Planning a day trip from Sapporo to Noboribetsu offers an excellent chance to experience one of Japan’s most famous hot spring regions. For around $242.40 per person, this guided tour promises a full day of natural wonder, culture, and relaxing baths. Led by an English-speaking guide, you’ll spend about 10.5 hours exploring Jigokudani (“Hell Valley”), walking through lush forests, and unwinding at the historic Dai-ichi Takimotokan Hotel. The tour begins early in the morning at Sapporo Station and concludes back there, making it convenient for travelers based in the city.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see and feel the volcanic activity at Jigokudani, with its colorful vents and steaming water—truly a landscape that looks like another world. Secondly, the hot spring baths at Dai-ichi Takimotokan are a real highlight, offering multiple options to soak and relax after a day of sightseeing. An added bonus is the leisurely forest walk, which provides a peaceful interlude amid the steam and sulfur clouds.

A potential consideration is the group size, which is limited to 15 travelers—great for intimacy but worth noting if you prefer more solitude or a private tour. Also, tattoos might restrict some guests from entering the baths, so you should check if that applies to you. Finally, note that lunch is not included, so plan accordingly to keep your energy up for the day.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate nature, cultural experiences, and relaxation in hot springs. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a guided experience to simplify logistics and maximize sightseeing without the hassle of planning transportation or admission fees.

Key Points

Authentic experience of Jigokudani’s volcanic landscape
Relaxing hot spring baths at Dai-ichi Takimotokan
Convenient guided tour from Sapporo, including transportation
Leisurely walk through lush forested areas
Group size limited to 15 for a more personal experience
Tattoos may restrict access to hot springs

An In-Depth Look at the Noboribetsu Full Day Tour

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Getting to the Heart of Noboribetsu: The Journey Begins

Starting at Sapporo Station, you’ll board a comfortable bus bound for Noboribetsu. The transportation is included in the cost, meaning you won’t need to worry about navigating Japanese train schedules or paying extra—just sit back and enjoy the scenic drive through Hokkaido’s rugged landscape. The roughly 2-hour journey offers a chance to see the countryside roll by, and your guide will likely fill you in on local facts and history, making the transfer part of the experience rather than just transit.

Exploring Jigokudani: “Hell Valley” in Action

Once in Noboribetsu, you’ll step into Jigokudani—a site that lives up to its fiery name. The steam vents, bubbling pools, and mineral-rich vents create a surreal landscape. The vivid colors—reds, oranges, and yellows—are caused by mineral deposits and sulfur emissions, making it a photographer’s dream.

Visitors often comment on how “amazing the colors and steam vents are” and how “you feel almost as though you’ve landed on another planet.” The walk here is leisurely, suited for most mobility levels, and offers plenty of opportunities to stop, take pictures, and soak in the otherworldly scenery.

The Forest Walk and Oyunuma River Footbath

After exploring Hell Valley, your guide will lead you on a relaxing forest walk toward the Oyunuma River footbath. This natural hot spring is set in a peaceful woodland area, inviting you to soak your tired legs in warm, mineral-rich waters. It’s a simple but effective way to unwind, especially after the more strenuous parts of the day. We loved the contrast between the volcanic activity and the tranquil forest, which makes for a memorable, multi-layered experience.

The Dai-ichi Takimotokan: Hot Springs and Cultural Comfort

The final stop is at the historic Dai-ichi Takimotokan Hotel, renowned for its 35 hot spring baths. Here, you’ll be able to indulge in a variety of baths—some indoor, some outdoor—each offering different mineral compositions and temperatures. The admission fee is included, so you can enjoy as many baths as you’d like without concern about extra costs.

Many reviewers have expressed delight at the diversity of baths available. One said, “The baths varied enough that I could try different experiences in one visit.” Another highlighted the authenticity of the hot spring culture, praising the chance to relax in a traditional setting after a day of exploration.

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Practical Tips and Considerations

While the tour is well-organized, keep in mind that no lunch is included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something during the day. The timing is tight—starting at 8:00 am and returning in the late afternoon—so come prepared for a full day.

Also, if you have body tattoos, the tour’s policy might restrict your access to the baths, a common stance in many Japanese hot springs aimed at maintaining certain cultural standards. It’s worth verifying beforehand if this affects you.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see the volcanic landscape, enjoy the calming hot springs, and prefer a guided approach that takes care of logistics. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation, and are comfortable with group tours. If you’re looking for total independence or a very quiet experience, this may not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth Your Time?

This full-day trip offers a well-rounded introduction to Noboribetsu’s geothermal wonders. The combination of spectacular volcanic scenery and hot spring relaxation provides good value, especially considering transportation and entrance fees are included. For about 10.5 hours, you get a taste of Hokkaido’s fiery landscape and soak in its legendary waters.

It’s best for first-timers or those short on time who want a curated experience without the hassle of figuring out public transport or admission. The guided element ensures you won’t miss the highlights, and the hot springs are the perfect way to unwind after walking around Hell Valley.

However, if you’re after a very private or flexible experience, or if tattoos are a concern, you might want to consider other options. Still, for most travelers, this tour hits a sweet spot between adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour covers transportation from Sapporo Station to Noboribetsu and back, including bus fares within Noboribetsu.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 8:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan to buy food during the day.

Can I visit the hot springs if I have tattoos?
Most likely not—guests with body-sized tattoos are not permitted into the hot bath area. Check with the tour provider for specific policies.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and bring a swimsuit if you want to enjoy the baths (though towels and bathing products are provided at Dai-ichi Takimotokan).

Is this suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes, but consider mobility and whether everyone in your group is comfortable with walking and hot spring environments.

What makes this tour special?
The chance to see colorful volcanic vents, bubbling pools, and lush forests, combined with the soothing hot springs experience, makes it memorable.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 15 travelers, offering a more personal experience.

In short, if you’re eager to witness the stunning volcanic landscape of Noboribetsu and unwind in traditional hot springs, this guided day trip from Sapporo strikes a good balance of sightseeing and relaxation. Just remember to prepare for a full day and check on tattoo policies if relevant—it’s a rewarding way to experience one of Japan’s most iconic hot spring regions.