Noboribetsu Onsen(Hot springs)

Noboribetsu Onsen is one of Japan’s leading hot spring resorts, where approximately 10,000 tons of water from nine different types of hot spring sources flow each day.
Its development began when Takimoto Kinzo, a carpenter in the late Edo period, started visiting the area for hot spring treatments in an effort to cure his wife’s skin condition. The name “Noboribetsu” comes from the Ainu word Nupurpet, referring to a river whose waters were strongly colored. It is believed that this name referred to a river whose waters appeared whitish and cloudy due to the influx of hot spring minerals.
The hot spring town is centered around Gokuraku-dori, a lively street lined with restaurants and souvenir shops. The road continues past Sengen Park, home to a dramatic geyser, and leads onward to Jigokudani, or Hell Valley.
According to local folklore, a demon-like guardian deity of the hot springs known as Yukijin resides in Jigokudani. As a result, statues of demons can be found throughout the town.
One of the most famous is Enma Daio, located on Gokuraku-dori. This mechanical figure serves as a local landmark and performs the “Judgment of Hell” seven times a day, taking on a fearsome expression as it delivers its judgment.
During the annual Noboribetsu Jigoku Festival, held each summer, this Enma Daio figure, together with the giant red demon statue standing in front of JR Noboribetsu Station, is carried on a portable shrine through the streets of the town.
Another unique pleasure of visiting Noboribetsu is enjoying a tour of its hot springs. In addition to the public bathhouse Yumoto Sagiriyu, many inns and hotels offer day-use bathing facilities, each featuring baths with distinctive designs and atmospheres. Visitors can therefore easily experience the rich variety of Noboribetsu’s famous hot springs.

※ The giant red demon statue in front of JR Noboribetsu Station has been relocated due to construction work at JR Noboribetsu Station.