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Your Guide to a Winter Day Trip to Jozankei Onsen from Sapporo

Updated August 24, 2026 · Reviewed by auto (grounded facts + verify)

Planning a winter day trip to Jozankei Onsen from Sapporo is a fantastic way to experience Hokkaido's natural beauty and therapeutic hot springs. This charming hot spring town offers a relaxing escape, even in the coldest months, with easy access from the city.

Jozankei Onsen is a popular hot spring resort located in the southwestern part of Sapporo. It's known for its natural hot springs and beautiful mountain scenery, which is especially stunning when covered in snow. A day trip here allows you to soak in the warm waters, enjoy the winter landscape, and experience a slice of traditional Japanese relaxation. The journey from Sapporo is straightforward, making it an ideal excursion for visitors looking to explore beyond the city.

How Do I Get to Jozankei Onsen from Sapporo in Winter?

Getting to Jozankei Onsen from Sapporo during winter is convenient, with several transportation options available. The most direct and recommended method is the Jotetsu Kappa Liner bus [1]. This bus service runs directly from Sapporo Station to Jozankei Onsen and takes approximately 60 minutes. It's important to note that this is a reservation-only service [1]. To secure your seat, you must book online at least two days in advance. The one-way fare is 1,700 yen, but an online reservation discount brings it down to 1,460 yen [1].

If you prefer a non-reservation option or miss the booking window for the Kappa Liner, local Jotetsu buses (numbers 7 or 8) are available from Sapporo Station Bus Terminal [2]. These buses take a bit longer, around 75 minutes, and cost 1000 yen one way [2]. A significant advantage of these local buses is that they accept popular IC cards such as SAPICA, KITACA, and SUICA, making payment easy for those already using these cards in Sapporo [2].

Many hotels and ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) in Jozankei also offer complimentary shuttle bus services for their guests. These shuttles often depart from Sapporo Station or Makomanai Subway Station, providing another convenient way to reach the onsen town [3]. If you are driving, Jozankei Onsen is about a 40-50 minute drive from central Sapporo via National Route 230 [4]. However, be aware that winter driving conditions in Hokkaido can be challenging, with icy roads requiring extra caution and potentially slower travel times [4].

What Are the Hot Springs Like in Jozankei?

Jozankei's hot springs are renowned for their therapeutic qualities and are primarily sodium chloride springs [5]. These springs are characterized by being colorless, transparent, and having a mild salty taste [10]. The saltiness of the water is particularly beneficial in winter, as it helps to warm the body effectively by preventing sweat evaporation, keeping you cozy even after you leave the bath [5, 10]. The mineral-rich waters are believed to help with various ailments, offering a deeply relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Can I Visit Jozankei Onsen if I Have Tattoos?

This is a common question for many onsen visitors, and the good news is that Jozankei Onsen is becoming increasingly welcoming to guests with tattoos. Traditionally, many communal onsen facilities in Japan have restrictions on visible tattoos due to historical associations [13]. However, several establishments in Jozankei are an exception.

Hoheikyo Onsen is a well-known facility that is fully tattoo-friendly, allowing everyone to enjoy their hot springs without concern [13]. Additionally, Jozankei Daiichi Hotel Suizantei also welcomes tattooed guests in its public baths [14]. Many ryokan in the area offer private in-room baths or rental baths (known as kashikiri), where tattoos are permitted, providing a more intimate and private onsen experience [15]. It is always a good idea to check the specific policy of the facility you plan to visit beforehand to ensure a smooth experience.

What Winter Activities Are Available in Jozankei?

Beyond soaking in the hot springs, Jozankei Onsen offers several charming winter activities that enhance the experience of a day trip. One of the most enchanting events is the Snow Light Road (Yukitoro), typically held at Jozankei Shrine [18]. During this event, the shrine grounds are illuminated by approximately 2,000 snow candles, creating a magical and serene atmosphere [18]. This event usually takes place in late January, so checking the exact dates for your visit is recommended.

For those who enjoy outdoor adventures, snowshoeing in Futami Park is a wonderful way to explore the snowy landscape [9]. The park offers beautiful trails surrounded by winter scenery. If you're looking for more active pursuits, the Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort is located nearby and is renowned for its excellent powder snow, making it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders [11].

Can I Access Onsen Facilities for a Day Trip?

Yes, many hotels and ryokan in Jozankei Onsen offer day-trip access to their hot spring facilities, allowing you to enjoy the onsen experience without staying overnight [7]. The fees for bath-only entry typically range from 500 to 2,000 yen [7]. Some establishments also offer comprehensive day-use packages that might include access to hot springs, swimming pools, and meals, with prices often around 3,000 to 3,900 yen for adults [7, 21]. These packages can be a great value, offering a full day of relaxation and enjoyment.

Are There Free Onsen Experiences in Jozankei?

For those on a tighter budget or looking for a quick dip, Jozankei also offers free footbaths [8]. You can find these relaxing spots throughout the town, including in Jozan Spring Park and Futami Park [8]. These footbaths are a perfect way to warm up your feet after a day of exploring the snowy surroundings. Additionally, Jozan Spring Park has a unique feature where visitors can make onsen eggs using the naturally hot spring water, adding a fun, hands-on element to your visit [8].

What is Onsen Etiquette?

To ensure a pleasant and respectful experience for everyone, it's important to follow standard Japanese onsen etiquette. Before entering any bath, you must wash your body and hair thoroughly at the provided washing stations [22, 24]. This is to keep the bathwater clean for everyone. Onsen baths are entered nude, so leave your swimwear behind [23]. It is also customary to keep your small towel out of the bathwater; you can place it on the side of the bath or on your head [22, 25]. Onsen are generally places for quiet relaxation, so maintain a quiet atmosphere [24]. Lastly, photography is typically prohibited in bathing areas to respect the privacy of other guests [26].

Comparing Day Trip Options

Here's a quick comparison to help you choose the best way to get to Jozankei Onsen:

Planning Your Winter Jozankei Onsen Day Trip

A winter day trip to Jozankei Onsen from Sapporo offers a perfect blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and cultural experience. Whether you choose the convenient Kappa Liner, the local buses, or a hotel shuttle, the journey is part of the adventure. Remember to book in advance if you opt for the Kappa Liner, and be prepared for the serene, snow-covered landscapes that await you. Enjoy the therapeutic hot springs and the unique winter charm of Jozankei.

Browse Sapporo ryokan & hotel deals on Expedia → Find Sapporo onsen tickets & tours on Klook →

Sources

[1] travelhokkaido.com — https://travelhokkaido.com/jozankei-onsen-day-trip-from-sapporo-itinerary/ [2] domingo.ne.jp — https://domingo.ne.jp/en/article/53094 [3] sapporo.travel — https://visit.sapporo.travel/itineraries/04/ [4] solosophie.com — https://www.solosophie.com/jozankei-onsen/ [5] japan-guide.com — https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6745.html [6] japan.travel — https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/1934/ [7] jozankeiview.com — https://en.jozankeiview.com/dayuse/ [8] navitime.com — https://japantravel.navitime.com/en/area/jp/spot/02301-1503569/ [9] jozankei.jp — https://jozankei.jp/en/stay/%E5%86%AC%E3%81%AE%E5%AE%9A%E5%B1%B1%E6%B8%93%E3%81%A7%E8%87%AA%E7%84%B6%E3%81%A8%E5%8B%95%E7%89%A9%E3%81%AB%E7%99%92%E3%82%84%E3%81%95%E3%82%8C%E3%82%8B%E3%80%81%E3%81%AE%E3%82%93%E3%81%B3%E3%82%8A/ [10] jozankei.jp — https://jozankei.jp/en/about/quality/ [11] hokkaido-treasure.com — https://hokkaido-treasure.com/column/138/ [12] visit-hokkaido.jp — https://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/en/spa/spot/detail_10613.html [13] tattoofriendlyonsen.com — https://www.tattoofriendlyonsen.com/onsen-locations/sapporo [14] japanese-onsen.com — https://japanese-onsen.com/ryokans/jyozankei-daiichi-hotel-suizantei/ [15] roamjapan.com — https://roamjapan.com/blog/tattoo-friendly-onsen-japan/ [16] tattoofriendlyonsen.com — https://www.tattoofriendlyonsen.com/onsen/jozankei-yurakusoan [17] jozankeiview.com — https://en.jozankeiview.com/winter/ [18] japan.travel — https://www.japan.travel/en/sports/snow/snow-travel/jozankei-onsen-yukitoro/ [19] gltjp.com — https://www.gltjp.com/en/article/item/11642/ [20] jozankei.jp — https://jozankei.jp/en/about/seasons/winter/ [21] morino-uta.com — https://www.morino-uta.com/en/hotspring/daytrip.html [22] facebook.com — https://www.facebook.com/fb-answers/hokkaido-onsen-etiquette/ [23] jal.co.jp — https://www.jal.co.jp/ar/en/guide-to-japan/plan-your-trip/tips/things-to-know-before-onsen-visit.html [24] okonsen.net — https://okonsen.net/guide/onsen_etiquette_guide_en [25] marriott.com — https://traveler.marriott.com/asia-pacific/onsen-japan-etiquette-for-first-timers/ [26] hokkaido-adventures.com — https://hokkaido-adventures.com/onsen-etiquette-guide/