Jozankei Futami Suspension Bridge

The Futami Suspension Bridge is the scenic centrepiece of Jozankei Onsen, Sapporo's hot-spring town in the Toyohira River gorge. Painted a vivid vermilion red, the slender pedestrian bridge spans the clear river where it runs between steep, forested cliffs, and it frames one of the most photographed views in the whole valley. Crossing it and following the riverside path beyond is the classic short walk of Jozankei, a gentle outing that showcases the natural beauty that has drawn visitors to soak in these mountains for over a century.

The bridge sits within a small riverside area known as Futami-no-oka, a short stroll from the centre of the onsen town. From the middle of the span you look straight down the gorge, with the Toyohira River tumbling over rocks below and the wooded slopes rising on either side. On the far bank, a short walking trail leads to the Futami Park viewpoint and a small shrine, and the loop can be completed comfortably in under an hour, making it ideal for guests staying in the town who want a taste of the scenery between baths and meals. Along the way, look for the kappa water-imp statues that have become the mascots of Jozankei, referencing an old local legend of the river spirits.

The bridge and its walk are at their most magnificent in autumn. From mid to late October the maples and other broadleaf trees packing the gorge blaze into red, orange, and gold, and the red of the bridge against the fiery foliage and the clear river is a quintessential Hokkaido koyo scene. This is one of the reasons Jozankei ranks among the best leaf-viewing destinations near Sapporo, and the bridge draws a steady stream of admirers and photographers through the season. In fresh green late spring and summer the gorge is lush and cool, while winter drapes the scene in snow, though the walk is quietest and most colourful in autumn.

Because it is a natural viewpoint rather than a managed attraction, the bridge is free and open at all hours, with restrooms, parking, and refreshments available nearby in the town. The walk is easy and mostly gentle, though there are some steps and slopes down to the river, so comfortable shoes help, and the riverside can be cool and damp. It combines effortlessly with everything else Jozankei offers, a soak in a hot-spring bath, a foot bath along the main street, and the short drive or bus ride up to the Hoheikyo Dam for grander views over the reservoir.

Reaching the bridge is as easy as reaching Jozankei itself: direct buses run from Sapporo Station and from Makomanai subway station in about an hour, and the bridge is a few minutes' walk from the town centre. For visitors spending time in Jozankei, or passing through on the way to the national park, the Futami Suspension Bridge offers the town's most rewarding short walk and, in October, one of the loveliest autumn-colour views within easy reach of Sapporo.