Noboribetsu Onsen Family Hotels: Hell Valley and Bear Park Getaway

When Japanese families think about a hot spring trip in Hokkaido with young kids, Noboribetsu Onsen is one of the first places that comes to mind. Known as one of Hokkaido's finest hot spring resorts, it's easily reached — about an hour by car from New Chitose Airport — and its biggest appeal is being able to enjoy both the onsen and kid-friendly attractions in a single trip.

Noboribetsu Onsen is well equipped for families with children. Of the 6 properties listed on this site, 2 have an indoor play area, so kids can spend time inside even on a rainy day or after dark. Five hotels offer a buffet that kids love, and 4 can accommodate food allergies, making mealtimes easy to plan around too.

Families traveling with a baby are well looked after too, with hotels offering cribs, baby baths, baby chairs, bottle warmers, and in-room diaper trash bins for rent or as standard amenities. Three hotels have a bath in the room, and 3 offer a private-hire bath for the family alone, so even little ones who aren't ready for the communal bath can enjoy the onsen without worry.

Noboribetsu's appeal isn't limited to its hot springs. The walking trail through Hell Valley (Jigokudani), with white steam rising from the volcanic landscape, is genuinely dramatic. At Noboribetsu Bear Park, reached by ropeway, you can see brown bears up close, and Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe — an aquarium with a dolphin show — is a huge hit with young children. It's an onsen town built for families with kids: you can relax in the hot springs while leisure spots the whole family will enjoy are all within walking or driving distance.