Hokkaido: Lake Toya, Bear Ranch and Sapporo Otaru Full Day Tour

8:00 AM: Gather at Sapporo Station and board an air-conditioned bus with a professional guide to begin today’s journey through Hokkaido.

9:30 AM: Arrive at the first stop, Noboribetsu (approximately 60 minutes).

Jigokudani (Hell Valley): A volcanic crater formed around 10,000 years ago, located near Lake Toya. The area spans 450 meters in diameter, with constant white smoke, barren land, and a strong sulfur smell, earning its nickname as a “hell-like” valley. This natural wonder offers a glimpse into Hokkaido's volcanic activity. (Accessible during winter)
Oyunuma Pond: Formed by an eruption of Mt. Hiyoriyama, this steaming crater lake features 130°C sulfur springs, providing hot spring water to local inns. A viewing platform offers panoramic views, or visitors can take a closer look by walking to the lakeside. However, trails and the outdoor footbath area are closed during winter for safety reasons.

12:00 PM: Visit the Lake Toya area
Showa Shinzan and Bear Ranch
Showa Shinzan: A volcanic mountain formed after a strong earthquake in 1943. Standing at 398 meters, it remains active, with white smoke emanating from its reddish-brown surface. Declared a national monument in 1957, it continues to grow as a “new mountain.”
Bear Ranch: Located near the ropeway entrance, the ranch houses over 100 Hokkaido brown bears, the largest wild mammals in the region. Visitors can feed the bears and observe their playful antics.
Lake Toya Scenic Spots
Lake Toya Overview: A crater lake with a diameter of 10 kilometers, covering 70.72 square kilometers, and a depth of 180 meters. The lake is part of Shikotsu-Toya National Park and remains unfrozen year-round.
Toya Lake Observatory: Offers stunning views of the lake, Nakajima Island, Mt. Yotei, Showa Shinzan, and Mt. Usu. It’s the perfect spot for panoramic photos.

4:30 PM: Arrive in Otaru (approximately 90 minutes, with free time for dinner).
Explore Otaru’s charming canals lined with red-brick warehouses from the Meiji era. Stroll the streets with a European ambiance, and visit unique attractions:

Kitaichi Glass Shop: Famous for its exquisite glasswork and craftsmanship.
Music Box Museum: Showcasing over a thousand types of music boxes from around the world, filling the air with enchanting melodies.
Enjoy local delicacies like the famous LeTAO cheesecake and other Hokkaido specialties.
Otaru Snow Light Path (early February): During this festival, candles illuminate the canal and surrounding snow, creating a magical winter wonderland. (Event details can be found at official website).
6:00 PM: Return to Sapporo city, ending the day’s delightful journey!