Noboribetsu Onsen, Sapporo
A renowned hot spring town in Hokkaido, famous for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and therapeutic mineral-rich waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene soak
Noboribetsu Onsen, Sapporo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene soak
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A renowned hot spring town in Hokkaido, famous for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and therapeutic mineral-rich waters.
"Best place to relax after a ski trip. Favorite ryokan in Japan!!"
👣 Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around Hell Valley and the footpaths. :athletic_shoe:
🧖♀️ Bring a towel for foot baths
Essential for enjoying the Oyunuma Natural Footpath's warm stream. :towel:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jigokudani (Hell Valley)
Noboribetsu
A surreal volcanic landscape with steaming vents and bubbling hot springs, emitting a distinct sulfurous aroma.
Oyunuma Natural Footpath
Noboribetsu
A scenic forest trail leading to a warm stream where you can soak your feet. Bring a towel!
Onsen Experience
Various Ryokans and Hotels
Indulge in the therapeutic volcanic hot springs, with options for private or public baths.
Demon Statues
Noboribetsu Town
Encounter the iconic Yukijin demon statues, believed to protect the town and its hot springs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Day Trip vs. Overnight Stay
Transportation Logistics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👣 Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around Hell Valley and the footpaths. :athletic_shoe:
🧖♀️ Bring a towel for foot baths
Essential for enjoying the Oyunuma Natural Footpath's warm stream. :towel:
🚗 Consider a rental car
Offers more flexibility to explore surrounding areas like Lake Kuttara. :car:
👃 Be prepared for sulfur smell
The volcanic activity in Hell Valley creates a distinct, strong odor. :nose:
Tips
from all over the internet
👣 Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around Hell Valley and the footpaths. :athletic_shoe:
🧖♀️ Bring a towel for foot baths
Essential for enjoying the Oyunuma Natural Footpath's warm stream. :towel:
🚗 Consider a rental car
Offers more flexibility to explore surrounding areas like Lake Kuttara. :car:
👃 Be prepared for sulfur smell
The volcanic activity in Hell Valley creates a distinct, strong odor. :nose:
📅 Avoid Chinese New Year
This peak travel period can make the experience less relaxing due to crowds. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Noboribetsu's exceptional onsen experiences and the unique volcanic landscapes of Hell Valley. The quality of food, particularly Kaiseki meals, and the attentive service at ryokans are frequently highlighted as positives. However, some guests found the food to be inconsistent with the hotel's high standards, and the town can become overwhelmingly crowded during peak holiday periods like Chinese New Year.
"I stayed for three nights, and it exceeded my expectations. Best place to relax after a ski trip. Favorite ryokan in Japan!! The service was grrat, and the staff were welcoming and kind. Before bringing our luggage to our room, they even wiped it down with an alcohol wipe. Our butler マリーさん was so helpful :)
The food was absolutely phenomenal!! I don’t eat seafood, and since seafood is in almost every dish they serve, the kitchen prepared a special menu for us with chicken pork and mostly wagyu. I can’t thank the kitchen staff enough for their kindness and effort! 🥺 The Kaiseki meal they served was honestly even better than the ones I’ve had in restaurants, both in taste and presentation. I’d come back just for the deserts!! The portions were extra generous so you’ll definitely feel full.
The room was spacious, and the onsens were beautiful. The yukata is adorable too! I would definitely recommend this place 10/10. Hope I can come back to visit soon!!"
Jianuo Gan
"This is one of the best onsen resorts I’ve stayed at during this trip across different cities. The view and overall atmosphere were truly beautiful — especially from the semi-outdoor onsen, which offered a serene and calming experience.
What I loved most was the ability to enjoy both breakfast and dinner in the comfort of my room, without needing to go to the common dining area. It gave the stay a sense of privacy and exclusivity.
The welcome drink, a matcha tea, was absolutely delicious. The staff were friendly, attentive, and able to communicate well in English.
The corridor throughout the rooms were lined with tatami mats, which gave a clean and traditional aesthetic. Though some sections seemed slightly worn—perhaps from the weight of luggage carts—it didn’t take away from the overall charm.
All in all, this is a truly impressive onsen resort with great service and a comfortable, well-appointed room. If I ever return to this city, I’ll definitely stay here again."
Dao Phalida
"A beautiful Ryokan located within a 10 minute walk to most attractions, restaurant and services. The Ryokan features quite a few onsen baths located in a pleasing setting overlooking a small waterfall and gardens.
The Kaiseki dinner was excellent, freshest produce possible and delicately presented.
As it’s a small-ish onsen, don’t expect the service flexibility you’d be accustomed to on larger hotel chains but in the areas that they provide service to it is done with the due care that one would expect from Japan.
All in I would highly recommend this Ryokan for a relaxing hot springs break on your journey around Hokkaido!"
Aaron Loo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is by direct bus, which takes about 2 hours and costs around 2500 yen one-way. Alternatively, you can take a limited express train to Noboribetsu Station (approx. 1 hour, 4780 yen) and then a bus to the onsen town.
By direct bus, the journey is approximately 2 hours. If you opt for the train and bus combination, the train ride is about 1 hour, with an additional bus ride to the onsen area.
Yes, public buses run from Noboribetsu Station to Jigokudani (Hell Valley) and the main onsen town. It's advisable to check the bus timetable for return trips as they can be infrequent.
Some hotels in Noboribetsu offer direct shuttle bus services from Sapporo or New Chitose Airport, but these often require advance reservation.
Yes, a day trip is feasible, but it will be a packed schedule. You'll need to manage your time carefully to see the main sights and potentially enjoy a quick onsen dip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Jigokudani (Hell Valley) itself is an open natural landscape and does not require an entrance ticket. However, some attractions within the area might have fees.
Day-use onsen facilities vary in price. For example, Dai-ichi Takimotokan offers day-use access, and prices can be found on their website. Private onsen experiences in ryokans are typically included in your accommodation cost.
The Oyunuma Natural Footpath and the footbath area are generally free to access as part of the natural landscape.
Hell Valley is accessible at all times, but it's best visited during daylight hours for safety and visibility. Onsen facilities have specific operating hours, usually extending into the evening.
It's recommended to check with individual onsen facilities or hotels about advance booking for day-use, especially during busy periods.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The top attractions include Jigokudani (Hell Valley) for its volcanic activity, the Oyunuma Natural Footpath for a relaxing foot soak, and the various onsen resorts for a therapeutic bathing experience. Don't miss the iconic demon statues!
Noboribetsu is famous for its diverse onsen waters. Many ryokans offer both indoor and outdoor baths with mineral-rich volcanic water. Dai-ichi Takimotokan is known for its large onsen facilities.
Yes, there are scenic hiking trails around Hell Valley and the surrounding natural areas, including the Oyunuma Natural Footpath. Access to more extensive trails might require a car.
Many ryokans offer traditional Kaiseki multi-course dinners, often featuring fresh local ingredients. The town also has restaurants serving Japanese cuisine. Some reviews mention food quality can vary.
Yes, families can enjoy the unique landscapes of Hell Valley and the relaxing onsen experience. Some hotels offer family-friendly rooms and amenities.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Jigokudani (Hell Valley) offers dramatic landscapes with steam vents. The Oyunuma Natural Footpath provides serene forest shots. Look out for the striking demon statues scattered around town.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds. The steam rising from the vents is particularly photogenic in cooler temperatures.
Generally, photography is not allowed inside public onsen bathing areas for privacy reasons. Some private onsen rooms in ryokans might allow it, but always check the rules first.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive volcanic landscapes. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light shots or capturing steam. Protect your gear from moisture. :camerawithflash:
The demon statues are a unique cultural element to photograph. Also, capturing the traditional architecture of the ryokans and the presentation of Kaiseki meals can be very appealing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Many hotels and ryokans are family-friendly, offering spacious rooms and sometimes even private onsen options for a more comfortable family soak. While the sulfur smell might be strong, the overall experience of the hot springs can be a memorable adventure for children. Consider visiting during less crowded times to ensure a more enjoyable experience for everyone.
🚗 Road Trippers & Independent Travelers
+1Parking is generally available at hotels and major attractions. Having a car allows you to easily access less-visited spots and enjoy spontaneous detours. It also makes it simpler to manage luggage and travel with family or a group.
🧘♀️ Relaxation Seekers
Opt for a ryokan that offers private onsen baths or rooms with in-room hot springs for an exclusive and tranquil experience. Enjoying a traditional Kaiseki meal in your room adds to the sense of privacy and indulgence. The serene atmosphere, combined with the healing waters, makes Noboribetsu an ideal destination to unwind and recharge.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Therapeutic Power of Noboribetsu's Onsen
Many accommodations, from traditional ryokans to modern hotels, feature both public and private onsen baths. The experience of soaking in these hot springs, especially in an outdoor bath (rotenburo) surrounded by nature, is a quintessential part of visiting Noboribetsu. Some establishments, like Dai-ichi Takimotokan, boast extensive onsen facilities with multiple pools, allowing guests to sample various waters.
When choosing an onsen, consider the type of water and the facilities offered. Some travelers prefer the privacy of a room with a private onsen, while others enjoy the social aspect of public baths. Regardless of your preference, the healing waters of Noboribetsu are a major draw for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Exploring Jigokudani (Hell Valley)
+1Visitors can explore Jigokudani via well-maintained walking paths and boardwalks, allowing for close-up views of the bubbling mud pots and steaming vents. The vibrant colors of the mineral deposits add to the visual spectacle. It's important to stay on the designated paths for safety, as the ground can be unstable and extremely hot.
The area is also guarded by imposing demon statues, adding to the mystical and slightly eerie ambiance. These statues are believed to protect the town and its precious hot springs. The visual contrast between the stark volcanic terrain and the lush surrounding forests, especially during autumn, makes Jigokudani a photographer's delight.
+1Getting Around Noboribetsu and Beyond
If you prefer train travel, you can take a limited express train from Sapporo to Noboribetsu Station, followed by a local bus to the onsen area. This combination offers a scenic journey and allows you to experience different aspects of Hokkaido's transportation network. It's advisable to grab a bus timetable from the station for your return trip, as services can be limited.
For those seeking greater flexibility to explore attractions like Lake Kuttara or the surrounding natural parks, renting a car is highly recommended. This opens up possibilities for discovering hidden gems and enjoying the freedom to set your own itinerary.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit