Noboribetsu Jigokudani

Noboribetsu Jigokudani, Hell Valley, A Steaming Volcanic Crater Of Sulphur Vents And Boiling Streams Above One Of Hokkaido'S Best Known Onsen Towns. A Boardwalk Takes Visitors Past The Vents; Baths Are In The Town Below. · Noboribetsu, Hokkaido

Noboribetsu Jigokudani, Hell Valley, is a volcanic crater valley above the hot spring town of Noboribetsu in southern Hokkaido, inside Shikotsu-Toya National Park. The valley is roughly 450 m across and full of steaming vents, hissing rock and streams that run hot and grey, with a strong smell of sulphur. A boardwalk and stairs make a short loop through the vents, past a statue of Oniyama, a giant demon who is said to guard the valley. Below, the town has many baths of different water types, and a period village park, Date Jidaikan. It suits couples, families and anyone staying a night in the town. From Sapporo an express train takes about an hour and a quarter to Noboribetsu, then a bus climbs to the valley. It is worth the detour for the baths and the odd landscape, and less so for anyone who dislikes the smell. Allow an hour for the loop and a half day with a soak, and book the bath before you go.

Noboribetsu Onsen, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, a bus ride from Noboribetsu Station on the Muroran line from Sapporo, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, Japan

The valley boardwalk is open daily with no gate and is usually accessible through the day; paths close at dusk and may be shut in heavy snow, high wind or if gas levels rise - confirm on the day. Bath hours vary: many hotel baths take day visitors from late morning to evening, and some close early or for cleaning - confirm. Buses from Noboribetsu Station run to the onsen town, about 15 minutes. The annual Hell Festival is held in late August - confirm the date. The bear park ropeway nearby runs on its own hours. IC cards work on some buses, but carry cash for baths and shops.

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