Noboribetsu
Hokkaido's most famous onsen town — nine spring types in one valley.
Steam rises from Jigokudani 'Hell Valley' all year, feeding Noboribetsu's nine distinct hot-spring waters — the rarest concentration in Japan. Easy 90-min drive from Sapporo and a perfect first onsen stay.
3D Landmark Map
Search a landmark or pick From → To to measure distance.
Must-see attractions
- Jigokudani (Hell Valley)
Volcanic crater spewing sulphurous steam, boardwalks loop right across it.
- Oyunuma Pond & Footbath
Hot-water river you can dip your feet into, a 15-min walk uphill.
- Noboribetsu Bear Park
Mountain-top sanctuary for 70 Hokkaido brown bears, ropeway access.
- Date Jidai Mura
Edo-period theme park with ninja shows, costume rental, samurai street.
- Marine Park Nixe
Castle-shaped aquarium, penguin parade — kids love it.
Recommended hotels
- Daiichi Takimotokan
Iconic onsen palace with 35 baths using all 7 spring types, kaiseki buffet.
- Takimotoinn
Modern, sleeker sister of Takimotokan, smaller and quieter.
- Noboribetsu Sekisuitei
Ridge-top ryokan, dramatic rotenburo overlooking valley forest.
- Bourou Noguchi Noboribetsu
All-suite luxury ryokan, each suite with private onsen.
Food & restaurants
- Ajinodaio
Local izakaya — Hokkaido sake, kaki (oysters), Date chicken.
- Bear Burger (Bear Park)
Mountain-top venison burger with valley view.
- Onsen monaka
Egg-shaped waffle with sweet bean filling — buy along Gokuraku Dori.
- Aburi-don Hanamasa
Lightly torched seafood rice bowl with Date beef topping.
Getting there & around
- From New Chitose Airport
JR Limited Express Suzuran 1 hr to Noboribetsu Station + 13-min bus to onsen.
- From Sapporo
JR 1h15; expressway by car 1h45.
- Within
All ryokan within a 10-min walk; donan bus to attractions outside the gorge.
