Noboribetsu Onsen
Noboribetsu Onsen: Where Hokkaido’s Earth Speaks Through Steam
Noboribetsu Onsen sits at the heart of one of Hokkaido’s most active volcanic zones — and it shows. Walk through Jigokudani, or “Hell Valley,” and you’ll see clouds of white steam rising from cracks in the earth, hear the hiss of gas vents, and feel the faint scent of sulfur in the air. It’s dramatic, but there’s a certain calm to it, too — a balance of power and peace that defines this place.
The springs here draw from nine different mineral sources, making Noboribetsu one of the most varied and therapeutic hot springs in Japan. Each type of water has its own character and healing properties, from gentle alkaline baths for the skin to iron-rich pools said to ease fatigue.
Soaking in these waters isn’t just a relaxing experience — it’s a connection to something deeper, a natural rhythm that’s been flowing here for centuries.
The Story Behind the Oni: Guardians Born from the Earth
The “oni” — fierce red and blue demons you’ll spot around Noboribetsu — aren’t just for show. They come from ancient legends tied to the valley’s fiery origins. Centuries ago, locals believed that the boiling springs and sulfurous gases were signs of powerful spirits dwelling beneath the earth. These spirits, once feared, became seen as guardians — protectors of the hot springs, watching over those who came to heal.
Today, these oni are part of the town’s identity. You’ll see them at train stations, on street corners, and during the summer fire festivals, where dancers dressed as demons carry torches and drum through the night.
More than mascots, these figures represent the natural forces that shaped this land — unpredictable, but not unfriendly.
Local Cuisine & Scenic Attractions
From the Steam to the Table — and Into Your Hands
The warmth of Noboribetsu doesn’t stop at the hot springs. It’s also in the food — fresh crab, grilled scallops, and sweet onsen manju, all served with a sense of local pride. Many dishes are prepared using the steam or mineral water from the springs, adding a literal taste of the earth to every bite.
In town, shops sell playful yet symbolic souvenirs: carved oni figures, charms for safe travels, and beauty products made with the same waters you just soaked in. These aren’t just keepsakes — they carry the spirit of the place with them.
Walking through Noboribetsu is like reading a story told through sights, smells, and textures — one that lingers long after you leave.
Top 5 Souvenirs from Noboribetsu Onsen
Take Home the Spirit of the Oni – Unique Gifts from Hokkaido’s Fiery Onsen Town
From demon-themed snacks to skin-pampering bath goods, Noboribetsu offers memorable souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else. Here are the top 5 local favorites
1. Oni Manju (鬼まんじゅう)
Steamed buns shaped like demon faces, filled with red bean or custard. Cute, spooky, and delicious.
2. Yunohana Bath Crystals（湯の花入浴剤）
Bath salts made from actual Noboribetsu hot spring minerals. Turn your home bath into an onsen retreat.
3. Oni Masks & Charms（鬼面・お守り）
Miniature demon masks and charms said to ward off evil and bring strength. Found at local shops and temples.
4. Jigoku Ramen（地獄ラーメン）
Spicy instant noodles branded with hellish names and fiery flavors. Popular among spice lovers.
5. Noboribetsu Oni Sake（登別鬼酒）
A locally brewed sake featuring a red demon on the label. Pairs well with seafood or spicy dishes.
Taste Local Delicacies
- Seafood Rice Bowl with Hokkaido Crab (北海道産カニ海鮮丼)
A luxurious rice bowl brimming with fresh crab, scallops, and salmon roe, sourced from local markets and ryokan inns. - Jigoku Hot Pot (地獄鍋)
A spicy miso-based hot pot inspired by Hell Valley, packed with local vegetables and meats, offering both heat and hearty flavors. - Onsen Tamago (温泉たまご)
Eggs gently cooked in natural hot spring water, resulting in an incredibly smooth texture and rich flavor.
Top 5 Must-Visit Spots in Noboribetsu
- Jigokudani (Hell Valley)（地獄谷）
A volcanic valley filled with sulfurous steam vents and wooden boardwalks.
It is the symbolic heart of Noboribetsu Onsen.
MAP - Oyunuma Pond & Natural Foot Bath（大湯沼＆大湯沼川天然足湯）
A steaming sulfur pond and a hot spring river nestled in the forest, where you can enjoy a natural foot bath experience.
MAP - Noboribetsu Bear Park（のぼりべつクマ牧場）
Accessible by ropeway, this mountaintop zoo is home to dozens of Hokkaido brown bears.MAP - Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura（登別伊達時代村）
A historical theme park recreating the Edo Period, offering samurai and ninja shows, archery experiences, and kimono dress-up.MAP - Asuka Park (Geyser Park)（浅間公園（間欠泉公園））
A small but charming park in the town center, featuring an active geyser and iconic oni (ogre) statues.MAP
Recommended Accommodations in Noboribetsu Onsen
Enjoy unique stays with iconic hot springs, scenic views, and excellent hospitality.
Dai-ichi Takimotokan (第一滝本館)
A historic hot spring resort located near the entrance of Jigokudani (Hell Valley), Dai-ichi Takimotokan offers one of the largest and most diverse indoor and outdoor onsen complexes in Japan. Guests can enjoy views of volcanic steam vents while soaking in natural hot spring waters. The hotel is also known for its buffet dining, family-friendly amenities, and convenient access to local attractions.
Review:
“The variety of hot springs was incredible. I could relax while watching the steam rise from Hell Valley. A must-visit for any onsen lover!”
— Booking.com (UK)
Noboribetsu Grand Hotel (登別グランドホテル)
Combining classical elegance with modern comfort, Noboribetsu Grand Hotel features three different types of natural hot springs: sulfur, iron, and salt. The hotel’s Roman-style indoor bath and beautiful open-air bath create a luxurious healing experience. Its central location makes it ideal for sightseeing and shopping.
Review:
“Perfect location and a lovely blend of traditional and stylish design. The hot springs were soothing and the dinner was exquisite!”
— Agoda (US)
Hotel Mahoroba (ホテルまほろば)
One of the largest ryokan-style hotels in Noboribetsu, Hotel Mahoroba offers over 30 types of baths, including rock and cypress tubs, waterfalls, and jacuzzi options. It’s a great choice for couples, families, or solo travelers seeking variety in their onsen experience.
Review:
“So many baths to choose from! It felt like a hot spring theme park. The room was spacious and the view was amazing.”
— Expedia (Australia)
Noboribetsu Manseikaku (登別万世閣)
This well-established hotel offers excellent value with its spacious rooms, delicious local cuisine, and high-quality onsen featuring mineral-rich sulfur water. It’s also close to the Noboribetsu Bear Park and other attractions.
Review:
“Excellent service and a lovely, relaxing bath after a day of exploring. The breakfast buffet was wonderful!”
— Rakuten Travel (Japan)
Bourou Noguchi Noboribetsu (望楼NOGUCHI登別)
A traditional ryokan offering top-tier kaiseki cuisine and peaceful rooms. English menus and staff available for international guests.
Review:
“Everything was top-notch — the room, the food, the private bath. A deeply relaxing and luxurious experience.”
— Hotels.com (Canada)
How to Get to Noboribetsu Onsen
Convenient Routes from Major Cities in Hokkaido
Noboribetsu Onsen is one of Hokkaido’s most famous hot spring resorts, known for its volcanic activity, sulfuric steam vents, and healing waters. Here’s how to get there from key cities:
✈️ Route 1: From New Chitose Airport (CTS)
Step 1: Take the JR Airport Express to Minami-Chitose Station
⏱️ Approx. 3 minutesStep 2: Transfer to the JR Limited Express Hokuto bound for Hakodate, and get off at Noboribetsu Station
⏱️ Approx. 67 minutesStep 3: From Noboribetsu Station, take a local bus or taxi to Noboribetsu Onsen
⏱️ Approx. 15 minutes
✅ Total Time: About 1 hour 25 minutes
📌 Note: Trains and buses run frequently throughout the day.
🚄 Route 2: From Sapporo Station
Option 1:
Take the JR Limited Express Hokuto or Suzuran directly to Noboribetsu Station
⏱️ Approx. 75 minutes
→ Then take a local bus or taxi (15 min) to Noboribetsu OnsenOption 2 (No Transfers):
Take a direct highway bus from Sapporo Station Bus Terminal to Noboribetsu Onsen Bus Stop
⏱️ Approx. 2 hours
🚌 Operated by: Donan Bus
🎟️ Tickets: Can be booked online or at the terminal
✅ Tip: The direct bus is more convenient if you have heavy luggage or prefer a no-transfer option.
🚄 Route 3: From Hakodate
Take the JR Limited Express Hokuto to Noboribetsu Station
⏱️ Approx. 3.5 hoursThen take a bus or taxi to Noboribetsu Onsen
⏱️ Approx. 15 minutes
✅ Total Time: Around 3 hours 45 minutes
🚖 Final Step: Noboribetsu Station → Noboribetsu Onsen
By Local Bus: Buses depart regularly and are timed to connect with incoming trains
By Taxi: Available in front of the station; approx. ¥2,000–¥3,000
Distance: About 6 km
📱 Travel Tips for Visitors:
IC Cards like Kitaca are usable on JR lines and buses
Be sure to check Donan Bus schedules in advance during winter months
JR Pass holders can use the Limited Express Hokuto with no additional charge (except for reserved seats)
