凌雲閣(Ryounkaku)

Located at the top of Mount Tokachi, Ryounkaku offered breathtaking views of the mountain range and snowy backcountry landscape when we visited in February. An easy 45 min drive from Furano, there is ample free parking outside the onsen building or at the adjacent public car park.

 We made a day visit to Ryounkaku and were able to rent towels which was super convenient. There is an old world charm to the onsen so expect rustic facilities. The female bath was tired looking due to years of staining from the copper coloured mineral onsen waters, but was adequately clean and tidy with full bath amenities provided. 

 What made our visit really special was the outdoor onsen which we got to enjoy all to ourselves as the only visitors at the time. The view of the mountains was nothing short of spectacular, with the back of the pool set into a small underhang of rocks which made us feel like we were bathing in a cave. Given how cold it was outdoors the water temperature was fairly tepid, but the views kept us there! We were thankful for the experience as we had read reviews that the outdoor onsens are sometimes closed due to weather conditions. 

 After our bath we retreated to a tatami room set aside for day visitors to enjoy some tea and to continue to soak in more of the views before leaving.