Jozankei Onsen in Hokkaido has the distinct atmosphere of a hot spring town throughout its streets. Walking along the Toyohira River, you can see hot spring inns and unique little shops. The streets aren't too busy, making it a pleasant place to stroll and slow down to enjoy the surrounding scenery.
Along the way, you'll also find foot baths that are characteristic of hot spring towns. When your feet get tired, you can sit down, soak them, and enjoy the warm hot spring water.
Jozankei Onsen Koinobori
Held in the Jozankei Onsen area, this is a beloved springtime tradition that began in 1987. From early April to early May each year, around 400 colorful carp streamers are displayed above the hot spring town and along the river gorge. The streamers are donated by households and workplaces across Hokkaido, with each one carrying the sentiments of its donor.
At Jozankei Onsen, we could see colorful carp streamers hanging above the river from the car. They looked very cute fluttering in the wind and added a lively atmosphere to the otherwise quiet hot spring town.
Looking out along the gorge, the carp streamers swayed in the wind between the mountain scenery and the hot spring town, creating a scene that felt very characteristic of spring in Japan.
Sapporo Streetcar (Sapporo Shiden)
Originating as a horse-drawn railway for transporting stone, the Sapporo streetcar has served as a key mode of transportation in central Sapporo for over a century, long cherished as part of everyday life. Since the completion of the loop line in 2015, it has made getting around the city center even more convenient. One of its distinctive features is the “side reservation” design on the downtown section, where the tracks run right alongside the sidewalk.
The Sapporo Streetcar is very convenient. It travels through the streets of central Sapporo, making it easy to get to different attractions.
You can also enjoy views of Sapporo along the way. Sitting on the streetcar and watching the city slowly pass by feels a little more leisurely than taking the subway.
Mt. Moiwa Ropeway (Observation deck)
Mt. Moiwa is located at the almost center of Sapporo. A Swiss-made mini cable car designed to observe the forest runs to the altitude of 531m, this mountain is easily reached to the peak so loved by Sapporo citizens, there are five mountain trails to go up to the peak.
Looking down from the observation deck, the lights of central Sapporo stretch far into the distance, with streets and buildings sparkling in the background. The night view is very beautiful, so it's no wonder Mt. Moiwa is considered one of the “Three Great Night Views of Hokkaido.”
I specifically planned to come at night to see the view. With the cool mountain breeze and the countless lights spread out before me, the atmosphere was very romantic.
