
Kotobuki Onsen Rusutsu Resort Hokkaido Japan
Soak in the therapeutic hot springs of Kotobuki Onsen, surrounded by Hokkaido's stunning natural beauty, especially magical in winter.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer people, more peaceful

Kotobuki Onsen Rusutsu Resort Hokkaido Japan
Best Time
Fewer people, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Soak in the therapeutic hot springs of Kotobuki Onsen, surrounded by Hokkaido's stunning natural beauty, especially magical in winter.
"Wonderful Onsen! Best part is the outdoor bath, where the trees are covered in snow for the winter."

🧼 Wash Before You Soak
Thoroughly wash and rinse yourself at the shower stations before entering the onsen pools.
🚫 No Towels in the Water
Keep your washcloth and towel out of the main onsen baths to maintain cleanliness.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.3 · 187 reviews
Type
Spa
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Outdoor Onsen with Snow Views
Outdoor bath area
Experience the magic of soaking in hot springs surrounded by snow-covered trees. A truly unforgettable winter wonderland moment.

Variety of Bathing Pools
Main onsen area
Enjoy baths ranging from a refreshing 15°C to a toasty 41.5°C, with some featuring massage jets for ultimate relaxation.

Post-Soak Relaxation Amenities
Amenities area
After your soak, take advantage of the wide array of lotions, creams, and grooming products to refresh and prepare for your day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Onsen Etiquette is Key
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧼 Wash Before You Soak
Thoroughly wash and rinse yourself at the shower stations before entering the onsen pools.
🚫 No Towels in the Water
Keep your washcloth and towel out of the main onsen baths to maintain cleanliness.
🪞 Utilize Post-Soak Amenities
Take advantage of the provided lotions and grooming products after your bath.
🥾 No Chairs at Shoe Lockers
Be prepared to stand while putting on socks and shoes, as there are no chairs at the shoe deposit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧼 Wash Before You Soak
Thoroughly wash and rinse yourself at the shower stations before entering the onsen pools.
🚫 No Towels in the Water
Keep your washcloth and towel out of the main onsen baths to maintain cleanliness.
🪞 Utilize Post-Soak Amenities
Take advantage of the provided lotions and grooming products after your bath.
🥾 No Chairs at Shoe Lockers
Be prepared to stand while putting on socks and shoes, as there are no chairs at the shoe deposit.
❄️ Winter Wonderland Views
The outdoor bath is especially magical in winter with snow-covered trees.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests consistently praise Kotobuki Onsen for its cleanliness, spaciousness, and excellent outdoor bathing area, especially during winter with snow. However, some visitors have noted issues with guests not adhering to local onsen etiquette, leading to a less than ideal experience for some. The lack of seating at shoe lockers was also mentioned as a minor inconvenience.
"Very clean onset, with an excellent outdoor area.
During the low season (early July), there are no crowds and you have the place almost entirely to yourself.
There are no chairs at the shoe deposit area. Quite clumsy if you are putting on your socks and shoes with laces.
Great onsen experience!!! Thumbs up!"
Ron Yang
"Resort that has alot of foreigners, especially in cold weather. Onsen would have been so perfect after the cold. Bought tickets and the once you undressed and were about to go in, they say no tattoos. Why couldnt they say that when we got the tickets? Bad.
Understand that they dont like people with tattoos, but if they could have certain hours allowed (like 8pm-2am) if would help both those who want a tattoo and tattoos- free environment.
At least you get a refund."
Keme Aegis
"Great facility, but unfortunately, the majority of the guests don't follow local etiquette or local norms.
Disastrous!
Some went into straight from locker room without washing.
Some bring wash cloth and towel into Onsen pond; some washing and wringing the towels.
Some wash their hair in the Onsen pond.
Tonight, saw guest spitting into the Onsen pond... yikes
Sigh"
Alex SP (Alex)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kotobuki Onsen is located within the Rusutsu Resort complex. If you are staying at The Westin Rusutsu Resort, it's easily accessible. For those not staying at the resort, check for shuttle services or local transport options.
Yes, parking is generally available for visitors to Rusutsu Resort, which includes access to the onsen facilities. It's advisable to check the resort's official website for specific parking details and fees.
Yes, day-use access to Kotobuki Onsen is often available, though it's best to confirm current hours and any potential restrictions, especially during peak seasons.
Rusutsu Resort is accessible via various transportation methods from major Hokkaido cities like Sapporo and New Chitose Airport. Options include direct buses, rental cars, and sometimes train connections followed by a local bus or taxi.
Rusutsu Resort often provides shuttle services between its various facilities, including hotels and attractions like the onsen. In Sapporo, you might even spot a Westin Rusutsu Resort themed streetcar!
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees can vary. If you are staying at The Westin Rusutsu Resort, onsen access might be included in your stay. For day visitors, expect a fee, which can be around 2,900 JPY for adults.
The onsen typically re-opens at 2 PM after being closed during the day. It's advisable to check the exact operating hours, as they can change seasonally.
For day visitors, reservations are generally not required, and entry is on a first-come, first-served basis. However, if you are part of a group or have specific needs, contacting the resort in advance is recommended.
Yes, some packages, like the 'Breakfast at Lunch Time' offer, include onsen usage along with breakfast buffet and a welcome drink. Staying at certain accommodations within Rusutsu Resort may also grant complimentary access.
Admission typically includes access to all bathing areas, showers, and the amenities area with various toiletries and grooming products.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
To avoid crowds, aim for early mornings before 8 AM or later in the afternoon after 3 PM. The period between 2 PM and 3 PM is usually the busiest.
Crucially, always wash thoroughly before entering the baths. Do not bring towels or washcloths into the main onsen pools, and avoid spitting or washing hair in the water.
Yes, Kotobuki Onsen offers a range of baths, including indoor and outdoor options, with temperatures varying from 15°C to 41.5°C. Some baths feature massage jets.
After rinsing off, you can use the amenities area which provides a wide selection of lotions, creams, combs, razors, and other personal care items.
Absolutely! The outdoor bath is particularly stunning in winter, offering a unique experience of soaking in hot water while surrounded by snow.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the onsen itself focuses on bathing, Rusutsu Resort offers various dining options. There are special breakfast buffets available at the Atrium restaurant, sometimes combined with onsen access.
The Westin Rusutsu Resort features Japanese cuisine at 'Fuka' with seasonal menus, and international options at 'Atrium'. You can expect fresh, local ingredients and expertly prepared dishes.
The onsen is part of the larger Rusutsu Resort, so dining options are within the resort complex. This includes restaurants like 'Atrium' and 'Fuka'.
Yes, special 'Breakfast at Lunch Time' events are sometimes offered, allowing non-staying guests to enjoy the breakfast buffet and onsen access.
Dining hours vary by restaurant. For example, the 'Fuka' restaurant serves dinner from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM. The 'Atrium' breakfast buffet is also available for lunch during special events.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography is not permitted inside the bathing areas of onsens to respect the privacy of other guests.
The resort itself offers stunning views, especially from rooms with large windows overlooking the landscape. The outdoor onsen area, particularly in winter with snow, is also a picturesque spot, though photos should be taken respectfully.
Keep an eye out for the Westin Rusutsu Resort wrapped streetcar 'Sirius' in Sapporo for a unique photo op!
Expect beautiful natural landscapes, from lush greenery in summer to snow-covered vistas in winter. The high-altitude location offers panoramic views.
Yes, food photography is generally welcome in the resort's dining areas, allowing you to capture the delicious Japanese and international cuisine.








Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit