Oyunuma Brook Noboribetsu
A surreal geothermal wonderland with vibrant, steaming hot springs and a relaxing foot bath. A must-see natural spectacle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Oyunuma Brook Noboribetsu
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A surreal geothermal wonderland with vibrant, steaming hot springs and a relaxing foot bath. A must-see natural spectacle.
"It feels totally surreal, like stepping into another world. Absolutely worth seeing."
👃 Embrace the Smell
The strong sulfur smell is part of the experience! It's a sign of the powerful geothermal activity.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be uneven and sometimes muddy. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Oyunuma Pond
The main geothermal pond
A surreal, vibrant pond with thick steam rising, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
Foot Bath Area
Near Oyunuma Pond
Relax your feet in naturally heated spring water after your hike. A perfect way to unwind.
Hiking Trails
Surrounding the pond and leading from Jigokudani
Scenic paths offer stunning views of the geothermal landscape and surrounding nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Steam and Sulfur
Timing is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👃 Embrace the Smell
The strong sulfur smell is part of the experience! It's a sign of the powerful geothermal activity.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be uneven and sometimes muddy. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring.
🚗 Parking Convenience
Parking is available and often included with the Jigokudani Valley fee.
🚶♀️ Hike from Jigokudani
Consider the scenic hike from Jigokudani Valley for a more immersive experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👃 Embrace the Smell
The strong sulfur smell is part of the experience! It's a sign of the powerful geothermal activity.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be uneven and sometimes muddy. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring.
🚗 Parking Convenience
Parking is available and often included with the Jigokudani Valley fee.
🚶♀️ Hike from Jigokudani
Consider the scenic hike from Jigokudani Valley for a more immersive experience.
☀️ Summer Shade
Look for the single shaded table for a nice spot to enjoy a snack or lunch.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the surreal, otherworldly beauty of Oyunuma Brook, often comparing its steaming, vibrantly colored waters to landscapes like Yellowstone. The strong sulfur smell is a notable characteristic, adding to the unique sensory experience. While the hike can be a bit challenging, the natural foot bath and the sheer visual spectacle make it a highly recommended stop for its raw, wild nature.
"Absolutely surreal looking. A real hidden gem. Bonus is that there is a single table that has some shade (summer sun) and a bathroom. We hiked in from the other part of the park and it is a really pretty walk and a nice place to enjoy lunch or a snack."
Rico Tumin
"Such a cool pond – honestly, I can’t believe something like this exists on Earth. The water has these wild, almost unnatural colours, and there’s smoke rising from both the ground and the surface. It feels totally surreal, like stepping into another world. Absolutely worth seeing."
Anne Lysa
"Reachable by a short drive or 30mins hike from Jigokudani Valley. Very cool pond with vibrant colours - arguably a cooler sight than the valley itself. Parking is included in the Jigokudani Valley parking fee"
Calvin Chen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oyunuma Brook is accessible via a short drive or a 30-minute hike from Jigokudani Valley. Public transport options are available to Jigokudani, from where you can continue on foot.
Yes, paid parking is available onsite, and the fee is often covered by your Jigokudani Valley parking pass.
Access may be limited in winter due to snow and ice. It's best to check local conditions and bus schedules beforehand.
You can take a bus from Sapporo to Noboribetsu, then transfer to a local bus heading towards Jigokudani Valley. From there, it's a short hike.
While not always explicitly advertised, many tours of the Noboribetsu area include a stop at Jigokudani Valley and Oyunuma.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the natural area itself is generally free. However, parking fees may apply, often bundled with the Jigokudani Valley entrance.
Oyunuma Brook is a natural geothermal area and is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific access points might have seasonal restrictions.
The foot bath area is typically free to use, offering a relaxing experience after your exploration.
Yes, the parking fee for Jigokudani Valley often covers parking at Oyunuma Brook as well.
No specific booking is required for general access to Oyunuma Brook. It's a natural attraction.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the surreal Oyunuma Pond, a geothermal hot spring with vibrant colors and constant steam rising from its surface and the surrounding ground.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes as the trails can be uneven and sometimes muddy. Layers are recommended as temperatures can vary.
Yes, a strong sulfur smell is characteristic of the geothermal activity here. It's a natural part of the experience.
Yes, there are facilities available, including restrooms and a shaded area with a table, which is a welcome amenity during warmer months.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the pond, enjoy the foot bath, and take a short hike on the surrounding trails.
📸 📸 Photography
The best spots are along the walking paths offering views of the steaming pond and the vibrant, mineral-rich water. The foot bath area also makes for unique shots.
The steam can create atmospheric shots, but be mindful of your lens fogging up. Wiping it frequently will help.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light. Overcast days can enhance the mystical feel of the steam.
Drone usage is generally restricted in natural parks and geothermal areas to protect wildlife and visitor safety. Always check local regulations.
Experiment with capturing the contrast between the vibrant water colors and the rising steam. Wide-angle lenses can help capture the expansive geothermal landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, ensure they wear appropriate footwear for the trails, as they can be uneven. The sulfur smell is strong, so be prepared for that sensory aspect. It's a great opportunity to teach kids about geothermal activity and the natural wonders of Japan.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
The geothermal features themselves are a major draw, providing a unique geological spectacle. Remember to pack water and wear comfortable hiking gear. The opportunity to relax in the natural foot bath after a trek is a perfect way to cap off your exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geothermal Marvel of Oyunuma
+1This natural phenomenon creates a landscape that feels almost alien, with vibrant, almost unnatural colors in the water and a pervasive mist that adds to the mystical ambiance. It's a stark reminder of the volcanic activity beneath Hokkaido's surface. Many visitors compare the experience to visiting places like Yellowstone National Park due to the similar geothermal features.
The area is also home to the Okunoyu Pond, another hot spring that contributes to the geothermal activity. The trails around Oyunuma allow visitors to get up close to these natural wonders, offering a unique sensory experience that is both visually stunning and aromatically distinct.
Hiking and Relaxation at Oyunuma
Upon reaching the main pond, visitors can explore the designated paths that circle the geothermal features. A highlight for many is the foot bath area, where you can soak your feet in the naturally heated spring water. It's a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate after your hike, allowing you to fully appreciate the unique environment.
While the natural beauty is the primary draw, the area also provides practical amenities. There are restrooms available, and during the summer months, a shaded table offers a welcome respite from the sun, making it an ideal spot for a picnic lunch or a brief rest.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit