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Lake Toya

Nature park
★ 4.9 (8K+ reviews) • 59K+ booked
Located in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Lake Toya is a stunning caldera lake in Hokkaido, Japan, formed by ancient volcanic activity. It’s famous for its clear, ice-free waters even in winter, and the majestic Mount Usu, an active volcano that last erupted in 2000. When you visit, you can relax in Toyako Onsen, explore the lakeside trails, or take a sightseeing cruise to Nakajima Island at the lake’s center. There are also tons of opportunities for fishing, camping, and even attending a fireworks festival that lasts over 180 days. Plan your trip now and book your Lake Toya activities, hotels, and tours for an exciting getaway in Hokkaido.
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Lake Tōya, Hokkaido, Japan
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Lake Toya Reviews

4.9 /5
8K+ reviews
Read all reviews
Linh ****
1 Jul
Highly recommend this tour. Our tour guide Ken has a lot of recommendations for food and provided some history about the area. Wish we had more time at the ropeway.
Klook User
1 Jul
Great experience and Cassy was a great guide!
DAI ****
1 Jul
During this trip to Hokkaido, the unique scenery of Noboribetsu, Lake Toya and Mount Usu completely amazed me! As soon as I got off the car and stepped into Noboribetsu, the strong smell of sulfur hit me, as if I had instantly stepped into a natural hot spring secret. The steaming hot air in the Jigokudani contrasts with the colorful volcanic landforms, and the roaring geothermal sound is like the heartbeat of the earth, which makes people both shocked and fascinated. In the evening, I took a bath in the Noboribetsu Onsen Street. The warm spring water soaked my body and mind. When I looked up, I saw the snow-capped mountains. The fatigue of the day dissipated instantly. This experience of ice and fire blending was simply wonderful! The quiet beauty of Lake Toya is intoxicating. Sitting on a tour boat to shuttle across the lake, the clear lake water was sparkling, and the continuous mountains in the distance were like ink paintings. Fortunately, it was a sunny day. The blue sky, white clouds, snow-capped mountains and lake water blended perfectly, and every frame was as beautiful as a postcard. The hot spring hotel by the lake not only provides comfortable accommodation, but also allows you to taste fresh and plump lake fish dishes. The fish is tender and juicy, and paired with local special sauces, it is full of happiness. The volcanic wonders of Mount Usu are even more eye-opening for me! Take the cable car slowly up, and the volcanic vegetation along the way changes with the altitude. After reaching the top, overlooking the magnificent view of the crater, surrounded by smoke, it seems to be in another world. The popular science signs beside the hiking trail allow me to learn about the wonderful knowledge of volcanic geology while enjoying the beautiful scenery. The only small regret is that time is too tight and I can't deeply feel the charm of each attraction. But this has become the reason for me to go to Hokkaido again! The natural scenery, hot spring food and cultural atmosphere here are all fascinating, and I strongly recommend it to every friend who loves traveling!
2+
Klook User
30 Jun
Thank you Grace, our tour guide. The tonkatsu restaurant your recommendation is very delicious 😍
1+
WANG ********
30 Jun
The tour guide VIVI Pang is very considerate and highly recommends this itinerary. There are so many beautiful scenery along the way that I couldn't stop taking pictures!
Klook客路用户
29 Jun
The schedule was very tight, and Director Zheng's introduction along the way gave us a detailed understanding of the history and culture of Hokkaido. It was a very fulfilling day.
Jodie **
28 Jun
The tour guide Jenny is friendly and clear in her explanations in both English and Chinese. I went in summer and the itinerary covers mainly noboribetsu and Lake Toya. Remember to bring your own food as there is limited time for lunch.
2+
Ariya ******
28 Jun
It was fun. We got to go to many places. Each place had 30 minutes, not too much or too little. The guide took pictures and gave us recommendations the whole time. At this price, it was worth it.
2+

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FAQs about Lake Toya

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What to know about Lake Toya

Things to do in Lake Toya

Cruise Around the Lake

Hop aboard a sightseeing cruise from the Toyako Onsen pier to explore the serene waters of Lake Toya and its central Nakajima Islands. You'll enjoy incredible views of Mount Usu and the surrounding Shikotsu-Toya National Park scenery.

Visit Mount Usu and Showa Shinzan

Take the Usuzan Ropeway for panoramic views of the lake and the volcano, Mount Usu. Nearby, you can also visit Showa Shinzan, a volcanic dome that rose from farmland in the 1940s---one of Japan's youngest volcanoes.

Relax at Toyako Onsen

The Toyako Onsen area offers numerous lakeside baths and ryokan (Japanese inns) with healing mineral waters. It's the perfect place to unwind, especially in the evening when the Toyako Fireworks Festival lights up the night sky.

Explore Silo Observatory

Located on the western side of the lake, the Silo Observatory provides a sweeping 360° view of Lake Toya, Mount Usu, and the Nakajima Islands. It's a must-visit photo stop and also a launch point for activities like paragliding and camping.

Hike or Cycle Around the Lake

The lake's perimeter trail stretches about 40 km, offering scenic hiking and cycling routes. You can rent a bike near the Toyako Onsen Bus Terminal and enjoy peaceful views of the lakeshore, especially during summer and early autumn.

Tips Before Visiting Lake Toya

Plan Around the Fireworks Season

Visit between late April and late October to experience the nightly Lake Toya Fireworks Festival, one of Japan's longest-running displays. Many hotels offer rooms with lake views so you can watch from your balcony.

Bring Layers and Comfortable Shoes

Weather in Hokkaido can change quickly, especially near the lake and mountain. Pack layers, and wear sturdy shoes for hiking, camping, or exploring volcanic trails.

Travel by Train and Bus for Easy Access

From Sapporo or New Chitose Airport, take the JR Limited Express to Toya Station, then a Donan Bus to Toyako Onsen. Buses are frequent and stop at most major hotels.

Popular Attractions Near Lake Toya

Mount Usu

Just a 15-minute drive from Toyako Onsen, Mount Usu is a volcano with accessible craters, hiking trails, and an observation deck offering panoramic views of the lake and Pacific Ocean. It's one of Japan's most famous geological sites.

Showa Shinzan

Located near Mount Usu, Showa Shinzan is a volcano that emerged in the 1940s. You can visit its observation area or take the Usuzan Ropeway nearby to get breathtaking views of both Lake Toya and Mount Usu. It's roughly 20 minutes from Lake Toya by car.

Sobetsu Park

Sobetsu Park is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot overlooking Lake Toya and Mount Usu. Visit in late spring to see over 8,000 cherry trees in bloom, or in autumn for fiery red and gold foliage. The park is about 25 minutes from Lake Toya by car.

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