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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Noboribetsu Jigokudani is the source area of Noboribetsu Onsen, a famous hot spring resort in Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido. It is a desolate valley where hot springs containing steam and sulfur erupt due to volcanic activity. It has been used as the center of hot spring supply since ancient times, and the smell of sulfur and the scenery of rising steam evoke images of hell, hence the name "Hell Valley." It is an extremely popular spot with tourists, as you can experience the dynamic geothermal activity up close.
Highlights
- View from the promenade:While walking along the well-maintained walking trail (which can be completed in about 30 to 40 minutes), you can get a close-up look at the fumaroles, the bubbling mud baths, and the valley from which white smoke rises. There are also plenty of photo opportunities.
- Oyunuma Pond: A large hot spring pond near Jigokudani. Its vibrant color, due to its high sulfur content, creates a spectacular sight when combined with the steam that spreads around it.
- Jigokudani Observatory: An observation space on high ground overlooking the entire valley. The scenery changes depending on the weather and season (morning mist and winter snow scenery are especially beautiful).
- Hot spring town and foot bath: The surrounding Noboribetsu hot spring town is lined with foot baths, day-use bathing facilities, and souvenir shops selling hot spring buns, making it a fun place to stroll around.
- Wildlife and vegetation: You can see the heat-resistant plants that are unique to volcanic areas, and if you're lucky, you can also see wild birds in the surrounding forest.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Muroran Main Line "Noboribetsu Station" or "Higashimuroran Station" (Noboribetsu Station is more common).
- Train + Bus: It takes about 15 to 20 minutes by bus from JR Noboribetsu Station to Noboribetsu Onsen (the bus stop is "Noboribetsu Onsen"). The number of buses varies depending on the season, so please check the timetable in advance.
- From the express bus or airport: There are direct express buses from New Chitose Airport to Noboribetsu Onsen (takes about 60-90 minutes). Alternatively, you can go from the airport to Sapporo and transfer to the JR line.
- car: It is about 20 to 30 minutes from Noboribetsu East IC or Noboribetsu West IC on the Hokkaido Expressway. Parking is available nearby (some are paid parking, others are free for guests), making it convenient to access by car.
- On foot: Jigokudani can be reached on foot from the center of Noboribetsu Onsen town (approximately 10 to 20 minutes from your accommodation).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Walking around Jigokudani: Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour (approximately 1 hour if you want to take your time taking photos and enjoying the view)
- Sightseeing in addition to the hot spring town: Half day (2-4 hours)
- Relaxing sightseeing including hot spring bathing and surrounding facilities: 1 day (if you plan to spend the day relaxing in the hot springs)
Nearby spots
- Noboribetsu Onsen Town: There are day-trip bathing facilities, inns, souvenir shops, foot baths, etc. You can enjoy a stroll around the hot spring town.
- Oyunuma: A large pond near Jigokudani. The sulfur spring scenery is a highlight.
- Noboribetsu Marine Park Nix: The sea zoo is popular with families.
- Noboribetsu Bear Park: A bear exhibition facility accessible by ropeway (where you can observe and feed the animals).
- Noboribetsu Date Historical Village: A theme park that recreates the Edo period, featuring ninja shows and samurai performances.
- Mount Usu and Showa-Shinzan area: There is a volcano tourist spot about an hour away by car, so it is recommended to visit both.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Safety measures: Stay on the trail as there are areas where steam rises and hot water flows. Do not enter rocky areas or restricted areas. There is a risk of burns and poisoning.
- Sulfur smell: There are some areas with a strong sulfur smell, so caution is advised for those who are sensitive to smells or have respiratory illnesses.
- Clothes/shoes: We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. The trail can be slippery in rainy weather and winter, so please be sure to take measures to protect yourself from the cold and wear non-slip shoes.
- Seasonal precautions: In winter, snow and ice can cause the trails to be closed and visibility to be reduced. Spring to autumn is the peak tourist season, and the trails can get crowded during the autumn foliage season and long weekends.
- Manners: Please take your trash home with you and be considerate of the natural environment and facilities. Do not collect water or mud without permission.
- Pets: You may be able to walk around with pets, but please be sure to keep them on a leash and clean up their droppings so as not to cause a nuisance to others. Some facilities may have entry restrictions.
- Nearby facilities are open: Opening hours for hot spring facilities and restaurants change depending on the season and day of the week, so please check the opening hours for the day in advance.
