Jigokudani - Hokkaido

Jigokudani (登別地獄谷) or Hell Valley in English is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Noboribetsu City. It is located at Noboribetsuonsencho/Noboribetsu Onsen Town in Noboribetsu City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Jigokudani

Jigokudani details

Nestled at the western foot of the active volcano "Katataraku" lies Jigokudani, a geothermal wonderland that forms a part of the "Noboribetsu Volcano" along with Oyunuma and Hiyoriyama. With a diameter of approximately 450 meters and covering an area of around 11 hectares, Jigokudani serves as the source of Noboribetsu Onsen, a renowned hot spring town where high-temperature fumaroles and hydrothermal activity continue to mesmerize visitors. In recognition of its unique ecological importance, Jigokudani has been designated as a "Special Protection Area" within the Shikotsu-Toya National Park.

Jigokudani - Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido Prefecture

The formation of Jigokudani can be traced back to volcanic activity that originated at the western foot of "Katataraku" approximately 15,000 years ago, resulting in the creation of a lava dome on Mt. Hiyori. Around 8,000 years ago, repeated phreatic eruptions gave birth to both Oyunuma and Jigokudani. The most recent eruption occurred in the Hiyoriyama-Oyunuma-Ura Jigoku crater chain, estimated to have been active about 200 years ago.

Jigokudani is part of the Shikotsu-Toya National Park

Noboribetsu Jigokudani

It's common to see demon statues and souvenir items here

To enable visitors to explore and appreciate the unique geothermal landscapes, a promenade has been constructed in Jigokudani, offering a memorable experience. Although it is closed during the winter season, the promenade comes to life at night with breathtaking illuminations, known as the "Onibi no Michi" or the "Path of Ghostly Fires." This mystical spectacle adds an enchanting touch to the already captivating natural wonders.

Photos around Jigokudani

Medicine Buddha (薬師如来)

Why not go to “Oyunuma”?

There is an elevated walkway here that leads to the middle of the valley 

Yunohana Jigoku (湯の花地獄)

Sanshin River Noboribetsu Jigokudani (三進の川 のぼりべつ地獄谷)

Furthermore, the Noboribetsu Onsen Park Service Center, operated by the Natural Park Foundation, serves as a hub for information and guidance for tourists. The center offers valuable insights into the geological features and history of Jigokudani and its surrounding area. It provides useful amenities and assistance to ensure a pleasant and educational visit for all.

For visitors seeking a more immersive experience, the Noboribetsu City Tourism Volunteer Guide Association conducts guided tours from May to October. These knowledgeable guides lead visitors on informative and engaging expeditions through Jigokudani and its neighboring attractions. These tours not only enhance the understanding of the area's geological significance but also shed light on the cultural and historical aspects of Noboribetsu Onsen and its surrounding area.

Team Nicerio visits Jigokudani

My family and I visited Jigokudani for the first time last October 9, 2022, during our “October 8-10” Road Trip. It was my 342nd day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. Jigokudani was the highlight of the 2nd day of our road trip. It was truly a beautiful place but we weren’t prepared for its sulfuric smell. Regardless, we managed to get used to it quickly and enjoyed the sights. We wanted to fully explore the area but it rained and we booked a hotel in Muroran City. Given the chance, we would come back and stay in a nearby hotel to really maximize our experience. 

Jigokudani Fees

It’s FREE to explore Jigokudani. However, if you are bringing your car expect to pay a parking fee. The amount is different based on where you parked but the nearer ones to Jigokudani charge around 500 yen. 

Jigokudani Operating Hours

Jigokudani is open 24/7. 

Why visit Jigokudani?

Jigokudani's mesmerizing landscapes, formed through centuries of volcanic activity, offer a glimpse into the Earth's stunning power and beauty. Its designation as a "Special Protection Area" underscores the importance of preserving this natural wonder for future generations. Whether it's the sight of billowing steam rising from the ground, the sound of bubbling hot springs, or the surreal glow of the illuminated promenade at night, Jigokudani continues to captivate and inspire all who venture into its otherworldly embrace.

Getting to Jigokudani

 

To begin your journey from New Chitose Airport, make your way towards the New Chitose Airport Limousine Bus terminal where you'll catch the Airport Shuttle Bus Shinsei.

Alight at Minami Chitose Eki bus stop and proceed to Minami-Chitose Station. From there, hop on the Hokuto 18 Limited Express Hakodate train, operating on the Hokuto Line, and disembark at Noboribetsu Station.

Upon arrival, transfer to the "Regional Center Building → Horobetsu Honmachi → Noboribetsu Station → Noboribetsu Onsen Route" Bus at the Noboribetsu Bus stop and board down at Noboribetsu Onsen bus stop. 

From there, it's a leisurely 1-kilometer stroll to reach Jigokudani.

Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Fare: 3,720 yen

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