Noboribetsu Onsen and Jigokudani Travel Guide: Hot Spring Qualities, Time Required, and Access from Sapporo

Jigokudani Walking Guide: Highlights and Time Required

Jigokudani is within walking distance of Noboribetsu’s hot spring resort area and features well-maintained trails that visitors can explore freely. Here are the main highlights and typical walking times recommended by the OlaChill editorial team.

The starting point for exploring Jigokudani is near Tengu-yama Observatory, approximately 5 minutes on foot from Noboribetsu Onsen Bus Terminal. From here, a walking trail continues to Jigokudani Observatory. From the observatory, you can enjoy a close-up view of the dynamic landscape, with rugged rock surfaces and clouds of white steam rising into the air.

Main walking routes and time required:

• Jigokudani only: This route runs from Jigokudani Observatory to the geyser at Tessen Pond and takes approximately 30 minutes. At Tessen Pond, you can witness the power of a geyser that shoots hot water into the air at intervals of approximately 3 hours.
• Jigokudani and nearby foot baths: This route continues from Jigokudani Observatory through Tessen Pond to Oyunumа (おおゆぬま) and the Oyunumа River Natural Foot Bath farther along the trail. Allow approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours. Oyunumа is a gourd-shaped pond with a circumference of approximately 1km, where sulfuric water at approximately 130℃ violently bubbles up, creating a mysterious scene shrouded in steam. At the natural foot bath along the Oyunumа River, a hot spring stream flowing from Oyunumа, you can soak your feet in nature while listening to the sound of the flowing water. Don’t forget to bring a towel.

The trails are paved, making them relatively safe for everyone from children to older visitors. However, some areas have a strong sulfur smell or noticeable geothermal heat. In winter, parts of the trails may be closed due to snowfall, so checking the latest information in advance is recommended.

How to Get There from Sapporo: Train, Bus, and Car

There are 3 main ways to travel from Sapporo to Noboribetsu Onsen: by train, highway bus, or car. Choose the option that best suits your travel style and budget.

1. By highway bus: The easiest option, with no transfers, is the highway bus.

• Kousoku Onsen-go (Donan Bus): Runs directly from Sapporo Station North Exit (ESTA underground) to Noboribetsu Onsen Bus Terminal.
  • Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours 5 minutes. Delays may occur due to weather or road conditions.
  • Fare: Approximately 2,500円～3,400円 one way (adults). Seats must be reserved in advance, so booking ahead is recommended.
• Kousoku Hakucho-go and Kousoku Muroran-go (Donan Bus): Some services also travel from Sapporo to Noboribetsu Onsen via Noboribetsu Station. Travel time and fares are generally about the same as for Kousoku Onsen-go.

2. By JR and local bus: This option is recommended for travelers who value punctuality and want to enjoy the scenery from the train window.

• JR limited express: Take the Hokuto or Suzuran limited express from JR Sapporo Station to JR Noboribetsu Station.
  • Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.
  • Fare: Approximately 4,500円 one way, including the limited express surcharge. You can save money with “Tokudane,” which offers discounts of up to 45% when booked online in advance.
• From JR Noboribetsu Station to Noboribetsu Onsen: At JR Noboribetsu Station, transfer to a Donan Bus bound for “Noboribetsu Onsen” and get off at the “Noboribetsu Onsen” stop.
  • Travel time: Approximately 15 minutes by bus.
  • Fare: Approximately 370円 one way (adults).

3. By car (rental car or private vehicle): This option is recommended for travelers who want to plan their sightseeing route freely or families carrying a lot of luggage.

• Route: Take the Hokkaido Expressway from Sapporo and exit at Noboribetsu-Higashi IC. The drive from the IC to the Noboribetsu resort area takes approximately 10 minutes.
  • Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes (using the expressway).
  • Expressway toll: Approximately 3,060円 one way for a regular car using ETC (as of 2026).
• Parking: Paid parking lots are available close to Jigokudani. Parking costs 500円 per day for a regular car, and allows one use each of the Jigokudani Parking Lot and Oyunumа Parking Lot. Note that the Oyunumа Parking Lot is closed during the winter season (typically from late November to late April).
• Important: In winter, Hokkaido roads may be snowy or icy, so winter tires are essential. If you are not confident driving in these conditions, public transportation is recommended.

Many accommodations also operate free shuttle buses from Sapporo Station. Check each hotel’s official website when making your reservation.

Seasonal Highlights and the Best Time to Visit

Noboribetsu Onsen and Jigokudani take on different appearances throughout the 4 seasons, offering a variety of experiences year-round. Here are the seasonal highlights and best times to visit recommended by the OlaChill editorial team.

Spring (late April～May): Contrast between fresh greenery and lingering snow As the snow melts and fresh greenery begins to emerge, the contrast between the still-snowy mountains and the white volcanic smoke rising from Jigokudani creates a beautiful landscape unique to this season. With mild temperatures, spring is an ideal time for walking.

Summer (June～August): Spectacular Oni Hanabi and the Jigoku Festival Summer brings special events in addition to Jigokudani’s dramatic scenery.

• Jigoku no Tani no Oni Hanabi: From around June to September, on certain days of the week (mainly Mondays and Thursdays), the Yukijin, guardian deities of Noboribetsu Onsen, launch powerful handheld fireworks to pray for people’s continued health. The pillars of flame, reaching up to approximately 8m, illuminate the night sky and set summer nights ablaze. Check the official website of the Noboribetsu International Tourism and Convention Association for the latest event period and schedule.
• Noboribetsu Jigoku Festival: Held on the final Saturday and Sunday of August each year, this is Noboribetsu Onsen’s largest summer festival. The festivities include the Enma Karakuri Dashi float, featuring King Enma and demons parading through the resort area; the Oni Mikoshi Abare Nerikomi; and the spectacular Oni Odori Daigunbu group dance.

Autumn (September～early November): Jigokudani dressed in fall colors Rowan, poison ivy, Erman’s birch, and other trees around Jigokudani and Oyunumа turn vivid red and yellow. The contrast between the rugged cliffs and rising steam creates an especially striking panorama. The foliage is typically at its best from mid- to late October, when the weather is also ideal for walking. Enjoy the autumn leaves during the day, then take an evening walk along the atmospheric “Oni-bi no Michi.”

Winter (late November～March): A snowy world veiled in steam When snow blankets Jigokudani, powerful columns of white steam rise from a silvery landscape, creating the mystical impression that the earth itself is breathing. From sunset until 21時30分, footlights along the trails illuminate the area as “Oni-bi no Michi: A Valley of Fantasy and Mystery.” The atmosphere is entirely different from daytime, and soaking in a warm hot spring after exploring in the cold is an unforgettable pleasure. However, some trails may be closed and surfaces may become icy in winter, so wear shoes with good traction and check the official website for the latest information.

Best time to visit: If you want to attend a particular event, plan your trip around its schedule. For the best overall scenery and walking conditions, however, the autumn foliage season (mid- to late October) and the Oni Hanabi period (June～September) are especially recommended. Winter’s mystical scenery is also appealing, but be sure to prepare thoroughly for the cold.

Recommended Food and Accommodations Around Noboribetsu Onsen

Noboribetsu Onsen offers a wide selection of appealing restaurants and accommodations to enjoy alongside a visit to Jigokudani.

Recommended food:

• Onsen Ichiba: Located about 5 minutes on foot from Jigokudani, Onsen Ichiba is a restaurant serving dishes made with ingredients from Noboribetsu. Enjoy local specialties such as the “10-color Maehama-don,” generously topped with fresh seafood, and “Enma Yakisoba,” made with a secret sauce.
• Enma Yakisoba: A well-known Noboribetsu specialty, Enma Yakisoba is made with local ingredients and served with an original sauce developed by each restaurant. Comparing different versions can be a fun experience.
• Oni Densetsu (local beer): Produced by Wakasaimo Honpo, the company behind Hokkaido’s famous confectionery “Wakasaimo,” Noboribetsu’s Oni Densetsu beer has won numerous awards at competitions in Japan and abroad. It is available at the brewery’s restaurant as well as convenience stores in the resort area.
• Seafood: Noboribetsu is close to fishing ports and has an abundance of fresh seafood. Many restaurants serve Hokkaido-style seafood, including seafood rice bowls and robatayaki grilled dishes.
• Onsen pudding and onsen manju: The resort area also has plenty of sweets that make excellent souvenirs. Onsen pudding and onsen manju are perfect for enjoying as you stroll around.

Recommended accommodations:

Noboribetsu Onsen has accommodations for every style, from large hotels offering baths with different water qualities to quiet, hideaway-style inns.

• Dai-ichi Takimotokan: Located in the center of Noboribetsu’s resort area, this hotel boasts one of Japan’s largest large public baths, with 5 hot spring qualities and 31 baths. Its views overlooking Jigokudani are another highlight, while the buffet featuring seasonal Hokkaido ingredients is also popular.
• Hotel Mahoroba: This hot spring resort is popular for its variety of creatively designed baths and buffet featuring abundant seafood.
• Iwai no Yado Noboribetsu Grand Hotel: A long-established hotel where guests can enjoy 3 types of hot spring water: sulfur, salt, and iron springs. It is also attracting attention as the venue for a match in the Oi title tournament in shogi in July 2026.
• Noboribetsu Onsenkyo Takinoya: A luxurious ryokan offering 4 different hot spring qualities and kaiseki cuisine rooted in traditional kappo culinary techniques. It is ideal for travelers seeking a quiet, relaxing stay.

Many hotels may operate free shuttle buses from Sapporo, so checking when booking your accommodation is convenient.

Tips, Precautions, and Etiquette for a Smooth Noboribetsu Visit

To help you fully enjoy Noboribetsu Onsen and Jigokudani, the OlaChill editorial team presents essential tips, precautions, and etiquette.

Sightseeing tips:

• Use a sightseeing map: Pick up a sightseeing map distributed by the Noboribetsu Onsen Tourism Association or another local organization, and check the places you want to visit in advance. The trails around Jigokudani are well maintained and can be explored on foot.
• Clothing and footwear: Choose comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. In winter, snowy and icy roads make shoes with good traction and warm clothing essential. Since the smell of sulfur may cling to your clothes, consider bringing a change of clothes if this concerns you.
• Learn the hot spring etiquette: Japanese hot springs have their own bathing customs. Some foreign visitors may be unfamiliar with rules such as not placing towels in the bath or not entering the water with their hair untied. To ensure that Japanese travelers and other guests can relax comfortably, wash your body before entering the bath, keep your towel out of the water, and tie up long hair. Many facilities provide notices, but it is important to keep these basics in mind.
• Manage your luggage: Especially when using public transportation, you can enjoy sightseeing more comfortably by leaving large bags at your accommodation or using coin lockers at the bus terminal and major tourist facilities.

Precautions:

• Winter trail closures: During winter (typically late November～late April), the Oyunumа Parking Lot may close due to snow, and some trails may be closed. Check the official website for the latest information before visiting.
• Volcanic gas: Jigokudani is an area of active volcanic activity. Visitors who feel unwell or have respiratory conditions should avoid staying for long periods and leave immediately if they begin to feel sick.
• Parking information: The Jigokudani and Oyunumа parking lots are paid facilities (500円/1 day for regular cars, as of 2026). One payment allows one use of each parking lot, but remember that the Oyunumа Parking Lot is closed during winter.

Etiquette:

• Take your trash with you: Please take your garbage home with you and help preserve the area’s beautiful natural environment.
• Avoid loud conversations and running: Especially in shared areas such as the natural foot bath, be considerate of others and spend your time quietly.
• Observe smoking restrictions: Smoke only in designated areas and never discard cigarette butts on the ground.

By keeping these points in mind and observing local etiquette, your stay in Noboribetsu will be more comfortable and memorable.

Suggested Noboribetsu Onsen and Jigokudani Itineraries

Here are 2 sample itineraries for making the most of Noboribetsu Onsen and Jigokudani: a half-day plan and a full-day plan. Travel times and time spent at each attraction are approximate, so adjust them to suit your own pace.

Half-Day Plan (Quick sightseeing on arrival or departure day)

This itinerary is designed for travelers who want to visit the main attractions in a short time after arriving at Noboribetsu Onsen from Sapporo or New Chitose Airport, or before departing.

• 10:00 Arrive at Noboribetsu Onsen Bus Terminal:
  • Leave your luggage at your accommodation or in a coin locker near the bus terminal.
• 10:15 Explore Gensen Park and the Karakuri Enma-do:
  • At Gensen Park, located at the entrance to the resort area, experience the power of a geyser that erupts approximately every 3 hours.
  • At the Karakuri Enma-do, watch the mechanical Enma performance, which changes throughout the day.
• 10:45 Explore Jigokudani:
  • Admire the rugged scenery from Jigokudani Observatory, then follow the trail to see the geyser at Tessen Pond (approximately 30～40 minutes).
• 11:30 Lunch in the resort area:
  • Enjoy Enma Yakisoba or a seafood rice bowl at Onsen Ichiba.
  • Browse nearby souvenir shops and look for items unique to Noboribetsu Onsen.
• 13:00 Day-use hot spring (optional):
  • If you have time, experience Noboribetsu’s renowned hot springs at a facility offering day-use bathing.
• 14:00 Travel from Noboribetsu Onsen Bus Terminal or check in at your accommodation:

Full-Day Plan (Take your time enjoying the hot springs and nature)

This itinerary is for travelers staying overnight in Noboribetsu Onsen who want to experience the destination from morning to evening.

• 09:00 Depart from the Noboribetsu resort area:
  • Walk from your accommodation toward Jigokudani.
• 09:15 Explore Jigokudani and Oyunumа:
  • Start at Jigokudani Observatory and follow the trails past Tessen Pond to Oyunumа and Oku-no-Yu (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes～2 hours).
  • Enjoy a foot bath surrounded by nature at the Oyunumа River Natural Foot Bath (bring a towel).
• 11:30 Lunch in the resort area:
  • Dine at a restaurant featuring local ingredients. Trying Noboribetsu beef and fresh seafood is also highly recommended.
• 13:00 Visit Noboribetsu Bear Park or Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura:
  • Noboribetsu Bear Park: Approximately 7 minutes by ropeway from the Noboribetsu resort area. See powerful brown bears up close and enjoy feeding experiences. The park also offers spectacular views of Lake Kuttara and the Pacific Ocean.
  • Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura: A theme park where visitors can experience the culture of the Edo period. Enjoy ninja and oiran shows as well as historically styled streetscapes.
• 17:00 Return to the resort area and check in:
  • Relax and unwind in your accommodation’s hot springs.
• 18:30 Dinner:
  • Enjoy the inn’s signature kaiseki cuisine or buffet.
• 20:00 Walk along “Oni-bi no Michi: A Valley of Fantasy and Mystery” or watch Oni Hanabi (seasonal):
  • In the evening, stroll through the illuminated Jigokudani along Oni-bi no Michi and enjoy an enchanting atmosphere unlike that of the daytime.
  • If you visit on one of the designated summer dates, watch Jigoku no Tani no Oni Hanabi and enjoy the spectacular handheld fireworks.

This itinerary is only an example. Feel free to customize it according to your interests and energy level to enjoy Noboribetsu your own way.

Summary: Key Points to Remember

The OlaChill editorial team has summarized 5 key points to keep in mind when visiting Noboribetsu Onsen and Jigokudani.

• Experience 9 types of hot spring water: Noboribetsu Onsen offers such a variety of hot spring qualities that it is known as “the department store of hot springs.” Enjoying a hot spring tour while considering the different benefits associated with sulfur, salt, alum, and other springs will help you appreciate the resort more deeply. Since accommodations draw from different water sources, checking in advance is also recommended.
• Take in Jigokudani’s dramatic scenery: Jigokudani, where you can feel the breath of the Earth, is the symbol of Noboribetsu Onsen. Well-maintained trails allow visitors to view the white smoke and boiling hot springs emerging from the remains of the explosive crater at Mount Hiyori up close. Walks take approximately 30 minutes to 2 hours, so choose a route suited to your fitness level.
• Understand the access options from Sapporo: The highway bus is convenient because it runs directly from Sapporo (approximately 1 hour 50 minutes, approximately 2,500円～3,400円). Traveling by JR and local bus (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, approximately 4,500円～) or by car (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, expressway toll approximately 3,060円) are also options. Choose the method that best suits your travel style.
• Enjoy seasonal events and nighttime scenery: Summer brings Jigoku no Tani no Oni Hanabi and the Noboribetsu Jigoku Festival, while autumn colors the valley with brilliant foliage. At night, Jigokudani is illuminated as “Oni-bi no Michi: A Valley of Fantasy and Mystery,” creating an enchanting atmosphere unlike the daytime. Experience the area’s changing appeal across different seasons and times of day.
• Observe hot spring resort etiquette: In a hot spring destination used by many people, basic etiquette is essential. To ensure a comfortable stay for everyone, do not place towels in the bath, tie up long hair, avoid speaking loudly, and remain considerate of those around you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to frequently asked questions about visiting Noboribetsu Onsen and Jigokudani.

Q1. Is there an admission fee for Jigokudani, and what are its opening hours? A. Jigokudani is free to enter and can be visited 24 hours a day. From after sunset until around 21時30分, it is illuminated as “Oni-bi no Michi: A Valley of Fantasy and Mystery,” offering an enchanting atmosphere different from the daytime.

Q2. How much time should I allow for exploring Jigokudani? A. The Jigokudani trails alone take approximately 30 minutes. If you also visit Oyunumа and the natural foot bath, allow approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours. Choose a route according to your fitness level and interests.

Q3. What is the most recommended way to travel from Sapporo to Noboribetsu Onsen? A. If you want a convenient journey with no transfers, the Kousoku Onsen-go highway bus is recommended. It takes approximately