Sapporo: Hell Valley, Oyunuma and Dai-ichi Takimotokan Trip

Witness Noboribetsu's awe-inspiring Jigokudani, a "Hell Valley" overflowing with steaming vents, healing waters, and vibrant colors. After walking through this Hell Valley, enjoy a leisurely forest walk to the soothing Oyunuma River footbath where you can rest your legs in the warm, mineral-rich waters. Later, you'll be taken to the historic Dai-ichi Takimotokan Hotel, where you can further relax in several of its 35 hot spring baths. Led by an English-speaking guide, this tour starts and ends at Sapporo Station.

Your adventure begins at Noboribetsu's Jigokudani, famously known as "Hell Valley." This extraordinary geothermal area, born from the dormant Mount Hiyori's crater, presents an otherworldly panorama of steaming fumaroles, bubbling hot springs, and sulfurous streams. As white steam clouds billow into the air, you'll be immersed in a landscape painted with striking hues of orange, yellow, gray, and brown, a vivid contrast to the surrounding lush green forest. Your guide will lead you along the 600-meter-long Hell Valley Boardwalk, a well-maintained wooden pathway offering close-up views and excellent photographic opportunities of the geothermal activity. While exploring, you'll notice numerous "oni" (demon) statues, symbolizing the valley's connection to local folklore and the underworld. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the boardwalk can be slippery at times.

Following your exploration of Hell Valley, enjoy a leisurely 30-minute forest walk to the Oyunuma River Natural Footbath. This unique hot spring experience allows you to soak your feet in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the Oyunuma River, which flows directly from Lake Oyunuma. A wooden platform with seating areas provides a comfortable spot to relax your weary legs amidst the lush forest scenery. This footbath can be enjoyed year-round, but always be mindful of trail conditions and wear suitable footwear. Bringing a small towel to dry your feet is highly recommended.

The tour culminates at the Dai-ichi Takimotokan Hotel, a historic establishment founded in 1858 by Kinzo Takimoto — a carpenter from Tokyo who sought the healing properties of Noboribetsu's hot springs for his wife, Sata, who suffered from a severe skin condition. After witnessing his wife's recovery, Kinzo established an inn (which became the Dai-ichi Takimotokan) to share the therapeutic benefits of the Noboribetsu hot springs with others.

Today the Dai-ichi Takimotokan is a renowned resort that boasts extensive onsen facilities — featuring an impressive 35 baths sourced from five distinct types of spring water, each offering unique health benefits. You'll have 1.5 hours to indulge in these soothing and therapeutic baths, experiencing firsthand the exceptional onsen experience that guests consistently praise for its variety, cleanliness, and attentive staff. The hotel's proximity to Hell Valley further enhances its appeal, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.