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Jigokudani

Tourist attraction
★ 4.9 (10K+ reviews) • 70K+ booked
Jigokudani, also known as "Hell Valley," is a stunning volcanic destination just above Noboribetsu Onsen town. Here, you'll see steam vents, sulfurous streams, and other volcanic wonders in action, making it the primary source of the town's hot springs. Experience the magic of an active volcanic geothermal area! Discover the origins of Noboribetsu's hot springs as they bubble up from beneath, enriched with minerals. Over 10,000 tons of natural, mineral-infused water supply the onsen town's hotels and inns for a truly rejuvenating experience. Plus, a 20-to-30-minute walk will lead you to Oyunuma, a hot pond with a 50-degree Celsius surface temperature, and a nearby even hotter mud pond.
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Noboribetsu Onsencho, Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido 059-0551, Japan
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Jigokudani Reviews

4.9 /5
10K+ reviews
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Linh ****
1 Jul
Highly recommend this tour. Our tour guide Ken has a lot of recommendations for food and provided some history about the area. Wish we had more time at the ropeway.
Klook User
1 Jul
Great experience and Cassy was a great guide!
DAI ****
1 Jul
During this trip to Hokkaido, the unique scenery of Noboribetsu, Lake Toya and Mount Usu completely amazed me! As soon as I got off the car and stepped into Noboribetsu, the strong smell of sulfur hit me, as if I had instantly stepped into a natural hot spring secret. The steaming hot air in the Jigokudani contrasts with the colorful volcanic landforms, and the roaring geothermal sound is like the heartbeat of the earth, which makes people both shocked and fascinated. In the evening, I took a bath in the Noboribetsu Onsen Street. The warm spring water soaked my body and mind. When I looked up, I saw the snow-capped mountains. The fatigue of the day dissipated instantly. This experience of ice and fire blending was simply wonderful! The quiet beauty of Lake Toya is intoxicating. Sitting on a tour boat to shuttle across the lake, the clear lake water was sparkling, and the continuous mountains in the distance were like ink paintings. Fortunately, it was a sunny day. The blue sky, white clouds, snow-capped mountains and lake water blended perfectly, and every frame was as beautiful as a postcard. The hot spring hotel by the lake not only provides comfortable accommodation, but also allows you to taste fresh and plump lake fish dishes. The fish is tender and juicy, and paired with local special sauces, it is full of happiness. The volcanic wonders of Mount Usu are even more eye-opening for me! Take the cable car slowly up, and the volcanic vegetation along the way changes with the altitude. After reaching the top, overlooking the magnificent view of the crater, surrounded by smoke, it seems to be in another world. The popular science signs beside the hiking trail allow me to learn about the wonderful knowledge of volcanic geology while enjoying the beautiful scenery. The only small regret is that time is too tight and I can't deeply feel the charm of each attraction. But this has become the reason for me to go to Hokkaido again! The natural scenery, hot spring food and cultural atmosphere here are all fascinating, and I strongly recommend it to every friend who loves traveling!
2+
WANG ********
30 Jun
The tour guide VIVI Pang is very considerate and highly recommends this itinerary. There are so many beautiful scenery along the way that I couldn't stop taking pictures!
Klook客路用户
29 Jun
The schedule was very tight, and Director Zheng's introduction along the way gave us a detailed understanding of the history and culture of Hokkaido. It was a very fulfilling day.
Jodie **
28 Jun
The tour guide Jenny is friendly and clear in her explanations in both English and Chinese. I went in summer and the itinerary covers mainly noboribetsu and Lake Toya. Remember to bring your own food as there is limited time for lunch.
2+
Ariya ******
28 Jun
It was fun. We got to go to many places. Each place had 30 minutes, not too much or too little. The guide took pictures and gave us recommendations the whole time. At this price, it was worth it.
2+
Klook User
28 Jun
this was fantastic. we added a few stops to the itinerary we wanted to do. they fit them in for us and organised everything. our driver Mr Richard was wonderful he drove us around in complete comfort and helped us when we had questions. he also told us about the areas and interesting facts. I highly recommend this tour.
2+

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FAQs about Jigokudani

What does the name Jigokudani mean?

Where is Jigokudani?

Is Noboribetsu Onsen worth visiting?

What to know about Jigokudani

Must-Visit Attractions in Jigokudani

Hell Valley

A short stroll to Hell Valley will lead you to several observation decks offering breathtaking views of this surreal landscape. Take in the spooky yet stunning valley surrounded by natural forests, highlighting its volcanic essence even more.

Lake Oyunuma

Discover Oyunuma, a gourd-shaped pond near Noboribetsu Onsen, one of Hokkaido's top hot spring resorts. Formed by Mt. Hiyori's explosion, this pond is a popular spot alongside Jigokudani's volcanic calderas. Don't miss the nearby observatory for stunning views of Oyunuma. Capture the beauty on your camera, including the striking autumn foliage in mid-October.

River Oyunuma Natural Footbath

For a touch of geothermal adventure, go beyond Lake Oyunuma to a serene spot on the Oyunuma River. This river, fed by the lake, maintains a cozy 40-50°C temperature. Near the river pool, a wooden platform invites you for a natural foot bath where you can dip your feet into the soothing waters. It's the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring---just remember your towel!

Jigokudani Monkey Park

Visit Jigokudani Monkey Park to see wild Japanese Macaques, or Snow Monkeys, enjoying the natural hot spring baths. Located in their forest habitat in the Jigokudani valley near Shibu and Yudanaka onsen towns, you can observe these social monkeys around the man-made pool within a few minutes walk from the park entrance. Remember not to touch or feed the monkeys, who are used to human presence.

Dai-ichi Takimotokan Ryokan

Dai-ichi Takimotokan is the first and grandest ryokan in the town. The highlight, The Grand Bath, gives you an unparalleled bathing experience with stunning views of Jigokudani Valley. With spacious rooms and 35 baths supplied by five of the town's nine hot spring sources, you can enjoy a variety of therapeutic benefits in each unique bath.

Tips for Your Jigokudani Visit

When is the best time to visit Jigokudani?

The ideal time to explore Jigokudani is during mid-October, when the autumn colors are at their peak, adding a vibrant touch to the already stunning landscape. Winter visits are also enchanting, though some trails might be snow-covered.

How to get to Jigokudani?

Reaching Jigokudani is quite convenient. From JR Noboribetsu Station, you can take a bus to the Noboribetsu Onsen bus terminal, and from there, it's just a five-minute walk to the valley. Alternatively, you can travel from Sapporo Station by express bus or train, which takes about an hour and a half.

How to get to Jigokudani Monkey Park?

To reach Jigokudani Monkey Park, you can take a short walk from the Jigokudani parking area. Alternatively, you can also access the park via public transportation by taking a bus from Yudanaka Station or Shibu Onsen and getting off at the Kanbayashi Onsen bus stop, followed by a scenic 30-minute walk to the park entrance.

How to get from Zenkoji Temple to Jigokudani Monkey Park?

To get from Zenkoji Temple to Jigokudani Monkey Park, you can take a direct express bus from Zenkoji Temple to Snow Monkey Park. The bus ride takes around 45 minutes and provides a convenient and comfortable way to reach the park from the temple. Enjoy the scenic journey

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