Dragon’s Healing Spring

Nestled in the heart of central Hokkaido, Hokuryu Onsen (北竜温泉) is more than just a hot spring; it is the center of the “Sunflower Kingdom.” Famous for hosting Japan’s largest sunflower field with over two million golden blooms, the town of Hokuryu transforms into a radiant yellow sea every summer. The onsen itself, housed within the striking “Hokuryu Himawari-no-Sato” complex, features unique dragon-themed architecture—a nod to the town’s name (Hokuryu means “Northern Dragon”). For international travelers, this destination offers a surreal mix of rural charm, breathtaking floral photography, and deep thermal relaxation. Whether you are visiting for the Himawari Festival in August or seeking a quiet winter retreat surrounded by white snow and golden memories, Hokuryu Onsen provides a soul-warming experience that captures the vibrant spirit of Hokkaido’s farm country.

Key Information Table

The Healing Waters: The Golden Dragon’s Touch

The water at Hokuryu Onsen is a rich, mineral-heavy spring that pumps from deep within the earth. It is categorized as a Sodium-Chloride/Bicarbonate spring, which is often called the “Spring of Beauty.” The high salt content creates a mineral veil over the skin, effectively trapping heat and keeping your body warm long after the bath—an essential quality during Hokkaido’s sub-zero winters. The indoor area features multiple tubs, including a medicinal herb bath and a high-temperature dry sauna. The outdoor bath (Rotenburo) is decorated with large stone dragons, creating a mythical atmosphere where you can soak under the vast, starry skies of the Sorachi region. The water has a slight, pleasant earthy scent, reminding bathers of its deep geological origins.

Inbound Traveler Guide: Tattoos, Language, and Accessibility

• Tattoo Policy: As a community-oriented resort, Hokuryu is generally relaxed toward international guests. Small tattoos are usually fine, but covering larger pieces with waterproof medical tape is a respectful gesture. The facility does not have private baths, so if you have very large tattoos, consider visiting during the quieter “morning bath” hours (before 12 PM).
• Language Support: Basic English signage is available for the bath rules. The hotel staff are very helpful and used to independent travelers; they often use translation tablets to ensure smooth communication during check-in.
• Cashless & Payments: The hotel and restaurant accept major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex). However, the day-trip bath ticket machine and the small souvenir kiosks in the sunflower park are cash-only (JPY).
• Accessibility: The facility is wheelchair accessible, with wide corridors and elevators connecting the onsen, restaurant, and hotel rooms.

Dietary Needs: Sunflower Gastronomy

Hokuryu takes its “Sunflower” branding into the kitchen, offering unique health-focused cuisine.
Sunflower Seed Cuisine: Try the “Himawari Ramen,” which features sunflower oil and roasted seeds as a topping.
Vegetarian/Vegan Friendly: The local roadside station (Michi-no-Eki) sells Sunflower Seeds (rich in Vitamin E) and pure Sunflower Oil. For meals, you can request vegetable-only rice bowls or Soba noodles. Since this is an agricultural town, the vegetables (corn, pumpkins, potatoes) are incredibly fresh. Vegans can enjoy steamed Hokkaido potatoes with sea salt—a simple but perfect local delicacy.

Walking Guide: The Sea of Two Million Flowers

The Himawari-no-Sato (Sunflower Village) is the main attraction. From late July to mid-August, you can walk through the massive “Sunflower Maze” or take a tour of the fields on the “Sunflower Tractor Bus.” For photographers, the “Golden Hour” just before sunset offers world-class lighting as the flowers all face the dying light. Outside of summer, the area is peacefully rural, perfect for cycling through the rice fields or visiting the Dragon Gate, a massive stone entrance that guards the town.

Practical Travel Tips: Getting to the Golden Fields

By Bus: Direct buses (Chuo Bus) run from Sapporo to the “Hokuryu Himawari-no-Sato” stop (approx. 2 hours).
By Train & Taxi: Take the JR train to Takikawa Station, then a local bus or taxi (30 mins) to the onsen.
By Rental Car: This is the most recommended way. It is a 90-minute scenic drive from Sapporo via the Hokkaido Expressway (exit at Takikawa IC).
Pro Tip: August is very hot in the fields; soak in the onsen AFTER your walk to cool down in the air-conditioned lounge and rehydrate with local sunflower tea.

2025-2026 Latest Updates

In 2025, Hokuryu Onsen launched the “Night Sunflower Illumination” event, where a section of the fields is lit up with eco-friendly LED lights, allowing for magical nighttime walks followed by a late-night onsen soak. For the 2026 season, the resort is introducing “Sunflower Yoga” sessions on the terrace, combining thermal healing with sunrise meditation overlooking the fields.

Safety & Manners

In the onsen, always sit on the stools provided while washing; never splash water on others. Since this is a family-friendly destination, expect many children during the summer months—please be patient and enjoy the lively atmosphere. In winter, the rural roads around Hokuryu can experience “Whiteouts.” If you are driving and visibility drops to zero, pull over safely and wait for the wind to die down. Always check the weather forecast before leaving Asahikawa or Sapporo.