The Yunokawa Onsen (湯ã®å·Â温æ³Â) is a well known onsen in Japan on the northern island of Hokkaidà Â. It is located on the outskirts of Hakodate city close to Hakodate Airport.
The meaning of "Yunokawa" in Japanese is "hot spring river".
This onsen is considered by Japanese to be one of the three major hot springs in Hokkaidà Â. Its origins are said to date back to 1653 when a lord of the Matsumae clan was healed of an incurable illness by bathing in its waters. Legend says that Seiryoin (渠涼é¢), the 9th Lord of Matsumae Domain's mother, had him bathe for medical purposes in the Yunokawa Onsen in 1653. Having recovered from illness, and she had the Yakushido (è¬師å Â) rebuilt to honor his recovery and it was dedicated to Waniguchi (é°Âå£).
The hot spring water contains various minerals including sodium, calcium, and sulphur, and it is generally agreed to be beneficial for skin and circulation issues.
In the nearby Hakodate city area there is a tropical botanical garden where a population of Japanese snow monkeys live. In colder months, the monkeys frequently use the hot springs on the garden grounds.