Noboribetsu Hell Valley
nature
Noboribetsu Hell Valley
登別地獄谷
Overview
Dramatic volcanic valley with steaming vents and bubbling hot springs, the source of Noboribetsu's therapeutic waters.
Jigokudani, or Hell Valley, is a volcanic crater formed some 10,000 years ago, stretching 450 meters across and 11 hectares in area. Steam vents, sulfurous pools, and fumaroles cover the landscape, and the valley supplies 10,000 tons of mineral-rich hot spring water daily to Noboribetsu's hotels and ryokans. A boardwalk takes about 20 minutes to walk end to end. The longer trail to Oyunuma Pond and its natural foot bath is a 2-hour round trip. At night, the Onibi no Michi illumination creates an eerie atmosphere, and the summer fireworks festival adds pyrotechnics to the steaming backdrop.
Local tips
Wash thoroughly at the shower stations before entering the bath. This is non-negotiable etiquette. Bring a small towel but keep it out of the water.
Practical info
- Japanese name
- 登別地獄谷
- Nearest station
- Noboribetsu Station (15 min bus)
- Payment
- Cash only
- Reservations
- not required
Accessibility
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