Hokkaido Day Tour: Lake Toya, Noboribetsu and Mount Usu

Guests will meet the tour manager at the meeting point, Sapporo Station North Exit Group Bus Terminal. The vehicle will depart at 7:50 am. Please arrive at the location 10 minutes before the departure time. Latecomers or no-shows cannot be refunded.

At Hell Valley, travelers will witness the dramatic volcanic landscape that makes Noboribetsu famous. Steaming vents, bubbling hot springs, and streams of mineral-rich water create an otherworldly scene that lives up to its name. Visitors can walk along well-maintained wooden trails and observation points to see the geothermal activity up close while learning about the valley’s volcanic history. The strong scent of sulfur, rising steam, and colorful rock formations make this a unique natural spectacle. It’s both a scenic and cultural highlight, as Hell Valley is also the source of Noboribetsu’s renowned hot spring baths.

At Showa Shinzan Bear Ranch, travelers can see Hokkaido’s native brown bears in a safe and natural-like environment. The ranch is home to many bears of different ages, and visitors can observe their behavior, from playing to resting, in spacious outdoor enclosures. With the backdrop of the volcanic Showa Shinzan, this stop offers both a unique wildlife experience and scenic views.

Travelers will ride the Usuzan Ropeway up Mount Usu, an active volcano overlooking Lake Tōya. The gondola ascends smoothly to the summit station, where panoramic views of Lake Tōya, Showa Shinzan, and the surrounding volcanic landscape unfold. At the top, visitors can explore observation decks and walking trails to see dramatic volcanic craters and learn about the region’s unique geothermal history. It’s both a scenic and educational highlight of Hokkaido.

Lake Tōya is a beautiful caldera lake formed by volcanic activity, famous for its clear waters and serene scenery. Travelers can admire panoramic views of the lake surrounded by mountains, including the active volcano Mount Usu. The area is also known for its relaxing hot springs and seasonal beauty, from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant foliage in autumn.

Often called the “Mount Fuji of Hokkaido,” Mt. Yotei is a majestic, perfectly cone-shaped volcano that dominates the surrounding landscape. Travelers can enjoy stunning views of the peak from Lake Tōya, Niseko, and nearby vantage points, making it a favorite subject for photography in every season.

At the Lake Tōya Observatory, travelers can enjoy sweeping views of the sparkling caldera lake, Mount Usu, and the surrounding volcanic landscape. The viewpoint offers one of the best spots to take in the natural beauty of the region, with seasonal scenery that changes from cherry blossoms in spring to vivid autumn colors. It’s an ideal stop for photography and appreciating the scale of this volcanic wonder. Lake Toya Observatory, Snow World Toya, Winter is expected to be from December to the end of March and the beginning of April every year. You can experience the Toya Lake Observatory for 20 minutes, Snow World Toya for about 50 minutes, and snowmobiles and other activities at your own expense. (Only 30 minutes at the Observatory if there is no skiing date)