Noboribetsu Onsen exudes the atmosphere of a quintessential hot spring town, where you can even see a geyser erupting at Sengen Park. However, it would be a shame to be satisfied with just the main town area! If you venture a little further, a much deeper experience awaits you.

When you think of Noboribetsu Onsen, the famous Jigokudani (Hell Valley), accessible right from the edge of the onsen town, comes to mind. The steam billowing from the fumaroles on the rocky surface, combined with the scent of sulfur, truly enhances the sightseeing mood.
There's a walking path that makes it easy to stroll around, and the views are powerful and perfect for photos. But since you've come all the way to Noboribetsu Onsen, why not head a bit further in and aim for Oyunuma Pond?
Oyunuma is a remnant of an explosion crater from a past eruption of Mount Hiyori. It has a circumference of about 1 km and a depth of 22 meters, with a 130°C sulfur spring gushing from its bottom.

The sight of steam rising from the pond's surface is something you won't see in many other places. Nearby, there is another pond called Okunoyu, which, though smaller, presents an even more intense, cauldron-like scene, enveloped in a thick sulfurous aroma.
If you want to see the entirety of Oyunuma Pond and capture it in photos, we recommend going to the Hiyoriyama Oyunuma Observatory. It's about a 300-meter mountain path, but it's well-maintained, so casual clothing is fine. You'll be rewarded with especially spectacular scenery during the autumn foliage season.
Now, if you've made it to Oyunuma, there's one spot you absolutely must visit. It's the river formed by the hot spring water overflowing from Oyunuma, aptly named the Oyunumagawa River. A flowing river that's actually a hot spring, complete with steam rising from it—isn't that an incredibly rare sight?
What's more, there's a place where you can use this Oyunumagawa River as a natural footbath. A walking path runs along the river, so just follow it. About 500 meters from Oyunuma, the Oyunumagawa Natural Footbath will appear.
It's a magical feeling to be in the middle of nature, dipping your feet into a warm, soothing river. The temperature varies depending on the season and weather, but on average, it's said to be around 40°C. Be sure to bring a towel and wear clothes that you can roll up past your knees to enjoy this special experience.
For those visiting by car, you will need to park at the paid Oyunuma Parking Lot. The ticket you receive here can also be used at the Jigokudani Parking Lot at the entrance to Hell Valley, so be sure not to lose it.

Also, please note that during the winter season (typically early December to late April), the Oyunuma Parking Lot is closed, and the walking path to the Oyunumagawa Natural Footbath may also be closed.

※If you want to get a better feel for the atmosphere of the Noboribetsu Oyunuma Natural Footbath, please check out our YouTube channel, "Howatto Yumeguri Hokkaido"!


＜Coverage Cooperation＞
Noboribetsu International Tourism and Convention Association
Address: 60 Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu-shi, Hokkaido
Phone: 0143-84-3311
Official Website: https://noboribetsu-spa.jp/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/noboribetsuonsen