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Jigoku Dani or ‘Hell Valley’ is a component
of the famous hot spring area or ‘onsen’
of Noboribetsu within Shikotsu-Toya National Park.
Deep into the forests, the earth opens
up - an expansive pit of unstable and
rugged surface, constantly fuming and throwing
tantrums of hot water and foul sulphuric
smells into the air. However, with ‘hell’
comes paradise.
The abundant source of hot spring waters
of various mineral content at Jigoku Dani
makes Noboribetsu onsen one of the best,
if not the best as claimed by its
promoters, in Japan. To many visitors who
congregate here for relaxation and health enhancing
baths, the colourful culture and festivities
of the locals also contribute to a great
experience.
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‘Hell Valley’ is an exciting
raw beauty which provides an adventurous experience.
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A timber walkway leads through the valley
to Tessen Ike meaning ‘Tessen hotspring source’.
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Highly active thermal activity, constant fumes
does it - a warning of danger!
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In the deep pit of ‘hell’
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There are mounts of deposits
and streams of minerals. Hot spring waters
are channeled to the baths at ‘ryokans’
or guest houses (hotels). Jigoku Dani is the
largest supplier in Noboribetsu onsen.
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Tessen Ike - a low-rising
geyser almost equivalent to a hot water
blow hole. The notice urges those who
may not resist throwing a coin into it
for a wish to come true.
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Steep walls showing raw earth at the valley
which suggest a dramatic splitting movement,
revealing unstable conditions inside.
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The raw earth, mineral deposits and thermal
fumes.
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A wide variety of minerals exist, some
of which beautifully coloured. They are believed
to contain varied and rich healing properties.
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A stream of sulphur.
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