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Capping the heights of the renowned Sounkyo Gorge in Hokkaido, Hotel Taisetsu beckons travellers to immerse themselves in various styles of hot springs, surrounded by the ethereal landscapes of Sounkyo.
From the drive through Hokkaido’s Asahikawa to the ascent of Mount Daisetsu in the national park, the desire to soak in the hot springs of Sounkyo Gorge became an unwavering pursuit. Mount Daisetsu, nestled within the expansive Daisetsuzan National Park, is home to the captivating Sounkyo Gorge, the largest hot spring area in the Hokkaido region.
Stretching approximately 24 kilometres, Sounkyo Gorge features renowned waterfalls such as the Milky Way Falls and Shooting Star Falls. Cable cars are also available to transport visitors to the summit of Mount Daisetsu, adding to the allure of this Hokkaido gem. During autumn, the canyon is adorned with a blanket of red foliage, while winter transforms the waterfalls into colossal ice pillars, both contributing to the fame of Sounkyo Gorge.
The hot spring experience unfolds as a transcendent journey for the body, mind, and soul, bestowed by nature to immerse individuals in warm and serene waters. Among all the hot spring hotels in Sounkyo, Hotel Taisetsu claims the highest perch, boasting three indoor baths and two open-air baths. The springs draw from the natural hot springs of the Sounkyo region, celebrated for their abundant minerals and gentle thermal qualities.
For those who appreciate open-air baths, the “Tenganoyu” valley open-air bath on the third floor of the annex Daisetsuzan Sanso offers an expansive outdoor bathing experience, seamlessly blending with nature. Depending on the season, visitors can enjoy the changing landscapes of the mountains, whether it be the snow-covered winter or the lush greenery of summer, each presenting a unique and captivating beauty. As for the European-style main building’s first-floor bath, “Chinita”; known for its highest water temperature, features a luxurious brick and tile design, exuding a distinct ambiance. Guests can choose any bath based on preference or mood, keeping in mind that each bath has its specified usage hours that should be confirmed beforehand.
My initial exploration led me to the “Taisetsunoyu” scenic bath on the seventh floor of the west wing. Here, one can soak while beholding the magnificent panorama of the Daisetsu mountain range. Having climbed Mount Daisetsu in the afternoon, now immersed in the hot springs, fatigue dissipates slowly, leaving the body and mind thoroughly relaxed. Beyond the expansive glass windows, peaks and valleys shroud in mist create a dynamic and vivid ink painting, portraying a mesmerising scene that alternately reveals and conceals itself in the thin veil of mist.
Hotel Taisetsu Onsen & Canyon Resort
Website: www.hotel-taisetsu.com
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