Taking Donan bus is convenient when travel to Hokkaido. I also traveled from Chitose Airport to Noboribetsu and in Noboribetsu area by Donan Bus but it is hard to search for Donan bus timetable in English version, right? This article, I provide Donan bus timetable in Noboribetsu area in English version.
*Please note that JCHO Noboribetsu Hospital Bus stop change to Tsutsujibashi つつじばしbus stop, valid from 1st April 2020.
If you would like to know how to go Noboribetsu from Chitose Airport, please click here.
I also wrote about one day trip in Noboribetsu, please click here.
Bus Stop
N1: JR Noboribetsu station 登別駅前
N2: Marine Park Street マリンパーク通り
N3: Shiomizaka 汐見坂 登別東インター入口
N4: Noboribetsu Higashi IC Entrance 登別東インター入口
N5: Sanai Hospital / Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura 三愛病院登別伊達時代村前
N6: Utopia Ranch ユートピア牧場
N7: Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura 登別伊達時代村
N8: Naka-Noboribetsu 中登別
N9: Momiji-Dani Entrance 紅葉谷入口
N10: Tsutsujibashi つつじばし
N11: Noboribetsu Onsen 登別温泉
N12: Central Noboribetsu-Onsen 登別温泉中央
N13: Daiichi Takimotokan 第一滝本前
N14: Park Hotel Miyabitei パークホテル前
N15: Footbath Entrance / Ashiyu Entrance 足湯入口
Fare: Adult 350 yen, Child 180 yen
Noboribetsu Map
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| Map: Noboribetsu Spa |
Donan Bus Timetable Valid from 1st October 2024 (Please click photo for larger)
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| Ref: Donan Bus |
Nearest Bus Stop
Noboribetsun Onsen: Hotel Yumoto / Manseikaku / Frand Hotel
Noboribetsu Onsen Central: Hotel Mahoroba / Takinoya / Tamanoyu
Daiichi Takimoto: Daiichi Takimotokan / Takimoto Inn
Park Hotel: Park Hotel Miyabitei / Onyado Kiyomizuya / Hanayura
Ashiyu Entrance: Sekisuitei / Boro Noguchi Noboribetsu
Let's see the interesting sightseeing place in Noboribetsu, click here. This is some example of one day trip. FYI, the below photo is lockers at JR Noboribetsu Station.
There is luggage storage services.
Price:
Oversized luggage (snowboard, skis, etc.) 700 yen per piece
Large luggage (up to LL size suitcase) 500 yen per piece
Small luggage 300 yen per piece
Time: 9:00-16:30 (windows open until 17:00)
 - Hokkaido, Japan){kind=link}
164 Comments
This page is very useful to me who is planning to go to noboribetsu.
ReplyDeleteA question though. Looking at the time table, how do I know if the bus is NC or ND. If I want to take a bus from N12, I need to take the NC bus because the ND doesn't go past that stop. So how do I know which timing is for which bus.
Please look at the front sign of the bus, it shows the route name NC or ND.For example, if you want to take bus from N12 to JR Noboribetsu Station, you can take NA or ND bus but ND bus is faster than NA because it does not make a stop at N7. Moreover, you can take any bus to N11 and walk to N12.It is not far, should be around 200-300 m. The timetable specifies only the main bus stop. For example, from N11 to N12, I think take time around 1-2 minutes.
DeleteThere is an information center at N11, any questions can ask staff there.
Hi, love your page, very useful. I was thinking of the following sequence for a day trip:
ReplyDeleteN1 to N2 - Take bus NA, NB, NC or ND
N2 to N7 - Take bus NA or NB
N7 to N15 - Take bus NA
And for each of these segments I will have to pay accordingly in cash?
Yes, pay in cash on the bus.
DeleteFrom N1 to N2, not necessary to take bus because the distance is only 200-300 m. You can walk.
Hi. Does the bus accept IC card?
ReplyDeleteIf you take Donan bus from airport, please purchase the ticket at the counter.
DeleteIn my opinion, taking the bus in Noboribetsu, accept IC Card.
Chanced upon this blog and was so glad with the info provided!
ReplyDeleteHope you can help on this...we will be travelling from Sapporo by train with 3 large suitcase. Will not be staying for the night in Noboribetsu but will head on to Lake Toya after sight seeing in Noboribetsu. Do you know if Noboribetsu JR station has lockers for us to stow our luggage? And whether there are plenty?
Thank you!
Thank you for your comment.
DeleteJR Noboribetsu station has lockers but not plenty because it is not the big station. Locker charge 500 yen. I cannot insert the photo in this comment so I update this article instead. Please see the above photo for your reference. I already place it in this article.
Hi Blue Moon,
ReplyDeleteThanks for the bus timing and information.
I'm trying to find out if the Donan Bus service at Noboribetsu allow carrying 3 large luggages on board?
Thanks
Desmond
Donan bus runs in Noboribetsu does not have luggage compartment (not same as the bus from airport to Noboribetsu), need to carry the luggage on board. One person per one luggage is good. Some hotel provides free shuttle bus service from Sapporo to hotel in Noboribetsu. If you concern about luggage, I recommend luggage delivery service.
DeleteHi Blue Moon, I am going to Noboribetsu in Dec 16 and the information is so helpful! Can i just check if the timetable is updated for Dec 16? thank you!!!
ReplyDeleteHi! The latest version of timetable on Donan bus website is April 2016. Some is changed (not much) and some is still the same. I will try to update the timetable in this article. I will notify in this comment once I finish it. Please check it again in few days.
DeleteHi, I already updated the timetable, please check it.
DeleteHi Blue Moon,
ReplyDeleteWhere do I take the donan bus to go to Noboribetsu Onsen from the JR Noboribetsu Station? Is there a sign or direction to guide us at the station?
The bus stop is in front of JR Noboribetsu station. The sign is in both Japanese and English language, also has timetable at bus stop.
Deletethank you !!! appreciate that very much!
ReplyDeleteHi Blue Moon,
ReplyDeleteI am using JR train from Shin-Sapporo to Shin-Hakone, but before Hakodate, I want to go to Noribetsu Foot Onsen and Noribetsu Date Jidaemura.
Question:
1. is there any locker at JR Station or Bus Station in Noboribetsu
2. should I use Bus line ND ? to foot onsen?
3. how abour Bus route from Foot Bath (N15) to Noboribetsu Date Jidaemura
4. any restaurant near JR Station?
Thanks alot, Your Blog realy helps me.
Hi!
Delete1. Yes, there are lockers. Please see above photo (in my review).
2. If you would like to go to footbath entrance station (N15), you can take the bus line NA or ND. NA will take more time because the bus pass N7 (Date Jidaimura).
3. It takes 10-15 minutes approximately from Footbath to Jidaimura.
4. Mostly, restaurants and convenience stores are near Noboribetsu Onsen (N13).
Hi Pear,
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for this! I am a little confused about something - how do I know which bus line to take when I want to go somewhere? For example, I want to go from N1 to N12, and from N12 to N15.
Thank you!
Let me explain as follows:
DeleteNA: Bus runs from N1 to N15 and also pass N7 (Noboribetsu Jidai Mura)
NB: Bus runs from N1 to N11 only (also pass N7), not pass N12-N15.
NC: Bus runs from N1 to N11, not pass N7
ND: Bus runs from N1 to N15, not pass N7
Regarding your example, if you want to go from N1 to N12, please take NA or ND. ND bus is faster because it won't stop at N7.
From N12 to N15, can take NA or ND bus
Ah I see!! Your pictures make sense now, thank you so much! I had misread part of it.
DeleteAlso if you don't mind, do you know or remember how easy it is to get a taxi to/from the JR Noboribetsu Station?
Thank you again!
You're welcome. Taxi parks in front of station (few taxis), near bus stop.
DeleteThanks alot for your information
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome!
Deletehi blue moon. thanks for the information. Do we need to purchase bus ticket in advance by online or something? in case there are a lot of people ride the same bus during holiday season. thanks.
ReplyDeleteHi! I don't think that you can purchase ticket online.
DeleteIn my idea, they may adjust the frequency of Donan bus in Noboribetsu during high season i.e. Christmas and New Year.
Hi Blue Moon, Happy New Year.
ReplyDeleteThank you for such valuable information for this place. It is very much appreciated.
If I want to hike around Hell Valley and try the foot bath, do I:
1. Take ND bus to bus stop N13, then walk to the valley.
2. Afterwards, take either NA or ND bus from stop N13 to stop N15 for the foot bath.
3. Afterwards, take ND or NA bus from stop N15 back to N1.
Hoe much time would it take assuming we walk slowly, stay around Hell Valley to take some pictures, and then try the foot bath for half an hour? How much time should I reserve for bus travel and waiting? We have about 4 to 5 hours in Noboribetsu, travel return from Sapporo.
Thanks for the advice.
Hi! Happy New Year and thank you for your comment.
Delete- I spent time in Hell Valley about half an hour. If you walk slowly, you should spend time around 40 minutes. I did not visit the footbath but you can see the guideline from this website Hell Hike.
- Bus runs between N15 and N1 bus stop should take 20 minutes approximately.
Intercity bus between Sapporo and Noboribetsu takes 100 minutes or you can take the JR train which takes 75 minutes, it is faster but more expensive. Anyway, please check bus or train timetable first and after that manage time in Noboribetsu, it is easier.
Have a nice trip!
Thank you Pear. The link to Hell Hike is very helpful. It seems that a 90 minutes exercise is what my wife and I need. Looks like we'll have more time on our hands in Noboribetsu. We will have JR Pass. So we will take the train :-)
DeleteYou're welcome :)
DeleteHi Blue Moon, in regards to the Intercity bus between Sapporo and Noboribetsu, do you have the time table frequency of the intercity bus?
DeleteHi! Please follow this link Timetable
DeleteHello Blue Moon, Happy New Year. Thank you for the precious info about the bus route. If I want to spend some time in Hell Valley (walk slowly there and take some pictures) and Footbath (dip half and hour), do I stop at bus station N13 and N15? I only have about 2 or 3 hours in Noboribetsu. It seems that the bus is not that frequent. I am doing a return day trip from Sapporo. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteThank you for the useful information. Really appreciate it!
I got few questions, would be very appreciate if you can help me out :)
1) The footbath entrance you stated is it referring to OYUNUMAKAWA NATURAL FOOT BATH entrance?
2) I will be traveling to Noboribetsu on 28 Feb 2017, can I still use the Donan Bus timetable that you provided? Will there be any changes?
3) My plan as below, is it okay?:
- Bus from Noboribetsu Station to Noboribetsu Onsen
- Walk to JIGOKUDANI - OYUNUMA - TAISHO JIGOKU - OYUNUMAKAWA NATURAL FOOT BATH
- Bus from OYUNUMAKAWA NATURAL FOOT BATH to NOBORIBETSU STATION
Thank you very much in advanced!
1. Yes, Oyunuma Natural Footbath
Delete2. The timetable was updated on December 2016. I think you still can follow this timetable.
3. I did not visit the footbath but I think your plan is ok. Anyway, hope this link can help
Hell Hike
Visiting Enma-do (The Shrine of King Enma) is also interesting. It is not far from Noboribetsu Onsen Bus stop.
The regular displays of the automaton: 10.00, 13.00, 15.00, 17.00 20.00 and 21.00.
Thank you very much for your reply. And thanks for the link. very informative!
DeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteThank you for the useful information.
I got a question.
- I will be skiing at Sanlaiva ski resort.It’s apart from Noboribetsu onsen.Is there any bus from Noboribetsu station to Sanlaiva ski resort? This link is timetable. I can’t read it. T.T
http://sanlaiva.com/access
Hi!
DeleteI don't have information about Sanlaiva Ski resort but regarding your link, Donan bus is available from Noboribetsu Onsen to Sanlai Ski Area (25 minutes). Timetable is as follows:
Noboribetsu Onsen -> Sanlai Bus Ski Area
Noboribetsu 06:45 09:20 10:25 12:30 15:30 18:40
Karurusu 07:05 09:40 10:45 12:50 15:50 19:00
Sanlai - 09:45 10:50 12:55 15:55 -
Sanlai Bus Ski Area -> Noboribetsu Onsen
Sanlai - 09:50 10:55 13:00 16:00 -
Karurusu 07:08 09:55 11:00 13:05 16:05 19:03
Noboribetsu 07:28 10:15 11:20 13:25 16:25 19:23
Thank you very much.
ReplyDeleteRegarding that link , there is not a bus go directly to Sanlaiva Ski resort from JR Noboribetsu Station?
It seems there is no direct bus. Need to take Donan bus from JR Noboribetsu station to Noboribetsu Onsen Bus Terminal, then change the bus to Ski resort.
Deletethank you very much for your site! very helpful in our planning.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome :D
DeleteHi Pear! I'm so happy to have come across your site :) I have a question on how to pay for the bus? Do we have to get a ticket?
ReplyDeleteHi! Thank you for your comment :D
DeleteYou can pay the fare on the bus.
FYI, When you get on the bus, pick up the ticket on the left side (I think left side). There is a number on ticket, then look at the fare board (near exit gate of the bus). The board shows the number and fare. For example, your ticket is number 2, then look at number 2 on the board, the fare is under number 2. Pay the fare when you get off. You need to pay the exact fare. If you need a change, use the changing machine near the driver or you can use IC Card.
Thank you so much!! :)
DeleteHi Blue Moon, as regard to your suggestion ie use IC Card instead of pay cash, do you have any idea whether ICOCA IC Card or Kitaca IC card can be use for Donan Bus
DeleteAs I know, Donan Bus does not accept any IC Cards.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteHi Blue Moon. I'm staying at Takimoto Inn and will be leaving for Hakodate the next day by taking NC from Noboribetsu Onsen to JR Noboribetsu Station, then Limited Express Hokuto train to Hakodate. My question is, is Takimoto Inn far from Noboribetsu Onsen station? Because we plan to walk to that station.
ReplyDeleteHi! Takimoto Inn is close to bus stop "Daiichi Takimotokan (N13)". If you would like to walk from N13 to Noboribetsu Onsen (N11), it takes about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can take NA or ND bus.
DeleteThanks for the reply.
DeleteSo if I take from N13 to N1, is the price still the same as 340YEN?
Yes, same price
Deletehi. i am abit confused by the bus route. we have booked an airbnb near N6. which bus can we take to N12? tia!
ReplyDeleteHi! Please take NA bus.
DeleteHi blue moon
ReplyDeletecan u help send a link for an updated bus timing for december 2017
Hi! The bus timetable for December is not available yet.
DeleteHi Blue Moon
ReplyDeleteIf i want to hike on hell valley , which bus stop should i stop if i come from JR Noboribetsu Station.
Hi! Hell Valley is close to N13 bus stop. You may take the bus to footbath, Oyunuma, Mt.Hiyori by getting of Foothbath Entrance (N15) and walk down to Hell Valley.
DeleteHi Blue Moon, many thanks to your replied. I have few question,
Delete(1) If we get down on N15, how far do we need to walk to the entrance of Oyunuma Entrance ?
(2)Is it far to walk from N15 to N13 ?
(3) Or let say if we skip Foothbath and getting of at N13, how far to go into Hell valley Entrance from N13 Bus stop?
(4) Since we have about 5 hour over there, we plan to walk in Hot spring resort for outdoor hot spring, do you have any idea which resort is more convenient which along the walk way.
Hi! Please see my reply as follows:
Delete1. It is not far from N15 to Oyunuma Footbath but far from Oyunuma Pond (30-40 minutes walk).
2. Almost 1 km.
3. About 5 minutes walk.
4. Please visit this website
Hello,
ReplyDeleteThis blog is full of good information and better than the Noboribetsu official website due to English language! Thank you for your sharing about how to go to Noboribetsu by bus.
Thank you for your comment.
DeleteSo glad that you like it :D
Have a nice day!
Hi Blue Moon, may i know the nearest bus stop to sengen park? Thank you!
ReplyDeleteHi! Please get off N13 Daiichi Takimotokan.
DeleteHi! Thank you for the info!
DeleteBy the way for the highway bus between sapporo and noboribetsu, can we reserve the seat before hand (we're using bus pass)?
And is the get off station in noboribetsu same with this local bus?
Thanks!
Hi! I'ms not sure about the seat reservation. Some hotels in Noboribetsu provides the shuttle bus from Sapporo to Noboribetsu.
DeleteThe get off point is around Noboribetsu Onsen Bus Terminal.
Please check from this map
Hi Blue Moon, we will be in Sapporo for 5 days and thinking of going to Noboribetsu (Hell Valley), Lake Toya and Shikotsu on the same day. Do you think it is feasible to do that and if not what would your suggestion be?
ReplyDeleteThank you
Hi! Your plan seems too rush for one day trip. I have no idea about Shikotsu but as I know it is located near Lake Toya. Do you drive or taking the bus? If you take the bus, you will get tired for catching the bus.
ReplyDeleteMy idea 2 choices
1. Noboribetu and Lake Toya
Stay at Toya. The next day go to Shikotsu.
2. Sapporo and Noboribetsu
(Stay at Noboribetsu). The next day go to Lake Toya & Shikotsu.
Hi blue moon.. Im travelling to Hokkaido on january 2018, i have several questions
ReplyDelete1. Do i need to reserve for donan bus?
2. Where is the bus stop in niseko for donan bus?
3. Where is the bus stop in lake toya for donan bus?
Looking forward for your answer
Thank you
Hi! Please see my reply as follows:
Delete1. Do i need to reserve for donan bus?
- Travelling in Noboribetsu, Between Airport and Noboribetsu no need a reservation.
2. Where is the bus stop in niseko for donan bus?
- Please click here for the bus stop and timetable.
3. Where is the bus stop in lake toya for donan bus?
- Toyako Onsen Bus Terminal
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteAs I can understand and according to my plan, I can take all of the 4 lines (NA, NB, NC, ND) from N1 to N11 (Noboribetsu Onsen). Then, I will be walking along Gokuraku Street to N13 and take a bus from N13 to N15 (which I am not so sure which line I can take). After that, I can take NA or ND from N15 back to N1.
ReplyDeleteIs my understanding right?
Another Question: Is your timetable for NB and NC lines only, since it is only from the station to Noboribetsu onsen (N11)? And is your timetable updated? I will be travelling on January 19, 2018.
Thank you very much :)
Hi! Yes, you're correct.
DeleteYou can take NA or ND bus from N13 to N15.
The above timetable (April 2017) is the latest update on website but does not specify to NB or NC bus lines. I translated only the bus timetable runs between Noboribetsu Onsen and Noboribetsu Station but you can also take NA, NB, NC, ND bus as well. You can check the timetable at the bus stop or pick up the timetable at Noboribetsu Onsen Tourist Information Center.
Have a nice trip!
Hi Blue Moon,
ReplyDeleteI will be taking the Donan Iburi Express bus from Lake Toya to Noboribetsu Onsen. As the bus does not stop at JR Noboribetsu station, it will only stop at Noboribetsu Onsen and Foot Bath entrance.
My intention is to visit the Hell Valley and take the hike to Foot Bath and Oyunuma Lake.
Would appreciate if you could help me out on the following queries:
1. Is the Noboribetsu Onsen Bus Terminal located near the Noboribetsu Onsen which the Donan bus will stop for passengers to alight?
2. Are there lockers to store luggages at Noboribetsu Onsen Bus Terminal? I intend to store my lugagges at the bus terminal and walk to Hell Valley to start my hike. Once the hike is done, I will return back to the bus terminal to collect my luggages and take the Donan bus to JR Noboribetsu station which my hotel will arrange a shuttle to pick me up back to the hotel. Otherwise, I have to detour from Noboribetsu Onsen to JR Noboribetsu station upon my arrival to store my luggages and take the bus to Noboribetsu Onsen which is more time consuming.
Thanks & regards,
Hi! Please see my reply as follows:
Delete1. Noboribetsu Onsen Bus Terminal is in the same area with Noboribetsu Onsen (N11).
2.There is luggage storage near Noboribetsu Onsen, 500 yen for large size luggage and 300 yen for small one. Please click here for more detail. Therefore, you can collect your luggages after finish the hike.
Have a nice trip!
Hi Blue Moon,
DeleteThanks for your quick reply. Much appreciated.
By the way, the link doesn’t work. Would you mind sending me the link again?
Sorry for the link. I used mobile phone for typing so it caused some mistake. Could you copy this url and paste on new page instead?
Deletewww.noboribetsu-spa.jp/?p=23265&lang=ja&lang=en
Thanks for the newest great information.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome :)
DeleteThankyou so much, your information has been invaluable :)
ReplyDeletehi blue moon,
ReplyDeleteI would like to ask some question: our trip first day plan to go noboribetsu. but we will stay lake toya hotel. I would like to ask transportation of noboribetsu onsen to lake toya Toya-onsen Hotel Hanabi, or from noboribetsu JR station to the hotel
Hi! You can take Donan Bus from Noboribetsu Onsen to Lake Toya (direct bus) and 10 minutes walk.
DeleteHi, As Blue Moon mentioned, you can take the Donan (Iburi Express) bus between Lake Toya and Noboribetsu Onsen. Do check the bus timetable as there are only 2 buses each day (1 in the morning and 1 in the afternoon).
ReplyDeleteIf you’re staying at Toyako Onsen Hotel Hanabi, You can alight at Motomachi bus stop (2 or 3 stops after Toyako Onsen Bus Terminal) which will be 1-2 minutes walk to the hotel.
Hope this helps.
Hi,
ReplyDeleteMay I know how much bus fare I have to pay if I take the bus from JR Noboribetsu station to N14 Park Hotel?
Thanks!
Hi! The bus fare from JR Noboribetsu Station is 340 yen
DeleteThanks!
DeleteHi, how about getting back to Noboribetsu train station from Park Hotel Miyabitei? We can take the same Donan bus?
DeleteThanks very much.
Yes, just the take the bus at the opposite side.
DeleteThank you for a very useful bus timetable. I barely see people keep updating the information like you. I really appreciated that.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I'm kind of confuse a little on the time table above. So, a couple two table that said From JR Noboribetsu Station to Noboribetsu Onsen, vice versa. Are there the one that taking direct route either from R Noboribetsu Station to Noboribetsu Onsen, right? because I see a different time in the table "Noboribetsu Station to Foothbath Entrance". Is the later one take more bus stop?
Which one should I really use if I want to get from JR R Noboribetsu Station to Noboribetsu Onsen and vice versa?
Thank you again.
Hi! I really appreciate your comment, thank you so much.
DeleteYou can use both bus timetable. The 2nd timetable is for NA and NC Bus. NA Bus is indirect bus which also makes a stop at Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura so it takes more time.
Hi I will stay at Takimoto Inn on this August May I know is there any buses to Cape Shikyu from this hotel? And is there any buses to Sapporo station from Cape Shikyu? Thank you so much for your help
ReplyDeleteHi! Actually, I have no idea about Cape Shikyu but I try to search for the information. Hope this can help.
DeleteAccess from Sapporo
1. By limited express from Sapporo to Higashi-Muroran station, it takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Then by local train of branch line to Muroran station, it takes 13 minutes. From the station, get on the route Donan bus for "Chikyu-misaki danchi (地球岬団地)". It takes 15 minutes. From the terminal, on foot about 20 minutes to the observatory.
2. Donan Bus from Sapporo to Muroran
Timetable -> http://donanbus.co.jp/citybus/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2013/11/%E9%83%BD1_%E9%AB%98%E9%80%9F%E7%99%BD%E9%B3%A5%E5%8F%B71.pdf
Access from Noboribetsu (My Idea)
1. Go to JR Noboribetsu Station (Ltd. Exp Hokuto or JR Muroran Line) -> Higashi-Muroran -> JR Muroran Station (JR Muroran Line). Take Donan Bus and walk.
2.
Hi Blue Moon; I'm traveling to Karurusu on 6th of august. Do you know if there's a bus going from Noboribetsu JR to Karurusu that day? Would be very good to know...
ReplyDeleteHi! The latest bus timetable is 1st April 2018 and operates until 20 December.
DeleteThe direct bus runs between Noboribetsu Onsen (not JR Noboribetsu) and Karurusu.
Noboribetsu Onsen -> Karurusu
06:45 (Sun & Public Holiday) / 09:20 / 10:25 / 12:30 / 15:30 / 18:45
Thank you very much for this very useful post!!! I appreciate it!
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome ^^
DeleteHi! Much thanks to your information, it is really helpful!
ReplyDeleteI would like to ask, do you know the taxi fare from JR Noboribetsu station to N14 Park Hotel? As I'm travelling with elderly which makes a total of 4 people, I would like to see if taxi is a feasible option for their comfort. Much thanks!
The taxi fare is 2,410-3,000 yen approximately.
DeleteDear Blue Moon, I read that reservations are necessary for Donan buses. I'm travelling
ReplyDeleteDay 1 Chitose - Noboribetsu onsen
Day 2 Noboribetsu onsen - toyako onsen
Day 3 Toyako onsen - Sapporo
How do we book these buses in advance? do they have an email or online booking site? Alternatively, if we showed up and tried to book for the bus the following day, is this sufficient advance notice, or will the seats be sold out days before.
Thanks so much, really appreciate your help.
Hi! The reservation for Chitose and Noboribetsu Onsen is not required. You can buy on the travel date. I'm not sure about the seat reservation for Toya route. I think you can make a phone call for reservation but the staff may communicate only in Japanese. However, you can contact Visitor Center at Noboribetsu Onsen about purchasing ticket in advance.
DeleteHi Blue Moon,
ReplyDeleteI am abit confuse but do you mind to share with me, I will be travelling to Hokkaido next year Feb.
I will be staying at Noboribetsu Sekisuitei Hotel and the hotel got provide bus service from Airport to Hotel.
My question is, I will be staying one night in Sekisuitei then the next day will be heading down to Nakajima-cho Muroran Hokkaido to stay 2 nights there.
May I know how to take Donan bus from Hotel Sekisuitei to Nakajima-cho Muroran?
Thank you so much
Hi! Today, I cannot access Donan Bus website and I have never been to Muroran so I cannot provide any information about the bus route now.
DeleteTrain is an alternative. Sekisuitei Hotel is near N15 bus stop (Footbath Entrance). Please take the bus from N15 to N1 (JR Noboribetsu Station), 340 yen. Then, take JR Muroran line to Higashi-Muroran Station (seems close to Nakajimacho). Fare is 360 yen. Total Fare is 340+360 = 700 yen.
Hi Blue Moon,
DeleteThank you so much for the detailed information =)
I might need some advice, the purpose I choose to stay in Muroran because want to take a day tour from Muroran to Lake Toya, also meantime to discover the city in Muroran. Do you think it is the best option?
Thank you very much
Hi! I think it should be no problem.
DeleteDo you have any other choices so that I can provide more information or compare each option for you.
Hi! Fortunately, I just found the Donan bus timetable which I saved in my computer. The timetable should be update in winter so please recheck in winter around December.
DeleteNoboribetsu Onsen -> Noboribetsu Station -> Higashi-Muroran West Exit -> Muroran Ferry Terminal
09:45 -> 09:57 -> 10:49 -> 11:35
11:30 -> 11:42 -> 12:34 -> 13:20
14:10 -> 14:22 -> 15:14 -> 16:00
16:40 -> 16:52 -> 17:44 -> 18:30
Thank you Blue moon for your detailed information.
DeleteI did some changes on my Plan. I will be styaing at Noboribetsu Sekisuitei, by the time I reach Hotel to check in will be around 4pm.
Do you advice to go Hell Valley? I understand during winter it takes long hours by walking from Hotel and I guess 4pm the sky already turn dark. Also any Donan Bus to Hell Valley and back to Hotel? If you can let me know the timetable that would be great so that i can arrange my time =)
THank you so much!
Hi!
DeleteHell Valley is must see place when visit Noboribetsu. If the sky already turn dark, you may visit Hell Valley early in the morning instead.
Sekisuitei Hotel is near N15 bus stop and the closest bus stop to Hell Valley is N13 (Daiichi Takimotokan). Please check the above timetable for your reference. The timetable should be updated in Dec.
Hi
ReplyDeleteDoes Footbath Entrance is the same place with Oyunuma Brook Natural Footbath?
If yes, That's mean I can take bus from Footbath Entrance back to Noboribetsu Station. Am I correct?
Yes, you're right.
DeleteHi Blue Moon
ReplyDeletethanks for the useful information , i have two questions here hope you can help to answer :
1) You mentioned the coins locker at the JR Noboribetsu Station only operates from 9am to 5.45 pm, does that means if i reach the JR Noboribetsu Station at 6.30 pm, i cannot collect back my luggage because the gate is locked ? I plan to take the JR express train from JR Noboribetsu Station to Hakodate at 7.24 pm so i plan to go back to the JR Noboribetsu Station at around 6.30 pm.
2) I plan to spend a day trip at Noboribetsu and i arrive at Noboribetsu JR station at around 12 pm and go back to the JR station at 6.30 pm to takethe JR express to Hakodate, below are the places i plan to visit:
a) Hell Valley
b) Date Jidaimura
c) Noboribetsu Street to do shopping, eating and see the Enma-do
d) Noboribetsu spa at 夢元Sagiri湯 (400 Yen per entry)
d) 大湯沼 (Oyunuma Pond) , is this place close (walking distance) to the Oyunuma Brook Natural Footbath or there are far apart?
May i know how do i arrange the above places in proper sequence and which is the nearest bus stop for each place so i can cover all of those places in 6 hours time?
Thanks in advance
Hi ALPHAQUE,
DeletePlease see my reply as follows:
1. There are 2 places where can keep your luggage. The first one is coin locker at JR Noboribetsu, no closing time. The second one is the luggage storage service. This is not located at JR Noboribetsu. It is an office and the operation time is same as working hour of employees.
2. I think the above plan may be tight. Normally, the tourists spend at least 2-3 hours at Date Jidaimura. If you visit Noboribetsu in winter, the sky will be turn dark earlier than in summer. You may choose either Noboribetsu spa at 夢元Sagiri湯 or Oyunuma. If I arrange by nearest bus stop will be like this.
a) Oyunuma
b) Hell Valley
c) Noboribetsu Street to do shopping, eating and see the Enma-do
d) Noboribetsu spa at 夢元Sagiri湯
e) Date Jidaimura
Date Jidaimura close 5 pm in summer and 4pm in winter so you can switch the program with spa at Sagiri .
Thanks Blue Moon, i appreciate it, if i choose Noboribetsu spa at 夢元Sagiri湯 and i don't want to go to Oyunuma, is it the plan will be like follow :
Delete12 pm to 3 pm: Date Jidaimura (Go down at N7)
3 pm to 4.30 pm : Hell valley (Go down at N11 ? How long do i need to walk from bus stop N11 to hell valley?)
4.30 pm to 5.30 pm : walk from hell valley to Noboribetsu spa at 夢元Sagiri湯 (is it far to walk from hell valley to 夢元Sagiri湯 ?)
5.30 pm to 6.45 pm : Noboribetsu Street to do shopping, eating and see the Enma-do
6:45 pm : From N11, Take bus back to JR Noboribetsu Station and catch the 7.24 pm JR express to Hakodate
Is the above plan OK?
thanks
Hi!
DeleteYou can take the bus from Date Jidaimura (N7) to N13 which is closer to Hell Valley more than N11.
If you walk from Hell Valley to 夢元Sagiri湯, the distance is about 700-800 m.
Enma-do's automatic performance round are 10.00, 13.00, 15.00, 17.00 20.00 and 21.00 so you may go to see Enma-do at 17:00 before going to spa or shopping.
Hi Blue Moon, thanks for the information, this helps me a lot. Since I will go there end of this month which is very cool, I think walking from Hell Valley to 夢元Sagiri湯 for 800 meter will be very difficult, can i after hell valley visit, i take the bus from N13 and go to N11 (Noboribetsu Onsen) which is supposed to be nearer to 夢元Sagiri湯 ? thanks again.
DeleteHi! You can either take the bus from N13 to N11 or walk. Walking from Hell Valley to N13 bus stop is already the half way (300-400 m.). From N13 to 夢元Sagiri湯 is another 300-400 m.
DeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteCan I just clarify with you that the direct buses (NC&ND) do not stop at Shiomizaka? Do they only travel between JR and Onsen?
Thanks.
Hi!
DeleteNC & ND bus pass every bus stops from N1 to N11 so the bus also stops at Shiomizaka.
Hi, we will be arriving at New Chitose Airport at 8am in the morning and we don't feel like waiting for the 12pm direct Donan bus to Noboribetsu Onsen. Are there any buses that depart early to Noboribetsu onsen? Can we still take express bus to Noboribetsu Higashi IC and transfer to a connecting bus to Noboribetsu onsen? Appreciate your advice. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteHi! The earliest indirect bus is 09:30 from New Chitose Airport. Take bus to Shiomizaka (55 mins) and transfer to another bus to Noboribetsu Onsen (15 mins).
DeleteThe bus timetable to Noboribetsu Higashi IC is 13:50 / 15:20 / 16:40 so I recommend the earliest bus (9:30) or take the train.
Thanks for the advice!
ReplyDeleteHello, does this bus service run on Saturdays at the same times posted? Do I pay using cash on the bus? Thank you
ReplyDeleteHi!
DeleteYou're right. You can pay cash on the bus when you get off.
Hi Blue Moon! Your blog post saved us from being trapped at Date Jidaimura!!! Thank you for the information!
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome ^^
DeleteHi Blue Moon,
ReplyDeleteJust to confirm my understanding. I want to head towards Noboribetsu hot spring bus terminal. May I know which bus do I take?
In addition, I need to reach there by 10:15am. What is the latest timing that I can take from Noboribetsu Train Station.
Your help is greatly appreciated :D
Hi!
DeleteYou can take any bus to Noboribetsu Onsen. NA and NB bus are also stop at Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura so takes time more than NC and ND bus.
Normally, it takes not more than 20 minutes between Bus Terminal and Noboribetsu Station so you may take the bus around 9:00 or 09:30. I'm not sure which month you will travel to. The bus timetable is usually updated in April so please check the timetable again before your trip.
Hi Blue Moon,
DeleteThank you so much! I’m going tomorrow actually and your information is really helpful.
Thank you again!
Regards,
Breanna
You're welcome. Have a nice trip!
Deletehi Blue moon,
ReplyDeleteyour blog is really helpful, I plan to visit Noboribetsu (on 30 october) directly from Shin chitose airport, but my flight will be landed around 3PM. then I check in the website, New Chitose Airport⇔Noboribetsu Onsen(Exp.Way Nobiribetsu-Airport) do not run after 1PM (it only run 12.10 and 13.15). so I plan to take New Chitose Airport⇔Muroran(Hayabusa) around 15.20 or 16.40 (perhaps this is the ideal time not to rush), and stop at Noboribetsu Higashi IC, is it correct? (I assume that it will take around 1 hour to arrive at Noboribetsu Higashi IC, so I will arrive around 17.40)
from here I should take another shuttle bus to Daiichi Takimotokan (N13), I plan to stay at Takimoto Inn, but if I saw from your timetable the NC bus will leave at 17.36, I don't think I can take this bus at that time, so I need to wait the bus that run on 19.35, is it correct? and then I see that the bus last stop is Noboribetsu Onsen, this means that I need to walk to Daiichi Takimotokan (N13), is it correct?
Do you have any advice, what is the best route for me from the airport to reach Takimoto Inn? how much it cost if I take taxi from Noboribetsu Higashi IC? thank you in advance. :)
Hi! There are other Donan Buses apart from NC bus. I check the bus timetable on hotel website, please see the detail as follows:
Delete3 Buses per day.
Hayabusa → (1 h) → Noboribetsu-Higashi IC bus stop → (15 min) → Dai-ichi Takimotokan
13:50 -> 14:51 -> 15:06
15:20 -> 16:21 -> 16:36
16:40 -> 17:41 -> 17:56
Fare: 1,370 yen one-way per person
Where to board the bus: New Chitose Airport Domestic Terminal #29 and #2 bus stops
The 2nd timetable seems match your schedule. If you miss the 2nd one, you can select the 3rd one instead so you don't need to take the taxi. Anyway, the bus timetable on website is based on the year 2018. Please check it again before your trip.
hi Blue moon,
ReplyDeleteI plan to visit Noboribetsu on October, I'll arrive at Shin Chitose airport around 14:50, I check the bus schedule from the airport that I should take bus route to Muronan (probably take bus 15:20 or 16:40, I think 15:20 is too tight, so I think the possibility is to take bus at 16:40), and drop off at Noboribetsu Higashi IC and take shuttle bus to Takimoto Mae (Daichi Takimotokan). Do you have any good suggestion for me, what is the best schedule to reach Takimoto Mae because based on your bus schedule above the last bus from Noboribetsu Higashi IC is around 19:35 and the last stop is Noboribetsu Onsen, how far is it from Noboribetsu Onsen to Takimoto Mae? and if I can't take the last shuttle bus from Noboribetsu Higashi IC, how much the taxi cost from there to Takimoto mae?
Thank you, I look forward for your reply soon.
Hi!
DeleteYou can take this bus 16:40 -> 17:41 (arrive Higashi IC) -> 17:56 (arrive at Takimotokan). From Noboribetsu Onsen to hotel, you can take the bus or walk (500 m.).
Alternatively if you hold JR Pass, you can take from airport and interchange at Minami-Chitose Station and take limited express to JR Noboribetsu Station. Then, take the bus to hotel.
Hi Blue Moon,
ReplyDeleteDoes the JR pass cover from JR Noboribetsu Station to Daiichi Takimotokan .
No, JR Pass does not cover Donan Bus fare.
DeleteHi Moon, for each bus trip it costs 340 yen? Is there only 1 type of bus at the Noboribetsu station? Just to be sure.
ReplyDeleteI start from the station on a Monday, July and wish to go Date Jidaimura N7 (9-12pm), Hell Valley N13 (12-1pm), Footbath (30 mins?) and Sekisuitei hotel (for the public bath 2-3hrs?) both N15. Are the times i allocate ok as no rush?
Are my bus no.correct? How often does the bus stop by? When i reach each stop, is it only a short distance walk to the places i want to visit above & will it be easy/clear to find directions? Also, where shall i find yummy lunch :-) around Hell Valley or at Sekisuitei hotel? Dinner too...
Lastly, im taking bus to New Chitose airport the next day...is there only 1 type of bus that goes there? How much & what's the schedule? When i reach airport, is the bus terminal called Shiroishi?
Many thanks!
Hi! The bus fare is based on the distance. The maximum fare is 340 yen per trip. I gave some samples on the above article. The local bus runs in Noboribetsu is Donan Bus only.
DeleteYour plan seems ok. By the way, please check the bus timetable again because only 1-3 buses run per hour.
I have no information about the yummy meal around there. I just picked up one ramen restaurant which is not far from Noboribetsu Onsen bus terminal. There are not much restaurants there. Some hotels already include breakfast and dinner. If you stay at Date Jidaimura until noon, you may find some restaurants there.
Getting to airport, please check the timetable on this website http://www.new-chitose-airport.jp/en/access/bus/timebusd/. Get off at New Chitose Airport.
Ok thanks...when i get off at the bus stop, isit only a short distance walk to the places i want to visit, with clear directions?
ReplyDeleteYes.
DeleteHi, The latest donan bus time table shows the bus from 8am to 7pm only..is it means no bus before 8am and after 7pm as before? Thanks.
ReplyDeleteHi! There are some buses run between Noboribetsu Station and Noboribetsu Onsen before 8 am and after 7 pm. The timetable is under the bus stops list.
Deletehalf price for kid aged 7-12?
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure. You may check with driver or bus terminal.
DeleteHello!
ReplyDeleteWould you know if Donan bus from JR Noboribetsu to Noboribetsu Onsen is operating on Jan 1 and Jan 2, 2020?
Yes, some buses will be operating but some will be cancelled.
Deletehi Bluemoon,
ReplyDeleteI'm a bit confuse, what's the different between timetable "From Noboribetsu Onsen to JR Noboribetsu Station (duration 12 minutes)" and the timetable picture for NA bus?
if I want to take the bus from Daiichi takimotokan to JR noboribetsu, is it 12:50-13:13? but if I compare with timetable from Noboribetsu onsen to JR noboribetsu, it's 12:50 depart from Noboribetsu onsen, is it correct?
if I want to depart from Noboribetsu onsen at 12:50, is there any bus from Daiichi takimotokan at 12:45?
Thank you in advance :)
Hi! NA bus runs between Noboribetsu Station and Foothbath Entrance via Noboribetsu Jidaimura which means also pass Noboribetsu Onsen but the timetable of Noboribetsu Onsen and Noboribetsu Station does not include timetable to Foothbath Entrance.
DeleteIf you want to take the bus from Daiichi Takimotokan to Noboribetsu Station, 12:50-13:13 bus is correct or you can walk to Noboribetsu Onsen to take the bus 12:50 to Noboribetsu Station as well. As bus should arrive Daiichi Takimotokan around 12:50, there is possibility to arrive earlier or later than 12:50 a little bit.
so, does it mean, there are 3 bus schedule at 12 PM? 12:05,12:50, and 12:55 that depart from Noboribetsu onsen to JR noboribetsu station?
DeleteYes
DeleteHi blue moon, Im planning to take bus from onyunuma natural footbath to jidaimura date village but I'm abit confused which bus stop I should board the bus from, (basically confused between bus stop N11 (noboribetsu onsen) and bus stop N11 (footbath entrance)
ReplyDeleteIn addition, may i know which bus(if any) to take from the onuyuma footbath to the jidaimura date village?
Thank you very much !
Hi! Please take NA bus at N15 Footbath Entrance to Jidaimura.
DeleteThank you blue moon :)
DeleteHi Moon! I love this website so much! Extremely useful for first timers like me wanting to go Noboribetsu! Thank you for taking the time to provide all these data! I will be going Noboribetsu Apr 4, 2020 – Apr 7, 2020, may I know if you will be updating the bus timetable on this website? If not, can you provide me a link so that I can check it myself? Thank you so much!!
ReplyDeleteYour comment is appreciated. I will update the timetable once it is available (around late March) or you can check it by yourself on Donan Bus website. donanbus.co.jp
DeleteNoted, Thank you so much and keep up the good work!!!
DeleteThank you :)
DeleteHi Bluemoon. I would like to ask a few questions:
ReplyDelete1. Do I need to reserve beforehand if I want to take a Donan bus from New Chitose Airport to Noboribetsu Onsen N11?
2. Is there any Donan bus from N11 bus stop to Higashi Muroran and from Higashi Muroran to Lake Toya Bus Terminal?
Thank you so much.
Hi!
Delete1. No need to do advance reservation. Buy the ticket on the departure date.
2. I'm not sure about the direct bus of Higashi Muroran between Lake Toya and Noboribetsu but The fastest way between Noboribetsu Station and Higashi Muroran is the train. The cheapest fare is taking JR Muroran line which takes 21 minutes and fare is 440 yen. Traveling from Higashi Muroran to Lake Toya, you can continue JR Muroran line to Toya Station, then take Donan bus to Lake Toya.
For your information, there is direct bus between Noboribetsu Onsen and Lake Toya.
Thank you! Really appreciate it.
ReplyDeleteI'll go to Hokkaido on Feb. I spent hours searching for latest donan bus timetable. It's so bad that official website donanbus.co.jp can't be reached from out of Japan (don't know why). Until I found your website. You saved my life! Thanks a million :)
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome :)
DeleteI just wanted to say thank you for the information and updates over the years, as I saw the first comment dated back in 2016. The information was clear and easy to follow. It added a layer of comfort in our trip. Thanks again from Canada.
ReplyDeleteYour comment is appreciated. Have a nice day!
DeleteHi may i know either Donan buss are covered in JR sapporo-noboribetsu pass or not?
ReplyDeleteHi! Sapporo-Noboribetsu Pass allows unlimited rides for JR line, not cover Donan Bus.
Delete