# ISSUE 16 9 different types of spring water
Noboribetsu, one of the most famous hot springs in Japan

2023.03

Noboribetsu Onsen is a famous hot spring that has been protected since 1858. The source of this hot spring town is Oyunuma, which was created at the site of the explosion crater of the Kuttara Volcano, and is said to naturally gush out 10,000 tons of hot spring water per day. It is one of the best hot spring resorts in Japan, with as many as nine different types of spring water, including sulfur spring, glauber's salt spring, iron spring, salt spring, and alum spring.　　
The area surrounding the hot spring resort is rich in nature, and the scenery changes with the seasons, stirring travelers' emotions. Jigokudani (Hell Valley), where numerous fumaroles on the rock surface emit steam, is a popular sightseeing spot where visitors can feel the breath of the earth. A walking trail leads to a natural footbath at the river where the hot spring water flows. Spring is surrounded by flowers, summer is green, fall is colored with autumn leaves, and winter is covered with snow.
The symbol of the hot spring resort is Jigokudani, and demons are the icons of Noboribetsu Onsen. Each area of the hot spring resort has its own demons, each with its own special benefits, and tourists enjoy strolling through the steam smoke in search of the demon they are looking for.