Escape to the Thermal Wonders of Teshikaga: Kawayu Onsen & Kussharo Onsen
Imagine yourself enveloped in the invigorating steam of a natural hot spring, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes of volcanic beauty and pristine lakes. That’s the allure of Teshikaga-cho, a captivating town in Hokkaido, Japan, home to two of the most unique and rejuvenating onsen (hot springs) experiences you’ll ever find: Kawayu Onsen and Kussharo Onsen.
Published by the Japan Tourism Agency Multilingual Commentary Database on May 26, 2025, the information highlights the compelling charms of these thermal havens. This isn’t just a bath; it’s an immersion into the heart of nature, a chance to reconnect with yourself and rediscover tranquility.
Kawayu Onsen: A River of Healing
Kawayu Onsen, literally “river hot spring,” is truly something special. Unlike typical onsen that draw water from underground, Kawayu Onsen is the river itself, heated by the volcanic activity of Mt. Io (also known as Sulphur Mountain). Imagine soaking in naturally warm water, listening to the gentle murmur of the river, and being surrounded by the powerful aroma of sulfur.
Why Kawayu Onsen is Unique:
- Volcanic River: The entire riverbed is heated by volcanic activity, creating a truly unique and natural onsen experience.
- Therapeutic Benefits: The high sulfur content is believed to alleviate various ailments, including skin problems, joint pain, and fatigue.
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by lush forests and the imposing silhouette of Mt. Io, the setting is simply stunning.
- Mt. Io (Sulphur Mountain): Explore the source of Kawayu Onsen’s heat. Witness the impressive spectacle of volcanic vents spewing steam and sulfurous gases. The aroma might be strong, but it’s a reminder of the potent natural forces at play.
- Free Footbath: Even if you’re not ready to fully immerse yourself, enjoy a free footbath at the base of Mt. Io. A perfect way to experience the warmth and therapeutic benefits without getting completely wet.
Kussharo Onsen: Lakeside Bliss
Venture to the shores of Lake Kussharo, Japan’s largest caldera lake, and you’ll discover another onsen paradise: Kussharo Onsen. Here, you can dig your own onsen right on the lake’s edge!
Why Kussharo Onsen is Exceptional:
- “Dig Your Own” Onsen: At Sunayu Onsen (literally “sand hot spring”), you can dig a shallow pit in the sand near the lake, and hot spring water will naturally seep in. This unique experience allows you to personalize your onsen and enjoy the stunning lakeside views.
- Bokke Geothermal Area: Witness the powerful geothermal activity bubbling to the surface at the Bokke area. Mud pools and steam vents demonstrate the raw energy that heats the area’s onsen.
- Lake Kussharo Beauty: Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Lake Kussharo, surrounded by forests and mountains. The clear waters and tranquil atmosphere create a sense of serenity.
- Outdoor Activities: Beyond onsen, Lake Kussharo offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and cycling.
Planning Your Teshikaga Adventure:
- Getting There: Teshikaga is accessible by train and bus from Kushiro Airport or other major cities in Hokkaido.
- Accommodation: Choose from a variety of hotels, ryokans (traditional Japanese inns), and guesthouses in Kawayu Onsen and around Lake Kussharo. Many accommodations offer their own onsen facilities.
- Best Time to Visit: While Teshikaga offers year-round beauty, the warmer months (May-October) are ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and digging your own onsen at Sunayu. The winter months bring a magical snowy landscape, perfect for enjoying the warmth of the onsen against the backdrop of a winter wonderland.
- Etiquette: Remember to follow onsen etiquette, such as showering before entering the bath and keeping noise levels to a minimum.
More than just a bath, a Teshikaga onsen experience is a journey into the heart of Hokkaido’s natural wonders. From the volcanic river of Kawayu to the lakeside bliss of Kussharo, you’ll find relaxation, rejuvenation, and unforgettable memories. Start planning your escape today!
Escape to the Thermal Wonders of Teshikaga: Kawayu Onsen & Kussharo Onsen
The AI has delivered the news.
The following question was used to generate the response from Google Gemini:
At 2025-05-26 20:46, ‘The charms of the hot springs in Teshikagacho, including Kawayu Onsen, Kussharo Onsen’ was published according to 観光庁多言語解説文データベース. Please write a detailed article with related information in an easy-to-understand manner, making readers want to travel. Please answer in English.
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