After sightseeing, this is the place to go! 7 Recommended Day-Use Hot Spring Spots in Otaru

In Otaru, there is 'Asarigawa Onsen,' located about 30 minutes by car from the city center. Additionally, many public bathhouses in Otaru also use natural hot spring water. If you're in the city, you can enjoy sightseeing in Otaru while also experiencing a day-use hot spring bath. This time, we will introduce seven recommended day-use hot spring spots in Otaru and its surrounding areas.

1. Otaru Asari Classe Hotel

Asarigawa Onsen, a popular day-use hot spring area in Otaru, is a quiet hot spring village known as the "inner retreat" of Otaru.

The hot spring at Otaru Asari Classe Hotel consists of two baths: a large indoor bath and an open-air bath. The lush green trees visible from the large bath create a sense of openness and relaxation for bathers. While the snow-covered winter scenery is breathtaking, the fresh green season makes the trees shine brilliantly.

The open-air bath, surrounded by rocks, has a roof, allowing guests to enjoy bathing regardless of the weather. In the evening, small lights illuminate the trees, creating a dreamy and enchanting atmosphere. One of the charms of Asari Classe Hotel’s hot spring is that you can enjoy a different ambiance between day and night.

There is also a healing salon, so if you're interested, why not give it a try? If you're looking for a day-use hot spring in Otaru, this is a highly recommended spot.

2. Otaru Natural Hot Spring Yunohana Asariden

About a 25-minute bus ride from Otaru, nestled in the mountains, is the day-use hot spring "Asariden." It features a variety of indoor baths, including a large bath, waterfall-style bath, reclining bath, jacuzzi, and sauna. Additionally, there is an open-air bath equipped with a TV. The facility is well-maintained and kept very clean, allowing for a comfortable bathing experience.

The starry sky view from the open-air bath is incredibly romantic. After bathing, guests can relax in a large hall, but for families with children or groups of friends, a private Japanese-style room (available for a fee) is recommended for a more relaxing experience. The facility also has a light meal corner serving everything from bento boxes to pancakes, as well as a game corner for extra entertainment.

With its convenient access from the city center and extensive amenities, Otaru Natural Hot Spring Yunohana Asariden is the perfect place for those who want to spend a full day soaking in the hot springs.

3. Hotel Musashitei

Hotel Musashitei is a hot spring resort known for its open-air bath, where you can soak while breathing in the fresh, crisp air. The day-use hot spring facilities include a spacious indoor bath with gentle and soft hot spring water, a private rock-enclosed bath, and even a stone sauna (ganbanyoku), which helps improve blood circulation and metabolism.

While the hotel is enjoyable even for a day visit, staying overnight allows for an even more relaxing hot spring experience. The special rooms with open-air baths are particularly luxurious, offering a stunning view of the Asarigawa River from their stone-built baths. However, please note that the private open-air baths in the rooms do not use natural hot spring water, so choose according to your preference.

4. Otaru Kourakuen

Otaru Kourakuen is a hot spring inn with an expansive 8,000-tsubo (approximately 26,400 square meters) garden, where guests can enjoy seasonal scenery, including cherry blossoms, azaleas, hydrangeas, and autumn foliage. The hot spring, available for day-use, comes from the inn’s private natural spring. With a pH level of 8.7, it is mildly alkaline, higher than the average hot spring, and is particularly popular among women for its skin-beautifying effects.

Day-use hot springs are available only on weekends and public holidays, with limited hours, so be sure to check in advance. Despite this, the variety of bathing styles, including indoor baths, open-air baths, and a stone sauna, make it well worth a visit.

5. Otaru Onsen Ospa

Otaru Onsen Ospa is a day-use hot spring facility located near the Otaru Ferry Terminal. One of its best features is that it is open 24 hours, allowing visitors to go at any time. It is popular among both tourists and locals. Since it is close to the ferry terminal, you can also use it to relax while waiting for your boarding time.

The hot spring water here is salty due to its high salt content, containing about three times the amount of salt compared to regular saline springs. This gives the water a soft texture, makes the skin feel smooth, and helps retain body warmth for longer. Visitors can enjoy a variety of baths, including an open-air bath, main bath, reclining bath, waterfall-style bath, and even an electric bath.

Aside from the hot springs, Ospa also offers karaoke and a restaurant, providing different ways to enjoy your visit. After 1:00 AM, a late-night fee applies, but before that, you can bathe as many times as you like without extra charges. Discount coupons are available, so check the official website beforehand.

6. Kanpo no Yado Otaru

The biggest attraction of Kanpo no Yado Otaru is its affordable price. This hot spring facility is recommended for those who want to enjoy a budget-friendly day-use onsen. The large public bath includes a main bath with a jacuzzi and a sonic bath, while outside, there is also an open-air bath.

Depending on the season, meal plans are available for day-use visitors, allowing for a relaxing and refreshing experience. There is also a special plan for groups of 10 or more, which includes hot spring admission, meals, and a private banquet hall, making it a great option for group visits.

※ Kanpo no Yado Otaru closed permanently in March 2020.

7. Komachiyu Onsen

Komachiyu Onsen is located about a 5-minute walk from Minami-Otaru Station, which is one stop before Otaru Station. This historic public bathhouse dates back to before 1882, making it one of the oldest bathhouses not only in Otaru but in all of Hokkaido.

The bathhouse has a symmetrical retro-style building, and upon entering, visitors will see a traditional reception counter (bantai). The earthen floor, counter, and wooden shoe lockers are said to be from the Meiji era, allowing visitors to experience its rich history in every corner. It has been loved by many for generations.

The hot spring water is a sodium sulfate and bicarbonate spring, rich in baking soda components, which is said to leave the skin smooth and silky. The sign above the main entrance lists its health benefits, including relief for nerve pain, muscle pain, and chronic digestive disorders. This was truly a must-visit day-use hot spring.

※ Komachiyu Onsen permanently closed in 2021.

◎ Summary

Asarigawa Onsen is a recommended hot spring easily accessible from Otaru Station. While a day-use hot spring is a great experience, staying at an onsen inn will make your visit even more enjoyable. Relax in the hot springs and make the most of your sightseeing experience in Otaru!

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After sightseeing, this is the place to go! 7 Recommended Day-Use Hot Spring Spots in Otaru