Healing Hot Spring Getaway — Noboribetsu & Shiraoi
- Spring
- Summer
- Autumn
- Winter
- Days required
- 2 days and 1 night
- Main methods of transportation
- Car
Just a 90-minute drive from Sapporo, Noboribetsu Onsen is one of Japan’s best-known hot spring resorts, offering nine unique types of mineral waters. Visit Jigokudani (Hell Valley) to see steaming volcanic vents, then stroll through the lively hot spring town filled with cozy inns and local treats.
On the western side of Shiraoi Town, Kojohama Onsen invites visitors to unwind in open-air baths (rotenburo) overlooking the Pacific Ocean. With a rental car, you can explore seaside cafés and markets along the way — a refreshing hot spring-hopping trip that heals both body and mind.
- * 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
A Paradise of Natural Beauty and Relaxation
Known for its rich variety of spring types and abundant natural flow, Noboribetsu Hot Spring is one of Hokkaido’s most celebrated hot spring resorts. Its mineral-rich waters are famous for their skin-beautifying and moisturizing effects, making it one of Japan’s top destinations for relaxation and wellness.
Beyond soaking in the baths, visitors can explore Jigokudani (Hell Valley) with its dramatic steam vents, see powerful geysers, or admire the stunning autumn foliage. Each season reveals a different charm of Noboribetsu’s breathtaking natural scenery.
Here, surrounded by the sounds and scents of nature, you’ll discover a truly healing experience for both body and soul.
- Address
- 登別市登別温泉町
- Telephone Number
- 0143-84-3311
A Hot Spring Town Full of Natural Wonders
- 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 (Demons) Are Everywhere in Noboribetsu!
Around the Noboribetsu Hot Spring area, you’ll find numerous statues inspired by oni—Japanese demons closely linked to the legends of hell and fire. Each statue has its own special blessing, from business success and love fulfillment to good luck on exams. Strolling through the town while searching for them is a fun and meaningful way to explore.
As you wander the hot spring streets, you’ll encounter oni of all shapes and sizes, each with a unique expression. Snap a photo or make a wish—meeting these friendly demons adds a playful touch to your visit to Noboribetsu.
[Accommodation] Umi no Bettei Furukawa
A Luxurious Seaside Hot Spring Retreat
Experience the ultimate relaxation at Umi no Bettei Furukawa, where the Pacific Ocean unfolds before your eyes. The open-air bath offers a breathtaking view of the sea—an indulgence only a true seaside hot spring can provide.
Soak in the famous “beautifying hot spring”, known for leaving your skin soft and smooth. For a more private escape, reserve one of the exclusive stone or cypress open-air baths, and enjoy a serene moment all to yourself.
This elegant inn combines luxury, tranquility, and natural beauty, offering guests an unforgettable ocean-view onsen experience in Hokkaido.
- 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. 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 coast.
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
Indulge in Fresh Egg Sweets from the Farm
At Shiraoi Tamago no Sato Mothers, every treat begins with fresh eggs delivered straight from local farms the very same day. This specialty shop takes pride in crafting sweets that highlight the natural richness and flavor of Hokkaido eggs.
Enjoy their signature cream puffs, puddings, and roll cakes, all made with meticulous care and a commitment to quality. Each bite is smooth, rich, and full of farm-fresh goodness.
Perfect as a souvenir or a sweet gift, these desserts let you savor the pure, comforting taste of Shiraoi’s countryside.
- Address
- 白老郡白老町字社台289-1
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Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park — Discover the Living Culture of Hokkaido’s Indigenous People
Upopoy, officially known as the Symbolic Space for Ethnic Harmony, is Japan’s first national museum dedicated to the culture of the Ainu, the Indigenous people of Hokkaido.
Through immersive exhibitions and captivating performances — including traditional Ainu dance, crafts, and storytelling — visitors can experience the spirit of a culture deeply connected with nature. Each exhibit is presented from the Ainu perspective, offering a rare and authentic insight into their way of life and philosophy of coexistence with the natural world.
Set beside the tranquil Lake Poroto, the museum’s open-air park is surrounded by lush greenery, creating the perfect setting to reflect, learn, and feel the harmony between people and nature. A visit here isn’t just sightseeing — it’s a journey into the heart of Hokkaido’s living heritage.
To JR Sapporo Station area
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