A Tokachi Inn I've Been Visiting Since My 20s: Captivated by the Moor Hot Springs of Kangetsuen
I first visited Kangetsuen when I was in my 20s. At the time, I hadn't yet realized the true wonder of hot springs, so I just enjoyed my stay and went home. As I returned time and time again, I became completely captivated by the Tokachi Moor hot springs.
Kangetsuen is now a very popular inn. I get the impression that the room rates increase with every visit, but I believe it is an inn worth every penny. Rates vary depending on the season and the room type. Please check the official website for the latest pricing.
The Moor hot springs of Tokachi-gawa Onsen are alkaline springs containing humic substances derived from peat and other organic matter. The water, which gushes from 500 to 700 meters underground, is a hot 55–60°C. Originating from ancient plants, these Moor hot springs were designated as a Hokkaido Heritage site in 2004. It is a luxurious water that feels smooth and moisturizing on the skin.
The open-air bath is especially comfortable and superb, and the indoor bath is also spacious and pleasant for bathing. There is a walking bath within the facility. I had been looking forward to it, as they say walking on the stones laid on the floor is good for your health, but the moment I took a step, every pressure point in my feet screamed in pain, haha. Instead of getting healthier, it was so painful I couldn't move forward. But perhaps that just means it's effective, haha. There is also a Jacuzzi and a waterfall bath, making it a well-equipped facility that hot spring lovers will find irresistible. A sauna is also fully provided.
Detox water is provided in the women's changing room, and the water infused with fruits and other ingredients was delicious. I also got the impression that the amenities, such as the shampoo, had been updated since my last visit, and I appreciate such thoughtful attention to detail.
You can choose from various room types, including special rooms with open-air baths, guest rooms with open-air baths, modern rooms, and 10-tatami mat Japanese-style rooms.
Since the pandemic, the number of international guests at the dining hall has increased, and when I stayed there, more than half were from overseas. It made me realize once again that this is an inn recognized by people all over the world. All the food was delicious, and I especially cannot forget the Tokachi black bean natto served at breakfast. It was so rich and flavorful that I wanted to keep asking for seconds, even though it was breakfast. I tried to find some to buy on my way home, but I was truly disappointed that they didn't sell it. I'm still hoping to get some next time, haha.
This trip holds a special memory for me. That same year, my mother underwent kidney surgery. We had planned a hot spring trip in the spring, but because of the surgery, we all decided to hold off. After that, my mother's health gradually recovered, and it was finally autumn when we were able to go. I still cannot forget the joy we felt as a family soaking in the hot springs at Kangetsuen. My mother was healthy, and we were able to come to the hot springs together like this. It was a trip where I felt truly happy just for that.
※ I have no photos left from this trip, so I am conveying this through text only. I plan to add photos when I visit next time. ※ The top image is for illustrative purposes. I plan to replace it with an actual photo when I visit next time.
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