Welcome to Noboribetsu, one of Hokkaido’s most popular hot spring destinations!
In this guide, we’ll introduce a fun-filled 2-day itinerary for exploring Noboribetsu, starting from New Chitose Airport and ending in Sapporo. Noboribetsu is not just about relaxing in hot springs; it also offers exciting spots like aquariums and bear farms, perfect for families and friends to enjoy together. For your next Hokkaido trip, why not plan a 1-night stay in Noboribetsu?

Day 1: Explore the Onsen Town

Heading to Noboribetsu Onsen from New Chitose Airport

When you arrive at New Chitose Airport, you can hop on a bus bound for Noboribetsu Onsen. Buses depart roughly once an hour and travel for about 1.5 hours.

Note: Reservations are required in advance, and the website is only available in Japanese!
Donan Bus Reservation Site

Strolling Around Noboribetsu Onsen Town

Once you arrive at Noboribetsu Onsen, take a stroll through the quaint hot spring town. It’s compact enough to explore on foot, allowing you to soak in the traditional Japanese atmosphere while browsing souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants. Don’t miss the adorable carved wooden bears, a popular Hokkaido souvenir.

• Address: Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
• Recommended stay time: About 1 hour
• Noboribetsu Onsen Town Website

Relax at Jigokudani (Hell Valley) and Natural Foot Baths

While exploring, make sure to visit “Jigokudani” (Hell Valley). This unique landscape, formed by volcanic activity, looks like a scene from another world.

There’s also a natural foot bath area where you can rest your tired feet in warm water. Just watch out for bees!

• Address: No specific address, Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
• Opening hours: Open 24 hours, year-round
• Recommended stay time: About 1 hour

Meet Bears at Noboribetsu Bear Park

Accessible via ropeway from Noboribetsu Onsen, the Bear Park is home to around 100 brown bears. These friendly bears often stand up to beg for food, providing an adorable spectacle. You can even feed them yourself, making this a popular spot for families with kids.

• Address: 224 Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
• Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 (April 21 – October 20), 9:30-16:30 (October 21 – April 20)
• Admission: Adults ¥3,000 / Children ¥1,500
• Recommended stay time: About 1-2 hours (2-3 hours if dining)
• Noboribetsu Bear Park Website

Bathe in the hot springs

Noboribetsu Onsen Town has numerous hot spring inns. After checking in at your hotel, soothe your travel fatigue with a relaxing hot spring bath. Noboribetsu’s onsen waters are famous for their sulfuric scent, warming you to the core. Many hotels also offer unique events; at the “Dai-ichi Takimotokan,” for example, you can enjoy a traditional Japanese drum performance. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a glass of cold milk after your bath!

Day 2: Going Out to Noboribetsu’s Top Attractions

Dolphin Show at Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe

Take a 20-minute bus ride from Noboribetsu Onsen to Noboribetsu Station, then a 5-minute walk to the Marine Park Nixe. This aquarium features thrilling dolphin shows, as well as penguin parades and sea lion performances. With a variety of marine life exhibits, it’s a great spot for both kids and adults.

• Address: 1-22 Noboribetsu Higashi-machi, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
• Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 (seasonal variations apply)
• Admission: Adults ¥3,000 / Children ¥1,500
• Recommended stay time: About 2-3 hours
• Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe Website

Travel with NINJA at Date Jidaimura

From Marine Park Nixe, take a 15-minute bus ride to Date Jidaimura. Here, you can experience the lifestyle and culture of Japan’s Edo period. Wander among traditional Japanese buildings, try your hand at shuriken (ninja star) throwing, and enjoy ninja shows! Staff dressed as ninjas, samurai, and town maidens add to the immersive atmosphere, making you feel like you’ve traveled 300 years into the past.

• Address: 13-9 Nakajima-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
• Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 (seasonal variations apply)
• Admission: Adults ¥3,300 / Children ¥1,700
• Recommended stay time: About 2-3 hours
• Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura Website

Return to Noboribetsu Onsen and Head to Sapporo

After a day of sightseeing, take the bus back to Noboribetsu Onsen to collect your luggage. Then, board the “Onsen-go” express bus to Sapporo. Reflect on your wonderful time in Noboribetsu while looking forward to new adventures in Sapporo.

Note: Reservations are required in advance, and the website is only available in Japanese!
Donan Bus Reservation Site

The Perfect Ending to a Memorable Trip

Noboribetsu is easily accessible from Sapporo, making it a great addition to your travel plans. This 2-day trip offers not only the relaxation of hot springs but also a range of fun activities and sightseeing spots. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories in Noboribetsu!