Guide
Noboribetsu Onsen is one of Japan's most prestigious hot spring areas, located in Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido. With a natural discharge of 10,000 tons per day, it is famously called the 'Department Store of Hot Springs' because it offers nine different types of mineral water, including sulfur, salt, alum, and iron springs. The name is derived from the Ainu word 'Nuphur-pet,' meaning 'the river with deep blue water.' The area has been a known hot spring site since the Edo period and developed into a major wellness destination during the Meiji era. It is highly regarded as a site where history and natural energy seamlessly blend.
The area has a long history of being used for medicinal purposes, with the Ainu people valuing its waters for centuries. During the Edo period, historical records like the 'Ezo Soshi' described the hot springs as bubbling up from the riverbed with water so cloudy and white that the bottom was invisible. In the Meiji era, the area was developed into a formal sanatorium and resort. By 1905, it was officially designated as a recovery site for wounded soldiers from the Russo-Japanese War, bringing it to national prominence. The area has also been visited by members of the Japanese Imperial Family, including the Emperor and the Emperor Emeritus, solidifying its status as a place of healing and prestige.
The most iconic landmark is 'Jigokudani' (Hell Valley), a volcanic crater formed by the eruption of Mt. Hiyori. Here, you can witness steam and hot spring water erupting from vents and fissures across the landscape. Well-maintained walking paths allow visitors to observe this powerful volcanic activity safely. Other nearby spots include Oyunumawa, a large hot spring pond, and the Oyunumawa River, where you can enjoy a natural outdoor footbath heated by the geothermal energy. The town is also famous for its local folklore, featuring character panels inspired by the 'Enma Dai-O' (King of Hell).
Noboribetsu offers diverse scenery and events throughout the year. In the summer (June to August), the 'Oni Hanabi' (Demon Fireworks) illuminates the night sky over the valley. In February, the 'Noboribetsu Onsen Matsuri' (Hot Spring Festival) brings festive energy to the town. From November to March, beautiful light illuminations can be seen at the Izumi-sen Park. Whether you are strolling through the town or observing the changing mineral properties of the water, every season offers a unique way to connect with nature.
Visitors can enjoy more than just staying in a ryokan; many public bathhouses like 'Yumemoto Sagiriyu' offer day-use bathing. For those looking to connect with wildlife, the Noboribetsu Bear Park is accessible via ropeway. A unique way to experience the variety of the area is to try different types of water, such as the sulfur or iron springs, depending on your preference and the facility you visit.
The area is surrounded by rich natural landscapes, including the 377m high Mt. Hiyori volcano and the Noboribetsu Primeval Forest, which spans approximately 186 hectares. The forest preserves about 60 species of trees and 110 species of plants, with well-maintained trails for hikers. The proximity to these natural sites allows travelers to feel the direct energy of the earth while exploring the lush, preserved environment.