Hell Valley in Noboribetsu. The steaming waters, Jigoku-dani feed a hissing volcanic pit Kuttara-san

Todays travels started from Asahikawa going on to Hakodate, however we briefly stopped at Noboribetsu as this is where you can get right up close to a volcano (Kuttara-san).

The train Station is JR Noboribetsu and from here you can temporary store your luggage while you travel by local bus to the Noboribetsu Onsen Bus Terminal. Beware the train station does not have lifts on the platform so those heavy luggage bags needs hard manual lugging up and down stairs twice (arrival & exit). At the bus terminal you can get directions to the steaming volcano pit.

The source of the water there is Jigoku-dani and is home to oni Yukujin. He’s the devil mascot, but fear not he is friendly and rumoured to bring you good luck.

Following the road brings you to a geyser, then a smoking crater spewing out sulphurous gases and reddish coloured rocks. The hotel onset is situated right on the edge of the volcano ridge.

This place is a great visit to see the active volcano and maybe take in a bath at the onset.