Noboribetsu Onsen, located to the south of Hokkaido, is one of Japan's premier hot spring resorts surrounded by vast natural beauty.
Named after the Jigokudani (the hell valley) where its source is located, the hot spring town features numerous spots that evoke demons and hellish imagery.
This time, we'll introduce carefully selected recommended sightseeing and gourmet spots in Noboribetsu Onsen that you wouldn't want to miss!
Additionally, there's a convenient paid shuttle bus service from Sapporo City to Noboribetsu Onsen, so be sure to take advantage of it ! ↓
*The contents of this article are as of July 2021.
The published contents are subject to change, so please contact each facility in advance for official information.
Recommended Popular Tourist Spots in Noboribetsu Onsen
【 Hotel Mahoroba】An Onsen Paradise with 31 Hot Springs to Explore
Popular among families, 'Hotel Mahoroba' is an accommodation where you can enjoy Japan's largest open-air bath and explore 31 different types of baths.
The diverse baths spread across the first and second basement floors are sure to satisfy not only adults but also children!
With baths featuring slides, it might unintentionally turn into a long bathing time for families!
Moreover, amenities like baby chairs for baths are provided, ensuring a relaxing hot spring experience for the whole family ♪
【 Daiichi Takimotokan】Day-use Bathing Available! A Hot Spring with Impressive Spaciousness
For those who love hot springs, a highly recommended destination is the 'Daiichi Takimotokan' where you can simultaneously enjoy half of Japan's 10 different types of baths.
Here, you can indulge in sulfur spring, glauber's salt spring, acidic green bath, saline spring, and sodium hydrocarbonate spring across 35 bathing areas.
Each spring has different benefits for your body.
Among the five spring types, you can even drink the sodium hydrocarbonate spring at the facility's drinking fountain.
Being the closest hot spring facility to Jigokudani, the view from the large communal bath is breathtaking!
Enjoy a luxurious moment while overlooking the stunning scenery in this prime location.
【 Noboribetsu Onsen District, Takinoya】Indulge in Luxurious Moments in a Stunning Hot Spring
Takinoya, located in Noboribetsu, is an established hot spring inn known for its seasonal outdoor baths that allow guests to enjoy the changing beauty of nature.
The allure extends to the beautiful Japanese garden visible from the lobby and dining areas.
There are hot springs on both the basement and rooftop levels, offering the opportunity to savor a superb time while taking in picturesque views.
Especially recommended is the autumn foliage season!
During this time, the outdoor baths amidst the forested surroundings provide a breathtaking and magnificent panorama.
【 Oyunuma River Natural Footbath】A Free Footbath Spot Worth a Visit During Your Stroll
If you're visiting Jigokudani during your Noboribetsu sightseeing, why not take a stroll to the 'Oyunuma River Natural Footbath'?
Located about a 20-minute walk from Jigokudani, this is a free footbath spot where you can soak in the sulfur spring flowing from Oyunuma and enjoy a forest bath.
During peak tourist seasons, it can get quite crowded, so if there's no seating available, consider walking along the river to find another spot for footbathing.
Since it's a natural footbath, be sure to bring your own towel!
【 Sengen Park】Noboribetsu's Power Spot!? Iconic Multicolored Metal Bars
On the way from the hot spring town to Jigokudani, you can see the intermittent geyser※ at a pace of approximately once every 3 hours at Sengen Park.
The vigorously spouting steam and powerful sound are truly impressive!
If you're heading to Jigokudani, this is a spot you definitely want to visit as well.
Within the park, besides the intermittent geyser, you'll find statues of demons and multicolored metal bars.
The metal bars, each with a different color, are believed to have distinct effects, so be sure to find the one that best suits your wishes!
※Intermittent geyser: A hot spring that forcefully ejects steam or hot water at regular intervals.
【 Noboribetsu Jigokudani】The Must-Visit Classic Tourist Spots
Noboribetsu Jigokudani, formed by the volcanic activity of Mount Hiyori, is a classic and representative tourist spot in Noboribetsu Onsen!
Covering an area approximately three times the size of the Koshien Stadium, the explosive crater group constantly emits steam, resembling a landscape inhabited by demons, earning it the name "Jigokudani" (Hell Valley).
There is a scenic trail here for a mini-trekking experience, and at the endpoint, you can see the intermittent geyser known as "Tessenike" which means Iron Spring Pond.
Feel the warmth of the water gushing from Tessenike and immerse yourself in the scent of sulfur as you get a close-up view of Noboribetsu's source of hot springs. Enjoy the exploration!
【 Enmadou】Witness the Judgment of Lord Enma – 6 Chances Daily!
When it comes to Noboribetsu Onsen, you often encounter statues and monuments of demons, but hidden in the main street of the hot spring town, at the 'Enmadou,' you can find none other than Lord Enma, who judges the souls in hell.
The mechanism of Lord Enma was created in 1993 as part of the Noboribetsu Jigoku Festival commemorative project.
Every year during the Jigoku Festival, Lord Enma is famous for parading through the hot spring town on a float.
On days other than the Jigoku Festival, Lord Enma conducts judgments in Enmadou six times a day. If you're lucky, you might witness Lord Enma turning his face red as he delivers his judgment!
【 Noboribetsu Bear Park】Irresistibly Charming Sight of Adorable Bears!
Noboribetsu Bear Park is a popular tourist spot where you can see distinctive Ezo brown bears!
In the first enclosure where male Ezo brown bears live, there's a glass-covered building for humans, allowing you to observe the bears from a perspective as if you were inside the cage.
After experiencing the power of the bears, it's recommended to head to the second enclosure for the feeding experience!
The bears, which seemed intimidating just a while ago, now transform into irresistibly cute creatures♡
Standing on their hind legs, skillfully begging for food, their adorable poses are a must-see.
By the time you leave, you might find yourself completely captivated by the bears!
【 Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe】 A large aquarium where you can enjoy all day
Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe is a large aquarium that exhibits approximately 400 species and 20,000 living creatures.
Modeled after the real-life Egeskov Castle in Denmark, the "Nixe Castle" features impressive elements such as an 8-meter-tall tank and tunnel tanks replicating warm and cold ocean currents, allowing visitors to see powerful marine creatures up close.
On the plaza outside the castle, you can enjoy attractions like the penguin parade and the ring pool for seals, providing both adults and children with undeniable charm and relaxation!
Don't miss the chance to meet these heartwarming marine creatures ♪
【 Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura】An Educational and Interactive Historical Theme Park
Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura is a theme park inspired by the Warring States period warlord, Date Masamune.
It features recreated buildings from the Edo period and structures associated with the Sendai domain.
Inside the village, visitors can enjoy ninja shows, and courtesan performances, and have the opportunity to wear historical costumes for photos or explore the historical village as it is.
The park also offers a variety of hands-on attractions, including painting kokeshi dolls and tops, traditional fair games, and shuriken (ninja star) throwing, all of which are highly popular!
Both adults and children can have a fun and educational experience, learning about the culture of the Edo period.
【 Lake Kuttara】A Mysterious Lake with High Transparency
With a circumference of about 8 kilometers, Lake Kuttara, has one of the highest levels of transparency in Japan.
Formed around 80,000 years ago through volcanic activity, it is a caldera lake known as the most perfectly round lake in Japan.
The cobalt-blue lake, emerging suddenly from the primeval, is consistently mystical, captivating the hearts of those who lay eyes on it.
Why not take the opportunity to witness this fantastical landscape created by nature?
【 Noboribetsu Cultural Exchange Museum Kantorela】A Museum Housed in a Former School
Noboribetsu Cultural Exchange Museum Kantorela is a historical museum that preserves and exhibits buried cultural properties such as earthenware and stone tools unearthed in Noboribetsu City.
Located in the former Noboribetsu Onsen Junior High School building, the facility also features a section displaying memorabilia that reflects the school's history.
The museum offers ongoing experiences like making magatama (comma-shaped beads) and fire-starting.
Additionally, special events, such as pottery-making and steamed bread-making held once a month, provide unique hands-on experiences.
Admission is free, so if you're interested in exploring the history of Noboribetsu, be sure to visit and enjoy the exhibits!
【 UPOPOI (Symbolic Space for Ethnic Harmony)】Learn about Ainu Culture and History♪
UPOPOI (Symbolic Space for Ethnic Harmony) is the first national museum in Hokkaido dedicated to the history and culture of the Ainu people.
The term 'UPOPOI' in Ainu language means 'to sing (in a group).'
This facility offers various programs related to Ainu culture, allowing visitors to listen to traditional musical instruments and experience hands-on crafts.
With dining spaces like restaurants and food courts on the premises, you can immerse yourself in the culture of the Ainu people, the indigenous inhabitants of Hokkaido, throughout the day!
【 Noboribetsu Off-Road Park】Explore Nature on a Four-Wheel Buggy
Noboribetsu Off-Road Park is a recreational spot where you can enjoy four-wheel buggies on a vast property.
With guidance from instructors, even those who are new to driving four-wheel buggies can safely enjoy the course.
In winter, you can experience snowmobiling, and other activities such as banana boat rides and snow tubing are available, allowing you to enjoy outdoor recreation in nature throughout the year.
While it's an activity geared towards adults, once you get used to driving, children can also ride along, making it a recommended destination for families!
Recommended Popular Gourmet Spots in Noboribetsu Onsen
【 Noboribetsu Onsen Ichiba Market】A Spot to Enjoy Fresh Seafood
When it comes to Noboribetsu gourmet, you can't miss the 'Onsen Ichiba Market'!
This spot sells freshly caught seafood from local fishing ports, and the dining area on the first floor offers dishes made with the day's catch of seafood ♡
The most popular item is the seafood bowl, but there are plenty of other menus featuring fresh seafood such as curry, fry, and butter-grilled dishes!
During the season, you can also enjoy the best-quality hair crab packed with meat and sweet, creamy Bafun Uni.
In addition to seafood, there are other menus like 'Noboribetsu Enma Yakisoba' and 'Nama Chichi Soft Cream' to enhance your dining experience.
【 Noboribetsu Dairy Farm】Like a school where you can enjoy Noboribetsu sweets of milk
The Noboribetsu Dairy Farm opened in 2004 by utilizing the former Satsunai Elementary and Junior High School, which closed in 1998.
At Noboribetsu Dairy Farm, you can savor sweets made with rich Noboribetsu milk, including soft serve ice cream and pudding ♡
Moreover, the facility offers dairy kitchen experience programs where, with advance reservations, you can also experience making ice cream and butter.
【 Mame no Bunshiro】 a renowned shop for natto, the fermented soybeans that once you try, you'll become addicted to!
Mame no Bunshiro is a specialty store for natto, having received numerous awards throughout its history!
Established in the small tofu shop in 1920, it shifted to natto production in 1935.
The dedication to quality natto has been passed down through four generations from the first owner, Mr. Bunshiro Hiratsuka, to the current owner, Mr. Masao Hiratsuka.
The natto under the Bunshiro brand is known for its low bitterness, grassy taste, and astringency.
With minimal unpleasant characteristics, some have even overcome their dislike for natto by trying the varieties offered by this popular shop.
So, whether you're a natto enthusiast or someone looking to conquer the aversion to natto, Mame no Bunshiro is worth a try!
【 The Noboribetsu Jibiru-kan】 offers a chance to savor local beer known as 'Oni Densetsu' (Demon Legend)
The Noboribetsu Jibiru-kan is a beer corner located within the Waka Saimo Honpo Noboribetsu Higashi Shop, which is known for producing and selling the famous Hokkaido sweet potato ('wakasaimo').
In this corner, they offer the local craft beer 'Oni Densetsu' (Demon Legend) from Noboribetsu.
Visitors can enjoy glimpses of the beer production plant through glass, and there's an opportunity for free tastings of freshly brewed local beer.
If the timing is right, you might even witness the actual beer-making process!
It's a hidden gem for beer enthusiasts.
【 Tsurutsuru-ya】Enjoy the famous curry ramen!
Tsuru Tsuru-ya is a popular ramen shop in the Noboribetsu area, ranked first in the local ramen rankings!
Especially beloved by locals is the shop's signature dish, 'Curry Ramen.'
The perfectly balanced soup, with a blend of spiciness and sweetness, complements the thick noodles exceptionally well, earning it a reputation as an addictive delight♪
The soup has a rich consistency compared to other ramen shops, and its excellent compatibility with rice makes it a must-try.
If you have room in your stomach, adding extra rice as a side dish is highly recommended♡
【 PIZZERIA ASTRA】A pizza shop where you can enjoy the authentic taste in a hot spring town
Pizzeria Astra is a popular restaurant in the heart of Noboribetsu Onsen, known for offering authentic pizzas at reasonable prices.
The menu features exciting options such as the 'Ultimate Margherita' made with locally sourced Hokkaido mozzarella cheese and the signature 'Hell Pizza' inspired by Noboribetsu Onsen.
Every pizza is crafted by the owner, who trained in Italy, ensuring a delicious and authentic experience.
The diverse menu appeals to both locals and tourists, with many becoming repeat customers.
For those interested in trying their hand at home pizza-making, Pizzeria Astra's official Instagram account shares pizza recipes.
It's a must-visit spot for pizza enthusiasts in Noboribetsu!
In Conclusion
We've introduced 20 recommended sightseeing and gourmet spots around Noboribetsu Onsen, one of the leading hot spring resorts in Japan.
In addition to the spots mentioned, there are still plenty of charming places to explore in Noboribetsu, such as statues of oni (demons) believed to bring good fortune, and restaurants offering hell-themed cuisine.
Noboribetsu has many hidden gems known only to locals, so when you visit, be sure to explore beyond the spots mentioned here and discover the various attractions the area has to offer!
Every year in early February, the city of Sapporo transforms into an artistic wonderland with massive snow and ice sculptures gracing its streets.
