Hoheikyo Onsen - A Tattoo-Friendly Hot Spring in Sapporo, Hokkaido

Tucked away in Sapporo's picturesque Jozankei Valley, Hoheikyo Onsen invites you to experience one of Hokkaido's most liberating bathing experiences. This remarkable day-use facility features expansive stone-carved outdoor baths fed by 100% natural, free-flowing hot springs—a rarity even among Japan's thousands of onsen. As you soak in mineral-rich waters amidst seasonal mountain landscapes, you'll understand why this onsen has become a sanctuary for both locals and international visitors.

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What truly sets Hoheikyo apart is its refreshingly inclusive approach to body art, welcoming tattooed guests without hesitation or judgment. This openness, combined with its unexpected culinary treasures—authentic Indian curry served year-round and winter igloo dining experiences—creates a uniquely accessible gateway into Japanese bathing culture that respects both tradition and diversity.

• Genuine Natural Waters: Experience 100% free-flowing hot springs with no recycling or added chemicals—increasingly rare even in Japan
• Tattoo-Friendly Environment: Enjoy complete acceptance without covering tattoos or facing uncomfortable scrutiny
• Unique Culinary Fusion: Sample surprisingly authentic Indian curry in the mountains of Hokkaido
• Seasonal Magic: Winter transforms the experience with snow-covered outdoor bathing and unique igloo dining (January-March)
• Accessible Day Trip: Just 60-70 minutes from downtown Sapporo with dedicated shuttle service
• Skin-Enhancing Waters: Sodium chloride-rich springs renowned for improving skin texture and circulation
• Gender-Rotating Baths: Front and rear outdoor baths switch between genders daily, offering varied views and experiences

At Hoheikyo, you'll immerse yourself in meticulously crafted stone baths that blend harmoniously with the surrounding forest. The outdoor rotemburo—maintained at perfect soaking temperatures between 37-42°C—offer sweeping views of Hokkaido's seasonal beauty: vibrant autumn foliage, snow-draped winter landscapes, or lush summer greenery. The onsen rotates bath access daily (odd days allocate the front bath to men and rear to women, switching on even days), ensuring everyone experiences the facility's varied perspectives.

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The sodium chloride-rich waters are drawn directly from natural springs without additives or recycling. This mineral composition stimulates blood circulation, helps retain body heat after bathing, and leaves your skin with the silky smoothness that genuine onsen are celebrated for. As steam rises around you and snowflakes gently fall in winter months, the contrast between the hot waters and crisp mountain air creates the quintessential Japanese bathing experience—one fully accessible regardless of your tattoos.

🚆 Sapporo Station → 🚌 Kappa Liner bus (70 min, ¥840) → 🚶 2 min walk  

🚇 Makomanai Subway Station → 🚌 Chuo Bus #88/101 (40 min) → 🚶 15 min walk  

🚗 Downtown Sapporo → 60 min drive via Route 230 → Free parking available  

❄️ Winter Tip: The shuttle bus runs year-round; no special transportation needed in snow season

No reservations are required for bathing at Hoheikyo Onsen, though the shuttle bus from Sapporo Station benefits from advance booking, particularly during peak winter months and weekends.

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🌐 Website: www.hoheikyo.co.jp (Japanese only)  

📞 Phone: +81 11-598-2410  

📍 Address: 608-2 Jozankei, Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 061-2301, Japan