[Autumn Only] 1-Day Tour from Sapporo: Hoheikyo Dam and Hoheikyo Onsen

Immerse yourself in Hokkaido's natural beauty with our seasonal Hoheikyo Tour. Starting from Sapporo, you'll first journey to the breathtaking Hoheikyo Dam—a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers. After exploring the dam, you'll be brought to Hoheikyo Onsen, where you can relax in a natural outdoor hot spring bath surrounded by beautiful forest scenery.

This tour is the perfect way to escape the city and rejuvenate your mind and body. Ideal for those hunting Japan's koyo fall colors, we highly recommend visiting in the autumn when you'll be treated to a stunning panorama of crimson and amber foliage reflecting off the dam's turquoise reservoir.

Highlights

• Come in autumn, and you'll be rewarded with an array of crimson, amber, and gold leaves reflected on mountain cliffs—a photographer’s dream.
• The Hoheikyo Dam is not just an engineering feat—it’s a panoramic viewpoint. The observation platform offers sweeping views of the reservoir and surrounding mountains, especially stunning in fall foliage season.
• Ride an electric hybrid bus (fees apply) from the parking area for a peaceful, eco-friendly ride through a forest tunnel. The quiet ride enhances the serenity and makes the arrival at the dam feel like entering a hidden sanctuary. Walking is also an option—a short pleasant walk. 
• Enjoy easy walking trails along the dam lakeshore and through nearby forest paths. Ideal for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those looking for a moment of calm away from urban life.
• Soak in a 100% Natural Hot Spring – No added water, always flowing fresh from the source.
• Soak in a massive rotenburo (outdoor bath) surrounded by forested mountains—spectacular in every season. Autumn being the best!

Description

This tour will start at Sapporo Station in front of “Myomu” (The Circular Stone Structure) in front of the South Exit of Sapporo Station. Please meet here at 9:00 a.m. Your guide will be there to greet you. After brief introductions and smiles we will start to embark on our wonderful tour.

Our tour begins here at The Hoheikyo Dam. The dam itself is arch shaped, 102.5 meters in height and 305 meters in length. It was completed  in 1972 for flood control and to provide hydroelectric power to the growing City of Sapporo (now Japan’s 5th largest city). 

The Hoheikyo Dam is nestled deep in the Toyohira River valley, at the entrance to Shikotsu-Toya National Park, southwest of Sapporo, near the Jozankei Onsen area. The reservoir lake, created by the dam, is a calm, turquoise mirror reflecting the mountains—a striking contrast to the towering dam wall. In autumn (October), this becomes one of the best koyo (fall foliage) spots near Sapporo, with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows blanketing the mountainsides. In spring and summer, lush greenery and wildflowers flourish, while in winter, the entire valley is wrapped in a snowy silence (though access is limited during heavy snow).

Hoheikyo Dam offers panoramic views all around. The walking trails (The Dam Loop Trail, Dam Crest Walk) are easy, paved paths leading to the dam, lake, and surrounding forest trails, suitable for all ages. Although Hoheikyo Dam is enjoyable all season, a visit mid-September to late October is highly recommended.

Our next stop will be down the road at The Hoheikyo Onsen. Hoheikyo Onsen is more than just a bath—it’s a deeply relaxing experience surrounded by Hokkaido’s untouched nature. Whether after a walk around the dam or as a day trip from Sapporo, it’s the perfect way to unwind in Japan’s natural healing waters. The water here is gentle on the skin and suitable for all ages. Solo travelers as well as people with families will be openly welcomed here. The waters at this onsen are especially beneficial in the improvement of blood circulation and to relieve muscle and joint pain as well as other health benefits.

This is a must-see tour for any Hokkaido itinerary. Especially in autumn!  Visitors to this onsen will witness one of the largest outdoor baths in Hokkaido. Stunning views all year round with autumn foliage being the most attractive season to visit and soak here. Gender-separated indoor/outdoor baths with modern comforts.

Meetup Points

The meetup point will be at “MYOMU” (The Circular Stone Structure), near The South Exit Doors inside of Sapporo Station.

SAPPORO STATION @ 9:00

After exiting the main JR gates of Sapporo Station TURN LEFT. Walk towards the South Exits (南出口) of Sapporo Station.  After a very short walk (in the near distance) you will surely notice “MYOMU” (The Circular Stone Structure/see above picture). Your guide will be standing in front of this stone structure displaying a sign board saying SNOW MONKEY RESORTS. You are kindly asked to be at this meetup point at 9 a.m. Thank you.

Notes

Included

• English speaking tour guide
• All transportation fees/fares from Sapporo Station to all listed destinations on this tour
• Entry fee and towel set for the Hoheikyo Onsen experience

Excluded

• Lunch
• Any types of snacks or drinks
• Accommodation

Other Information

• Please check the weather forecast before heading to the meetup point and prepare umbrella or raincoat if necessary.
• Clothes worn should be appropriate for the given season.
• All places on this tour are wheelchair accessible/appropriate for guests with limited mobility.
• Guests/visitors with tattoos will NOT be allowed to enter into Hoheikyo Onsen.
• This tour will involve a lot of walking. Good walking shoes highly recommended.
• Insect repellent might be useful during the summer/autumn season.
• Sunglasses and a good hat (to block the sun) are recommended.
• Bottled mineral water should be carried to stay hydrated.
• Extra fresh underwear is recommended to be worn after your refreshing hot bath.

Tour Availability Disclaimer

All listed events, activities, and experiences are subject to availability. Please note that while certain tour options may appear bookable through our platforms, this does not guarantee that every experience can be carried out as scheduled in the tour itinerary. Many activities require direct confirmation with our partner venues, and availability may vary based on the date and other factors. Should any part of your ordered itinerary require adjustment or deviation from the original schedule, or if a specific experience is unavailable, we will contact you promptly to discuss suitable alternatives or amendments.