Kotan Onsen

Kotan Onsen hot springs locates by Lake Kussharo in eastern Hokkaido. In the Ainu Language, (of the indigenous people of Hokkaido), “kotan” means “village”. As the name suggest, the hot springs is run by local people.
The baths are open 24 hours, and are natural outdoors baths. They are cleaned daily by the local staff, and are constantly clean. Although the baths are co-ed, there is a partition to separate genders. In these baths, you are allowed to wear a swimsuit or a towel. Make sure to bring your own bathing goods (such as towels, soap, shampoo and etc.), since they are not provided.
Before or after your bath, you can walk around Lake Kussharo. The lake area is filled with lush nature. In the winter, you might be able to see whooper swans on the lake.
Some of the restaurants in the area are run by Ainu people. There, you can learn and experience Ainu culture.