Day Trip to Noboribetsu: A Complete Travel Guide
Located in Hokkaido, Noboribetsu is one of Japan’s famous onsen town. Visit the inconic Noboribetsu onsen, trek the Jigokudani hell valley and experience ancient edo culture all in this, perfectly curated day trip to Noboribetsu.
Why Plan a Day Trip to Noboribetsu?
A day trip to Noboribetsu offers travelers the perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation without the need for an overnight stay. Here are some reasons why this destination is worth adding to your itinerary:
- Convenient Accessibility: Noboribetsu is easily reachable from Sapporo and New Chitose Airport via train, bus, or car.
- Affordable Option: A day trip saves on accommodation costs while still allowing you to experience the best of the town.
- Unique Experiences: From exploring Hell Valley’s volcanic landscapes to soaking in therapeutic hot springs, a visit to Noboribetsu is a perfect escape from city life.
How to Reach Noboribetsu?
Travel from Sapporo to Noboribetsu Station.
|
Travel |
Details |
Time taken |
|
Train |
JR Limited Express Hokuto or Super Hokuto to Noboribetsu Station, then a local bus. |
1.5 hrs |
|
Car |
Drive on Hokkaido Expressway. |
1.5 hrs |
Travel from New Chitose Airport to Noboribetsu Station
|
Travel |
Details |
Time taken |
|
Train |
JR Rapid Airport Line to Minami-Chitose, transfer to Limited Express Hokuto to Noboribetsu. |
1 hr |
|
Bus |
Direct bus from airport to Noboribetsu Onsen. |
1hr 10 min |
Top Attractions for Your Day Trip to Noboribetsu
1. Jigokudani (Hell Valley)
Hell Valley is the heart of Noboribetsu’s volcanic activity, featuring steam vents, bubbling ponds, and sulfur springs. This otherworldly landscape is both awe-inspiring and educational, with easy walking trails for visitors.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours
2. Noboribetsu Onsen
Experience the healing benefits of Noboribetsu’s mineral-rich hot springs. Choose from public bathhouses or ryokans offering day-use options.
- Public Bathhouse Entry Fee: ¥1,500-2,000 per person
- Popular Ryokan: Dai-ichi Takimotokan (day-use bath starts at ¥2,500)
3. Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura
Step back in time at this Edo-period theme park, complete with samurai performances, ninja shows, and traditional crafts.
- Entry Fee: ¥3,000 (adult), ¥1,500 (child)
- Recommended Duration: 2-3 hours
Local Experiences: Day Trip to Noboribetsu
In addition to its famous hot springs, Noboribetsu offers unique cultural experiences that let visitors step back in time:
Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura
- This is a historical theme park where you can experience the Edo period, complete with samurai, ninjas, and traditional crafts.
- Visitors can watch samurai performances, try on historical costumes, and even participate in ninja training.
Demon Fireworks Festival
- In summer, the Demon Fireworks Festival brings the town alive with fireworks, parades, and music.
- The demon statues in the town are decorated for this event, adding a festive and slightly spooky charm.
Local Food and Seafood
- Noboribetsu is known for its fresh Hokkaido seafood, especially crab and salmon.
- Try local dishes like miso ramen topped with buttery corn, a Hokkaido specialty, or a kaiseki (multi-course) meal at a ryokan.
When to Visit Noboribetsu Onsen?
Noboribetsu Onsen is open year-round, and each season brings something special:
- Spring: Cherry blossoms make the town beautiful with soft pink flowers.
- Summer: The Demon Fireworks Festival and green scenery make summer vibrant and lively.
- Autumn: Fall colors add warmth and richness to the landscape.
- Winter: Snow blankets the area, creating a magical setting for soaking in a hot spring.
Budget Tips for a Day Trip to Noboribetsu
- Use a JR Hokkaido Rail Pass: If you plan multiple trips around Hokkaido, this pass can save money.
- Opt for Public Bathhouses: These are more affordable than ryokan day-use baths.
- Pack Snacks: Bring your own snacks or bento to save on dining costs.
If you are looking for other things to do in Hokkaido you can plan going to Asahikawa. Visit the Asahiyama zoo or Trek to Asahidake
The Cultural Significance of Noboribetsu Onsen
Noboribetsu Onsen is more than just a hot spring town; it’s a place with deep cultural roots and strong ties to Japanese history. The name “Noboribetsu” comes from the Ainu language, meaning “dark-colored river,” a nod to the Ainu, the Indigenous people of Hokkaido.
One unique experience in Noboribetsu is the Demon Fireworks Festival, held every summer. The town is filled with statues of oni (demons), which represent the fiery energy of Hell Valley’s volcanic landscape. During the festival, you can see exciting parades and fire shows, celebrating the town’s onsen and volcanic origins.
Conclusion: Plan Your Day Trip to Noboribetsu
Noboribetsu Onsen is more than just a destination—it’s an experience that blends nature, relaxation, and culture in the heart of Hokkaido. Whether you’re soaking in the healing hot springs, exploring Hell Valley, or enjoying a kaiseki dinner at a traditional ryokan, every moment in Noboribetsu feels special.
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Can Noboribetsu Onsen Be a Day Trip from Sapporo??
Yes Noboribetsu onsen can be a day trip from Sapporo. Start your day early from Sapporo and reach Noboribetsu in 1.5 hours.
Make sure you check Japan Transit App and Google maps to plan our your schedule.
Can I go to Lake Kuttara from Noboribetsu?
Yes, lake Kuttara is a beautiful trek from Noboribetsu. It's around 11 km towards North from the main town.
If you plan to visit Jigokuandi hell valley trek, you can combine it with Lake Kuttara trek, by continuing for another 7.5 km.
