Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley)
登別地獄谷
Noboribetsu Jigokudani, or 'Hell Valley', is a volcanic crater about 450 meters wide and 11 hectares in size, formed by the eruption of Mt. Hiyori. Steam rises from many vents and fumaroles along the valley, creating a rugged volcanic landscape. It is the main source of the hot spring water for the Noboribetsu Onsen town. An observation deck lets visitors look over the valley, and it is lit up at night.
Visitor information
- Opening hours
The observatory lights stay on until about 23:00. Visiting before sunset is recommended.
- Admission
Free of charge.
- Getting there
Jigokudani is a 1-minute walk from the parking lot. By car, about 10 minutes from Noboribetsu Higashi IC on the Hokkaido Expressway.
Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.
Good to know
- Paid parking (165 spaces). If you use either the Jigokudani lot or the Oyunuma lot (summer only), the other one is free.
- A wheelchair-accessible ramp (maximum slope 8%) leads to the observation deck.
Tips for Muslim visitors
- On the Oyunuma River trail next to Taisho Jigoku there is a free natural hot-spring footbath, where you only dip your feet in the water.
- At most public hot springs in Japan people bathe naked, in baths separated by gender, and swimwear is usually not allowed. If you prefer privacy, look for a private bath (kashikiri-buro), an in-room bath or a foot bath.
- Wash your body at the shower area before entering the bath. Many visitors who want to stay covered choose a foot bath instead.
- Plan your visit around prayer times. Below are today's prayer times for Hokkaido and the verified places to pray nearby.
- Food stalls and shops near popular sights usually do not have halal certification. Check the ingredients, or choose from the verified places on this site.
Prayer times in Hokkaido
Today (5 Nov 2026)
- Fajr04:26
- Sunrise06:14
- Dhuhr11:20
- Asr13:59
- Maghrib16:22
- Isha17:59
Times are calculated for Sapporo. Times may differ elsewhere in Hokkaido.
Places to pray near Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley)
We have not verified a place to pray near here yet. Many large stations, airports and department stores in Japan have prayer rooms.
Halal food near Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley)
We have not verified a halal restaurant near here yet. Until then, these guides can help you choose food safely:
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Map
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Photo: Calistemon, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sources (Checked 5 Nov 2026): noboribetsu-spa.jp, visit-hokkaido.jp, sapporo.travel