Lake Toya (Toyako Town, Hokkaido)
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Lake Toya is a caldera lake located in Toyako Town, Abuta District, southern Hokkaido, and its surrounding area is part of Shikotsu-Toya National Park. The lake was formed inside a caldera caused by volcanic activity approximately 11,000 years ago, and is characterized by its nearly circular lake surface and Nakashima island floating in the middle. The nearby Mt. Usu and Mt. Showa-Shinzan are relatively active volcanoes, and were affected by volcanic activity and eruptions in the 2000s.
Known as a hot spring resort, Lake Toya's hot spring town stretches along the lakeside, offering accommodation, day-trip hot springs, footbaths, and walking trails. The natural scenery changes with the seasons, with particularly beautiful sunsets and night views. In summer, the hotels and inns regularly hold fireworks displays over the lake, attracting international attention. In 2008, Lake Toya hosted the G8 Summit, attracting international attention.
Highlights
- Nakajima Cruise and Walk around Nakajima: Take a sightseeing boat to Nakajima and enjoy walking trails and observing nature.
- Mount Usu (Mount Usu Ropeway): Take the ropeway to a viewing point near the crater, where you can see traces of eruptions and the rugged terrain up close.
- Showa Shinzan: A relatively new lava dome that has risen. There is a museum and observation deck nearby.
- Silo Observatory (Lake Toya Observatory): A popular viewing spot with a panoramic view of the lake and Nakajima Island. It is also famous as a sunset spot.
- Lake Toya hot spring town: Offers accommodation, day-trip bathing, foot baths, lakeside walking paths, and restaurants. At night, you can enjoy the hotel's fireworks and the lights of the hot spring town.
- Toyako Visitor Center, Volcano Science Museum, etc.: There are facilities where you can learn about volcanoes and nature, making it a great place to visit.
- Photography, Sunsets, and Stargazing: The sunset reflected on the lake surface, the night illuminations and the starry sky are captivating (subject to weather conditions).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train + Bus: The nearest JR station is Toya Station (JR Muroran Main Line). From Toya Station, it takes about 15 to 20 minutes to get to Toyako Onsen by bus or taxi. From Sapporo, you can also access it by express train (takes about 2 hours, varies depending on the train). Please check the JR timetable for the latest schedule.
- From the airport: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car from New Chitose Airport (depending on road conditions). Express buses and direct buses may operate from the airport or Sapporo to Lake Toya, so please check the operating status in advance.
- Private car: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours (distance approximately 100 to 120 km) from Sapporo via expressways and public roads. In winter, tire chains and winter tires are required to prepare for snow and frozen roads.
- Excursions and sightseeing: Local sightseeing buses, sightseeing boats, and the Usuzan Ropeway are convenient options. Please check the schedule as it changes depending on the season and day of the week.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Lakeside walk + hot springs & meal: 2-4 hours (day trip)
- Usuzan Ropeway + Showa Shinzan + Nakajima Cruise: Half a day to a full day
- Relax at a hot spring inn + sightseeing in the surrounding area: 2 days, 1 night (recommended) — Enjoy the sunset and fireworks at night, and the next day visit Mount Usu and explore the surrounding area.
Nearby spots
- Mount Usu (Usube/Usu): Climb the mountain and take the ropeway to a view point near the crater.
- Showa Shinzan: Museum of volcanic topography and surrounding areas.
- Noboribetsu Onsen: Approximately 40-60 minutes by car. Convenient for combining with a tour of hot springs.
- Observation decks around Lake Toya (Silo Observation Deck, etc.)Perfect for driving and taking photos.
- Nearby natural parks and hiking trails: You can enjoy seasonal flowers and forest bathing.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Check volcano informationMount Usu is an active volcano, and volcanic activity and eruption warnings may be issued. Please follow the instructions of the Japan Meteorological Agency, local governments, and local authorities when climbing the mountain or observing the area around the crater.
- Traffic and parking congestion: During long weekends, summer vacation, and the autumn foliage season, the number of tourists increases, and parking lots and roads become congested. Observation spots tend to be particularly crowded in the evenings, so we recommend arriving early.
- Hot Spring Manners and Bathing Rules: Public baths and hotel hot springs have different policies regarding tattoos. Please observe basic bathing etiquette, such as not bringing your towel into the bath.
- Seasonal precautions
- Winter: Road conditions become severe due to snow and ice. Winter tires and chains are essential. Public transportation is also prone to delays.
- Summer: Take precautions against UV rays and insects. It can get chilly in the mornings and evenings by the lake, so it's useful to have something to wear over your clothes.
- Tourist boats and ropeways: May be suspended due to bad weather or inspections. Please check the operating status in advance.
- Nature conservation and taking your trash home: The lake and surrounding nature need to be protected. Please take your trash with you and do not enter restricted areas or collect plants.
Note: Transportation times, facility opening hours, fireworks and event dates, and volcano information may change depending on the season and year. Please check the latest information on official websites, transportation providers, and accommodations before traveling.
