Guida
Noboribetsu Onsen is one of Japan's leading hot spring resorts, 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-pets,' meaning 'the river with deep blue water.' The area has been known for its hot springs since the Edo period and developed into a major wellness retreat starting in the Meiji era. It is highly regarded as a destination where history and nature perfectly harmonize.
The area has a long history, with the Ainu people traditionally valuing its waters for medicinal purposes. During the Edo period, the writer Tokunai Mogami recorded in his work 'Ezo Soshi' how the hot springs emerged above the river, turning the water a cloudy white. In the Meiji era, the area was developed into a formal sanatorium. By 1905, it was designated as a recovery site for wounded soldiers from the Russo-Japanese War, gaining national recognition. The area also holds significant cultural weight, having been visited by the Emperor and Empress of Japan, serving as a place of healing for generations.
The most iconic sight is 'Jigokudani' (Hell Valley), a volcanic crater formed by the eruption of Mount Hiyori. The landscape is dotted with small craters, steam vents, and holes where hot water and gases erupt from the earth. Well-maintained walking paths allow visitors to observe this intense volcanic energy safely. Other nearby spots include Oyunuma Pond and the Oyunuma River, where the hot water flowing from the volcanic source creates a natural outdoor footbath. The town's unique culture is also visible through various decorations, such as panels featuring the character 'Enma-daiō' (the King of Hell).
You can enjoy different events and scenery throughout the seasons. In the summer (June to August), the 'Oni Hanabi' (Demon Fireworks) lights up the night sky over Hell Valley. In February, the 'Noboribetsu Onsen Yu Matsuri' (Hot Spring Festival) is held, and from November to March, beautiful illuminations can be seen at the Sengen 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.
In the hot spring town, you can enjoy full-service stays at traditional ryokans or visit public bathhouses like 'Yumemoto Sagiriyu' for a day trip. For those looking to interact with local wildlife, the Noboribetsu Bear Park is accessible via ropeway. A unique way to experience the area is to try different types of baths—such as sulfur or iron springs—to feel the distinct effects of each mineral composition on your skin.
The area surrounding the hot spring town is rich in natural beauty. This includes the active volcano Mount Hiyori (377m elevation) and the Noboribetsu Primeval Forest, which covers approximately 186 hectares. The forest preserves about 60 species of trees and 110 types of plants, with well-maintained trails for hikers. Visitors can easily access these natural sites to feel the direct energy of the volcanic environment.