All Reviews of Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley)

At Noboribetsu Jigokudani, the most famous central attraction in Noboribetsu Onsen, Hokkaido, stand in front of the wooden landmark at the observation deck bearing the words “のぼりべつ温泉地獄谷.” Behind it is the breathtaking sight of a volcanic valley filled with billowing white steam and surging geothermal activity! As you walk along the wooden boardwalk, the air is filled with a strong sulfur smell, while white steam continuously rises from cracks in the red, yellow, and white rocks, as if you've entered a mysterious world of hell. This is also the main hot spring source for Noboribetsu's major hot spring hotels, and it displays completely different, magnificent natural scenery in every season. It's definitely Noboribetsu's number one iconic photo spot and shouldn't be missed on an independent trip to Hokkaido!

When you arrive at Noboribetsu Jigokudani, the first thing you see at the entrance is the large sign that says “Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Noboribetsu Jigokudani.” With the wooden railing beside it and the blue sky and white clouds overhead, seeing it in person feels really satisfying.
Following the wooden boardwalk straight ahead takes you right into this incredibly spectacular volcanic landscape. Looking to the side, the huge valley is covered in bare grayish-white and reddish-brown rocks. There are cracks everywhere, thick white steam keeps billowing out, and the air is filled with a strong sulfur smell. The feeling of actually being there is incredibly intense.
The most impressive part is the scenery on the distant hills, completely surrounded by forests that have turned red in the fall. It creates an extremely striking contrast with the barren yet dramatic volcanic terrain right in front of you. Looking up at the blue sky and then at the white steam drifting around the bare branches, you can take your time strolling along the entire path without feeling rushed at all. It really is the kind of place that makes you want to keep stopping to take photos.
The trails here are also very well maintained and easy to walk, so you can comfortably view the details of the volcanic crater from all kinds of angles. Watching everyone wander around and take in the scenery at their own pace, while listening to the wind and the sounds around you, really helps you relax. This feeling of not having to rush through an itinerary and just wandering around freely is exactly right. You can fully enjoy this natural wonder, and it really is a stop you absolutely shouldn’t miss when visiting Noboribetsu.

It was my first time visiting Noboribetsu Jigokudani, and I could smell a very distinct sulfur odor before I even got close! The unusual smell in the air, along with the white steam constantly rising from the valley, immediately made me appreciate the area's unique volcanic landscape.
Seeing scenery like this in person for the first time felt truly special and unforgettable!

In winter, you can see white steam rising from the snow at Noboribetsu Jigokudani, which is truly unique. As soon as you walk in, you can smell the strong sulfur scent. The volcanic landscape and constantly rising steam create a spectacular sight.

A leisurely walk along the trail lets you experience the power of nature up close. It’s definitely a must-visit spot in Hokkaido.

Noboribetsu Jigokudani has a spectacular and powerful landscape, with a strong sulfur smell that really makes you feel the force of nature. Walking along the trail lets you see the volcanic terrain up close. It’s definitely a natural attraction in Hokkaido worth visiting.

The second you walk in, the smell hits you hard. That sulfur smell basically tells you, “Yep, this really is Hell.”

The volcanic landscape and drifting sulfur steam really make it feel like a scene from hell. It's a stunning and mysterious display of nature's power.