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Jozankei Onsen Koinobori

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Jozankei Onsen Koinobori

A signature spring spectacle in Hokkaido, where around 400 colorful carp streamers “swim” across the sky above the river, bringing vibrant life to the Jozankei Onsen town in spring.

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Supervised by :  Jozankei Tourist Association

Held in the Jozankei Onsen area, this is a beloved springtime tradition that began in 1987. From early April to early May each year, around 400 colorful carp streamers are displayed above the hot spring town and along the river gorge. The streamers are donated by households and workplaces across Hokkaido, with each one carrying the sentiments of its donor.

The displays are spread throughout the heart of the onsen town, including Jozan Gensen Park, Futami Park, Mikaeri-zaka, Yukemuri-zaka, and around Jozankei Shrine. Carp streamers strung across the Toyohira River create a striking scene that can be enjoyed from many angles while strolling through the area.

Admission is free, making it easy to enjoy alongside a leisurely walk through the hot spring town. Early in the season, snow still lingers on the surrounding mountains; as spring deepens, cherry blossoms and fresh greenery emerge. For about one week in mid-May, visitors may also catch a rare sight known as “spring autumn leaves,” when young foliage takes on soft reddish hues. Blending Jozankei’s natural scenery with its onsen townscape, this event is cherished as a gentle celebration of spring’s arrival.

Highlights

  • A springtime tradition in which around 400 carp streamers decorate the sky above the river gorge and hot spring town.
  • A long-running event dating back to 1987, featuring carp streamers donated by the local community.
  • Visitors can enjoy the displays at multiple spots while strolling through the onsen town.
  • Free to view, and best enjoyed alongside seasonal scenery such as lingering snow and fresh spring greenery.

Photos

  • A springtime spectacle where around 400 carp streamers dance in the sky from early April, when traces of snow still remain

    A springtime spectacle where around 400 carp streamers dance in the sky from early April, when traces of snow still remain

  • Carp streamers set against the backdrop of cherry blossoms

    Carp streamers set against the backdrop of cherry blossoms

  • For about one week in mid-May, visitors can see the rare and beautiful sight known as “spring autumn leaves”

    For about one week in mid-May, visitors can see the rare and beautiful sight known as “spring autumn leaves”

Reviews

3

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • Gina C
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    At Jozankei Onsen, we could see colorful carp streamers hanging above the river from the car. They looked very cute fluttering in the wind and added a lively atmosphere to the otherwise quiet hot spring town.

    Looking out along the gorge, the carp streamers swayed in the wind between the mountain scenery and the hot spring town, creating a scene that felt very characteristic of spring in Japan.

  • Linda Liao
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    When I visited Jozankei, I happened to catch the local carp streamer display, which was an unexpected surprise! Long rows of carp streamers were hanging above the gorge, constantly fluttering in the wind. The colorful streamers stood out beautifully against the blue sky and mountain scenery, creating a spectacular sight. When the breeze blew, the carp streamers looked as if they were actually swimming through the air, making me stop and admire them. It was a rare chance to see this seasonal scenery, so I quickly took out my camera to capture the beautiful view before I missed it.

  • BobbyJenny
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    While passing through Jozankei Onsen this time, I looked out the car window and unexpectedly spotted a whole row of colorful carp streamers hanging beside the river! As the gentle breeze blew, the carp streamers swayed in the air and looked very cute. Together with the mountains and river around Jozankei, the scene had a distinctly Japanese springtime atmosphere. Although I was only passing by in the car and didn’t get out to stop, the sight still caught my eye, and I couldn’t help taking out my phone to snap a photo. It was a lovely surprise to come across such a distinctive view during such a short drive! If I have a chance to visit Jozankei again, I hope I can make time to walk around and slowly take in the hot spring town and natural scenery.

Details

Name in Japanese
定山渓温泉渓流鯉のぼり
Postal Code
061-2302
Address
Jozankeionsen, Minami-ku, Sapporo City, Hokkaido
(The event is held at various locations throughout the Jozankei Onsen area.)
Telephone
011-598-2012
Schedule
From early April to early May each year
Access
Take the direct bus “Kappa Liner” from JR Sapporo Station, or From Makomanai Station on the Namboku Subway Line, get off at “Jozankei Yunomachi”-the venue is just a short walk away.
Official Website
Official Website (English)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa