Noboribetsu Onsen Guide

This guide is for travelers seeking volcanic hot springs. It answers: “What to do in Noboribetsu?”

Quick Facts

• Best for: Onsen lovers, nature enthusiasts
• Time needed: 1-2 days (overnight recommended)
• Access: 1.5 hours from Sapporo by JR, 1 hour from New Chitose Airport
• Famous for: Hokkaidos most famous hot spring resort

Overview

Noboribetsu is Hokkaidos premier onsen town, known for its variety of hot spring types and the dramatic Jigokudani (Hell Valley). The volcanic area produces 10,000 tons of hot water daily.

Top Attractions

Jigokudani (Hell Valley)

Volcanic crater with steaming vents, hot streams, and sulfur deposits. Walking paths with viewing platforms. Free to visit.

Oyunuma Pond

Natural hot spring lake with surface temperature of 50°C. Natural foot bath along the river trail.

Onsen Hotels

Multiple large hotels with various bath types. Day-use bathing available at most. Different spring types offer different healing properties.

Tips

• Overnight: Stay at a ryokan for the full experience with dinner, multiple baths.
• Day trip: Possible from Sapporo, but overnight is better.
• Tattoos: Some onsen may refuse entry. Check policies.

Getting There

From New Chitose Airport (CTS)

Recommended (Mid-range): Take the JR Rapid Airport train to Minami-Chitose Station (approximately 3 minutes), then transfer to the JR Limited Express Hokuto or Suzuran to JR Noboribetsu Station (approximately 40–45 minutes). From the station, take a local Donan Bus to the Onsen area (approximately 15 minutes). The train station is accessible from the Domestic Terminal basement. Alternative: The “Airport Express” bus (Donan Bus) runs directly from the airport terminals to Noboribetsu Onsen in approximately 65–75 minutes. This offers a convenient transfer-free journey, though departures are less frequent than trains.

From Sapporo Station

Recommended (Premium): Take the JR Limited Express Hokuto or Suzuran directly to JR Noboribetsu Station in approximately 70–80 minutes. This is the fastest option. Upon arrival, transfer to a local bus or taxi to reach the hot spring town. Budget: Highway buses (Chuo Bus or Donan Bus) depart from the Sapporo Station Bus Terminal and travel directly to Noboribetsu Onsen in approximately 100 minutes, eliminating the need to transfer at the train station.

Local Access

Noboribetsu Onsen is located inland, approximately 15 minutes by bus or taxi from JR Noboribetsu Station. Buses depart frequently from the station plaza. While IC cards (Kitaca, Suica, PASMO) are widely accepted on JR trains, travelers should carry cash for local buses and smaller establishments, as IC card acceptance varies on local transit networks in this region.

Sources

• Tourism board: Noboribetsu Tourism

Last updated: 2026-02-03