🌋 A Walk Through Hell Valley — Noboribetsu Jigokudani

Visiting Noboribetsu Jigokudani felt like stepping into nature’s version of a science fiction movie. As we walked through the wooden paths, steam hissed and billowed from vents in the earth, and the strong sulfur smell hit us almost immediately. Some might find it overwhelming, but to me, it added to the raw, volcanic vibe of the place. I was especially fascinated by how alive the entire area felt. The bubbling hot ponds, the colorful mineral-stained rocks, and the way the steam danced with the breeze made it feel like the ground itself was breathing. We wandered at a slow pace, taking in the dramatic landscape—it was one of those places where photos just don’t do it justice. There were other visitors, but it never felt crowded. Everyone seemed to be quietly in awe of the place, just like we were. It’s not a very long walk—maybe 30 minutes for the main trail—but every step was memorable. If you venture further to the Oyunumagawa natural foot bath, it’s even more rewarding. Definitely one of the highlights of our Hokkaido trip—unfiltered nature, powerful and humbling. #summervacay #noboribetsu #jigokudani #hellvalley #hokkaidotrip #volcanicwonder #hokkaido #hokkaidotrip #japan #japantrip