Welcome to hell

Welcome to hell!

Noboribetsu lies in the South of Hokkaido, about a one hour train ride from Sapporo. It is easy to reach, and makes a perfect day-trip from Sapporo. From the train station you catch a bus to the Noboribetsu spa area. Ask at the tourist information about the timetable for return trips.

This region exhibits high volcanic activities. So you can either explore this unusual scenery or just relax in one of the many extravagant hot spas.

If, however, during your hiking, you come across one of its lakes, and start thinking to go for a short swim – think twice. The water is feed from hot sulphur springs, which makes it more than 50 C hot.

I was courageous enough to dip my feet into one of its flowing-off rivers, and but could not keep them in for longer than 5 seconds – ouch …

For more pics, check out my flickr-slideshow