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.
More about Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley) from our blog
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
Parking fee is 500 yen for both parkings (pay one time only)
We start walking from Jigokudani parking to Jigokudani observation deck, and continue to Tessen Ike spring pond. Great view but sulphur smelly is bad.
After see the map, we think it’s not take much time to Onuyama pond by walk.
So, we continue walking on Jigokudani and Onuyama nature trail.
Unfortunately walking trail is not easy to walk since all leaves are fallen on the ground and snow is fallen recently. All the way of trail to Onuyama is so wet, a bit muddy, soft soil and covering with wet fallen leaves.
Onuyama pond is so blue and beautiful, but it would be better if we came by car.
We chose to skip footpath because of no time and we need time walk back to parking as well.
We walked on another trail back to parking since it looks shorter and less time. This trail seem like walking in the forest.
Deer was jumping out suddenly while walking. It shocked me.
Total time is almost an hours to visit this place
No words needed. Must-Go place in Hokkaido.
Hell Valley is simply incredible — with sulfur gas, steam, and boiling spring water erupting from the earth, the whole place truly lives up to its name. It’s like standing at the edge of the underworld.
I visited just a few days ago, and the weather was absolutely perfect. Since I went on a Monday morning, it wasn’t too crowded, which made the experience even better.
The only downside was that the hiking trail was closed, which was a bit of a letdown…
But still — no question about it — I’d come back here in a heartbeat.
100% planning to visit again.
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.
