Step into a land where volcanic steam rises from the earth, demon statues greet you at the gates, and hot spring waters have soothed travelers for over 1,000 years — welcome to Noboribetsu Onsen, Hokkaido’s most unforgettable hot spring town.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to enjoy your visit: how to get there, what makes the steaming hell valley so iconic, the folklore behind its red demon guardians, and must-see attractions like Bear Park and Marine Park Nixe. Whether you’re in search of nature, relaxation, or a bit of adventure — it’s all here.

About Noboribetsu Onsen

Noboribetsu Onsen is a premier hot spring area in Japan, best known for its powerful geothermal energy and a rare variety of mineral-rich waters. Located in a volcanic region of Hokkaido, the hot spring town draws its steamy waters directly from Jigokudani (Hell Valley), creating an atmosphere that feels both mystical and otherworldly.

What makes Noboribetsu unique among Japan’s many onsen towns is its remarkable range of nine different types of hot spring water. These include milky-white sulfur baths for the skin, salty chloride springs for warmth, iron-rich waters for fatigue, and alum springs known for soothing the skin. Each type offers distinct health benefits, making the area a “hot spring theme park” for wellness seekers.

Combined with its deep-rooted history and iconic demon statues known as yukijin, Noboribetsu Onsen provides a rare blend of physical healing, cultural depth, and volcanic spectacle.

• Location: Southwestern Hokkaido, about 1 hour from New Chitose Airport by car or train.
• Key Landmark: Jigokudani (Hell Valley) — a bubbling, steaming crater formed by volcanic eruptions. It is the source of all hot spring water in Noboribetsu.
• Hot Spring Variety: Offers 9 different types of thermal water, making it one of Japan’s richest onsen regions:
  • Sulfur spring: Milky-white, softens and smooths the skin
  • Salt spring: Retains body heat, great for blood circulation
  • Iron spring: Reddish in color, beneficial for anemia and fatigue
  • Alum spring: Astringent effect, used in dermatological care
  • …and five more including acidic and radium-based waters
• Health Benefits: Alleviates joint pain, improves metabolism, heals skin disorders, supports relaxation and recovery.
• Town Atmosphere: A scenic blend of traditional ryokan inns, modern spa hotels, foot baths, demon-themed statues, and serene forest walks.
• Ideal For: Couples, families, solo travelers — especially those looking for deep physical healing and cultural immersion.

The powerful geothermal landscape and mystical presence of guardian demons (“Yukijin”) give Noboribetsu Onsen an identity unlike any other onsen town in Japan. Whether you’re soaking in an outdoor bath or exploring ancient folklore, the experience here is as healing as it is unforgettable.

History of Noboribetsu Onsen

Noboribetsu has long been used as a healing hot spring by the Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido. It was visited by explorer Takeshiro Matsuura in 1984 and later by Emperor Showa in 1954 and 1961. With the arrival of steam locomotives in 1918 and streetcars in 1925, the area grew as a popular tourist destination. Today, Noboribetsu Onsen has over 160 years of history.

Recommended Sightseeing Model Courses

If you’re visiting Noboribetsu Onsen, we recommend exploring the Bear Park and Marine Park Nixe.

Red Demon Statue (Yukijin)

Begin your journey with a photo at the iconic red demon statue (Yukijin), which towers at 18 meters high near the Noboribetsu Higashi Interchange. This massive guardian welcomes travelers as they exit the expressway and points the way toward the heart of Noboribetsu Onsen.

Although its fierce expression might seem intimidating at first glance, this Yukijin is considered a benevolent symbol — a protector of the hot springs and a guide for visitors. The statue represents the town’s powerful volcanic spirit and rich folklore, where demons are not feared but respected as guardians.

This red Yukijin is often the first thing visitors see when arriving by car, making it a popular photo spot and a dramatic start to any trip. Locals say that the demon’s pointing finger shows you the true path to relaxation — straight into the steamy heart of Noboribetsu.

Bear Park

お題「動物園ならではの景色」
写真は登別クマ牧場のヒグマ。野生の大型肉食獣は群れを作らず単独行動が多いです。ただそれは主にエサの問題なので、エサが潤沢な動物園では同居が可能になります。ナワバリは山一つなどとも言われるトラも、動物園では比較的近距離に複数頭飼育することが出来ます pic.twitter.com/kcu6IfsKgv

— ずけもの (@200kemono) March 5, 2020

This park is home to many brown bears (not polar bears), safely viewed behind enclosures. Visitors can watch their cute gestures, especially when begging for food. The park also features a duck house with entertaining duck races, and bear food is available for purchase.

Reference Page: Bear Park
Address: 224 Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido

Marine Park Nixe

登別マリンパークニクスに行って来ました！！ pic.twitter.com/Lc7eTXujQJ

— あつこ (@EhQmW258hiezscU) November 22, 2019

This aquarium showcases sharks, dolphins, and sea lions, with exciting shows featuring dolphins, sea lions, and seals. There is also a stunning display of sardines swimming like a galaxy. Penguin parades are a highlight at the Nixe Square.

Official Website: Marine Park Nixe
Address: 1-22 Noboribetsu Higashi-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido

Jigokudani (Hell Valley)

登別地獄谷

日帰り温泉も最高でした#北海道を廻りたい #登別 pic.twitter.com/uLQfgLozvT

— しゅみらく (@shumi_raku) January 15, 2020

This dramatic valley is the geothermal source of Noboribetsu’s hot springs. Even today, steam vents and volcanic gases rise from the ground, creating a hellish but fascinating scene. A wooden walkway crosses the area, allowing visitors to explore safely. The hot springs used in town are drawn from this very source.

Kiushito Wetland

サイクリングがてら、今まで存在は知っていたものの
全く行く機会の無かった登別市のキウシト湿原に
行ってみた。 pic.twitter.com/tYJff6ppWl

— ASH＠Z900RS (@atushi_s2k) June 17, 2018

This large wetland offers scenic walking paths and a visitor center with nature exhibits. It’s wheelchair accessible, and seasonal plants like the rare Ezo no Ryukinka can be observed depending on the time of year.

Date Jidaimura (Historical Theme Park)

登別伊達時代村です。
まるでタイムスリップしたようです😆
忍者ショー・侍ショー・花魁ショーがあり、迷路・お化け屋敷等があり大人から子供まで楽しめます。 pic.twitter.com/RY3qH5CWd4

— 北海道観光 小樽個人　生田タクシー (@jk8vtt) December 27, 2019

This Edo-period-themed amusement park lets visitors dress in historical attire and watch ninja, samurai, and oiran (courtesan) performances. Kids can enjoy attractions like mazes and haunted houses.

Official Website: Date Jidaimura

Travel Tips for Noboribetsu

Noboribetsu is located in Hokkaido, where temperatures are lower than mainland Japan. Be sure to wear warm clothing, especially in early spring and winter. Outdoor spots like the Bear Park and wetlands can be quite chilly during these seasons.

Access to Noboribetsu

You can access Noboribetsu from New Chitose Airport by highway bus or by train. From Minami-Chitose Station, take the Limited Express Super Hokuto or Suzuran to Noboribetsu Station. From there, a short bus or taxi ride will take you to the onsen town. Shuttle buses are available at some hotels, but others may require walking or a local bus.

Conclusion

Whether you’re admiring snowy views from a bath or enjoying seafood buffets at your ryokan, Noboribetsu Onsen offers a variety of ways to relax. Especially if traveling with kids, hotel facilities like pools can be a great addition. Don’t forget to check for meal plans with crab or drink options!

この記事を日本語で読みたい方はこちら：
➡️ 登別温泉の観光ガイド（日本語版）