Sapporo: Jozankei Onsen Walk with Temple & Cave Visit

If you’re seeking a blend of relaxation, culture, and nature, the guided tour of Jozankei Onsen offers an authentic look into one of Hokkaido’s hidden gems. For $81 per person, this approximately 4-hour walk takes you through peaceful shrines, sacred temples, and a mysterious cave, all while soaking your feet in natural hot spring waters. It’s guided by friendly locals, and the experience promises more than just a soak — it’s a chance to understand the spiritual and historical roots of this revered area.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the focus on local traditions—like the story of Mizumi Jzan, the monk who started it all—and the hands-on experience of boiling an egg in hot spring water, which is both fun and delicious. The gentle pace makes it suitable for most walkers, but keep in mind that some parts involve uneven terrain, especially inside the cave.

A possible consideration is that transportation to the meeting point isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there. This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy cultural sites, scenic walks, and authentic local experiences rather than flashy tourist traps. If you’re curious about the spiritual side of Japan’s hot springs or simply want a peaceful escape from the city, this walk will suit you perfectly.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Insights: Learn the story of Mizumi Jzan and the spiritual significance of shrines and temples.
• Unique Experiences: Boil an egg in hot spring water and explore a mysterious underground cave.
• Relaxing & Scenic: Enjoy natural hot spring foot baths in a tranquil park setting.
• Educational & Entertaining: The guide offers detailed explanations about the area’s history and traditions.
• Flexibility: Book now, pay later, with a full refund if you cancel 24 hours in advance.
• Small Group Feel: likely more intimate than large bus tours, making for a more personal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Jozankei Onsen Walk

Starting Point & Overall Atmosphere

Your journey begins at the Jozankei Tourist Information Center, where your guide, often holding a yellow “DeepExperience” sign, will meet you. This is a calm, accessible starting point that sets the tone for the relaxed yet enriching walk ahead. The area itself exudes a peaceful vibe, with the lush Hokkaido countryside surrounding you, and the scent of fresh pine often lingering in the air.

Jozankei Shrine: A Place of Local Prayer

Your first stop is Jozankei Shrine, a humble but meaningful Shinto shrine where locals come to pray for health and prosperity. Here, we appreciated the quiet atmosphere, and the chance to see local traditions in action. The guide explains that visitors come to the shrine to seek blessings, which adds a layer of spiritual connection to the walk.

Jzan Temple: Preserving Heritage and Relics

Next, your group heads to Jzan Temple, the spiritual heart of the area. The main hall and treasure house house priceless relics associated with Mizumi Jzan, a monk credited with establishing the onsen. We loved the display of his wooden statue and writings, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of healing waters in this region. The guide shares stories of how Mizumi Jzan’s vision of spreading health and wellness through hot springs came to life, making this a meaningful visit.

More Great Tours Nearby

Jzan Gensen Park: Hot Spring & Egg Boiling

A highlight is the Jzan Gensen Park, established in 2005 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Jzan. Here, you can dip your feet in steaming hot spring water and even try boiling an egg right in the natural source. The experience is both practical and playful—an activity that many find memorable. The park’s serene riverside setting reinforces the rejuvenation theme of the tour, and the simple pleasure of soaking your tired feet in warm water is surprisingly soothing.

Exploring Iwaya Kannon Hall & the Hidden Cave

Perhaps the most intriguing part of the tour is the visit to Iwaya Kannon Hall, a small Buddhist shrine enshrining the Kannon deity. Behind the hall lies an entrance to a natural cave that stretches deep into the rock, lined with statues and offerings. Walking into the cavern, you’ll feel a cool breeze and smell the damp stone, which creates an almost mystical atmosphere. The guide explains that this cave has spiritual significance, and exploring it gives you a rare chance to connect with the area’s sacred natural sites.

Why Jozankei Is More Than Just a Hot Spring Town

While many visitors focus solely on bathing, this tour emphasizes cultural continuity. Since its founding in 1866, Jozankei has been a place where spirituality, health, and leisure blend seamlessly. The sodium-chloride springs are said to warm the body to the core, and the town itself—with its ryokans, free foot baths, and riverside walks—embodies the Japanese ideal of balancing health, community, and relaxation.

Practical Details & Value

The tour, offered by DeepExperience, includes all the key experiences: guided visits, foot baths, and cave exploration. We liked that it is guided in English, making it accessible for international travelers. The price of $81 is reasonable given the number of stops and the opportunity for authentic cultural insight.

One point to keep in mind is that transportation to the meeting point isn’t included, so plan accordingly. The walk involves some walking on uneven terrain, especially when entering the cave, so comfortable shoes are advised. The tour lasts around four hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers have praised the depth of information provided by guides, noting that “the stories about Mizumi Jzan made the history come alive.” Others appreciated the hands-on experience of boiling eggs in the hot spring, calling it “a fun and tasty way to connect with local traditions.” Some mention that the group size feels intimate, and the peaceful setting offers a break from tourist-heavy sites.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers looking to balance relaxation with cultural learning. It suits those who enjoy nature walks, are interested in Japanese spirituality, or simply want a peaceful retreat in the midst of their busy trip. It’s also a good choice for anyone curious about local legends and traditions behind Japan’s hot springs.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the Jozankei Onsen Walk means enjoying both natural beauty and cultural richness. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that offers a deeper understanding of the onsen’s spiritual roots and a chance to unwind in scenic surroundings. The blend of historical storytelling, hands-on activities, and peaceful landscapes makes it a well-rounded option for travelers who appreciate authenticity.

If you’re in Sapporo and want to escape the city’s buzz, this tour provides a meaningful way to connect with Hokkaido’s traditions. It’s perfect for those interested in spiritual sites, natural hot springs, and a touch of adventure underground.

FAQ

Do I need to bring special clothing for this tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because there’s walking involved, and respectful attire is advised when visiting religious sites.

Is transportation included to the tour meeting point?
No, transportation to the starting point at the Jozankei Tourist Information Center is not included, so plan your arrival accordingly.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about four hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay nothing until shortly before the activity, offering flexibility.

What’s the most unique activity?
Boiling an egg in the hot spring water at Jzan Gensen Park is a fun, hands-on experience that many find memorable.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Some parts involve walking on uneven terrain, and the cave exploration is dimly lit, so good mobility is recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most children who can handle walking and are respectful of religious sites should enjoy it, especially the egg boiling.

What language is the tour guided in?
The tour is conducted in English, ensuring clear explanations and storytelling.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and a respectful attitude towards the religious sites.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible booking.

The Jozankei Onsen Walk offers a rare opportunity to explore the spiritual and natural charm of Hokkaido’s hot spring culture. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want more than just a soak—they want to understand the stories, traditions, and natural beauty behind the steaming waters. Whether you’re a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply craving a peaceful day outdoors, this tour delivers an honest taste of what makes Jozankei special—authentic, calming, and richly cultural.

You can check availability for your dates here: