Noboribetsu is Hokkaido’s most famous hot-spring resort, and one of the best in all Japan. Its power source is Jigokudani (“Hell Valley”) — a dramatic, steaming crater of sulphurous vents, bubbling streams and rust-coloured rock that feeds the town’s baths. Noboribetsu is prized for the sheer variety of its waters — nine different spring types in one place — so ryokan and day-use bathhouses offer a soak for every ailment. Easy from Sapporo or on the road to Hakodate, it’s a quintessential Hokkaido onsen experience.

This guide covers Hell Valley, the waters, where to bathe and how to get there.

🗓️ Quick Reference
Location Southwest Hokkaido (Iburi)
Highlights Jigokudani, varied hot-spring waters
Time needed Half day to overnight
Best time Year-round (steamy and scenic in winter)
Good for Onsen, ryokan, nature walks, families

Jigokudani (Hell Valley)

  • A 450 m-wide volcanic crater of steaming vents, hot streams and colourful mineral deposits — the source of Noboribetsu’s water.
  • Wooden walkways and short trails lead around the valley and to the bubbling Oyunuma pond and a natural hot-water foot bath.
  • It’s free to walk and especially atmospheric in the steamy cold of winter; an evening light-up runs in some seasons.

The waters & bathing

  • Noboribetsu is famous for its nine spring types (sulphur, iron, salt, etc.) — unusually varied for one resort.
  • Ryokan stays include kaiseki dinners and multiple baths; many also offer day-use bathing for visitors not staying overnight.
  • Follow standard onsen etiquette: wash before entering; tattoos may be restricted at some places — check ahead.

Around town

  • The Enma-do shrine on the main street has a demon statue that puts on a daily show.
  • Noboribetsu Bear Park and a date-era ninja village are family add-ons — see our bear watching guide .

Combine your visit

Noboribetsu sits handily between Sapporo and Hakodate:

  • Pair with Lake Toya and Showa Shinzan nearby — see our Lake Toya guide .
  • Learn Ainu heritage at nearby Shiraoi — see our Upopoy guide .

How to get there

  • Limited express from Sapporo to Noboribetsu Station (~70 min), then a short bus to the onsen.
  • Easy by car off the expressway; on the Sapporo–Hakodate route.