Visit Noboribetsu Onsen, Hokkaido for a Japanese Hot Spring Experience
ShinobuOne of the most interesting experiences for many people visiting Japan is the onsen hot springs.
Onsen culture is unique to Japan, and its history, customs, and experiences are refreshing and fascinating to visitors from abroad.
In this article, we will be introducing Noboribetsu Onsen, which is located in the southwestern part of Hokkaido.
Contents
- Hell Valley in Noboribetsu Onsen: A place where you can feel the heartbeat of the earth
- History of Noboribetsu Onsen: An ancient and well-loved therapeutic hot spring
- Features of Noboribetsu Onsen: Diversity of Hot Spring Qualities
- Recommended Accommodations in Noboribetsu Onsen
- Recommended Souvenirs in Noboribetsu Onsen
- How to Get to Noboribetsu Onsen
- Sightseeing Spots in the Area
- Summary
1. Hell Valley in Noboribetsu Onsen: A place where you can feel the heartbeat of the earth
One of Noboribetsu Onsen's greatest attractions is its symbolic “Jigokudani” (Hell Valley).
The name may sound a little scary, but Jigokudani is a unique landform created by volcanic activity.
It is a volcanic crater formed by an eruption about 10,000 years ago.
The smell of sulphur is prominent, and hot steam constantly billows out of the ground.
A visit to Hell Valley will overwhelm you with the feeling that you are on another planet.
Every time you walk, steam “swooshes” up from under your feet, and the strong smell of sulphur wafts in the wind.
This scenery gives you a sense of the overwhelming power of nature unique to Noboribetsu that you will never experience in other hot spring resorts.
The sensation of being soothed by the grandeur and mysterious atmosphere of the Hell Valley as you slowly stroll through it is truly a fascination of Noboribetsu Onsen.
On a winter day, the snow-covered Jigokudani has a different charm.
While the whole area is tinged with white, only the faint steam rises and the scent of sulphur quietly wafts in the air.
That moment when the only sound comes from the wind and the hot spring water echoing in the silence, is a mystical and heart-warming experience.
Enjoying the warmth of the hot water along with this scenery is an experience that will completely release you from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
This magical scenery also gives you a strong sense that something is moving inside the earth.
2. History of Noboribetsu Onsen: An ancient and well-loved therapeutic hot spring
Noboribetsu Onsen has a very long history and has been known since the Edo period.
However, its benefits were known even further back in ancient times by the Ainu people, who are said to have used it as a medicinal hot spring.
It was not until the Meiji period (1868-1912) that the hot spring itself began to develop as a tourist attraction.
During this period, Noboribetsu Onsen's reputation as a therapeutic hot spring spread, and its foundation as a hot spring resort was laid.
In particular, Noboribetsu Onsen was highly regarded by many people for its abundant spring water, and an increasing number of people came to the area to pray for longevity and good health.
Each of Noboribetsu Onsen's nine different spring qualities has its own unique benefits.
For example with sulphur springs, it is believed to be beneficial for skin diseases and rheumatism.
This diversity is one of the reasons why Noboribetsu Onsen is loved by so many people.
3. Features of Noboribetsu Onsen: Diversity of Hot Spring Qualities
An essential part of the story of Noboribetsu Onsen is its 9 abundant types of spring water.
The variety of qualities in this hot spring is so wide-ranging that each one has its own unique benefits.
This variety make it possible to enjoy an experience as if you were visiting different hot spring resorts in one place.
For example, the following types of springs are available:
- Sulfur spring: Promotes skin renewal and skin beautification.
- Iron spring: Contains high levels of iron and is effective for treating coldness and anemia.
- Chloride spring: Warms the body and promotes blood circulation.
It is rare to find a hot spring resort in Japan where you can enjoy a variety of spring qualities at the same time.
While other hot spring resorts generally offer one or two types of spring water, Noboribetsu Onsen's greatest feature is that visitors can enjoy as many as nine different types of spring water.
In this respect, Noboribetsu Onsen is truly a dream come true for “onsen lovers".
4. Recommended Accommodations in Noboribetsu Onsen
Noboribetsu Onsen has numerous lodging facilities, each with a different charm.
Here are some of the most comfortable recommended accommodations for foreign travellers with a touch of Japanese culture.
Takimotokan
Takimotokan is known as the “department store of hot springs” because of its extensive hot spring facilities, and with over 150 years of history, it is a symbol of Noboribetsu Onsen.
The large baths feature nine different types of spring water, creating a hot spring theme park-like experience.
In addition to the spaciousness of the large baths, this accommodation is also equipped with an open-air bath and sauna, allowing guests to fully enjoy the hot springs.
Takimotokan's Official Website
Noboribetsu Grand Hotel
Another hotel we recommend is Noboribetsu Grand Hotel.
This hotel offers a blend of luxury and Japanese warmth, perfect for those who want to enjoy a luxurious onsen trip.
Featuring a spacious open-air bath and sumptuous buffet-style meals, this hotel is extremely popular with families and couples alike.
Noboribetsu Grand Hotel's Official Website
5. Recommended Souvenirs in Noboribetsu Onsen
One of the pleasures of visiting a hot spring resort is the souvenirs unique to the area.
Noboribetsu Onsen also has many unique and delicious souvenirs.
Onimanju
Onimanju, a sweet delicacy with a “demon” motif, is a unique souvenir of Noboribetsu Onsen.
It looks like an ogre's face, and its sticky texture and sweetness is addictive.
For foreign travellers, its unique appearance and delicious taste can be exotic.
Bath salts exclusive to Noboribetsu Onsen
We also recommend bath salts that recreate the healing effects of Noboribetsu Onsen at home.
Bath salts that mimic the unique qualities of the hot spring area will allow you to bring home the relaxing effects of the hot spring, and are especially good as souvenirs for foreign friends and family.
6. How to Get to Noboribetsu Onsen
Access to Noboribetsu Onsen is very convenient and can easily be visited from major cities in Hokkaido.
Below are some of the ways to access Noboribetsu Onsen.
From Sapporo
The JR limited express train “Hokuto” will take you to Noboribetsu Station in about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Sapporo.
From there, a 15-minute bus ride will take you to the hot spring resort.
From New Chitose Airport
Take the JR train from New Chitose Airport and arrive at Noboribetsu Station in about 1 hour.
Since access from the airport is very good, you can enjoy the hot springs immediately after arriving in Hokkaido.
From Noboribetsu Station
Buses and taxis are available for getting to the hot spring resort.
Renting a car is also a convenient way to visit major sightseeing spots in Hokkaido.
7. Sightseeing Spots in the Area
There are many sightseeing spots around Noboribetsu Onsen other than hot springs to enjoy.
Below are some recommended sightseeing spots.
Noboribetsu Bear Park
Noboribetsu Bear Park is a popular tourist attraction accessible by ropeway from Noboribetsu Onsen.
Visitors can observe the brown bears, the symbol of Hokkaido, up close and personal, and even try their hand at feeding them.
For foreign travellers, this will be a rare experience to observe bears in Japan.
Noboribetsu Bear Park's Official Website
Noboribetsu Date Jidai Village
Noboribetsu Date Jidai Village is a theme park that recreates Japan in the Edo period.
Visitors can enjoy ninja and samurai shows and stroll through an Edo period townscape, providing a great opportunity to experience Japanese history and culture.
It is a popular spot for families.
Noboribetsu Date Jidai Village's Official Website
Lake Shikotsu and Lake Toya
You can also extend your visit a little further and visit Lake Shikotsu and Lake Toya.
Lake Shikotsu boasts beautiful clarity, while Lake Toya offers spectacular views of Mount Usu.
Both are surrounded by nature and offer a quiet and relaxing environment.
8. Summary
Noboribetsu Onsen is truly a sacred place for “onsen lovers” because of its diverse spring qualities, spectacular nature, and historical background.
The mystical landscape of Jigokudani and the healing effects of the hot springs will help you forget the fatigue of everyday life and give you renewed vigor.
In addition, there are many attractive sightseeing spots around Noboribetsu Onsen, and you will have a fulfilling time throughout your entire trip.
When you visit Hokkaido, dip yourself in Noboribetsu Onsen for a refreshing experience!
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