Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Noboribetsu, Japan

Noboribetsu is a municipality that forms part of the extensive Shikotsu-Toya National Park, recognized as one of the premier tourism destinations in Hokkaido among domestic travelers. This distinction largely arises from Noboribetsu’s renowned onsen or hot springs, with a segment of the region designated as Hell Valley due to its steaming geothermal activity.

The locale boasts eleven distinct types of hot springs celebrated for their elevated sulfur and iron content, offering the opportunity to relax in onsen purported to possess therapeutic qualities for a variety of health issues.

In addition to the hot springs, visitors can indulge in delectable cuisine and explore nearby attractions including lakes and theme parks. The area is also distinguished by its demon statues, providing a fun challenge for explorers eager to locate them.

Here are the 15 best activities to engage in while visiting Noboribetsu…

1. Try the ramen

For those eager to sample a signature dish in Noboribetsu, the ramen—commonly referred to as ‘jigokudani’ noodles—is a must-try.

A prime location to enjoy this dish is the renowned ramen establishment Aji no Daio. They offer a range of spiciness levels from 1 to 10.

However, one should proceed with caution as the noodles are not recommended for those unaccustomed to consuming generous amounts of chili.

2. Explore Noboribetsu Park Service Center

The Noboribetsu Park Service Center is a popular stop for visitors en route to the expansive Jigokudani area. Here, you will find an exquisite wooden building that serves as an information hub.

This center provides insights into the region’s geology and topography through engaging videos.

Furthermore, there are several dioramas showcasing the wildlife one may encounter while hiking in Jigokudani, alongside rental options for hiking equipment, including rain boots.

3. Check out the demon statues

Noboribetsu is notable not only for its ominous names like Hell Valley but also for its physical representations of demons.

The town is home to numerous demon statues, totaling approximately eleven different figures.

Each statue serves various purposes, including as good luck talismans for marriage, prosperity, and academic success.

A delightful activity is exploring the area to see if you can locate all the statues.

4. Visit Kuttara-ko

For those seeking splendid views in and around Noboribetsu, a journey to Kuttara-ko—an acclaimed lookout spot—is highly recommended.

Reaching this destination involves navigating a picturesque mountain road, culminating in the discovery of a stunning caldera lake.

If you wish to take a day trip beyond the confines of Noboribetsu, renting a vehicle to access Kuttara-ko is a viable option.

5. Try the onsen

A significant number of domestic visitors flock to Noboribetsu to experience the illustrious hot springs.

These Japanese onsen facilities can be found throughout the city.

Noteworthy is the presence of Dai-Ichi Takimotokan, which ranks as one of the largest spas not only in Japan but also across Asia.

This establishment features 29 different baths, all of which can be enjoyed at any hour of the day, as it remains operational 24/7.

6. Shop for souvenirs

Aligned with its rich demon folklore, visitors to Noboribetsu often seek out souvenirs including demon figurines and related memorabilia.

Additionally, traditional items such as bath salts are popular, as Noboribetsu is primarily recognized for its spas and bathing culture.

These gifts serve as delightful reminders of one’s visit, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing soak at home while reminiscing about Hokkaido.

7. Noboribetsu Date Jidai Village

For those interested in the Edo Period of Japan, a visit to Noboribetsu Date Jidai Village—a theme park dedicated to this historical era—is essential.

At this park, guests can enjoy live performances while exploring a village showcasing replicas of Edo-period houses, thereby immersing themselves in the past.

Incorporating thematic attire such as samurai or ninja costumes can further enhance the experience.

8. Check out the demon festivals

Noboribetsu hosts several festivals that celebrate its rich demon culture.

Among these is the Noboribetsu Hell Festival, occurring every August, which symbolizes the opening of Hell’s gates and the emergence of Yamam, the King of Hell, accompanied by an entourage of yukijin, or demons.

To disperse these spirits, residents of Noboribetsu engage in vibrant parades, firework displays, and community dance competitions.

Additionally, another festival transpires from June to August, occurring along the Demon’s Fire Footpath, featuring locals igniting handheld fireworks to deter the spirits believed to inhabit the area.

9. Visit Noboribetsu Marine Park NIXE

Noboribetsu Marine Park NIXE is a multifaceted complex featuring a replica castle and an expansive aquarium.

The castle is modeled after one in Denmark, and the facility’s highlight is the Crystal Tower, an 8-meter tall water tank.

The aquarium is home to over 20,000 marine species, including dolphins and sea lions, representing around 400 different varieties.

In addition to the castle and aquarium, visitors can also enjoy the amusement park, NIXEland, which offers numerous rides for younger guests, including a large Ferris wheel.

10. Meet the bears at the Bear Farm

Visitors seeking to observe local wildlife may wish to visit the Bear Farm, which accommodates approximately 160 bears on its grounds.

It is important to note that the living conditions of the bears might be perceived as inadequate due to the limited space of their enclosures, which may detour some guests.

Nonetheless, the Bear Farm remains a popular site, allowing visitors to feed the bears and enjoy a scenic cable car ride that showcases the stunning vistas surrounding Noboribetsu.

11. Check out Oyunuma River

Oyunuma River stands out as one of the notable natural attractions in Noboribetsu, characterized by its sulfurous waters that reach temperatures of up to 130 degrees.

Visitors are drawn to the river to admire its remarkable color variations, which shift between green and grey based on weather conditions and seasons, illustrating the area’s volcanic activity and its effects.

Further along the river, there are areas where visitors can immerse their feet in the cooler waters; however, the suitability for soaking varies throughout the year, necessitating caution and prior verification for safety.

12. Learn about Ainu music

The Ainu represent the indigenous population residing in the northern regions of Japan. To gain a deeper understanding of their culture, visiting the Shiraoi Ainu Museum is highly recommended, as it showcases their traditional instruments, songs, and dance traditions.

This open-air museum also features models of traditional Ainu dwellings set against the picturesque backdrop of Lake Poroto.

Throughout the day, musical performances are conducted, making it an ideal location for music enthusiasts interested in the unique cultural aspects of this Hokkaido region.

13. Try the noodles

Experiencing local cuisine is essential during your visit to Noboribetsu, and one dish not to be overlooked is Enma Yakisoba. This particular fried noodle dish derives its name from King Enma, also referred to as the Demon King.

In Japanese culture, he is depicted as the ruler of Hell, and the dish’s spiciness pays homage to its formidable namesake.

The recipe features flat noodles known as yakisoba, distinct from ramen, which are crafted from local Hokkaido wheat flour, accompanied by a spicy sauce prepared from various local ingredients, including chili.

14. Take a trip to Lake Toya

For a day outside of Noboribetsu, a visit to Lake Toya within Shikotsu-Toya National Park is ideal.

The lake, characterized by its serene waters, provides opportunities for fishing or camping within the surrounding park.

Additionally, visitors can explore traditional Japanese hot springs dotting the lakeside and observe Mount Usu, an active volcano that last erupted in 2000.

15. Explore Jigoku-dani

The primary attraction in Noboribetsu is Jigoku-dani, often cited as the principal reason for numerous visitors.

This region, situated just outside the town center, is recognized for its striking red rocks and sulfurous gases that erupt from the ground, forming vigorous steam vents.

This area blends unsettlingly with the moniker “Hell Valley,” as it is said to evoke hellish landscapes.

Visitors can traverse the destination safely along several wooden walkways, allowing them to enjoy the stunning sights and the clouds of steam enveloping the surroundings.