"MIIZUMI JYOZAN"discovered a spa in the JYOZANKEI area in 1866.After settling down, he went on to develop the area and spa turning it into a "health resort" with special attention made on preserving its natural beauty and splendour.Due to the wonderous healing effects of the water,the area became famous and today attracts visitors from all parts of Jpan.Surrounded by the HOHEIKYO dam, the JYOZANKEI dam, SAPPORO KOKUSAI SKI AREA and Mt.HAKKENZAN with its famous "KOGANEYU" spa, JYOZANKEI is blessed with picturesque views of the hearby ravine and mountains. With many festivals held throughout the year,two festivals which have proved popular with tourists are the "KAPPA FESTVAL", held during the biginning of August and the "MOMIJI CHAKAI FESTVAL", held during the biginning of October.