Photos of Jigokudani (Hell Valley)

Hell Valley is the main source of Noboribetsu's hot spring waters and also an iconic hot spring in Hokkaido. The so-called "Hell Valley" is, in fact, a remnant of a crater, pervaded all year long by volcanic gas spewing from the surface of the gray and yellow rocks. The surrounding air is filled with a strong smell of sulfur, and the place is thought to resemble a scene of hell. The main attraction is the eerie volcanic valley, the center of which can be accessed by a walkway specially built for tourists.