Noboribetsu Jigokudani Autumn Leaves 2026 Confirmed

登別地獄谷の紅葉 — Noboribetsu, Hokkaido (Hokkaido)

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Jigokudani is an explosion crater about 450 metres across above the hot spring town of Noboribetsu, venting steam and sulphurous gas from bare grey rock. In the second half of October the rowan, sumac and yamamomiji on its rim turn scarlet against that grey, and the contrast — red leaves over a steaming valley floor — is the argument for visiting Noboribetsu in autumn rather than winter. Boardwalks run from the entrance to a viewpoint and on to Oyunuma, a sulphur pond that steams all year. There is no admission charge.

Background

The valley is the vent of the Hiyoriyama volcano, which last erupted around a thousand years ago, and it supplies most of the water for Noboribetsu Onsen — several chemically distinct spring types within a very small area, which is unusual anywhere in Japan. The Ainu called the river Nupur-pet, cloudy river, which is the origin of the modern name. The town developed as a spa resort from the late 19th century.

Getting there

From JR Noboribetsu Station, a bus to Noboribetsu Onsen takes about fifteen minutes, and the valley entrance is a ten-minute walk up through the town. By car it is about eight minutes from the Noboribetsu-Higashi interchange on the Do-o Expressway; parking is 500 yen for the day.

Tips

• Colour peaks in mid-to-late October here, earlier than anywhere on Honshu — this is not a November destination.
• The boardwalk on to Oyunuma and the natural foot bath on the Oyunuma stream is about thirty minutes each way and is the better walk of the two.
• The sulphur smell is strong and persistent; it can be uncomfortable for anyone with a respiratory condition.
• Most of the large hotels sell day-use bathing, which is the obvious pairing after the walk.

Last verified against the official source: Sat, August 22, 2026