Mina-Mina Beach
Tomamu
HOKKAIDO’S HIDDEN TROPICAL PARADISE
An Eternal Summer Under Glass
Mina-Mina Beach is a marvel of modern resort design, offering a stark, delightful contrast to the rugged wilderness of central Hokkaido. The name "Mina-Mina" comes from the Ainu word for "smile," and it’s easy to see why. As you step through the doors, the crisp mountain air is replaced by a humid, tropical breeze and the rhythmic sound of crashing waves. The entire facility is encased in floor-to-ceiling glass, allowing you to swim in bright sunlight during the day or watch the stars at night, all while remaining perfectly warm in your swimwear.
Whether you are visiting Tomamu during the lush "Green Season" or the powdery "White Season," this indoor beach serves as the resort’s social heartbeat. It isn't just a swimming pool; it is a full-scale sensory experience designed to make you forget the calendar. With a beachside cafe serving light refreshments and plenty of lounge chairs for relaxing, it’s the perfect spot to recharge between your mountain adventures.
THE ULTIMATE WATER EXPERIENCE
Ride the Waves at Japan’s Largest Indoor Pool
The centerpiece of the facility is the massive wave pool, stretching an impressive 80 meters in length. Every half hour, the calm waters transform into a surfing playground. The waves are programmed to vary in intensity, ranging from gentle parallel ripples perfect for bobbing along, to rougher "big wave" sessions that provide a genuine thrill for stronger swimmers and those on rental floats.
Safe Splashing in the Kids’ Zone
Families with younger children will find the dedicated Kids’ Pool a sanctuary of safety and fun. With a shallow depth of only 30cm, it is designed for toddlers and first-time swimmers. The area is often filled with colorful plastic balls and water toys, ensuring that the little ones are just as entertained as the adults in the main surf.
Kirin-no-Yu: The Forest Onsen
Located adjacent to Mina-Mina Beach, Kirin-no-Yu is the resort's signature open-air bath. This onsen experience is centered around tranquility, featuring a large outdoor tub that overlooks the dense Tomamu forest. During the day, you can watch for local wildlife among the trees, and at night, the lack of light pollution provides a spectacular canopy of stars above the steaming water.
The mineral-rich waters are renowned for their skin-softening properties and their ability to soothe tired muscles. There is perhaps no better feeling in Hokkaido than soaking in the hot thermal waters while the crisp mountain air cools your face, providing a meditative end to an action-packed day.
Nighttime Magic and Illumination
As evening falls, Mina-Mina Beach undergoes a dramatic transformation. The bright, energetic atmosphere of the day gives way to "Light Down" hours. The main lights are dimmed, and the pool is illuminated with soft, ambient colors, creating a romantic and sophisticated environment. It is the perfect time for a quiet swim or to simply sit by the water and enjoy the tranquil reflections on the glass roof.
Full-Service Rentals and SUP Adventures
You don't even need to pack a swimsuit to enjoy the beach. The on-site rental shop is fully stocked with high-quality swimwear, towels, and a "free pass" system for an endless variety of inflatable tubes and floats. For those looking for more activity, the pool also hosts Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) sessions, allowing you to test your balance on the calm water before the next wave cycle begins.
BEYOND THE WATER’S EDGE
A Hub for Year-Round Tomamu Adventures
Mina-Mina Beach is strategically located to serve as a gateway to the rest of Hoshino Resorts Tomamu. Just a short shuttle ride or walk away, you can find the famous "Hotalu Street"—the world’s first ski-in/ski-out shopping and dining village. After a long afternoon of swimming and soaking, heading here for a bowl of hot Hokkaido ramen or a glass of local wine is the perfect way to cap off the day.
The Magic of the Surrounding Landscape
While the beach offers an indoor escape, it’s the proximity to Hokkaido’s natural wonders that makes it special. Depending on the season, you can pair your morning at the pool with a dawn trip to the Unkai Terrace to see the "Sea of Clouds," or a nighttime visit to the Ice Village during the winter months. Mina-Mina Beach acts as the warm, inviting center of a resort that celebrates the very best of Japan’s northern frontier.
