Sounkyo Onsen(層雲峡温泉) is a hot spring area in the Taisetsuzan mountain range located in Kamikawa Town, Hokkaido, and is particularly known for its magnificent nature and beautiful valley. Below is a detailed explanation of the characteristics and charms of Sounkyo Onsen.
It is one of Hokkaido’s best hot spring resorts where you can enjoy magnificent nature, abundant activities, and soothing hot springs. It is loved by many travelers because it has a variety of attractions throughout the four seasons and offers a variety of experiences such as sightseeing, mountain climbing, and skiing.
| Location | Kamikawa-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido |
| Spring quality | Simple hot spring/sulfur spring |
| Spring temperature | 51-93 degrees |
| Efficacy | Rheumatism, neuralgia, diabetes, anemia |
| Humoral classification | Neutral |
| Osmotic pressure classification | Hypotonic |
| External link | Sounkyo Tourism Association |
access
Sounkyo Onsen is relatively easily accessible from Sapporo and Asahikawa, and is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Asahikawa City. If you prefer to use public transportation, buses run from Asahikawa Station and New Chitose Airport.
Location and Scenery
Sounkyo Onsen is situated in the Sounkyo Gorge, which spans about 24 kilometers and is lined with cliffs reaching up to 150 meters in height. The gorge is part of the larger Daisetsuzan Mountain Range, known for its scenic views and natural grandeur. This region is especially popular during autumn when the leaves change color, providing a spectacular backdrop to the already impressive landscape.
Hot Springs
The hot springs of Sounkyo Onsen are rich in sulfate minerals, which are said to benefit the skin and help with conditions like joint pain and muscle stiffness. The resort has numerous ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) and hotels offering both public and private baths (indoor and outdoor), where visitors can soak while enjoying views of the mountains or the nearby river. These onsen baths often utilize natural geothermal water that originates from the volcanic activity in the area.
Activities and Attractions
Kurodake Ropeway
This cable car provides access to Mt. Kurodake, a gateway to Daisetsuzan’s hiking trails. The ropeway and additional chairlift allow visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the gorge and surrounding mountains. In winter, Mt. Kurodake becomes a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding.
Waterfalls
Sounkyo is home to two famous waterfalls—Ginga no Taki (Milky Way Falls) and Ryusei no Taki (Shooting Star Falls)—which are located near each other. These falls are especially beautiful in spring and after heavy rain, adding to the picturesque scenery of the gorge.
Hiking
Sounkyo is an excellent base for exploring Daisetsuzan National Park, which offers a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. Some trails lead to alpine peaks and offer sweeping views of Hokkaido’s largest national park.
Sounkyo Onsen Ice Fall Festival
The Sounkyo Onsen Ice Fall Festival (層雲峡温泉氷瀑まつり, Sounkyo Onsen Hyoubaku Matsuri) is a famous winter event held annually in the Sounkyo Onsen area, located in Hokkaido’s Daisetsuzan National Park. The festival is known for its stunning ice sculptures, colorful lights, and natural beauty, creating a magical winter wonderland for visitors.
Overview of the Festival
The Ice Fall Festival typically runs from late January to mid-March, taking advantage of Hokkaido’s harsh winter temperatures to create magnificent frozen art. With temperatures often dropping below -10°C (14°F), large structures made from frozen waterfalls and ice formations take center stage. The festival site covers a large area, and the icy sculptures are illuminated at night, casting a mystical glow across the landscape.
Seasons
Summer
Sounkyo is a great place to escape the heat, with cool temperatures and green mountain landscapes.
Autumn
This season is especially popular due to the vibrant autumn foliage.
Winter
Sounkyo becomes a winter wonderland, with snow-covered landscapes and ice festivals. The area also offers skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
Spring
The melting snow leads to powerful waterfalls and a refreshing atmosphere, making springtime hikes particularly rewarding.
Accommodation
The resort offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels with private onsen to more affordable ryokan. Many of these lodgings have open-air baths with views of the surrounding nature, providing a relaxing retreat after exploring the park.
Cultural Significance
Sounkyo is located in the Kamikawa region, traditionally home to the Ainu people, the indigenous inhabitants of Hokkaido. While Sounkyo is primarily known as a hot spring resort today, the area’s cultural history adds another layer of interest for those keen to learn about the Ainu and the region’s history.