Tour Overview
Kawamata Onsen, located deep in the mountains of Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, is a special hot spring known only to a select few, even among locals. This secluded onsen can only be accessed on foot, offering a peaceful and natural retreat. While locals may occasionally visit, the spring is rarely crowded, ensuring a private and relaxing experience surrounded by untouched nature.
Highlights of Kawamata Onsen
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A Hidden Gem: Though some locals may visit, the spring remains a quiet retreat, largely unknown to tourists. Enjoy the tranquility of nature in a small group setting.
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An Adventurous Journey: The onsen is only accessible by hiking through the forest and crossing a river four times. The scenic beauty and adventure of the hike make reaching the onsen even more rewarding.
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Relax in a Sulfur Spring: The water temperature at Kawamata Onsen is around 33–36°C (91–97°F), making it perfect for a long, relaxing soak. The subtle sulfur scent adds to the natural experience, enhancing the feeling of being immersed in nature.
Rental Items Provided
The tour price includes rental of rubber boots for crossing the river, swimwear for the onsen, and towels. These items are provided at the start of the tour, so you don’t need to worry about packing extra gear.
Changing Options
After the hot spring, there are two options for changing:
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Use the poncho provided by the guide for privacy while changing.
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Embrace nature with a fully natural experience. Locals typically bathe nude, so you are welcome to experience the hot spring as they do.
Important Notes
Kawamata Onsen is a mixed-gender bathing spot that locals often visit. If you’re concerned, we recommend wearing the provided swimwear for comfort.
“The hike made soaking in Kawamata Onsen feel like a hidden reward in the forest.”
Highlights
Exclusive Big-Tide Access
Reach the Sea Cave only during the lowest spring tides, a rare natural event few visitors ever witness.
Singing Sands
Walk across Itanki Beach, where volcanic silica makes the sand “sing” beneath your feet.
Volcanic Scenery
Admire dramatic rock layers and coastal formations shaped over millennia.
Thrilling Exploration
Navigate knee-deep shallows and rocky shores on this guided adventure.
Photographer’s Dream
Capture spectacular images of the hidden cave and surrounding seascape.
Scenic Lunch Break
Savor a sandwich and warm coffee at the cave with panoramic ocean views.
Itinerary
Meet at adex base 15 minutes beforehand to check gear and to complete formalities. If you find that you are missing any gear, you can purchase it at our shop (adex base) before the tour begins.
Parking at the Trailhead
Drive to the trailhead and park the vehicle. (approx. 40 minutes)
Hike to the Destination (Crossing the River 4 Times)
Begin the hike from the trailhead to Kawamata Onsen, crossing the river four times along the way (using rubber boots).
(approx. 30 minutes)
Arrival: Kawamata Onsen
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Arrive at the hidden hot spring.
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Enjoy a relaxing soak and take a break.
Return to the Car
After relaxing in the hot spring, hike back to the car, crossing the river again.(approx. 30 minutes)
adex base
Return to Adex Base to conclude the tour. (approx. 40 minutes)
What's included?
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Guide
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Towel
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Swimwear
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Rubber boots
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Hiking poles
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500ml bottled water(one per person)
Exclusions
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Food & drinks
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Clothes
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Gloves
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Head gear
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Meals
What do I need to bring?
Small Backpack
Please bring a small backpack to carry your water, snacks, and other essentials.
Camera
There are many scenic spots along the way, so a camera is a great idea to capture the views. (A smartphone is also fine.)
Water & Snacks
Please bring enough water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the tour. A 500ml bottle of water will be provided, but you may want to bring additional water.
Hat & Sunglasses
We recommend bringing a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is advisable for sunny days.
Warm Clothing & Rain Gear
Depending on the season and weather, it can be windy and cold, so warm clothing and a light rain jacket are recommended.
Please note
Participants
Minimum Number of Participants: 1 person
Ages 12-75
Fitness Level
This tour is suitable for beginners. A moderate level of fitness is recommended as participants will hike through the forest and cross rivers four times. The overall terrain is relatively flat, making it accessible to those with basic hiking experience.
Distance & Route
The route involves walking through the forest and crossing rivers multiple times, with a total hiking distance of approximately 1.6 km (round trip)
Dress & Clothing
Please wear proper hiking shoes and bring warm clothing. Depending on the season and weather conditions, it can be cool or wet during the hike. We recommend being well-prepared with appropriate layers and waterproof clothing.
Food & Snacks
We recommend bringing sufficient water and snacks, as there will be no meals provided during the tour. However, we will provide a 500ml bottle of water per person.
Other Considerations
Kawamata Onsen is a mixed-gender bathing spot, and local visitors typically bathe in the nude. If you feel uncomfortable, you are welcome to wear the swimwear provided. Weather conditions may affect the hike, but the experience of immersing yourself in the beautiful nature of Hokkaido remains unforgettable. We encourage participants to be prepared for changing weather conditions.
If you have any concerns or questions, please feel free to contact us at the email address below.
info@adex-noboribetsu.co.jp
Meeting Point
Your journey begins here:
adex base
〒059-0551 JP Noboribetsu-shi 76-3 Noboribetsu-Onsencho
Cancellation Policy
If the tour is canceled due to bad weather on the day (heavy rain, strong winds, typhoons, heavy snow, etc.), we will refund 50% of the published price of the activity tour.
We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 1 day or less before the event. 70% if booking is cancelled 2 days, 50% if booking is cancelled 7 days and10% if booking is cancelled 14 days or less before the event.
The activity tour planning products provided by ADEX Co., Ltd. (adex base) are trips planned and organized by Dai-ichi Takimotokan Noboribetsu Tourist Center Co., Ltd.