Things To Do
in Noboribetsu
Noboribetsu is a charming city located in Hokkaido, Japan, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich hot spring culture. Famous for the Noboribetsu Onsen, visitors flock to experience the area's therapeutic waters and unique volcanic landscapes. The city is surrounded by mountains and lush forests, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.
Additionally, Noboribetsu is home to various attractions like Hell Valley (Jigokudani), where you can observe steam vents, sulfurous streams, and other geothermal activity.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Hell Valley (Jigokudani) to witness the geothermal activity and enjoy the breathtaking views. Take a scenic walk along the trails and don’t forget to capture the colorful landscapes.
Head to Noboribetsu Onsen for a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs. Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local dishes.
Explore the Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura, a historical theme park that recreates the Edo period. Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere.
Visit the Noboribetsu Bear Park to observe the magnificent bears up close and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Take a hike on one of the nearby trails, such as the Oyunuma Natural Hot Spring, where you can enjoy beautiful scenery and a unique hot spring experience.
Wrap up your trip with a peaceful evening walk along the lake at Lake Kuttara, followed by dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Hokkaido seafood.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍣Sushi meal | $25 |
| 🍜Ramen bowl | $10 |
| ☕Coffee | $4 |
| 🍺Local beer | $6 |
| 🏨Hotel stay (per night) | $100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and geothermal activity.
- Rich cultural experiences with traditional onsens.
- Delicious and fresh local cuisine.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- May require travel to reach from major airports.
- Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "はい" - Yes
- "いいえ" - No
Places to Visit in Noboribetsu
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic landscape filled with steaming vents and colorful mineral deposits, perfect for capturing the essence of Noboribetsu's geothermal activity.
A serene lake surrounded by mountains, offering stunning reflections and picturesque sunsets.
A historical theme park that provides a glimpse into the Edo period, featuring traditional architecture and performances, ideal for capturing cultural photos.
Food in Noboribetsu
Noboribetsu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A grilled mutton dish, often cooked on a dome-shaped grill, accompanied by fresh vegetables.
Must-Try!
A rice bowl topped with assorted fresh seafood, highlighting Hokkaido's rich maritime resources.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Various stalls offering local delicacies, including grilled seafood, takoyaki, and sweet treats like melon bread.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A common greeting in Japan; bowing shows respect and appreciation.
Always remove your shoes when entering traditional homes or certain accommodations.
Maintain a low volume in public spaces as loud conversations can be seen as disrespectful.
Safety
Tipping in Noboribetsu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be considered rude; excellent service is typically included in the experience.
Cash is widely accepted, while credit cards are increasingly accepted in larger establishments; ensure to have yen for smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather with cherry blossoms blooming around late April; it's a great time for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty.
Warm temperatures and vibrant green landscapes make it perfect for hiking and exploring; however, prepare for occasional rain.
Expect stunning fall foliage from late September to early November, offering vibrant colors and excellent photo opportunities.
Cold temperatures with heavy snowfall create a winter wonderland; perfect for onsen visits and snow sports.
Noboribetsu at Night
Hiking in Noboribetsu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hiking trail that leads to a natural hot spring, offering scenic views and an opportunity to relax in the warm waters.
A challenging hike leading to the summit of Mt. Hiyori, providing panoramic views of Noboribetsu and the surrounding landscape.
Airports
How to reach Noboribetsu by plane.
Approximately 80 km from Noboribetsu, New Chitose Airport is the main airport serving Hokkaido and offers both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The local population primarily consists of Japanese residents, with a focus on tourism-related employment due to the city's hot spring culture.
Noboribetsu attracts both domestic and international tourists, especially during peak seasons for its natural beauty and onsen experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is a popular sport in Japan, with local teams often drawing large crowds, especially during the summer season.
With nearby ski resorts, skiing and snowboarding are popular winter sports, attracting both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Noboribetsu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it may be advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly.
While gluten-free options may be limited, some restaurants can accommodate dietary restrictions if informed in advance.