Overview
Venture into Hokkaido’s autumnal embrace on this immersive day tour from Sapporo, where the Hoheikyo Dam’s arching grandeur frames a turquoise reservoir mirroring fiery koyo foliage, and Hoheikyo Onsen’s massive rotenburo offers a steamy sanctuary amid golden peaks.
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Contact Jasumo Now →Nestled in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, the 102.5m-high dam—built in 1972 for flood control and hydropower—transforms mid-September to late October 2025 into a foliage haven, with crimson maples and yellow ginkgos cascading over Senjo-iwa rocks and Lake Jozan.
Easy trails like the Dam Loop and Crest Walk (paved, 1–2km) suit all ages, leading to overlooks where the river’s roar meets rustling leaves. Then, unwind at Hoheikyo Onsen, a Showa-era retreat with 100% natural sodium bicarbonate waters (skin-softening, circulation-boosting) in one of Hokkaido’s largest outdoor baths—gender-separated indoor/outdoor facilities welcome solos and families.
With English-speaking guide, round-trip public transport from Sapporo Station South Exit (9:00 AM meet at Myomu stone structure, ~5:00 PM return), and onsen entry/towel (¥2,000 value) included, this ~8-hour journey is perfect for photographers, hikers, or wellness seekers chasing koyo serenity—book mid-October 2025 for peak colors (10–15°C, comfortable shoes).
Why Choose This Experience?
- Koyo Crown Jewel: Hoheikyo’s mid-September–late October 2025 blaze rivals Jozankei’s, with dam-framed reds/yellows and fewer crowds.
- Trailblazing Trails: Paved Dam Loop/Crest Walk (~1–2km, easy for all)—river roars, foliage tunnels, geopark geology.
- Onsen Oasis: Hoheikyo’s rotenburo—massive outdoor baths with mineral-rich waters for muscle relief, circulation boost.
- Sapporo Simplicity: Public transport from Myomu (South Exit stone)—guide’s English insights, entry/towel included (~¥2,000).
- Seasonal Soul: Autumn’s crisp 10–15°C air enhances hikes; winter snow limits access (closed heavy snow).
- Inclusive Escape: Families/solos welcome—baths gender-separated, trails stroller-friendly.
Highlights
- Hoheikyo Dam Koyo: 1.5-hour guided tour—102.5m arch overlooks Senjo-iwa’s crimson maples, Lake Jozan golds (mid-October 2025 peak).
- Dam Trails: Paved Loop/Crest Walk—easy 1–2km paths with river views, foliage immersion.
- Hoheikyo Onsen Rotenburo: 1.5-hour soak—largest outdoor baths in area, sodium bicarbonate waters for skin/joint relief (~¥2,000 entry/towel included).
- English Guidance: Guide shares dam history (1972 build), onsen lore—English for internationals.
- Geopark Gateway: Shikotsu-Toya’s volcanic valley—mid-October foliage, 10–15°C mild.
- Photo Perfection: Dam crest overlooks, rotenburo Fuji-like steams—guide tips.
Pricing
From ¥26,400 per person
Includes
- A (BASIC): Public transport, English guide, Hoheikyo Dam trails, Onsen entry/towel (~¥2,000).
- B (KOYO): Public transport, Guide, Dam trails, Onsen, Guided foliage photo stops.
- C (FAMILY): Public transport, Guide, Dam trails, Onsen, Kid-friendly snacks (~¥500).
- D (RELAX): Public transport, Guide, Dam trails, Extended onsen (2 hours).
Note: Prices for 2025; child (4–12) 50% off, under 4 free (lap-held). Lunch (¥1,000) self-paid. Book mid-October 2025 for koyo; season September–November.
Itinerary
Starting location:
Myomu (Sapporo Station South Exit stone structure)
Public transport (2 hours)
Break time, Photo stop, Lunch, Guided tour, Free time (1.5 hours)
- Hoheikyo Dam: Arch views, Senjo-iwa foliage, Lake Jozan (mid-October 2025 reds; lunch ~¥1,000 self-paid).
Guided tour, Sightseeing, Walk (1 hour)
- Dam Loop/Crest Trail: Easy paved paths, river roars, koyo immersion.
Public transport (1 hour)
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour, Free time (1.5 hours)
- Hoheikyo Onsen: Rotenburo soak, mineral waters, Fuji-like steams (~¥2,000 entry/towel included).
Public transport (2 hours)
Arrive back at:
Myomu (Sapporo Station South Exit)
Note: Total ~8 hours; meet Myomu 8:45 AM for 9:00 AM departure. Times adjust for transport/traffic; mid-October 2025 koyo peak.
What to Expect
Meet at Myomu stone structure (Sapporo Station South Exit, 8:45 AM for 9:00 AM), your English guide leading a 2-hour public transport ride to Hoheikyo Dam. By 11:00 AM, spend 1.5 hours on the 102.5m arch—overlook Senjo-iwa’s mid-October 2025 crimson maples and Lake Jozan’s golds (lunch ¥1,000 self-paid at cafe). At 12:30 PM, 1-hour guided Dam Loop/Crest Walk: Paved 1–2km trails wind past river roars and foliage tunnels (10–15°C mild).
By 1:30 PM, 1-hour transport to Hoheikyo Onsen for 1.5 hours of rotenburo bliss—massive outdoor baths with sodium bicarbonate waters soothe skin/joints (¥2,000 entry/towel included, gender-separated). Steam rises amid golden peaks, offering Showa-era tranquility. Return 2 hours (~5:00 PM) to Myomu—serene for photographers (dam overlooks) or hikers (easy trails), with mid-October 2025 sweet spot for koyo vibrancy.
Pre-Departure Notice
- Meeting Point: Myomu stone structure (Sapporo Station South Exit, 8:45 AM for 9:00 AM)—turn left after JR main gates; lateness forfeits (100% fee).
- Confirmation: Instant booking with email voucher; notify dietary needs/allergies. Mid-October koyo peak.
- Weather: Tours run light rain/snow (ponchos); heavy storms adjust (no refunds). Foliage weather-dependent.
- Health: Light walking (~2–3km, paved); no pregnancy/extreme conditions. Onsen nude (tattoos may restrict).
- Children: Ages 4+ full access (reduced rates); under 4 free (lap-held). Supervise trails/baths.
Good to Know
- Age Rules: All ages; under 12 supervised on trails/baths. Onsen with adults.
- Group Size: Up to 40 (coach); shared, solo OK.
- Attire: Comfortable shoes, layers (10–15°C October); towel (~¥200) for onsen; camera for koyo.
- Duration: ~8 hours; season September–November 2025 (mid-October peak).
- Accessibility: Paved trails; onsen stairs—limited wheelchair (notify). English guide.
- Photos: Dam foliage prime—guide tips for golden hour.
- Sustainability: Geopark—no litter; stay on paths.
Reviews
“Hoheikyo’s koyo was breathtaking—dam crest reds like fire! Onsen soak melted away hike fatigue, guide’s English clear. Mid-October 2025 perfection!”
“Family gem: Easy trails for kids, rotenburo views serene. Lunch at cafe simple, but foliage made it magical. Sapporo start easy—recommend autumn.”
“Photographer’s paradise: Senjo-iwa golds, Lake Jozan mirrors. Onsen’s steam and Fuji-like peaks topped it—October peak spot-on.”
FAQs
When’s Hoheikyo’s best koyo season?
Mid-September–late October 2025—crimson maples, golden ginkgos on dam/lake.
Is onsen entry included?
Yes—~¥2,000 entry/towel; tattoos may restrict (notify for private ~¥3,000).
Suitable for kids or beginners?
Yes—easy 1–2km trails for ages 4+; under 4 free (lap-held). Supervise edges.
What if weather affects foliage?
Light rain enhances; heavy storms adjust (no refunds). Mid-October 2025 ideal.
How long is Sapporo round-trip transport?
2 hours out, 3 hours back on coach with rest stops; guide shares dam lore.
Can I bring camera gear, photo tips?
Yes—dam overlooks prime; guide suggests golden-hour for reds.
What dining options at sites?
Dam cafe ramen (¥1,000); onsen snacks (¥500)—self-paid.
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