Hey, that reminds me...
I've been meaning to ask the people of Hakodate, what is this?

Photo credit: @ayasakezuki's post

The photo posted by Ayachiko (@ayasakezuki) shows the "Onsen Mon" sign, along with warnings like "Authorized Personnel Only" and "Please Show Your Pass," indicating that public access is restricted. As soon as the post went live, comments from Hakodate residents poured in, quickly revealing the gate's true purpose.

The Truth: A Hot Spring Facility Exclusively for Racehorses

*Image is for illustrative purposes.

It turns out this gate is the entrance to a hot spring facility at the Hakodate Racecourse, exclusively for racehorses. A little research reveals it's the only "horse onsen" in the world. The facility's history dates back to 1962, when a hot spring for racehorses was first established at Yunokawa Onsen. It was temporarily closed due to traffic issues but was re-established at its current location in 1981 following strong demand from stable staff.

The hot spring water is still sourced from Yunokawa Onsen and is used for the care and relaxation of injured racehorses.

Once Used by a Champion Horse! Nearby "Hanazono Onsen" Welcomes Humans Too

"Hanazono Onsen," located near the horse onsen. Here you can enjoy two types of free-flowing hot spring water.

This horse onsen was once used by famous horses, including the Triple Crown winner Narita Brian. And it's not just for horses; a few minutes' drive away is "Hanazono Onsen," a hot spring for humans, popular with both horse racing staff and locals. Why not pay a visit after a day at the Hakodate races?