[Access] About 5 minutes by car from JR Teshio River Onsen Station
[Website] Otoineppu Community Health Center Teshio River Onsen

Even though I visit Hokkaido several times a year, I rarely venture up to the northern regions. So, I decided to take a drive up north. I stopped by the unique Chōzame Museum in Bifuka and enjoyed some sheep milk at a roadside station. Since I was in the area, I thought it would be a great opportunity to visit Teshio River Onsen, which had caught my interest.

On the way to the onsen, I noticed a station house and decided to stop the car for a look. It turned out to be a charming little station. Surrounded by blooming buckwheat flowers, the station stood alone and looked picturesque. Teshio River Onsen itself is situated in a wellness center that has a very local feel. Even though it was a hot afternoon, it was crowded with local residents.

The spacious indoor bath features a jacuzzi and a regular bath, with a window that opens up to an outdoor bath. It felt a bit exposed, as the area beyond seemed to overlook a grassy plaza (although I wasn’t sure about that).

The onsen water had a slight yellowish tint, with a smooth texture that felt somewhat slippery. While the outdoor bath looked nice, there were many horseflies buzzing around, making it difficult to relax, so I quickly retreated back to the indoor bath.

The source of the hot spring is called Jōban Kosen. It’s classified as a sodium-magnesium bicarbonate and chloride cold mineral spring, with a low temperature of 9.8 degrees Celsius and a total mineral content of 4235 mg/kg. I found the chlorine smell to be a bit strong, which was unfortunate, but the water warmed me up nicely and didn’t lead to a quick chill. I thought it would be wonderful to come back and enjoy this relaxing water during the harsh winter months.