The Charm of Hokkaido Saunas and Gourmet Experiences
Among the “Nationwide Sauna Journey” gaining attention across Japan, Hokkaido is particularly popular. This region, where magnificent nature and abundant hot spring resources merge, is truly an ideal place for sauna enthusiasts. With beautiful seasonal landscapes and gourmet dishes made from fresh and delicious ingredients, visitors are never bored. For example, there are diverse hot spring facilities like Noboribetsu Onsen and Tokachidake Onsen, as well as unique saunas scattered throughout.
Additionally, the self-pour löyly and various sauna room designs are attractive, each offering a unique “totonou” experience. And don’t forget about the “strong>sauna meal.” Dishes made with local ingredients create a blissful moment after relaxation. This article introduces recommended sauna facilities and gourmet spots to visit in Hokkaido, so enjoy discovering new experiences.
The Appeal of a Sauna Journey in Hokkaido
Hokkaido is a region with a unique charm where nature and culture blend. It is particularly known for its well-equipped hot springs and sauna facilities. A sauna experience that refreshes both body and mind amidst magnificent nature is supported by many tourists and locals. This article introduces recommended sauna facilities and gourmet experiences in Hokkaido.
Recommended Sauna Facilities
Sapporo｜Gardens Cabin
“Gardens Cabin” is located in Sapporo city and is popular for its excellent accessibility. This facility allows for self-pour löyly, letting you enjoy the heat to your liking. This place, where you can savor pleasant tranquility while still in the city, is truly an oasis to escape from busy daily life.
Noboribetsu Onsen
Noboribetsu Onsen is a renowned tourist destination attracting many visitors from both domestic and international locations, known for its abundant hot water and diverse spring qualities. There are nine different types of hot springs here, each with different benefits, allowing enjoyment throughout the day. Additionally, there are nature trails in the surrounding area, allowing you to feel a connection with the great outdoors.
Tokachidake Onsen Shirogane-so
Located in the Tokachidake mountain range, “Shirogane-so” is a secluded inn surrounded by nature, also available for day-use bathing. In this place, you can reset both body and mind in an environment designated as a special natural monument. It also offers self-catering accommodation, recommended for those who want to spend time alone.
Obihiro│Hokkaido Hotel
The sauna at Hokkaido Hotel in Obihiro city utilizes natural moor hot springs, offering a high-quality sauna experience. Notably, it features a Finnish-style sauna made with Hokkaido wood and a cold bath using its own moor hot spring. The löyly, enveloped in humidity and aroma, warms the body from the core, and the spacious outdoor air bath space allows for a deep “totonou” experience. Meals using local ingredients are also popular, offering an exquisite sauna experience that resets both body and mind along with accommodation.
Unique Gourmet Experiences in Hokkaido
Hokkaido is famous for its delicious ingredients and the dishes that make use of them. Here are some gourmet experiences you should try after a sauna.
Seafood Cuisine
Fresh seafood is a must for a trip to Hokkaido. Especially in Hakodate and Otaru, you can easily enjoy fresh sushi and sashimi. Additionally, various “seafood bowls” are available, each with unique offerings from different shops.
Genghis Khan
Genghis Khan, made with lamb meat, is popular among many tourists. Its tender texture and unique flavor are unforgettable once tasted. There are many specialty stores in Sapporo city where you can enjoy the authentic taste.
SAPPAKE Hot Pot
The recently popular “SAPPAKE Hot Pot” is a healthy hot pot dish using plenty of fresh vegetables and meats. Its rich ingredients and exquisite balance of broth are characteristic, warming not only the body but also the heart.
Conclusion: Embark on the Ultimate “Totonou” Experience!
Hokkaido, which has gained attention from across the country, offers more than just a tourist destination. It is further emphasized by the healing spaces provided within its great nature—namely saunas. Combined with the satisfaction of delicious gourmet unique to this area, your journey will be even more fulfilling. Starting with the spots and dishes introduced in this article, how about preparing to find your own favorite points? There are still many attractive spots, so it’s worth exploring them yourself!
Frequently Asked Questions About Sauna Journeys in Hokkaido
What are the recommended sauna facilities in Hokkaido?
Hokkaido has many attractive sauna facilities from Sapporo to Niseko. For example, the Niseko area is famous as a ski resort, but it also has unique saunas where you can enjoy nature. Additionally, Sapporo city offers a variety of options, including modern saunas in urban hotels and facilities with hot springs loved by locals.
What are the recommended gourmet dishes in Hokkaido?
Hokkaido is famous for fresh seafood and Genghis Khan. Especially in Sapporo city, you can enjoy fresh seafood at famous ramen shops and seafood markets. Furthermore, in the Niseko area, there are many restaurants that make use of local ingredients, allowing you to spend a pleasant time with delicious meals.
Are there sauna facilities that can be used with children?
Yes, many facilities are designed to be safely used by families with children. Especially hot spring facilities and hotels with family-friendly services are abundant, allowing the whole family to enjoy safely with well-equipped safety measures and facilities. However, some may have age restrictions, so checking in advance is recommended.
Are there sauna spots that can be visited while sightseeing?
There are easily accessible spots near tourist areas. Especially in popular tourist areas like Niseko and Furano, there are comfortable saunas that can be visited after trekking. Additionally, in Sapporo city, the convenience of being able to visit directly after shopping or sightseeing is also attractive.
What is a “Totono Ticket”?
A “Totono Ticket” is a service that allows you to gift a sauna experience from 37 facilities nationwide. However, currently, facilities in Hokkaido are not included. Nonetheless, you can enjoy an exquisite time at award-winning facilities selected from across the country, so give it a try.
A sauna journey in Hokkaido offers wonderful experiences tailored to each preference. When visiting, be sure to find your own favorite spots!
A Journey to Enjoy Saunas and Gourmet in Hokkaido
Hokkaido holds a special charm for sauna enthusiasts nationwide. With its rich natural environment and diverse hot spring facilities, it attracts many visitors. At “Gardens Cabin” in Sapporo city, you can enjoy self-pour löyly, experiencing pleasant tranquility while still in the city. Additionally, renowned spots like Noboribetsu Onsen and Tokachidake Onsen “Shirogane-so” are worth visiting. Each has different features, allowing relaxation throughout the day.
Moreover, don’t miss the fresh seafood and Genghis Khan unique to Hokkaido. In Hakodate and Otaru, you can taste fresh seafood, and healthy dishes like “SAPPAKE Hot Pot” are also popular. In this way, after being healed both physically and mentally in the sauna, you can gain satisfaction with Hokkaido’s unique gourmet.
These elements combine to make the time spent in Hokkaido unforgettable. Experience “totonou” both physically and mentally amidst great nature, and conclude your journey with delicious dishes made from local ingredients. Start from the spots and gourmet experiences introduced in this article and set out to find your own favorite points. There are many other attractive places, so it’s worth exploring them yourself.