Noboribetsu City, located in Hokkaido, Japan, is known for its rich history and culture. This area, which was a center of Ainu culture, developed as a hot spring resort during the Meiji era and has continued to evolve as a tourist destination blessed with nature. Today, tourism has become the main industry, and geothermal power generation is also conducted, allowing life to thrive in harmony with nature. The local lifestyle is rooted in a hot spring culture enveloped by nature, which is reflected in the citizens’ way of life and regional customs. The Hokkaido dialect is used, and influences from Ainu culture can also be seen, making Noboribetsu City a place with a strong regional identity. Various festivals, such as the Hell Valley Hot Spring Festival and the Noboribetsu Onsen Fireworks Festival, are held, providing enjoyment not only for locals but also for tourists. Local cuisine incorporates traditional Ainu ingredients and cooking methods, offering a rich menu that utilizes fresh seafood and agricultural products from the area. Additionally, community activities and school education among local people show respect for the inheritance of Ainu culture and the local natural environment. These elements symbolize a unique lifestyle born from the region’s rich natural environment and deep history.
Culture and Customs
Noboribetsu City is located in the southern part of Hokkaido, and its history and culture are deeply intertwined with nature and Ainu culture. The fact that this area was a center of Ainu culture has greatly influenced local customs, and remnants of this can still be seen today. During the Meiji era, it developed as a hot spring resort, and its name became widely known. Even now, tourism remains a major industry, allowing visitors to enjoy hot springs amidst beautiful nature. Geothermal power generation is also conducted, utilizing natural resources for energy supply. Life takes place in a rich natural environment, with hot spring culture deeply rooted. The local dialect, Hokkaido dialect, is used in daily life, and influences from Ainu culture can be observed. The most anticipated events in this region are the “Hell Valley Hot Spring Festival” and the “Noboribetsu Onsen Fireworks Festival.” These festivals maximize the local culture and nature, attracting many tourists throughout the year. The sparkling fireworks illuminate the hot spring town, captivating visitors. Noboribetsu City is a wonderful region where nature and culture harmonize, and once you experience its charm, you will never forget it.
Local Specialties
- Hell Valley Hot Springs: An iconic tourist spot in Noboribetsu City, it creates a fantastical atmosphere with its unique sulfur smell and rising white steam.
- Noboribetsu Marine Park Nix: An aquarium where you can observe various marine creatures such as seals and penguins, with the penguin walk event being a must-see.
- Bear Ranch: A theme park where you can see wild bears up close, observing how they catch fish and their hibernation behavior.
- Noboribetsu Onsen: A natural hot spring known for its abundant flow and rich minerals, often referred to as “beauty skin hot spring” and “fatigue recovery hot spring.”
- Noboribetsu Wine: A local wine made from grapes grown in Noboribetsu, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and acidity.
Annual Events
- Noboribetsu Hell Festival: Held every summer, it allows you to enjoy local customs such as the open-air baths of Hell Valley and the Hell Dance.
- Noboribetsu Marathon: A nationwide marathon held in early summer, attracting many runners from inside and outside the city to run through beautiful nature.
- Noboribetsu Onsen Snow Lantern Path: Held in winter, delicate lanterns made of snow and ice illuminate the streets of Noboribetsu in a fantastical way.
- Noboribetsu Autumn Festival: Held in autumn, it features dishes and crafts made from fresh local ingredients.
- Noboribetsu Citizens’ Cultural Festival: Held on Culture Day, this event allows you to enjoy local arts and culture.
Access Methods
- By Air: Domestic and international flights are available to New Chitose Airport. From the airport, it takes about an hour to reach Noboribetsu City by bus or rental car.
- By Train: From New Chitose Airport, take the JR Chitose Line, transfer at Chitose Station to the JR Muroran Main Line, and head to Noboribetsu Station. The entire journey takes about 1.5 hours.
- By Road: Use the Dōō Expressway, head north on National Route 36 from Chitose IC, and exit at Noboribetsu Onsen IC. It takes about an hour by car.
- By Ferry: Take the Seikan Ferry to Hokkaido, then drive for about 4 hours. This is recommended for those who want to enjoy a long-distance journey.
- By Express Bus: Direct express buses operate from Sapporo City. The travel time is about 2 hours, making it easy to head to Noboribetsu City.
Tourist Attractions
- Hell Valley – A natural landscape with the smell of sulfur and rising white steam
- Noboribetsu Marine Park Nix – An aquarium where you can enjoy shows featuring penguins and seals
- Noboribetsu Ropeway – A ropeway offering a panoramic view of the Daisetsuzan mountain range
- Noboribetsu Onsen – A hot spring area known for its high-quality sulfur springs
- Noboribetsu International Ski Resort – A ski resort suitable for beginners to advanced skiers
