Noboribetsu Hot Spring Hokkaido Complete Guide｜The Charm and How to Enjoy “The Department Store of Hot Springs” with 9 Types of Spring Quality
Noboribetsu Hot Spring, representing Hokkaido and highly regarded both domestically and internationally, is known by the nickname “The Department Store of Hot Springs,” boasting 9 diverse spring qualities and an overwhelming daily hot spring output of 10,000 tons. This article introduces the charm of Noboribetsu Hot Spring in full, covering everything from its history and spring quality characteristics to access methods, recommended accommodations, and nearby tourist attractions.
What is Noboribetsu Hot Spring? Overview of Hokkaido’s Premier Hot Spring
Noboribetsu Hot Spring is one of Japan’s leading hot spring destinations located in Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido. It is known as a traditional hot spring area with over 160 years of history, said to have opened in 1858 (Ansei 5).
Origin of the Name “Noboribetsu”
The name “Noboribetsu” derives from the Ainu word “Nupurpetsu,” meaning “white turbid river.” It was named after the sight of sulfur-containing white turbid hot spring water flowing into the river. The name itself speaks to the abundant hot spring resources of Noboribetsu Hot Spring.
Why It’s Called “The Department Store of Hot Springs”
The primary reason Noboribetsu Hot Spring is called “The Department Store of Hot Springs” lies in its diverse spring qualities. It is extremely rare worldwide for one hot spring destination to have 9 different spring qualities, and because visitors can experience various effects all at once, it earned this nickname from the multitude of options available, just like a department store.
The 9 Types of Spring Qualities and Their Effects at Noboribetsu Hot Spring
The greatest characteristic of Noboribetsu Hot Spring is its abundant variety of spring qualities. Here, we explain in detail the 9 types of spring qualities enjoyed at Noboribetsu Hot Spring and their respective benefits.
1. Sulfur Spring (Iosusen)
The spring quality representative of Noboribetsu Hot Spring, characterized by milky white water. It has a distinctive sulfur aroma and offers skin softening and bleaching effects. It is said to be effective for chronic skin diseases, chronic gynecological disorders, cuts, diabetes, and others. Due to its whitening effects, it is particularly popular among women.
2. Salt Spring (Chloride Spring)
A spring quality containing salt. After bathing, salt adheres to the skin, and it has high heat retention properties. It is effective for poor circulation, cuts, burns, chronic skin diseases, and chronic gynecological disorders. Because it prevents rapid cooling, the body stays warm even during Hokkaido’s cold winters.
3. Alum Spring (Sulfate Spring · Aluminum-containing Spring)
An acidic spring quality with sterilizing properties. It is said to be effective for chronic skin diseases, chronic digestive disorders, diabetes, and others. It also has skin-tightening effects and is known as a spring for beautiful skin.
4. Glauber’s Salt Spring (Sulfate Spring)
A colorless and transparent spring quality with sedative properties. It is said to be effective for hypertension, arteriosclerosis, external injuries, and others. Drinking the spring water is said to be effective for diabetes and gout.
5. Green Vitriol Spring (Iron-containing Spring)
A spring quality containing iron that turns brown when exposed to air. It is effective for anemia, chronic digestive disorders, chronic skin diseases, and others. It is said to aid in iron supplementation and has high fatigue recovery effects.
6. Iron Spring (Iron-containing Spring)
Like the green vitriol spring, it contains iron, but with higher concentration. It is said to be particularly effective for anemia and gynecological disorders, with excellent fatigue recovery effects.
7. Acidic Iron Spring
An acidic spring quality containing iron, offering both sterilizing and iron supplementation effects. It is effective for chronic digestive disorders and anemia.
8. Sodium Bicarbonate Spring (Bicarbonate Spring)
It softens the skin surface and has the effect of washing away secretions. It is effective for cuts, burns, chronic skin diseases, and others, and is also called the “spring for beautiful women.”
9. Radium Spring (Radioactive Spring)
A spring quality containing trace amounts of radioactivity, said to be effective for gout, arteriosclerosis, hypertension, chronic skin diseases, and others. Through hormesis effects, improved immunity is also expected.
Hot Spring Volume and Source Springs of Noboribetsu Hot Spring
The abundant hot spring volume of Noboribetsu Hot Spring is also a major attraction. The natural outflow is 10,000 tons per day, with approximately 3,000 liters of hot spring water flowing out per minute. This abundant volume allows many hot spring facilities to offer source hot springs with flowing water.
Jigoku Valley – The Source Spring Area of Noboribetsu Hot Spring
The main source spring area of Noboribetsu Hot Spring is “Jigoku Valley.” It is an explosion crater with a diameter of approximately 450 meters and an area of approximately 11 hectares, with high-temperature hot springs and steam spouting from various locations. It was named “Jigoku Valley” (Hell Valley) due to the desolate landscape with sulfur aroma filling the air.
Jigoku Valley is also popular as a tourist attraction, and with a well-maintained walking trail, visitors can observe the hot spring outflow up close. The nighttime illumination is particularly spectacular, offering a magical atmosphere.
Access Methods to Noboribetsu Hot Spring
Noboribetsu Hot Spring’s convenient location from major Hokkaido cities is also an attraction. It has good transportation from New Chitose Airport and Sapporo and is known as an easy-to-visit hot spring destination.
Access from New Chitose Airport
By Train
- From New Chitose Airport Station via JR Muroran Line to Noboribetsu Station: approximately 50 minutes
- By bus from Noboribetsu Station to Noboribetsu Hot Spring Bus Terminal: approximately 15 minutes
- Total time: approximately 1 hour 10 minutes
By Bus
- Direct bus from New Chitose Airport to Noboribetsu Hot Spring (Donan Bus): approximately 1 hour
- No transfers required, convenient
By Car
- Approximately 10 minutes from “Noboribetsu East IC” on the Doo-oh Expressway
- Approximately 50 minutes from New Chitose Airport
Access from Sapporo
By Train
- From Sapporo Station via JR Limited Express to Noboribetsu Station: approximately 1 hour 10 minutes
- By bus from Noboribetsu Station to Noboribetsu Hot Spring Bus Terminal: approximately 15 minutes
- Total time: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
By Bus
- From Sapporo Station via Express Bus (Donan Bus): approximately 1 hour 50 minutes
- Cheaper than train fare
By Car
- Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes via the Doo-oh Expressway
Access from Hakodate
- Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by JR Limited Express
- Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by car (using expressway)
Recommended Hotels and Inns at Noboribetsu Hot Spring
Noboribetsu Hot Spring has many attractive hotels and inns where visitors can enjoy diverse spring qualities. Here we introduce some particularly popular accommodations.
Noboribetsu Hot Spring Daiichi Takimoto-kan
The oldest traditional inn at Noboribetsu Hot Spring, operating since its opening in 1858. It boasts 35 bathing areas with 7 spring qualities and a vast hot spring facility spanning 1,500 tsubo called “Hot Spring Heaven.” It is popular as an inn where you can truly experience “The Department Store of Hot Springs” by enjoying multiple spring qualities at once.
Noboribetsu Hot Spring Hotel Mahoroba
A large hot spring resort hotel with 31 bathing areas featuring 4 spring qualities. The “Grand Hot Spring Bath” spanning floors 1-4 with an atrium is spectacular, offering the fun of “hot spring hopping” through various bath types. With abundant buffet-style meals, it is particularly popular with families.
Noboribetsu Hot Spring Noboribetsu Grand Hotel
A historic hotel with over 90 years of operation, offering 3 spring qualities. The Roman-style grand bath “Dome Euparo” features a dome-shaped building with a ceiling height of 17 meters, providing an impressive sense of openness. It is a popular hotel that maintains tradition and dignity while equipped with modern facilities.
Noboribetsu Hot Spring Hotel Yumoto Noboribetsu
A hotel positioned on a hilltop with all rooms overlooking Noboribetsu’s natural scenery. It offers 4 spring qualities, and the view from the observatory bath on the top floor is highly acclaimed. Meals feature kaiseki cuisine using local ingredients.
Noboribetsu Sekisui-tei
A traditional Japanese hot spring inn emphasizing hospitality, characterized by a quiet atmosphere. It offers 3 spring qualities, with the outdoor bath view of nature being particularly praised. Cuisine features kaiseki dishes using Hokkaido’s seasonal ingredients.
Noboribetsu Hot Spring Area Takino-ya
A small luxury inn with 38 rooms, characterized by refined service. It offers 2 spring qualities, with a charming garden open-air bath. Recommended for those seeking a quiet, sophisticated hot spring experience.
Hanashoitei Hanaya
A luxury hot spring inn with all suite-type rooms, designed emphasizing privacy. Many rooms feature private open-air baths, allowing guests to monopolize the hot spring. Cuisine features carefully crafted creative Japanese cuisine.
Noboribetsu Hot Spring Ryotei Hana-yura
A luxurious hot spring inn where every room features an open-air or semi-open-air bath. Ideal for those wishing to enjoy hot springs leisurely in a private space. Meals are served in private rooms, making it recommended for special occasions.
Noboribetsu Hot Spring Takino-ya Annex Tama-no-yu
The annex to Takino-ya, offering a more casual atmosphere to enjoy hot springs. With excellent value for money, it is recommended for those wanting to enjoy Noboribetsu Hot Spring casually.
Tourist Attractions Around Noboribetsu Hot Spring
Noboribetsu Hot Spring not only offers hot springs but also has many fascinating nearby tourist attractions.
Jigoku Valley
As mentioned earlier, it is the source spring area of Noboribetsu Hot Spring and the most popular tourist attraction. With well-maintained walking trails, it can be completed in approximately 10 minutes. The white steam rising from fumaroles and outlets, combined with the sulfur aroma, creates a truly hellish landscape. The nighttime illumination is not to be missed.
Oyunuma Lake
Located approximately 20 minutes’ walk from Jigoku Valley, this crater lake has a circumference of approximately 1 kilometer. The lake surface temperature reaches approximately 40-50 degrees Celsius, with depths reaching approximately 130 degrees. Dark gray hot water boils at the surface. Walking trails along the shore allow close observation.
Oyunuma River Natural Foot Bath
The river flowing from Oyunuma Lake naturally forms a foot bath. Free to use, it allows visitors to enjoy a foot bath while forest bathing. Bringing a towel is recommended.
Noboribetsu Bear Park
A bear-themed park located about 7 minutes via ropeway from the hot spring town area, at the mountaintop. Approximately 100 brown bears are kept, allowing close observation. Facilities introducing Ainu culture are also available, where visitors can learn about Hokkaido’s nature and culture.
Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe
A Northern European-style aquarium located approximately 15 minutes by car from Noboribetsu Hot Spring. It displays approximately 400 species and 20,000 marine organisms, with penguin parades being particularly popular. Recommended for families.
Noboribetsu Date Jidai Village
A theme park recreating the scenery and culture of the Edo period. With high entertainment value such as ninja shows and courtesan shows, it is also popular with foreign tourists.
Noboribetsu Hot Spring and Surrounding Hot Springs
Besides Noboribetsu Hot Spring, Noboribetsu City has other attractive hot spring destinations.
Kojohama Hot Spring
A coastal hot spring destination facing the Pacific Ocean, approximately 20 minutes by car from Noboribetsu Hot Spring. Known for chloride spring as its main quality and delicious seafood cuisine. Many inns offer bathing while viewing the ocean.
Carlsbad Hot Spring
A quiet hot spring destination in a mountainous area, approximately 10 minutes by car from Noboribetsu Hot Spring. Named for its spring quality similar to Carlsbad in the Czech Republic. With simple spring quality gentle on the skin, it retains the atmosphere of a hot spring treatment area and is a peaceful destination.
How to Enjoy Noboribetsu Hot Spring and Model Courses
Day Trip Plan
Morning
- 10:00 Arrival at Noboribetsu Hot Spring
- 10:30 Jigoku Valley walk (approximately 1 hour)
- 11:30 Oyunuma Lake and natural foot bath (approximately 30 minutes)
Afternoon
- 12:00 Lunch in hot spring town
- 13:30 Day bathing (Hotel Mahoroba or Daiichi Takimoto-kan, etc.)
- 15:30 Hot spring town walk and souvenir shopping
- 16:30 Departure
1 Night, 2 Days Plan
Day 1
- 14:00 Arrival at Noboribetsu Hot Spring, check-in
- 15:00 Hot spring bathing
- 16:00 Jigoku Valley walk (evening is recommended)
- 18:00 Dinner
- 20:00 Jigoku Valley Night Tour (illumination viewing)
- 21:00 Evening hot spring bathing
Day 2
- 7:00 Morning bath
- 8:00 Breakfast
- 10:00 Check-out
- 10:30 Noboribetsu Bear Park (approximately 2 hours)
- 13:00 Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe (approximately 2 hours)
- 15:00 Departure
2 Nights, 3 Days Plan
In addition to the 1 night, 2 days plan, the following can be added:
- Noboribetsu Date Jidai Village
- Hot spring hopping at Kojohama Hot Spring and Carlsbad Hot Spring
- Surrounding sightseeing spots such as Lake Toya and Lake Shikotsu
Best Seasons for Noboribetsu Hot Spring
Noboribetsu Hot Spring can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers different charms.
Spring (April to June)
The season of fresh greenery when nature around Jigoku Valley blooms beautifully. Hot spring bathing in the refreshing air following snowmelt is exceptional. Golden Week is crowded, so early reservations are recommended.
Summer (July to September)
The season to enjoy Hokkaido’s short summer. Cooler than mainland Japan, it is also popular as an summer resort. The summer vacation period is busy with families.
Autumn (October to November)
The autumn colors season when the foliage around Jigoku Valley is spectacular. Mid to late October is the best time for autumn colors. The combination of hot springs and autumn leaves provides the ultimate relaxation.
Winter (December to March)
Hot spring bathing in snowy landscapes is full of charm. Snow viewing while in an open-air bath is a particularly exceptional experience. The “Noboribetsu Hot Spring Fireworks Festival” is held in February, where traditional events can be enjoyed. However, caution is needed regarding heavy snow and icy roads.
History and Culture of Noboribetsu Hot Spring
History of Opening
The discovery of Noboribetsu Hot Spring is ancient, already known to the Ainu people during the Edo period. Its establishment as a proper hot spring destination is said to have begun in 1858 (Ansei 5) when Takimoto Kanzo opened a hot spring inn.
Subsequently, during the Meiji period, it developed as a wellness and tourism destination, with many hot spring inns built from the Taisho through early Showa periods. After World War II, it became a leading hot spring destination in Hokkaido, attracting many tourists from home and abroad.
Demon Legend of Noboribetsu Hot Spring
“Demons” are used as symbols of Noboribetsu Hot Spring. This originated from the association with the rugged landscape of Jigoku Valley, with demon statues and monuments placed throughout the hot spring town.
Every February, the “Noboribetsu Hot Spring Fireworks Festival” is held, where red and blue demons carrying torches parade through the hot spring town in the “Dance of Demon Fire.” This festival has become a winter tradition of Noboribetsu Hot Spring.
Tips for Spending Time at Noboribetsu Hot Spring
How to Bathe
When enjoying diverse spring qualities, it is recommended to enter from weaker stimulating springs in sequence. For example, starting with simple springs or salt springs and finishing with sulfur springs or acidic springs reduces stress on the body.
Rather than soaking in one spring quality for long periods, the “hot spring hopping” style of enjoying multiple spring qualities for short periods is a way to enjoy Noboribetsu Hot Spring uniquely.
Reservation Tips
Popular inns require early reservations. Especially during weekends, holidays, autumn color season, and year-end-New Year’s period, accommodations often become fully booked several months in advance. Aiming for weekdays or low seasons often provides access to discounted rate plans.
Reservation sites such as Rakuten Travel, Jalan.net, and Ikyu.com allow comparison of accommodation plans and confirmation of reviews, and are recommended for advance checking.
Items to Bring
- Towel (for natural foot bath at Oyunuma)
- Comfortable walking shoes (for Jigoku Valley walk)
- Winter clothing (in winter seasons)
- Camera (with many spectacular spots)
- Beverages for hydration
Conclusion: Experience Supreme Hot Spring Enjoyment at Noboribetsu Hot Spring
Noboribetsu Hot Spring, with its diverse 9 spring qualities, abundant daily volume of 10,000 tons, excellent accessibility, well-equipped accommodations, and fascinating tourist attractions, truly possesses all elements demanded of a hot spring destination at the highest level, making it Hokkaido’s representative hot spring.
True to its nickname “The Department Store of Hot Springs,” it is rare worldwide to enjoy diverse spring qualities at one hot spring destination, making it a must-visit place for hot spring enthusiasts. While it can be fully enjoyed as a day trip, it is recommended to stay overnight to thoroughly enjoy the morning, afternoon, and evening expressions of the hot springs and nature.
The convenience of access—approximately 1 hour from New Chitose Airport and just over 1 hour from Sapporo—also makes it ideal as a base for Hokkaido tourism. By all means, experience the premium hot springs that Hokkaido takes pride in at Noboribetsu Hot Spring.
