Top 5 Places to Eat in Noboribetsu

Japanese Macaque standing on rocks near a hot spring in Hokkaido, Japan.
Mark Dubery, Pexels

Noboribetsu's dining scene offers a delightful journey into Hokkaido's local flavors, with a focus on fresh seafood and comforting regional specialties that perfectly complement a relaxing hot spring visit.

1. Onsen Ichiba

Cuisine: Fresh Seafood & Local Japanese Cuisine

Upon visiting Onsen Ichiba, one finds a casual and inviting atmosphere, often with counter seating allowing views of fresh ingredients. It is a prime spot for experiencing Hokkaido's bountiful seafood, from succulent crab and sea urchin to freshly prepared shellfish and eel. A must-try is the local specialty, Enma Yakisoba, featuring Hokkaido flat wheat noodles and a secret sauce. You can even select your desired shellfish or crab from the tanks.

Price: ¥1,500 - ¥5,000+ (approx. $10 - $35+) per person, depending on seafood choices. Enma Yakisoba is around ¥1,030.

Getting There: Located conveniently, it is approximately a 5-minute walk from Jigokudani in the heart of the Noboribetsu Onsen area.

2. DAIOU Curry Ramen Noboribetsu Onsen Shop

Cuisine: Curry Ramen & Japanese Noodles

A visit to DAIOU Curry Ramen Noboribetsu Onsen Shop offers a pleasant surprise with its unique, flavorful, and not overly spicy curry ramen. The Hokkaido noodles have a satisfying curly, firm texture that pairs wonderfully with the light yet rich soup base. An English menu is available, and they also provide vegetarian options, making it accessible for diverse preferences. It provides a warm, soul-comforting meal, especially appreciated during Hokkaido's colder months, delivered with quick and friendly service.

Price: ¥800 - ¥1,500 (approx. $5 - $10+) per person.

Getting There: Situated within Noboribetsu Onsencho, it is generally within walking distance from many accommodations in the main hot spring town area.

3. Yakitori Ippei Nakajima

Cuisine: Izakaya & Grilled Skewers (Yakitori)

Stepping into Yakitori Ippei Nakajima, one discovers a lively, spacious izakaya popular with both local patrons and visitors. The establishment specializes in a wide array of delicious skewers, notably featuring Muroran-style grilled pork alongside classic chicken yakitori. For convenience, private dining rooms are available, and the menu includes English translations, with some staff members able to assist in English. The service is notably swift and smooth.

Price: ¥2,000 - ¥4,000 (approx. $14 - $28+) per person.

Getting There: Located in the broader Noboribetsu area, one branch is a 5-minute walk from Noboribetsu Station.

4. Pizzeria Astra

Cuisine: Italian (Pizza) & Cafe

Pizzeria Astra provides a cozy setting, perfect for a casual dinner. Their signature is a delightful Margherita pizza, crafted with delicious local Hokkaido mozzarella cheese, baked in a large wood-fired oven for a fresh taste. Beyond pizza, the menu includes recommended fried chicken and a selection of craft beers, offering a pleasant alternative to traditional Japanese fare.

Price: ¥1,500 - ¥3,000 (approx. $10 - $21+) per person.

Getting There: The restaurant is located in Noboribetsu town, generally accessible by a short walk or taxi ride from central areas.

5. Restaurant KURA (at Noboribetsu Sekisuitei)

Cuisine: Traditional Japanese Kaiseki

For a refined dining experience, Restaurant KURA within Noboribetsu Sekisuitei offers an exclusive Japanese Kaiseki course. The ambiance is that of a hideaway, featuring soft paper-lantern lighting and comfortable semi-private spaces. Each course is meticulously prepared using select Hokkaido ingredients, including fresh seafood, farm-grown vegetables, and Noboribetsu beef, reflecting the season's best. Reservations are limited to a small number daily and are recommended for guests aged 13 and older, ensuring an intimate and high-quality meal.

Price: ¥8,000 - ¥15,000+ (approx. $55 - $100+) per person for Kaiseki.

Getting There: Located inside the Noboribetsu Sekisuitei hotel, which is situated in the Noboribetsu Onsen district. Many hotels in the area offer shuttle services from Noboribetsu Station, or it's a short taxi ride.