Introducing Sōunkyō Onsen
The town of Sōunkyō Onsen, known for its onsens, is a gateway for forays into the interior of the park as well as the gorge, Sōunkyō, but hikers may wish to continue to Asahidake Onsen instead of stopping here. It’s mainly tracks, a few seasonal attractions and some scenic views – some of which are disappointing.
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The tourist information office (5-3350; 10.30am-5pm), on the 1st floor of the public bath Kurodake-no-yu, has several maps and English-language pamphlets. Its booking service may be useful if you arrive in high season. Just up the hill, mountain-bike hire is available for ¥2000 per day. Next to the ropeway terminus, the park visitor centre (9-4400; sounkyovc.town.kamikawa.hokkaido.jp in Japanese; 9am-5pm Jun-Oct, 9am-5pm Tue-Sun Nov-May) can provide information on park conditions.
After a hard day of cycling or hiking, Kurodake-no-yu (;5-3333; admission ¥600; 10am-9pm Thu-Tue) offers handsome hot-spring baths (including rotemburo). It’s on the town’s main pedestrian street. You can also soothe your aching feet in the free ashi-no-yu (foot bath), next to the Ginsenkaku Hotel.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
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