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A Local Secret in Hakodate: Where to Find the Heart-Shaped Manhole Cover in Yunokawa Onsen?
Hakodate is one of the premier tourist destinations in Southern Hokkaido. Among its attractions, the hot spring district of Yunokawa Onsen is always bustling with tourists, located just 5 minutes from the airport and easily accessible by tram. But did you know there's a "hidden spot" you should look for when you visit Yunokawa Onsen?
Psst... there's a heart-shaped manhole cover about a 2-minute walk from the Yunokawa Onsen tram stop. |ﾉo･)ﾋｿﾋｿ
Photo credit: @hanabishihotel1
There's a heart-shaped mark inside the manhole cover! Even some locals are surprised, saying, "I never knew about this." It seems this manhole cover is a surprisingly little-known secret.
When Did This Heart-Marked Manhole Cover Appear?
The manhole cover is located right in front of the Yunokawa Onsen Hanabishi Hotel, which is also the source of the social media post. According to a representative from the Hanabishi Hotel, they discovered the heart shape two summers ago during sidewalk construction. A photo was posted on social media at the time of discovery. Could this subtle and charming mark be a playful touch from the construction workers back then?
I never noticed!! They're replacing the stone pavement on the sidewalk in front of our hotel right now, and there's a "heart" on the manhole cover! I walked around a bit to check others, but could this be the only one?
#HanabishiHotel #YunokawaOnsen #Heart #Manhole
Photo credit: @hanabishihotel1
Enjoy These Nearby Spots While You're Heart-Hunting!
While you're on the lookout for the heart, why not take a leisurely stroll to some nearby attractions? Here are some recommended spots in and around Yunokawa Onsen.
Yunokawa Onsen
As one of Hokkaido's three major hot spring areas, Yunokawa Onsen is a historic spa town dating back to 1653. It offers a wide variety of accommodations, from prestigious traditional inns and large hotels with popular open-air baths in guest rooms, to smaller inns proud of their heartfelt service.
Yukura Shrine
Located at the entrance to Yunokawa Onsen, right in front of the "Yunokawa" tram stop, Yukura Shrine is a venerable shrine that has recently become popular with young people. Visitors love the amusing "Ikasu Omikuji" (a pun on squid and "cool" fortunes) and the charming "Goshinen Omamori" amulets, for which you can choose from five different bag and string colors.
■ Approx. 11-minute walk from Hanabishi Hotel
Click here for details and map information for "Yukura Shrine"
Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden
The garden is home to 300 species of tropical plants, and in the outdoor facility, you can see adorable monkeys bathing in the hot springs (winter only, from December to May). There is also a footbath where you can enjoy the spring water of Yunokawa Onsen, offering a relaxing time for people of all ages.
■ Approx. 11-minute walk from Hanabishi Hotel
Click here for details and map information for "Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden"
Miharashi Park, Former Iwafune Family Gardens (Kosetsuen)
Miharashi Park features a diverse garden space with a Shoin-style garden pavilion, a mountain stream, and a brick greenhouse. Cherry trees, including the Somei Yoshino variety, are scattered throughout the park, and the grassy plaza, often used for school excursions, is surrounded by blooming flowers in the spring.
■ Approx. 7-minute drive from Hanabishi Hotel
Click here for details and map information for "Miharashi Park, Former Iwafune Family Gardens (Kosetsuen)"
Finally, we received a message from the Hanabishi Hotel representative for everyone visiting Hakodate for sightseeing.
When you come to Yunokawa Onsen, please be sure to check out the manhole cover in front of the Hanabishi Hotel. Also, our hotel offers day-trip hot spring access in addition to overnight stays. We sincerely look forward to welcoming you.
Finding this heart-shaped manhole cover is sure to bring a little happiness. When you travel to Hakodate, be sure to stop by and see it, along with enjoying the hot springs!
Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen Hanabishi Hotel
■ Address: 1-16-18 Yukawa-cho, Hakodate, Hokkaido
■ TEL: 0138-57-0131
■ Official Website: Click here
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