EDITORIALS
Where in the world are the "heart manholes" in Hakodate's hot spring resort area known to those in the know?
Hakodate is one of the most popular tourist destinations in southern Hokkaido. Among them, the hot spring resort of Yunokawa Onsen is only about 5 minutes from the airport and is accessible by streetcar, making it a popular destination for many tourists. In fact, did you know that there is a "hidden spot" that you should look for when you visit Yunokawa Onsen?
Get off at the Yunokawa Onsen tram stop and walk about 2 minutes to find a manhole with a heart on it.
Quote from @hanabishihotel1's post
A heart-shaped mark in a manhole! Even the locals are surprised to learn that this is the first time they have seen this manhole.
How long has there been a manhole with a heart-shaped mark?
The manhole is located right in front of Yunokawa Onsen Hanabishi Hotel, which is also the owner of the SNS post. According to the person in charge of Hanabishi Hotel, they found the heart shape two summers ago when there was construction work on the sidewalk. A photo was also posted on social networking sites when it was discovered. Is the unobtrusive and cute mark the playful spirit of the people who constructed it at that time?
I never noticed it! They are in the process of replacing the cobblestones on the sidewalk in front of the museum, and there is a "heart" on a manhole! I walked around a bit and looked at the others, but maybe it's just here?
#Hanabishi Hotel #Yunokawa Onsen #heart #manhole
Quote from @hanabishihotel1's post
Let's have fun together with looking for hearts! Recommended spots around the area
After visiting the heart search, why don't you relax and visit some nearby spots? Here are some spots in Yunokawa Onsen and its vicinity.
Yunokawa Hot Spring
Yunokawa Onsen, one of the three major hot spring resorts in Hokkaido, is a historic hot spring resort that is said to have originated in 1653. There are various types of accommodations, including prestigious, long-established ryokan, large hotels with popular open-air guest baths, and small inns boasting thoughtful service.
Yugura Shrine
Located right in front of Yunokawa Station on the tram at the entrance to Yunokawa Onsen, Yunokura Shrine is a historic shrine that has recently been attracting many young visitors. The "ikasuku omikuji," which makes you giggle when you read it, and the cute "gojin-en amulet," which comes in five different bags and string colors to choose from, are also popular.
Approximately 11 minutes on foot from Hanabishi Hotel.
Click here for details and map information of Yugura Shrine.
Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden
The garden is home to 300 species of tropical plants, and the outdoor facility features a lovely sight of monkeys bathing in hot springs (available only during the winter season from December to May). Visitors of all ages can spend a relaxing time at the footbath where they can enjoy the source of the Yunokawa hot spring.
11-minute walk from Hanabishi Hotel
Click here for details and map information of Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden.
Miharu Park Former Iwafune Family Garden (Kosetsuen)
Miharu Park offers a variety of garden spaces, including a shoin-style garden pavilion, a mountain stream, and a brick greenhouse. Someiyoshino and other cherry trees dot the park, and the lawn area, which is also used as a field trip site, is surrounded by flowers in full bloom in spring.
Approximately 7 minutes by car from Hanabishi Hotel
Click here for details and map information of "Miharakoen Meisho Kyu-Iwafune-ji Teien (Kosetsuen )" (in Japanese).
Lastly, a representative from Hanabishi Hotel gave a message to visitors to Hakodate.
When you visit Yunokawa Onsen, please take a look at the manhole in front of Hanabishi Hotel. In addition to overnight stays, the hotel also offers a one-day hot spring spa service. We are sincerely looking forward to your visit.
The heart-shaped manhole will make you happy when you find it. When you travel to Hakodate, be sure to stop by and enjoy the hot springs as well!
Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen Hanabishi Hotel
Location: 1-16-18 Yukawa-cho, Hakodate City, Hokkaido
TEL: 0138-57-0131
■Official website is here
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