At Noboribetsu Jigokudani, the most famous central attraction in Noboribetsu Onsen, Hokkaido, stand in front of the wooden landmark at the observation deck bearing the words “のぼりべつ温泉地獄谷.” Behind it is the breathtaking sight of a volcanic valley filled with billowing white steam and surging geothermal activity! As you walk along the wooden boardwalk, the air is filled with a strong sulfur smell, while white steam continuously rises from cracks in the red, yellow, and white rocks, as if you've entered a mysterious world of hell. This is also the main hot spring source for Noboribetsu's major hot spring hotels, and it displays completely different, magnificent natural scenery in every season. It's definitely Noboribetsu's number one iconic photo spot and shouldn't be missed on an independent trip to Hokkaido!
Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley) | Review by Ming Yu
Other Reviews by Ming Yu
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Mt. Hakodate Observatory
The Mt. Hakodate Observatory is the final stop of Mt. Hakodate Ropeway. The first floor features an inside lounge, the Ryoubi Park popular among locals as a less-crowded area to enjoy the night sceneries. The second floor features a summit shop, and restaurant selling Mt. Hakodate original goods. The third floor features a tea lounge, and the fourth floor features an observatory lounge.
At Mt. Hakodate Observatory, recognized as one of the world's three great night views, you can look out over one of Japan's most iconic and dazzling nightscapes. The city lights sparkle like stars across the bay, framed by two sweeping arcs of coastline, creating a breathtaking and incredibly romantic view! Take the ropeway to the summit, and as the sky gradually darkens and the city lights come on, the glittering, jewel-box-like night view is mesmerizing. This is undoubtedly a dreamy landmark at the heart of any independent trip to Hakodate, Hokkaido, and absolutely cannot be missed. Arrive early to secure the best viewing spot and capture this million-dollar night view that everyone should witness in person at least once in their lifetime!
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Kitaichi Glass Building No. 3
Kitaichi Glass Building No. 3 is a renowned glass shop in Otaru, popular as a tourist destination. The shop showcases a wide variety of glass products, including original designs, organized into three themed floors: the Japanese Floor, the Western Floor, and the Country Floor. From tableware and glasses to oil lamps and accessories, the selection is both diverse and enchanting. The shop itself is housed in a historic stone building originally built as a fishery warehouse in 1891, adding to its charm.
At a craft shop in Otaru, Hokkaido, there's an exquisite display case dedicated to “Lucky Owls (幸せを呼ぶ ふくろうコーナー),” with shelves full of all kinds of carefully crafted owl ornaments made from glass and other materials! In Japanese culture, the word for owl, “ふくろう (fukurou),” sounds like phrases meaning “no hardship” and “good fortune comes,” symbolizing wealth, blessings, safety, and good luck. From crystal-clear designs to colorful vintage glass carvings, every owl looks lifelike and incredibly cute. While strolling through Otaru and experiencing the charm of its glasswork (硝子), I highly recommend choosing an adorable owl figurine as a lucky souvenir or gift, leaving you with warm and fortunate memories of your trip!
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Lake Toya
There is no better attraction than the natural landscape of Lake Toya in Hokkaido. The area around a caldera lake, Lake Toya , and an active volcano, Mt.Usu, was designated as the Toya- Usu Unesco Global Geopark in UNESCO Global Geopark.
At Lake Toya, Hokkaido's renowned hot spring resort destination, stand in front of the vintage wooden “Lake Toya WELCOME” sign by the lakeside path and take in the broad, calm blue lake and the layers of mountains in the distance! Each season has its own distinctive scenery. Walking along the lakeside path, admiring the artwork in the sculpture park, or taking a sightseeing cruise around the lake can all completely relax your body and mind. At night, there's also a spectacular fireworks show over the lake. Whether you stay at a hot spring hotel to soak and enjoy the view or simply come for a walk and photos, this is a dreamy scenic spot that shouldn't be missed on an independent trip to Hokkaido!
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