Travel Lake Toya and Noboribetsu

Jigokudani, or Hell Valley, is famous for its dramatic volcanic activity, including steaming vents, sulfurous streams, and bubbling hot springs.

From the valley floor, walking trails lead through the forested hills above Noboribetsu. A 20–30 minute walk takes you to Oyunuma, a sulfurous pond with a surface temperature of around 50°C, along with a smaller, hotter mud pond nearby.

From Oyunuma flows the Oyunumagawa River, still hot as it winds through the forest. Visitors can follow the river for several hundred meters and even enjoy a natural foot bath (ashiyu) along the way.

Autumn brings spectacular colors, typically peaking in mid-October, enhancing the already breathtaking scenery. In winter, some trails above Jigokudani may be inaccessible due to snow and ice.

Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura is a historical theme park that recreates the atmosphere of the Edo Period, one of Japan’s most fascinating eras. Step back in time and enjoy traditional games, activities, theaters, street performances, and more. Immerse yourself in the charm of ancient Japan as you encounter ninjas and Oiran courtesans, iconic figures of the Edo Period.

Noboribetsu Bear Park is a wildlife park located on the slopes of Noboribetsu’s mountains. The park is home to Hokkaido brown bears, where visitors can observe them up close from viewing platforms or feed them at designated areas. Accessible via ropeway from the valley below, the park offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and is a fun family-friendly destination.

The Usuzan Ropeway takes visitors to the summit of Mt. Usu. From the upper station, the observation deck offers panoramic views of Lake Toya and nearby Showa Shinzan. A short walk to a second observation deck provides views of the ocean and Mt. Usu’s largest crater, formed during the 1977 eruption.

Lake Toya is one of Hokkaido’s most famous lakes. The surrounding area offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, and camping, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.