【Travel Conditions】
Departure/Destination: Hokkaido
Duration: Day trip
Transportation: Chartered bus
Bus Company: Kita-no-Tabi Travel Agency
Meals: Breakfast 0, Lunch (per package), Dinner 0
Minimum Group Size: 15
Tour Leader: 1
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating Company: LION TRAVEL JAPAN Co., Ltd.
Address: 7F Toranomon Central Building, 1-7-1 Nishi-Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
License Number: Japan Tourism Agency Registered Travel Agency No. 1892
Travel Association: Full Member of Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)
A minimum of 15 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 4 day(s) before departure (local time 18:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
The vehicle type will be arranged based on the number of participants. For small groups, a driver who also acts as an on-board assistant will provide full travel services; a separate tour leader will not be assigned. Please be aware that you will explore the attractions independently upon arrival.
The tour leader will not contact travelers the day before departure. Please arrive at the meeting point at the designated time on the day of departure and look for the LION TRAVEL sign to check in.
The planned itinerary and stay durations are for reference only and may be adjusted due to traffic conditions, local events, restaurant reservations, or changes in facility operating hours. Thank you for your understanding.
The above itinerary times are estimates. Traffic conditions are unpredictable; please avoid scheduling other activities for the evening. We appreciate your understanding in case of any delays.
Bus seating is arranged based on availability on the day; seat selection is not possible. Please keep your seatbelt fastened at all times while the bus is in motion. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
The autumn foliage season may vary slightly each year due to weather and other factors. If the leaves have already fallen or have not yet reached peak color due to weather conditions, the tour will still proceed to the scheduled viewing spots as planned. Thank you for your understanding.
Bus and restaurant seating during the tour may be shared with other tour participants, depending on the arrangements made by the tour leader and the facilities on the day.
Images are for reference only; some photos containing people are AI-generated illustrations. Actual scenery, facilities, and activities may vary due to seasons, weather, natural environment, shooting time, and on-site conditions. Please refer to the actual situation on the day of the tour.
Lake Toya offers picturesque lake views and opportunities for leisurely lakeside strolls. Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene environment and marvel at the unique landscapes shaped by its volcanic activity, which includes islands within the lake. It's a prime location for appreciating Hokkaido's distinctive natural beauty.
Lake Toya is a caldera lake, and its waters are significantly warmed by geothermal activity originating from nearby volcanic areas, such as Mount Usu. This continuous heat supply prevents the lake from fully freezing over, even during Hokkaido's often harsh winters, making it a distinctive natural phenomenon to observe.
When joining a day tour, transportation from Sapporo to Lake Toya and other included attractions like Noboribetsu Jigokudani is typically provided by a comfortable tour bus. This allows travelers to relax and enjoy the scenic journey across Hokkaido without the complexities of planning public transport routes or driving themselves.
In the Lake Toya and Noboribetsu areas, visitors can discover a diverse array of local specialty products. Popular souvenirs often include items made from Hokkaido's renowned dairy, various confectionery treats, artisan crafts inspired by the natural landscapes, and goods related to the region's famous hot springs and volcanic themes. Many shops offer unique regional edibles and trinkets.
On a standard day tour, visitors are generally allocated approximately 60 to 90 minutes to explore Noboribetsu Jigokudani. This duration allows ample time to walk along the designated paths, witness the active volcanic vents and bubbling hot springs, and fully appreciate the unique and dramatic "Hell Valley" landscape.
Near Noboribetsu Jigokudani, visitors can find a variety of dining options, often featuring local Japanese cuisine. Recommended specialties may include fresh seafood harvested from Hokkaido's waters, regional ramen, or dishes prepared with other local ingredients. Some day tours offer an optional lunch plan, providing a convenient way to savor regional flavors.
The walking paths at Noboribetsu Jigokudani are generally well-maintained, though some sections may involve gentle inclines or slightly uneven terrain, so comfortable footwear is advised. Available facilities typically include clean restrooms, souvenir shops offering local products, and informative signboards providing details about the geothermal activity. The main viewing areas are designed to be accessible for most visitors.
Lake Shikotsu's famously transparent blue waters can be admired throughout the year due to its consistently high clarity. While its beauty is ever-present, many consider the period from spring through autumn as the best viewing season due to milder weather and vibrant surrounding nature. Even in winter, with snow-covered surroundings, the lake's deep blue remains captivating.