Winter is a great time to visit Hokkaido. The second-largest island in Japan is known for its heavy snowfall and spectacular ski resorts. Visiting in winter can offer the best seafood to eat and the most exciting opportunities for outdoor activities and nature watching. Here are some ideas for things to do in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, Japan in winter. These activities will provide you with hours of enjoyment during your trip to Hokkaido.
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1. Yuzawa Shrine
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
There is an abundance of hidden gems in the seemingly sleepy city of Noboribetsu. Those who do not mind going out of their way and taking the road less traveled should pay a visit to Yuzawa Shrine. According to visitors, it’s a place that’s easy to miss due to its unassuming location, but it is one of the most peaceful retreats in the city. The magic of wintertime only accentuates what is already spectacular, making this shrine an absolute sight to witness.
Yuzawa Shrine
Address: 106 Noboribetsuonsencho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido 059-0551, Japan
2. Charcoal Grill and Ramen "Isekura"
It’s almost a crime to visit Japan and not have a filling bowl of steaming hot ramen. So, let’s avoid that misdemeanor and take you to one of the finest ramen restaurants in Noboribetsu, Charcoal Grill and Ramen “Isekura.” They are famous for their milky ramen and charcoal barbecue. It’s the perfect winter dinner after you’ve bathed in the hot springs of the city. Cup the bowl and sip on the tasty broth of authentic Japanese ramen!
Charcoal Grill and Ramen "Isekura"
Address: 71 Noboribetsuonsencho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido 059-0551, Japan
Opening hours: 6pm - 1am (daily)
3. Sengen Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Are you wondering what else should fill your time in Noboribetsu? One of the non-touristy things you can do is visit the modest Sengen Park. It probably won’t be the typical landscaped park that we are used to, but it’s special in its own right. A geyser under the bridge, spouting steam every few hours, is its most distinguishing feature. If you’re on a quest to visit all the non-popular places in the city then you should definitely visit Sengen Park.
Sengen Park
Address: Noboribetsuonsencho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido 059-0551, Japan
4. Milky House
One of the most exciting things in Japan for those who have sweet tooth is the plethora of dessert shops. Noboribetsu, of course, is no stranger to this. Take your cravings to Milky House and dive into their best selection of sweets. Dessert enthusiasts say that their zenzai is a must-try! In case you’re unfamiliar, zenzai is a sweet porridge and a variation of the traditional Japanese dessert shiruko, which is boiled azuki beans served with mochi. Head to the cafe and get yourself a nice bowl!
Milky House
Address: 60 Noboribetsuonsencho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido 059-0551, Japan
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
5. Daikokuya Folk Art Shop
It’s easy to think of Japan as a highly urbanized country, thanks to Tokyo, Osaka, and other major cities. Sometimes it gets lost on us that places like Noboribetsu exists. The city is home to some of the quirkiest shops we haven’t heard of, like Daikokuya Folk Art Shop. The store sells all kinds of cute souvenirs and novelty items. Make your way to this specialty gift shop and bring home the cutest little trinkets as a reminder of your fantastic time in Noboribetsu.
Daikokuya Folk Art Shop
Address: 60 Noboribetsu Onsencho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
Opening hours: 9am - 10pm (daily)
6. Noboribetsu Bear Park
Don’t know what to do in Noboribetsu? Start with the place to see the famous Hokkaido brown bear! The bears at this park are much different than the ferocious creatures you might encounter in the wild. You can buy fruit and feed it to these giant mammals. They are happy and always smiling and waving when you offer them treats. In addition to numerous brown bears, the park also features an exhibit where you can see tanukis (Japanese raccoon dogs). There is a small Ainu hut on location as well. Ainu craftsman sell goods and sculptures here, and they make great gifts and souvenirs.
Noboribetsu Bear Park
Address: 224 Noboribetsu Onsencho, Noboribetsu 059-0551, Hokkaido
Website: Noboribetsu Bear Park Pamphlet in English
7. Noboribetsu Hot Springs
This small Hokkaido town is famous for its onsens (Japanese hot springs). There are many hotels to stay in which tap into the relaxing springs of the area. A stay at an onsen hotel is a popular getaway for many Japanese couples, and when you stay in a hotel like the four star Dai-Ichi Takimotokan you will be able to relax in a nice bath that will soothe your tired muscles and weary bones. Hokkaido is known for its hot springs, and this one is one of the best.
8. Jigokudani Volcanic Valley
Jigokudani Volcanic Valley, or Hell Valley as it’s called in English, offers breathtaking natural beauty. If you want to know the where the warm water in your hotel onsen comes from, this is the place to visit. Steam and sulfur rises out of this volcanic valley with power and elegance. This Noboribetsu attraction is truly a phenomenal sight to see.
Jigokudani Volcanic Valley
Address: Noboribetsu Onsencho, Noboribetsu 059-0551, Hokkaido
9. Shiraoi Ainu Museum and Village
The Ainu people are the aboriginal people of Japan, and they have a rich culture and way of living which is preserved to this day in Hokkaido. The Shiraoi Ainu Museum and Village is a educational and fun way to learn about the customs of these hard-working indigenous people. Shiraoi is a mere 40 minute train ride from Noboribetsu. The museum teaches visitors about Ainu crafts, traditions, food, music, and dancing. There are Ainu folk dancing performances every 15 minutes, and visitors can even see Hokkaido brown bears and huntings dogs here.
Shiraoi Ainu Museum and Village
Address: 2-3-4 Wakakusacho, Shiraoi-cho, Shiraoi-gun 059-0902, Hokkaido
Website: Shiraoi Ainu Museum and Village
10. Sanlaiva Ski Area
No trip to Hokkaido would be complete without a little bit of skiing. The northernmost island of Japan is known for its fresh layers of snow, which make skiing and snowboarding so spectacular. Seven courses are available at Sanlaiva, which cater to skiers of all experience levels. If you are in Noboribetsu, this is a great ski area to check out.
Sanlaiva Ski Area
Address: 27 Karurusucho, Noboribetsu 059-0551, Hokkaido
11. Noboribetsu Date Historic Village
The Edo period is one of the most interesting time periods in all of Japanese history. If you want to know what life was like for a samurai in Hokkaido, then you should take a trip to the Noboribetsu Date Historic Village. This historic theme park highlights Japan’s ancient way of life. You can sample Japanese sweets like dango and mochi. There are also restaurants where you can enjoy udon tempura and other Japanese favorites.
Noboribetsu Date Historic Village
Address: 53-1 Nakanoboribetsu, Noboribetsu 059-0463, Hokkaido
Website: Noboribetsu Date Historic village
12. Noboribetsu Marine Park
This spectacular aquarium is a great place to visit for families. There is a real life march of the penguins at this marine park. The sight is awe-inspiring as you watch the penguins march through the park on parade. There are also dolphin and sea lion shows which will captivate guests of all ages. Japanese marine life such as sardines and jellyfish are also available for viewing in exhibits.
Noboribetsu Marine Park
Address: 1-22 Noboribetsu Higashi-machi, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
Website: Noboribetsu Marine Park
13. River Oyunuma Hot Spring and Foot Bath
A nice relaxing hike along the Oyunuma River will invigorate you. The pristine and warm water is also a popular place for visitors and locals to dip their toes. It’s like a miniature onsen. The tranquil water will flow over your tired soles, but it’s a nice reward after the mildly challenging hike on the path to the foot bath. This Noboribetsu hot spring must absolutely be included on your itinerary.
River Oyunuma Hot Spring and Foot Bath
Address: Noboribetsu Onsencho, Noboribetsu 059-0551, Hokkaido
Nearby options
1. Lake Toya
A mere hour away from Noboribetsu is the enchanted paradise of Lake Tōya. This volcanic caldera lake is located in Shikotsu-Toya National Park and is believed to be one of the most transparent lakes in the country. Right in the middle of the lake sits Nakajima Island, which houses the seasonal Tōyako Forest Museum. When you’ve seen all that Noboribetsu has to offer, take the time to visit this lake and acquaint yourself with its beautifully lush and hidden trails.
Lake Toya
Address: Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Abuta District, Hokkaidō, Japan
2. Usuzan Ropeway
One of the most popular activities near Noboribetsu is riding the aerial tram line that is Usuzan Ropeway. The lift goes over Mount Usu, an active stratovolcano in Shikotsu-Tōya National Park. Aside from Lake Toya, you’ll get to see the volcano’s central crater as well as Shōwa-shinzan, a volcanic lava dome. Riding the lift is a truly unique way to explore Hokkaido. Usuzan Ropeway is less than 50 minutes from Noboribetsu, so don’t pass up the chance to witness the spectacular vistas!
Usuzan Ropeway
Address: 184-5 Showashinzan, Sobetsu, Usu District, Hokkaido 052-0102, Japan
Website: Usuzan Ropeway
Wildlife, onsens, and Ainu culture in Noboribetsu
Noboribetsu, Japan is a great place to visit in Hokkaido for a relaxing vacation. This town is known for its onsens, and the hotels all tap into the amazing hot springs of the region. You can enjoy a traditional Japanese bath and experience the fresh, warm water all over your body. It’s the most amazing experience you can have, and it’s even better after a long day of sightseeing or skiiing. These activities will make your trip to in the winter months a memorable one. Pair these activities with the best Noboribetsu food, and you’ll have a splendid holiday! Hokkaido is a beautiful place to visit in the winter, and the pristine scene of a Japanese snowscape makes for an ideal vacation spot.
Frequently asked questions about things to do in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
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Karique .over 2 years ago
The first paragraph of your article has an error. The largest of the Japanese islands is Honshu, NOT Hokkaido. Hokkaido is the second largest island.
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