Nauman Onsen (ナウマン温泉)

Introduction: A Thermal Voyage to the Ice Age in the Tokachi Plains

Located in the Churui district of Makubetsu Town, surrounded by the vast, fertile pastures of the Tokachi region, lies Nauman Onsen (ナウマン温泉). This destination is unique in Japan for its deep connection to prehistoric history; it is the very site where a nearly complete skeleton of the ancient Naumann’s Elephant was discovered in 1969. The onsen itself, housed within the “Hotel Nauman” resort, offers high-quality alkaline waters that are celebrated for their skin-softening properties. For the international traveler, Nauman Onsen represents a fascinating intersection of paleontology, agriculture, and wellness. It is a place where you can soak in “Beauty Waters” while contemplating the mammoths that once roamed these plains, breathe in the crisp air of the Hidaka foothills, and experience the quiet, resilient spirit of Hokkaido’s southern frontier. It is the perfect restorative stop for those driving the scenic “Golden Road” along the coast or exploring the “Food Valley” of Tokachi.

Key Information Table

The Healing Waters: The “Silk Bath” of the Elephant Valley

The water at Nauman Onsen is a world-class Alkaline Simple Spring. It is geologically notable for its high pH level, often exceeding 9.5.
The Nuru-Nuru Sensation: As soon as you submerge, your skin will feel remarkably slippery and smooth. This occurs because the alkalinity acts as a natural cleanser, gently emulsifying skin oils and dissolving old keratin—this is the classic “Bijin-no-yu” (Beauty Water) effect. The water is crystal clear and odorless, making it approachable for those who find sulfur springs too intense. The primary facility, Hotel Nauman, features a spacious indoor panoramic bath and an outdoor Rotenburo where you can watch the sunset over the Tokachi hills. The minerals are particularly effective at improving peripheral circulation, providing a deep warmth that lasts long after you dry off.

Top Recommended Stay: Hotel Nauman

• Hotel Nauman (ナウマン温泉ホテルアルコ): The heart of the area’s wellness. This modern resort offers spacious Japanese and Western rooms. The dining hall is a major attraction, serving “Churui Wagyu Beef” and local vegetables grown in the volcanic soil. It is a favorite for families and international road-trippers who want a quiet, high-value stay between Obihiro and Erimo Cape.
• Churui Campground: Located adjacent to the onsen and the elephant museum, this is one of the highest-rated campsites in southern Tokachi. Ideal for “Van-life” travelers who want onsen access just a 2-minute walk from their tent.

Must-Visit Neighborhood Spots: Elephants and Lilies

Naumann Elephant Museum: Just steps from the onsen. This world-class museum showcases the life-sized restoration of the prehistoric elephant and the history of its discovery. A must-visit for families and science enthusiasts.
Yuri-no-Sato (Lily Park): In July and August, the adjacent hillside is covered in tens of thousands of blooming lilies, creating a vibrant and fragrant landscape.
Park Golf Course: Makubetsu is the “Birthplace of Park Golf.” You can try this easy-to-learn Japanese sport at the course right next to the onsen center.

Local Gastronomy: The Bounty of Churui

Churui is a hub for high-quality agriculture and dairy.
Churui Lily Bulbs (Yuri-ne): The town is famous for edible lily bulbs. They have a sweet, potato-like texture and are served in tempura or as part of the onsen’s kaiseki dinner.
Churui Beef: Locally raised cattle known for their tenderness.
Vegetarian/Vegan Survival:
For Vegans: Churui is a major producer of Soybeans and Corn. At the onsen restaurant, request the “Vegetable Tempura” (ensure no egg in batter) or the local Soba. The nearby Roadside Station (Michi-no-Eki) Churui sells fresh “Yaki-toukibi” (roasted corn) in summer which is naturally 100% vegan. We also recommend trying the local **”Lily Bulb Croquettes”** (check for dairy).

Cultural & Historical Context

The discovery of the Naumann’s Elephant in 1969 transformed Churui from a quiet farming village into a site of international scientific importance. The onsen was developed to provide a wellness center for the community and to welcome visitors arriving for the “Elephant Pilgrimage.” Today, the onsen remains a symbol of the town’s pride in its prehistoric past and its commitment to the “Pioneer Spirit” that turned the challenging Tokachi climate into a productive paradise.

Practical Travel Tips for International Visitors

• Tattoo Policy: Hotel Nauman is relatively modern and welcoming. Small tattoos are generally ignored. For large pieces, using a waterproof sticker is recommended. There are no private baths, but the facility is rarely crowded during the early afternoon hours.
• Language Support: Basic English signs for the bath rules and museum descriptions are available. The staff are used to tourists from Obihiro and use translation apps for check-in.
• Cash & Payments: The resort accepts major credit cards for overnight stays. However, the day-trip bath ticket machine and the local museum entrance prefer cash (JPY).
• Access: A rental car is highly recommended. While a bus from Obihiro exists, it is infrequent. The drive from Tokachi-Obihiro Airport is an easy, scenic 40-minute trip through rolling farm country.

2025-2026 Latest Updates

In 2025, Nauman Onsen launched a “Stargazing & Mammoth Tour,” featuring guided night walks to the fossil discovery site followed by a late-night onsen soak. For the 2026 season, new “Luxury Glamping Pods” are being built near the lily park, offering easy access to the onsen and a high-end camping experience under the clear Tokachi skies.

Safety & Manners

In the onsen, always sit on the provided stools while washing and do not splash water. Because the water is very alkaline and slippery, walk carefully near the tubs. When visiting the museum, avoid using flashes near the delicate fossil displays. Finally, respect the quiet nature of the rural district; many guests stay here for the silence of the plains, so keep conversations in the outdoor bath to a respectful whisper.