Kawayu Onsen in Winter | Sunayu, Kotan Open-Air Onsen & Volcanic Hot Springs, Hokkaido

Travel through eastern Hokkaido in winter on a scenic journey from Kushiro to Kawayu Onsen. This video begins with a peaceful train ride, where wildlife such as white-tailed eagles, deer, red-crowned cranes, and even the elusive shima enaga (Hokkaido’s snow fairy) can be seen in the wild.

After arriving in Kawayu, we explore one of Japan’s most unique hot spring towns:
Visiting Mt. Io (Iōzan), where you can walk close to active fumaroles
Stopping by MokMok Base and traveling around town using the eco local bus
Relaxing at Sunayu Onsen, famous for dig-your-own hot spring baths and migrating whooper swans
Bathing at Kotan Onsen, a free open-air onsen surrounded by snow and nature
Visiting the Taiho Sumo Museum, dedicated to the legendary yokozuna
Encountering friendly cats around Kawayu Onsen town
Walking across the Kawayu Bedrock Terrace, shaped by mineral-rich waters
Taking a break at Orchard Grass Café, established in 1936, for lunch or coffee
Warming up at the Kawayu Onsen Station foot bath

This winter journey captures the quiet charm of Kawayu Onsen, combining scenic rail travel, wildlife encounters, volcanic landscapes, and traditional hot spring culture in one of Hokkaido’s most atmospheric regions.

Perfect for viewers who enjoy slow travel, winter scenery, Japanese hot springs, and nature-focused journeys.

Video sections:
0:00 Preview
0:15 Kushiro Station to Kawayu station
7:16 Kawayu Onsen Station arrival
8:33 Kawayu Onsen Station to Mt. Io
9:10 Mt. Io
13:06 Mt. Io to Sunayu
13:34 Sunayu
15:35 Sunayu to Kotan
15:50 Kotan Open Air Onsen
18:41 Kotan to Sumo Museum
20:02 Taiho Sumo Museum
21:04 Cats of Kawayu Onsen
21:44 Kawayu Bedrock Terrace
23:51 Shima Enaga!!!!
24:44 Taiho Sumo Museum to Kawayu Onsen Station
25:39 Kawayu Onsen Station
26:47 1936 Orchard Grass
28:01 Kawayu Onsen Foot Bath
28:54 Going back to Kushiro

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