What other travelers are saying about Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley)
We visited Noboribetsu Hell Valley (Jigokudani) as part of an organized bus tour, and it was a great stop. Around 30–60 minutes is enough to walk the wooden paths, take photos, and enjoy the unique volcanic scenery. The view of the steaming rocks and colourful ground is truly impressive and gives a good sense of Hokkaido’s geothermal nature.
As the name suggests, there’s a strong sulfur smell in the air, it’s natural and part of the experience, but some people might find it a bit intense.
Visiting with a tour is very convenient since parking can be limited and the area fits well as a short stop between other sights. Definitely worth seeing once. It feels like standing on another planet or in one of the old Power Rangers Sets.
This is a great opportunity to see volcano crater up close. The paths around the crater were very easy to walk on. Not only do you get to see the craters up close, the view was stunning with the autumn leaves in the background. The walk down to the natural foot bath was a bit more demanding. We saw many people struggling up the steep path afterwards. Just a tip that you can actually avoid that by just following the path out to the main road, which loops back to the start and is a much easier and more gentle walk up. While there wasn’t a proper pavement for pedestrians, the cars were considerate and we never felt unsafe walking on the road.
I visited Noboribetsu Jigokudani Valley for the first time at the beginning of winter around 5 p.m.
There were still many travelers. The weather was very cold, and the strong smell of natural gas filled the air.
The scenery was stunning — a true wonder of nature with steam rising from the ground. The sunset made the atmosphere even more magical.
Parking costs 500 yen for a personal car.
Toilets are available, but no Wi-Fi service here.
Hell Valley is a unique experience. A day trip from Sapporo, beautiful scenery and a visit to an active volcano area. Steam rises out of the cracks and holes. You can see the water boiling! I had limited time here but well worth the experience! There’s a lot more to do and see in this area and will return for more adventures! The smell of sulfur is strong in some areas but there was a nice breeze that kept it from being too intense. Parking was not an issue as I visited off peak time. Several lots are available though for a fee.
So surreal to see this in real life! We were very lucky to see this beautiful scenery in the peak of autumn, where all the trees are in the nice muted shades of red, orange and yellow! 🍁 super pretty! My friends who saw my pictures thought it was AI because of how surreal it looks 😂
The name "Jigokudani" translates to "Hell Valley" in English due to the area's boiling water, steam plumes, and desolate, otherworldly appearance, reminiscent of what one might imagine hell to look like.
Noboribetsu Jigokudani was formed by the volcanic activity of Mount Hiyori and Mount Kuttara. The area is rich in sulfur and other minerals, which are brought to the surface by volcanic activity.
Noboribetsu Jigokudani can be visited throughout the year. However, each season offers a different experience: spring and summer for lush greenery, autumn for colorful foliage, and winter for a snowy landscape contrasted with the steam from the hot springs.
Noboribetsu Jigokudani is accessible by train and bus from Sapporo, the nearest major city. Visitors can take a train to Noboribetsu Station and then a bus directly to Noboribetsu Onsen Town. From there, Jigokudani is within walking distance.
Yes, Noboribetsu Jigokudani is safe to visit, but visitors should stay on the designated paths and follow any safety signs or instructions to avoid getting too close to the hot steam vents and sulfurous streams.
