Overview
Explore the natural wonders and spiritual heritage of Hokkaido on a guided tour that includes Noboribetsu Onsen and the stunning Noboribetsu Bear Park. Start with a scenic ropeway ride offering breathtaking mountain views before delving into the Bear Park to learn about the ecology of brown bears and their significance in Ainu culture. Witness the dramatic landscapes of Jigokudani (Hell Valley) with its bubbling sulfuric vents and geothermal formations that have inspired local beliefs about the afterlife. This immersive experience blends education with exploration, providing deep insights into nature and spirituality in Hokkaido. - Guided tour of Noboribetsu Onsen and Bear Park - Scenic ropeway ride with panoramic views of Lake Kuttara - Explore Jigokudani's unique volcanic features and cultural significance - Gain insider knowledge on Ainu traditions and wildlife ecology
Why travelers book this
What's Included
- Exploration of Jigokudani (Hell Valley)
- Visit to Noboribetsu Bear Park
- Ropeway ride
- Guided tour of Noboribetsu Onsen
What's Not Included
- Private transportation
Meeting & Pickup
Meeting point, pickup options and start time are confirmed on Viator before checkout.
Itinerary
Stop 1
The Noboribetsu Ropeway carries visitors up the forested slopes to the summit of Mount Shihorei, where sweeping views stretch across the mountains and the shimmering waters of Lake Kuttara. The short ride offers not only scenic beauty but also a gateway to cultural and wildlife experiences at the Bear Park located at the top.
Stop 2
At the summit station lies the Noboribetsu Bear Park, home to Hokkaido’s iconic brown bears. Here you can safely observe these powerful creatures up close while learning about their biology, behavior, and importance in Ainu culture, where the bear was revered as kimun kamuy, the god of the mountains. The park also features the Bear Museum and “Yukara no Sato,” an area dedicated to traditional Ainu heritage, making it both educational and unforgettable.
Stop 3
The dramatic volcanic landscape of Jigokudani, or Hell Valley, is the source of Noboribetsu’s famous hot springs. Bubbling ponds, steaming vents, and sulfurous terrain create a surreal atmosphere that inspired Japanese visions of the afterlife. Walking through the valley reveals striking geothermal features such as the Tessen Pond, where boiling water bursts from the earth, offering a powerful reminder of Hokkaido’s volcanic energy and the spiritual beliefs it shaped.
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels