A Relaxing Hot Spring Journey Through Noboribetsu and Shiraoi
- Spring
- Summer
- Autumn
- Winter
- Days required
- 2 days and 1 night
- Main methods of transportation
- Car
Just about 90 minutes by car from central Sapporo, Noboribetsu is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring towns, uniquely offering 9 different types of hot spring water. Surrounded by rich nature, this area is more than just a place to bathe—must-see spots like Jigokudani (Hell Valley), the largest hot spring source in Noboribetsu, add to the experience.
Further south along the Pacific coast lies Kojohama Hot Spring in western Shiraoi. Located along the national highway, the area is home to a string of peaceful hot spring inns. Many feature open-air baths with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, offering an unforgettable sense of relaxation and freedom.
Why not plan a hot spring-hopping journey through Noboribetsu and Shiraoi, with scenic stops at local attractions along the way?
- * The spots and experience menus introduced in the course are subject to change. Please check the official website for the latest information.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
About 90 minutes by car
Noboribetsu Hot Spring
One of the most popular hot spring resorts in Japan, boasting an abundance of hot spring water and a variety of spring qualities
Noboribetsu Onsen is one of the most popular hot spring resorts in Japan. Noboribetsu Onsen is called a “department store of hot springs,” a rarity in the world, and visitors can enjoy a hot spring tour at a variety of ryokan (Japanese-style inns) and hotels. There are many attractions at the source of the hot springs, including Jigokudani (Hell Valley) and Oyunuma Swamp, where boiling water gushes out amidst the scent of sulfur, Sengen Park, where geysers erupt vigorously every three hours, and Oyunuma River Natural Foot Bath, where visitors can enjoy foot bathing in hot spring water overflowing from the swamp. Monuments of demons, the symbol of the hot springs, can be found here and there in the hot spring resort area, so it is fun to stroll around looking for them.
- Address
- 登別市登別温泉町
- Telephone Number
- 0143-84-3311
A Hot Spring Town Where You Can Relax and Explore All Day Long
- A Rare Volcanic Hot Water Pond "Oyunuma"
- Oyunuma is a gourd-shaped hot water pond measuring about 1 km in circumference and 22 m in depth—one of the largest of its kind in the world. The strong scent of sulfur and the sight of bubbling steam rising from the surface make for a powerful and unforgettable experience.
Access: About 20 minutes on foot from Jigokudani (Hell Valley) - https://noboribetsu-spa.jp/en/spot-event/
- Enjoy natural footbath "Oyunuma River Natural Footbath"
- The river flowing from Oyunuma becomes a natural foot bath. The warm water and smooth river stones underfoot gently stimulate pressure points, said to help relieve poor circulation and swelling. Enjoy a relaxing soak surrounded by forest—a perfect way to unwind after a hike.
Access: About 20 minutes on foot from Jigokudani (Hell Valley) - /en/spa/spot/detail_11428.html
- A Boiling Geyser Up Close "Tessen Pond"
- Located near the center of Jigokudani, Tessen Pond is a small geyser with water temperatures reaching about 90°C. You can feel the intensity of nature as you watch the bubbling, boiling water erupt like a steaming cauldron of the earth.
Access: About 5 minutes on foot from Jigokudani Observatory - https://noboribetsu-spa.jp/en/spot-event/
- "Sengen Park" A Powerful Geyser Show Every 3 Hours
- Sengen Park is home to a geyser that erupts with a loud roar about every 3 hours. The surrounding metal sculptures shaped like ogres’ iron clubs help create a dramatic, “hell-like” atmosphere you won’t forget.
Access: About 15 minutes by taxi from JR Noboribetsu Station - https://noboribetsu-spa.jp/en/spot-event/
- A Mystical Nighttime Trail "Onibi no Michi"
- As night falls, flickering lights guide you along the ‘Demon Fire Road’ into Jigokudani. The trail, illuminated by soft lights and rising steam, leads to the dramatic explosion crater of the valley. Only visible at night, this otherworldly scenery showcases the raw power of nature.
Time: Sunset – 21:30
Location: Jigokudani Walking Path & Jigokudani Observatory
Access: About 15 minutes by taxi from JR Noboribetsu Station - /en/spot/detail_11429.html
This vibrant hot spring area is filled with natural wonders and scenic spots—there’s so much to see, one day isn’t enough! Plan your route efficiently to make the most of your time.
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How Many Can You Find? Oni Statues Are Everywhere in Noboribetsu!
Noboribetsu is famous not only for its rich hot spring culture but also for its playful connection to oni—mythical ogre-like creatures from Japanese folklore. As you stroll around the Noboribetsu hot spring area, you’ll discover many oni statues scattered throughout the town.
These unique statues are more than just decorations. Each oni is believed to bring different kinds of good fortune—whether it’s success in business, luck in love, or passing exams. Searching for these charming figures adds an element of fun to your sightseeing. It’s like a treasure hunt with a cultural twist!
Take a relaxing walk through the area and see how many oni you can find. Keep your camera ready—each statue has its own personality and makes for a great photo opportunity.
[Accommodation] Heartful Resort Villa on the Beach, Furukawa
Feel as if the entire Pacific Ocean is yours at this luxurious seaside hot spring inn.
The open-air hot spring baths offer an unparalleled sense of freedom, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the ocean while enjoying the benefits of mineral-rich water known as “Hot Spring for Beautiful Skin.” The smooth texture of the water is beloved by guests who want to achieve radiant, soft skin.
For a more private experience, you can reserve one of the exclusive baths made of natural stone or fragrant hinoki cypress. These private baths are perfect for couples, families, or anyone seeking peaceful relaxation with a view.
- Address
- 北海道白老郡白老町虎杖浜289-3
- Telephone Number
- 0144-87-6111
Tarako-ya Kojohama
Tarako Lovers Rejoice
“Tarako-ya Kojohama” is the official store of Kaneshime Matsuda Suisan, a long-established seafood processing company founded in 1913 (Taisho 2). Known for producing the premium Kojohama Tarako brand, this shop is a must-visit for anyone who loves salted cod roe.
Here, you can savor dishes packed with flavorful tarako, including the popular Tarako Don (tarako rice bowl). The shop also offers a wide selection of souvenirs, making it a great stop during your trip along the southern coast of Hokkaido.
Whether you’re here for a hearty meal or looking to bring home authentic Hokkaido flavors, Tarako-ya Kojohama delivers both quality and tradition.
- Address
- 北海道白老郡白老町虎杖浜185-7
- Open
- 9:00–17:00 Shop
11:30–14:30 Dining (Weekdays)
11:00–15:00 Dining (Weekends & Holidays) - Closed
- Thursdays
Shiraoi Tamago no Sato Mothers
Taste the Rich Flavor of Fresh Eggs
Indulge in sweets made with freshly laid, high-quality eggs delivered straight from the farm the same day. "Shiraoi Tamago no Sato Mothers" is a specialty shop located in the nature-rich town of Shiraoi, dedicated to showcasing the delicious flavor of farm-fresh eggs.
Here, you can enjoy a wide variety of handmade desserts such as cream puffs crafted with care, rich custard puddings, and fluffy roll cakes—all made using generous amounts of premium eggs. Each item is a celebration of natural taste and texture.
Whether you're looking for a special treat during your trip or a gift to take home, this egg-focused shop offers the perfect stop for sweet moments in Hokkaido.
- Address
- 北海道白老郡白老町字社台289-1
To JR Sapporo Station area
