Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, Japan: Things to Do

Updated Version

Located in southwestern Hokkaido (THINGS TO DO IN HOKKAIDO) and roughly a two-hour drive from Hilton Niseko Village, Noboribetsu is part of Iburi Subprefecture and sits within the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Known for its volcanic activity and natural hot springs, this small town is a popular wellness destination. Snowy winters add a magical touch to its rugged terrain shaped by past eruptions. 

 

Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura Village

This 25-year-old theme park recreates the Edo Period (1603–1867) - a significant era in Japanese history. Though often linked with Emperor Meiji, the Edo era actually preceded his reign and was defined by samurai rule under the Tokugawa Shogunate, before Japan began modernizing (NUWARA ELIYA SRI LANKA).

The village itself was stunning. Covered in snow, it felt like stepping into a historic postcard. After enjoying the scenic setting, we explored the Ninja Maze House. One room had twisting panels and slanted floors - it felt like we were inside a rocking boat! Personally, not something I’d rave about, but part of the experience nonetheless.

Samurai Show
We queued with the other tourists for the Samurai show. It started off strong with swordplay and dramatic action, but ten minutes in, the novelty wore off. The repetition and intense noise felt overwhelming. Although the crowd seemed captivated, I was just waiting for it to end.

Oiran Show
Held in another theatre, the Oiran Show portrayed the social life of Edo-era courtesans. There was audience participation, a few laughs, and a lighter mood. Was it great? Not quite. Entertaining in parts, but overall, I felt those 40 minutes could’ve been spent elsewhere.

Lunch Meal
Just a short walk away, we found a self-service restaurant offering a cook-your-own steamboat meal, and help yourself to rice porridge, miso soup and drinks. Simple, hearty, and perfect for warming up in the winter chill. Honestly, I had no complaints.

Bear Park (Noboribetsu Onsen-cho)

Our next stop involved a cable car ride to the top of a 550-meter-high mountain, followed by 20 steps to the viewing area. But with winter in full force, I gave the outdoor bear enclosures a pass, though having a glance and headed to the indoor Brown Bear Museum instead.

 

Known as the only bear specialist museum in the world, it features 500 specimens covering both the biological and historical aspects of bears. I was genuinely impressed and enjoyed snapping photos with the lifelike bear exhibits.

Overnight Hotel Stay
Room - We stayed in a traditional Japanese-style room with futon bedding; a quilted mattress laid directly on the tatami floor. It was a cosy, meaningful experience. Everything was spotless and comfortably equipped.

Onsen Bath - An onsen bath is a traditional Japanese hot spring bath filled with naturally heated, mineral-rich water from volcanic sources. It’s known for soothing muscle aches and offering peaceful moments of calm. But guess what? I gave it a pass. While men and women bathe separately, the nude bathing wasn’t something I felt ready for. Just didn’t fancy being in my birthday suit around strangers.

 

Dinner - Dinner was a feast! Think unlimited seafood, loads of crab, and a mix of Japanese and Western cuisine. A true spread for every appetite.

 

Breakfast - Surprisingly, I preferred the breakfast buffet. A gentler, lighter meal with egg varieties, porridge with Japanese condiments, and an array of Japanese desserts I tried for the first time. Small portions, but I sampled as much as I could fit.

Next up: Sapporo!