Hokkaido One-Day Tour: Toyako Onsen, Noboribetsu Jigokudani Valley, Showa Shinzan, & Lake Shikotsu with Optional Bear Ranch Package (Departure from Sapporo) | Japan

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- Attraction Introduction -

• Lake Toya, located in southwestern Hokkaido, is part of the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Formed in the early 20th century after frequent volcanic eruptions led to its subsidence. Due to its wide expanse, and the relatively low elevation of the outer mountains (only 200-500 meters above the water), Lake Toya gives a sense of vastness. The lake remains unfrozen even in winter, making it Japan's northernmost unfrozen lake, its clear waters shimmering year-round.
  
• Showa Shinzan Bear Ranch is named after Mount Showa Shinzan, an active volcano that erupted in the early Showa era. Originally only 270 meters high, its height has gradually increased due to continuous tectonic activity, now reaching 402 meters. It remains a growing mountain and is classified as a rare example of a tower volcano, with geothermal plumes still visible in its reddish-brown slopes. The Showa Shinzan Bear Ranch is home to approximately 100 purebred Hokkaido brown bears. The ranch is large, and the bears are grouped into several relatively fixed areas according to age. The bears, already accustomed to humans, are incredibly cute with their playful antics. If you wish to get up close to these adorable bears, you can visit the special observation room within their enclosure. Separated from the bears by only a small window, you can feel their powerful presence and even sense their breathing.
  
• Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley) is a volcanic crater remnant formed by lava from a volcanic eruption, exuding a mysterious and eerie atmosphere. Mentioning Jigokudani, it's not only a symbol of Noboribetsu's hot springs but also a must-see tourist attraction. It boasts over a dozen unique hot springs, a rich variety that has earned it the nickname "department store of hot springs." The air is filled with a strong sulfurous smell, creating a bizarre, hellish atmosphere. Although Jigokudani is barren, its spring water possesses special healing properties, with a flow rate reaching 3000 liters per minute, making it Noboribetsu's largest spring source. The water quality varies from location to location, with as many as 11 different types. Over a century ago, locals learned to tap into these springs, making full use of this magical land.
• Lake Shikotsu is a crater lake with a 40-kilometer-long shoreline, surrounded by steep peaks such as Mount Eniwa and Mount Tarumae. Reaching a maximum depth of 360 meters, it is the second deepest lake in Japan. Due to strong convection, the lake rarely freezes, even in the cold winter months, making it Japan's northernmost unfrozen lake.
• Mount Usu⇔Showa Shinzan

Mt. Usu, located beside the famous Lake Toya in Hokkaido, is an active volcano that offers close-up views of its volcanic terrain and magnificent natural scenery. Visitors can take a cable car (at their own expense) to the observation deck for panoramic views of Lake Toya and other iconic landmarks such as Showa Shinzan.

• MITSUI OUTLET PARK, Sapporo-Kitahiroshima (Visit only during winter)

MITSUI OUTLET PARK Kitahiroshima is not only a shopping paradise, bringing together numerous international and Japanese brands, but it's also Hokkaido's largest outlet shopping center! There are also tons of food options, Hokkaido-style souvenir shops, and matcha specialty stores, satisfying both foodies and shopaholics. Morita Garden in Uji, Kyoto, offers authentic matcha desserts—a must-visit for matcha lovers. The Hokkaido Farm Shop gathers various general merchandise and Hokkaido-style souvenirs, fresh seasonal seafood, agricultural products, and Hokkaido-specific seasonings—a fun and interesting place to shop! Make your trip full of surprises and delicious flavors!

• Cape Earth (Summer-only visit)

Cape Chikyu originates from the Ainu word for "cliff" in Hokkaido. The lighthouse atop the cliff stands 131 meters tall, its light reaching 25 nautical miles. First lit in 1920, the light's reach extends up to 44 kilometers, and it was fully automated by 2004. This area is also a breeding ground for falcons, a type of bird that lives along migratory bird routes. Cape Chikyu also won first place in a Hokkaido nature poll conducted by the Asahi Shimbun, instantly becoming one of the most well-known tourist destinations in the country.

• Lake Toya SAIRO Observatory

Located on the west shore of Lake Toya, the SAIRO Observatory offers breathtaking panoramic views: Lake Toya, the largest island in the center, Nakajima, Mt. Usu, and Showa Shinzan. Beyond the stunning scenery, you can also savor authentic Hokkaido delicacies—rich cream and incredibly smooth yogurt made with the freshest local milk, and the unique balloon milk pudding, sweet but not cloying—highly recommended!

• Lake Toya Hot Spring Street

After lunch at the lakeside hot spring resort on Lake Toya, be sure to try the free foot bath and hand bath nearby! We recommend bringing your own towel; soaking in the hot springs is especially warm and relaxing in winter. If the weather is good, you might even see Hokkaido's "Ezo Fuji"—the incredibly beautiful Mount Yotei, perfect for taking amazing photos! There are also many interesting man-made art installations along the lake; taking photos while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Lake Toya is truly chill!

• Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival (Limited Time Only)

Lake Shikotsu is located in the western part of Chitose City in southwestern Hokkaido, and is part of the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. With an average depth of 265 meters, its maximum depth reaches the height of Tokyo Tower. Lake Shikotsu is the largest lake in Hokkaido. Originally a crater mountain 30,000 years ago, it filled with water over the years, becoming the second deepest lake in Japan and the northernmost unfrozen lake. In summer, it serves as a habitat for migratory birds, attracting numerous birdwatchers. In October, the lake is ablaze with autumn leaves, creating a magnificent spectacle, and the sunsets over Shikotsu are breathtaking – a must-see for photography enthusiasts. The annual Ice Festival is another must-see, a representative winter festival of Hokkaido. Water is sprayed onto the lake and frozen, creating ice blocks of various sizes. By day, it shimmers with a natural blue known as "Shikotsu Blue," while at night, it is illuminated by colorful lights, creating a dreamlike world.

• Other recommended itineraries in Hokkaido:

Hokkaido Day Trip | Asahiyama Zoo & Shirahige Falls & Biei's Instagrammable Trees & Optional Special Farmhouse Buffet or All-You-Can-Eat Cantaloupe & Summer Blue Pond | English and Chinese Guided Tour (Departure from Sapporo)

Hokkaido Sapporo Day Trip | Sapporo Beer Museum, Shiroi Koibito Park, Jozankei Onsen, Daibutsuden, Seafood Market | English and Chinese Guide