Noboribetsu Onsen

Noboribetsu Onsen is one of Japan’s most renowned hot spring resorts, located in Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido. With abundant hot spring water and as many as nine different types of spring qualities, rare even on a global scale, it boasts such diversity that it is often called a “department store of hot springs.” Surrounded by magnificent natural scenery such as Jigokudani and Oyunuma, formed by volcanic activity about 10,000 years ago, visitors can enjoy a luxurious and restorative experience for both body and mind.

Diverse spring qualities and the charm of the hot spring town
The greatest feature of Noboribetsu Onsen is that you can enjoy nine different types of springs in one hot spring area:

Sulfur springs
Hydrogen sulfide springs
Acidic springs
Iron springs
Salt springs
Bicarbonate springs
Radioactive springs
Alum springs
Green vitriol springs

These spring qualities are said to have various benefits, such as improving skin condition, relieving fatigue, and easing sensitivity to cold and joint pain, making the area especially popular with travelers seeking health and beauty benefits. The hot spring town is lined with a wide range of accommodations, from charming Japanese inns to modern hotels, allowing visitors to relax amid atmospheric streets while enjoying the changing scenery of the four seasons.

Major sightseeing spots
1. Jigokudani
“Jigokudani,” the symbol of Noboribetsu Onsen, is an explosion crater site formed by volcanic activity at Mt. Hiyori. It has a diameter of about 450 meters and covers roughly 11 hectares. White steam rises from fumaroles and vents, creating a dynamic landscape that makes you feel the pulse of the earth. Walking paths are maintained around the area, and the shorter course can be completed in about 20 minutes.

2. Oyunuma, Oku-no-Yu, and Oyunuma River Natural Foot Bath
Near Jigokudani are “Oyunuma,” where sulfurous hot water gushes out at around 130°C, “Oku-no-Yu,” where high-temperature water at 75–85°C bubbles up, and a natural foot bath spot that uses the hot spring water flowing from Oyunuma. At the end of a forested walking trail, you can enjoy a soothing moment in harmony with nature.

3. Sengen Park
At “Sengen Park,” located in the center of the Noboribetsu hot spring town, a geyser erupts powerfully about every three hours. With unique Noboribetsu-style decorations such as ogre statues and a metal club monument, it is a spot where visitors can experience hot spring culture and local legends.

4. Noboribetsu Bear Park
About seven minutes by ropeway from the foot of the hot spring town to the summit of Mt. Shihorenzan, 550 meters above sea level, “Noboribetsu Bear Park” keeps more than 60 brown bears. In the observation facility known as the “human cage,” visitors can observe bear behavior up close through glass, making for an exciting experience.

5. Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe
Inside the beautiful building modeled after Denmark’s Egeskov Castle, the entire facility is an aquarium displaying more than 10,000 creatures of around 400 species. With highlights such as the 8-meter-high Crystal Tower and tunnel aquariums, it is especially popular with families.

6. Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura
This theme park recreates the streets of the Edo period. It features ninja shows, interactive attractions, and theater performances, and visitors can also rent kimono or ninja costumes for a stroll through the grounds. It is a family-friendly facility where people can enjoy history and culture in a fun way.

7. Shin-Noboribetsu Ohashi Bridge
This 240-meter-long arch bridge spans the Noboribetsu Gorge, and with a height of about 120 meters down to the valley floor, it is one of the highest in Hokkaido. Especially during the autumn foliage season, the contrast between the red bridge and the gorge is beautiful, making it a famous scenic spot.

8. Orofure Pass
Located at an elevation of about 940 meters, this mountain pass offers panoramic views of Mt. Yotei, Lake Toya, and Funka Bay on clear days. With alpine plants in spring, autumn leaves in fall, and rime ice and sea of clouds in winter, it is one of Noboribetsu’s most spectacular viewpoints, offering different scenery in every season.

Hidden gem hot spring: Karurusu Onsen
“Karurusu Onsen,” located in the mountains about 8 km from Noboribetsu Onsen, has long been known as a medicinal bath and is designated as a National Health Hot Spring Resort. Its quiet environment makes it ideal for recuperation and long stays, and it is the perfect place for those who want to refresh both body and mind in nature while enjoying the benefits of hot springs.

Local specialties and gourmet delights
In Noboribetsu’s hot spring town, you will find the Onsen Market, where you can taste fresh local seafood, along with restaurants serving Hokkaido ingredients and souvenir shops. Recommended dishes include the spicy “Jigoku no Kanimeshi” crab rice, the sweet-and-savory “Noboribetsu Enma Yakisoba,” and smooth “Onsen Pudding.” Hokkaido sake and Noboribetsu craft beer are also available, making the culinary experience especially rich.

Seasonal highlights
Summer: The climate is cool and comfortable, making it a pleasant summer retreat. Every year during the final week of August, the Noboribetsu Hell Festival is held, offering a powerful event where people dressed as ogres parade through the town.
Autumn: The hot spring town and the gorge are colored with brilliant autumn leaves, making walks and open-air baths even more atmospheric.
Winter: An open-air bath surrounded by snow is truly exceptional. The illuminations in the hot spring town also create a magical atmosphere, offering the special charm unique to winter.

Noboribetsu Onsen is easily accessible, about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car or JR limited express from Sapporo, and about 1 hour by car from New Chitose Airport. It is also about 2 hours and 30 minutes from the Hakodate area, making it convenient from various parts of Hokkaido and an ideal base for sightseeing.

Noboribetsu Onsen is truly a “hot spring paradise,” combining a wide variety of spring qualities, abundant hot spring water, and dramatic natural scenery. It is recommended not only for hot spring lovers, but also for family trips, gourmet experiences, and nature walks. Be sure to spend a soothing and unforgettable time at Noboribetsu Onsen, where the charms change with each season.