NOBORIBETSU
Where Steam Rises from the Earth
Hokkaido’s Premier Hot-Spring Town: Noboribetsu
Noboribetsu Onsen, fed by nine different spring types, and the dramatic landscape of Jigokudani (“Hell Valley”). Beyond the hot-spring town, animal encounters and a summer fire festival make it a great destination for families and couples alike.
Noboribetsu, located in the Iburi region of southwestern Hokkaido, is one of Japan’s most celebrated hot-spring destinations. Its defining feature is that nine distinct spring types—including sulfur, salt, and iron springs—all converge within a single hot-spring town, drawing many visitors who come specifically to bathe-hop between them. Deep behind the town lies “Jigokudani,” a dramatically rugged landscape shaped by active volcanic activity, where billowing steam vents create a scene of raw natural power unique to Noboribetsu.
Jigokudani (Hell Valley)
Scenic ViewThe source of Noboribetsu’s hot springs, this is the remains of an explosion crater roughly 450m across. Steam and hot water vent from all directions, and the reddish-brown rock combined with the smell of sulfur creates an otherworldly atmosphere. A well-maintained walking path makes it easy to explore, and at night the valley is lit up for an even more surreal view than during the day.
📍 About a 10-minute walk from Noboribetsu Onsen town
Oyunuma Pond & the Natural Foot Bath
Hot SpringA gray, mud-filled pond located deeper into Jigokudani. The stream that flows from it forms a natural foot bath, a free and popular spot that’s easy to stop by. The surrounding walking path doubles as a forest-bathing trail through the area.
📍 About a 20-minute walk from Jigokudani
Noboribetsu Onsen Town
ClassicA hot-spring town lined with everything from large hotels to long-established inns. Many facilities offer day-use bathing, so you can enjoy hot-spring hopping even without staying overnight. At the entrance to town, a row of oni (demon) statues stands as Noboribetsu’s symbol and a popular photo spot.
📍 About a 15-minute bus ride from JR Noboribetsu Station
Noboribetsu Bear Park
FamilyA zoo atop Mt. Shihorei, reached by ropeway. Its up-close exhibits, including Ezo brown bears, are a big draw, and the summit also offers sweeping views over Noboribetsu Onsen town and Funka Bay.
📍 About a 5-minute walk from Noboribetsu Onsen town to the ropeway station
Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe
FamilyAn aquarium modeled after a Danish castle. Alongside dolphin and penguin shows, the indoor “penguin parade” is a particular hit with kids. As a spot that’s fun rain or shine, it’s a handy addition to any weather-flexible itinerary.
📍 About a 5-minute walk from JR Noboribetsu Station
Noboribetsu Jigoku Matsuri (Hell Festival)
EventNoboribetsu Onsen’s summer festival, held every August. The signature “Oni Odori” parade, featuring dancers dressed as demons, winds through the hot-spring town, with powerful taiko drumming and fire performances lighting up the streets during the festival period.
📍 Around Noboribetsu Onsen town (typically held in early August)
A Private Charter Taxi Is the Easy Way to See Noboribetsu
Jigokudani and the Bear Park are within walking distance of Noboribetsu Onsen town, but getting there from New Chitose Airport or Sapporo by public transportation often requires a transfer.
With a private charter taxi that goes directly from New Chitose Airport or Sapporo to Noboribetsu Onsen, you’ll be taken straight to the hot-spring town with no transfers—even with a lot of luggage.