Noboribetsu Jigokudani

Welcome to Noboribetsu Jigokudani, or Hell Valley—the geological heart and primal source of Hokkaido’s most famous hot spring town. As we stand at this spectacular overlook, you are witnessing the raw, unbridled power of the…

Before we enter the valley itself, we encounter the 'Welcome Oni'—massive, colorful statues of demons that stand as the symbolic protectors of the hot springs. In Japanese mythology, Oni are often depicted as ogres with horns,…

Following the boardwalk into the center of the valley, we arrive at the Tessen Pond. This is a small geyser located right in the middle of the 'hellish' terrain, enclosed by a wooden railing for safety. …

A short hike from the main Jigokudani lookout brings us to Oyunuma Pond, a massive sulfurous lake with a circumference of about one kilometer. Formed during the same eruption that created Hell Valley, this lake is a surreal sight. …

Following the overflow from Oyunuma Pond, we walk along the Oyunumagawa river. Here, the steaming volcanic water flows through a beautiful, primeval forest, creating a 'natural footbath' that is perhaps the most relaxing…

Returning toward the town center, we visit Enmado, a small but significant temple dedicated to Enma-o, the King of Hell and the ruler of the underworld in Buddhist mythology. The temple houses a large, animatronic statue of…

Our final stop is Sengen Park, a small square near the entrance to the hot spring district. This park was created to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the opening of the Noboribetsu onsen. …

As we conclude our journey through the steaming depths of Noboribetsu Jigokudani, I hope you carry with you a sense of the surreal and otherworldly nature of this landscape. We have stood at the edge of ancient craters, walked…