Craving genuine Hokkaido calm? Visit Akebonoyu, a cozy onsen tucked away in the heart of the city. This retro-style bathhouse radiates warmth—both in its natural hot springs and its nostalgic charm. Soak under soft lighting while snow-capped mountains glow outside. No crowds, no noise—just steam rising, music humming softly, and the world slowing down. It’s Sapporo locals’ private escape, and now, it’s yours to unwind in perfect serenity.

















Everything you need to know about Akebonoyu
Near Akebonoyu in Sapporo, Sapporo Seasons Hotel stands out with its private outdoor onsen featuring panoramic views of Maruyama Park and the distant Mount Tōya. Located just 15 minutes from Sapporo Station via subway, it offers exceptional accessibility. Guests can indulge in locally inspired baths infused with seasonal ingredients like wild yam or kombu, promoting deep relaxation. The hotel also houses a refined Japanese restaurant serving fresh Hokkaido seafood and kaiseki cuisine, providing an authentic taste of Hokkaido’s culinary heritage.
Sapporo Asahi Onsen Ryokan is perfect for families, offering shared family onsen pools, child-friendly activity zones, and spacious Japanese-style family rooms with private bathrooms. Just a 10-minute walk from Akebonoyu, it’s ideal for easy access to thermal springs and nearby recreational spots. The on-site buffet serves Hokkaido specialties such as miso pork cutlet, snow crab dishes, and dairy-based desserts—popular with kids and adults alike. Weekend programs include guided onsen culture tours, introducing children to traditional Japanese bathing customs in a fun, educational way.
The easiest way from Sapporo city center to Akebonoyu is taking the Sapporo Municipal Subway Tozai Line to "Nishi 28-chome Station," then transferring to a bus or walking about 10 minutes. Alternatively, a taxi ride takes roughly 15 minutes and costs around ¥800–1,200. For a more leisurely journey, stroll along Odori Park promenade, enjoying urban greenery and street art while soaking in Sapporo’s distinctive city vibe. Use the Sapporo Metro App for real-time schedules and traffic updates to ensure a smooth trip.
Near Akebonoyu, guests can enjoy rock bath therapy enhanced with local herbal treatments, using Hokkaido-sourced cedar essential oils and alpine mineral salts to boost circulation and skin hydration. Some onsen facilities offer night stargazing baths, open-air pools allowing visitors to gaze at the clear northern sky under a blanket of stars—a breathtaking experience unique to Hokkaido. Additionally, onsen tea ceremonies feature locally grown matcha paired with light refreshments after soaking, creating a serene, holistic moment. These experiences highlight the region’s natural healing power and deep cultural connection to nature.
Yes, both Hyatt Sapporo and Akebonoyu Onsen Bijin provide complimentary shuttle buses between Sapporo Station and the onsen area, operating every 30 minutes until 9 PM. The vehicles are driven by professional staff and equipped with Wi-Fi and heating systems for passenger comfort. Some premium hotels also offer luggage delivery service, allowing guests to check in without carrying bags. It’s recommended to book the shuttle in advance via official websites to avoid delays during peak hours.
Akebonoyu itself is a prime photography destination, with its tranquil Japanese garden and bamboo path creating a dreamy backdrop—especially magical during morning mist. Nearby, Sapporo City Art Museum Plaza features large metal sculptures ideal for artistic portraits. For panoramic city views, visit the Sapporo TV Tower Observatory, offering sweeping vistas of the city and distant Yoshihara Lookout. During summer, the nighttime light show transforms the onsen area into a golden-hued wonderland, making it a must-visit spot for stunning light photography.
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