Getting There
Noboribetsu Onsen is accessible only by bus. The nearest train station is Noboribetsu Station in the town of Noboribetsu, which lies on the main JR train line that runs between Hakodate and Sapporo, a little more than 2 hours from Hakodate and 1 hour and 10 minutes from Sapporo. Fares for a reserved seat are ¥4,360 from Sapporo, ¥6,700 from Hakodate. From Noboribetsu Station it's only a 10- to 15-minute bus ride to the last stop of Noboribetsu Onsen (¥330; departures two or more times an hour).
There is also one direct bus, the Kosoku Onsen-go, from Sapporo Station to Noboribetsu Onsen costing ¥1,900 for the 1 3/4-hour trip. Contact Donan Bus (tel. 011/865-5511) for more information.
Visitor Information & Getting Around
The Noboribetsu Tourist Association (tel. 0143/84-3311; daily 9am-6pm) is on Noboribetsu Onsen's main street, just a minute's walk north of the bus depot (continue up the hill; it will be on your left side with a clock above the door). In addition to a map, ask for the useful pamphlet "A Guide to Walking Trails in Noboribetsu Onsen." You may not encounter anyone who speaks English, but luckily the town is so small you shouldn't have any problem getting around. For more information, go to www.noboribetsu-spa.jp/nobo.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
