Those who visit "Kogane Onsen" in Rankoshi Town for the first time may feel a little unsure along the way, wondering "Is there really a hot spring resort in a place like this...?" That's because it's surrounded by farmland! So what is it that makes it so appealing that so many fans make the effort to visit? The Golden Hot Springs began when Katsuro Hayashi, a farmer in the area, happened to discover a hot spring while digging in the soil. That's why there are so many fields around! This happened in 1994, and now his son has taken over the business.

(Photo provided by Kogane Onsen)

The hot spring facility is located right in the middle of farmland, so there is nothing blocking the view and you can enjoy a tremendous sense of openness. If the weather is good, you can see Mt. Annupuri and Mt. Yotei. Katsuro originally built the facility little by little with his own hands, hoping to invite local people to come and enjoy it, and the handmade feel is heartwarming.

(Photo provided by Kogane Onsen)

The reason why it didn't just remain a local pastime, but gained many fans, was because of the good quality of the spring water. When you actually enter the bath, you can feel tiny bubbles sticking to your skin. This is proof that the spring is high quality bicarbonate spring water that contains plenty of carbon dioxide. Hydrogen carbonate springs are said to have a cleansing effect. They remove dead skin cells from the skin, leaving it smooth and moisturizing! They also have a high heat retention effect, so even though the water itself is not that hot at 40.8℃, it keeps your body nice and warm. Of course, it is 100% natural spring water.

(Photo provided by Kogane Onsen)

Kogane Onsen is located about a four-minute drive from JR Konbu Station along Route 343. It's worth the trip to discover the wonderful hot springs and relaxing atmosphere! *If you would like to know more about the atmosphere of Kogane Onsen, please check out our YouTube channel "Hot Springs Tour of Hokkaido"! <Golden Hot Springs> Address: 258-1 Kogane, Rankoshi-cho, Isoya-gun, Hokkaido Phone: 0136-58-2654 Official website: None Facebook: None Bathing hours: 9:00 to 17:00 Bathing fee: Adults 500 yen, Children 250 yen, Toddlers 100 yen *Business days and hours may change depending on the spread of COVID-19 and state of emergency declarations, so please check in advance.