Hokkaido One-Day Tour: Toyako Onsen, Noboribetsu Jigokudani Valley, Showa Shinzan, & Lake Shikotsu with Optional Bear Ranch Package (Departure from Sapporo) | Japan
Discover Lake Toya and Shōwa-shinzan, two iconic Hokkaido attractions. Enjoy breathtaking views of clear waters and meet adorable bears at Showa Shinzan Bear Ranch.
- Experience the geothermal wonders of Jigokidani and the stunning volcanic landscapes of Shikotsu-Toya National Park
- Marvel at Lake Toya and Lake Shikotsu, two breathtaking caldera lakes surrounded by majestic mountain peaks
- Shop and indulge at MITSUI OUTLET PARK, featuring premium local delicacies and fresh seasonal seafood
- Guaranteed Departure for Solo Traveler, easy to go!
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour, Small Group |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Departure Time | Early Departure (Before 8 am) |
| Minimum participant requirement | 1 traveler |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Family-friendly | Free for children under 2 (no seat) |
| Seasonal | Winter Snow Exclusive |
| Shopping Experience | Outlet Malls |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Bus tour |
| Transport | Bus tour |
Product Info
The content of this product is provided by machine translation and may not reflect the actual information, please take this into consideration before booking.
— What You Can Expect —
- Lake Tōya
Lake Tōya, located in southwestern Hokkaidō, is part of Shikotsu-Tōya National Park. In the early 20th century, frequent volcanic eruptions caused land subsidence, which formed the lake. Because the lake’s wide surface and the relatively low surrounding somma volcano (only 200–500m above the lake), it gives a vast and open impression. The lake never freezes in winter, making it the northernmost non-freezing lake in Japan, with clear and beautiful waters rippling year-round.
- Shōwa-Shinzan Bear Ranch
Shōwa-Shinzan is an active volcano that erupted in the early Shōwa era, hence its name. Originally only 270 meters high, the mountain grew continuously due to diastrophism and now stands at 402m. It is still growing and is classified as a rare volcanic lava dome. White geothermal steam can still be seen rising from its reddish-brown slopes.
The Shōwa-Shinzan Bear Ranch is home to about 100 purebred Hokkaidō brown bears. The spacious ranch is divided into separate areas by age groups. Having become accustomed to humans, the bears feel at ease to show their cutest side. Visitors can observe them up close in a special viewing room separated only by a small window, close enough to feel their power and even their breath.
- Noboribetsu Jigokudani Valley
Noboribetsu Jigokudani Valley is a volcanic crater formed by past eruptions, creating a mysterious and otherworldly landscape. It is not only the symbol of Noboribetsu Onsen but also one of the most popular tourist attractions. With more than ten types of unique hot springs, it is often called a “department store of hot springs.”
The air is filled with the strong scent of sulfur, creating an hell-like atmosphere. Despite its barren land, the valley produces spring waters with special therapeutic effects, yielding as much as 3,000 liters per minute, the largest source in Noboribetsu. The spring waters vary in quality depending on the location, with as many as 11 types. Local people have been utilizing these magical land for over a century.
- Lake Shikotsu
Lake Shikotsu is a caldera lake with a 40-kilometer shoreline, surrounded by steep mountains such as Mount Eniwa and Mount Tarumae. At 360 meters deep, it is the second-deepest lake in Japan. Thanks to strong water circulation, the lake rarely freezes even in winter, making it the northernmost non-freezing lake in the country.
- Mt. Usu ⇔ Showa-Shinzan
Mt. Usu, located next to the famous Lake Toya in Hokkaido, is an active volcano where visitors can experience volcanic landscapes and stunning natural scenery up close. Guests can take an optional ropeway ride to the observatory, enjoying panoramic views of Lake Toya and iconic sites like Showa-Shinzan.
- Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo Kitahiroshima (winter only)
Mitsui Outlet Park Kitahiroshima is the largest outlet shopping mall in Hokkaidō, bringing both international and Japanese brands to make a paradise for shopping! It also offers a wide variety of food options, specialty souvenir shops, and even a Chaso Moritaen matcha store. Local Farm Shops, selling fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and unique Hokkaidō condiments.
It’s a perfect place for both food lovers and shopaholics, making your trip full of surprises and flavors.
- Cape Chikyū (summer only)
Cape Chikyū takes its name from the Ainu word for “cliff.” The cape’s lighthouse stands 131m tall, with light reaching 25 nautical miles. First lit in 1920, the beam could reach as far as 44km and has been fully automated since 1991.
Cape Chikyū is also located along a migratory route and serves as a breeding ground for falcons. It was once voted the No. 1 scenic natural spot in Hokkaidō by the Asahi Shimbun, and quickly rose to national fame as a top sightseeing destination.
- Lake Tōya Sairo Observatory
Located on the western shore of Lake Tōya, the Sairo Observatory offers panoramic views of Lake Tōya, Nakajima Island, Mount Usu, and Shōwa-Shinzan. Here, visitors can enjoy not only the breathtaking scenery but also local Hokkaidō treats, including rich cream and silky yogurt made from the freshest milk, as well as the famous “Balloon Milk Pudding”, a must-try sweet that is light and delicious.
- Lake Tōya Onsen Town
After lunch in the Lake Tōya Onsen Town, don’t miss the chance to relax in free footbaths and hand baths nearby (bring your own towel!). In winter, the warmth feels especially soothing. On clear days, you can also see Mount Yōtei—nicknamed “Ezo Fuji” for its resemblance to Mount Fuji, making for stunning photos. Along the lakeside, you’ll also find many art installations, perfect for relaxing strolls and photos.
- Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival (seasonal event)
Lake Shikotsu, located in western Chitose within Shikotsu-Tōya National Park, has an average depth of 265 meters and a maximum depth equal to the height of Tokyo Tower. It is the largest lake in Hokkaidō, formed some 30,000 years ago from volcanic activity, and is Japan’s second-deepest lake as well as the northernmost non-freezing lake.
In summer, it serves as a habitat for migratory birds and is popular with birdwatchers. In October, the lake is surrounded by stunning autumn foliage, and the sunsets are spectacular. The annual Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is a must-see winter event. Using sprinklers, water from the lake is sprayed and frozen into various ice structures. By day, they sparkle in the natural “Lake Shikotsu Blue.” At night, colorful illuminations transform them into a magical wonderland.
— Itinerary —
April 1 - October 31:
- 07:50 am Depart from Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel
- 08:00 am Depart from Sapporo TV Tower
- 09:35 am Noboribetsu Jigokudani (approx. 35 minutes)
- 10:50 am Cape Chikyu (approx. 25 minutes)
- 12:00 pm Showa Shinzan, Bear Ranch (approx. 40 minutes) ※Bear Ranch admission included depending on the package.
- 12:50 pm Lake Toya Onsen Street (lunch not included, approx. 70 minutes)
- 2:15 pm Lake Toya SAILO Observatory (approx. 25 minutes)
- 4:00 pm Lake Shikotsu (approx. 35 minutes)
- 5:45 pm Arrive at Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel
- 5:55 pm Arrive at Sapporo TV Tower
November 1 - March 31:
- 08:30 am Depart from Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel
- 08:40 am Depart from Sapporo TV Tower
- 09:50 am Nakayama Pass (approx. 10 minutes)
- 10:50 am Lake Toya SAILO Observatory (approx. 25 minutes)
- 11:30 am Lake Toya Onsen Street (lunch at your own expense, approx. 70 minutes)
- 12:50 pm Showa Shinzan, Bear Ranch (approx. 40 minutes) ※Bear Ranch admission included depending on the package.
- 2:25 pm Noboribetsu Jigokudani (approx. 35 minutes)
- 4:10 pm Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo Kitahiroshima (approx. 90 minutes)<2026/1/31-2026/2/23> Changed to Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival (approx. 60 minutes)
- 6:20 pm Arrive at Sapporo TV Tower
- 6:30 pm Arrive at Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel
Other Recommended Hokkaido Itineraries:
Explore Noboribetsu Bear Park and observe brown bears in a natural setting amidst mountain views
See fuzzy brown bears up close at Noboribetsu Bear Park
Tours departing between April 1 and October 31 include a visit to Cape Chikyu
Purchase Notice
— Tour Conditions —
- Place of departure and destination: Hokkaido
- Duration of trip: Day tour
- Transportation: Chartered bus
- Bus company: JOEUN BUS
- Meals included: None
- Accommodation: None
- Minimum requirement: 1 traveller
- Tour manager: 0
- Tour guide: 1
— Travel Planning/Implementation —
- Name: ㈱ジャパンホリデートラベル 札幌営業所
- Address: 北海道札幌市中央区大通西１丁目さっぽろテレビ塔１Fジャパンホリデートラベル 札幌営業所
- Registration number: 大阪府知事登録旅行業第2-2181号
- Membership: 一般社団法人全国旅行業協会（大阪府支部）正会員, 一般社団法人全旅（大阪府旅行業協会）正会員, JATAは協力会員
Reminders
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
The itinerary is subject to change due to changes in hours or admission policy, please consider before booking
The tour may be delayed due to weather or traffic
If Cape Chikyu is closed due to weather or other reasons, the itinerary will be modified to "View Shiratori Bridge from the car window"
The bus will depart on time. Please adhere to the boarding time. Late passengers will not be accommodated
Delays may occur due to traffic or weather conditions. If you need to catch other transportation, please allow enough time for the next departure
The itinerary may be canceled due to natural disasters or extreme weather. In such cases, please contact us to confirm the status of departure
The time spent at each scenic spot depends on traffic conditions and the number of participants on the day
Please note that the itinerary time is for reference only and may change based on road conditions or participant numbers
During the tour, the driver will provide an introduction, but there will be no tour guide
Due to adjusted business hours on December 31, 2025 and January 26-27, 2026, we will not be able to visit the Outlet. The hours of other attractions will be extended accordingly. Thank you for your understanding.
During the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, the itinerary sequence will be reversed during peak tourist days like Saturdays and Sundays. Please note that the 2026 Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival will run from January 31 to February 23, 2026.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 2 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- For cancellations made 1 to 1 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 40% will apply
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–0 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.
FAQ
Lake Toya is a scenic caldera lake known for its year-round beauty and the active volcanic island, Nakajima, at its center. It is famous for the Toyako Onsen hot spring resort on its shores, offering stunning views and relaxing thermal baths. The lake is also part of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, recognized for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and clear waters, making it a beloved natural landmark.
At Lake Toya, visitors can take scenic boat cruises to Nakajima island, offering closer views of the volcanic activity and surrounding nature. The lakefront promenades are perfect for leisurely strolls or cycling, enjoying the tranquil environment. In the evenings, seasonal fireworks displays are often held over the lake. Additionally, the area around Toyako Onsen provides opportunities to relax in hot springs and enjoy local cuisine.
Yes, it is very feasible to experience key attractions such as Lake Toya and Noboribetsu Jigokudani on a guided one-day tour departing from Sapporo. These tours are specifically designed to optimize travel time, providing comfortable transportation to multiple sites within a single day. This allows travelers to visit diverse locations like dramatic volcanic landscapes, beautiful caldera lakes, and hot spring areas efficiently without the need for independent navigation or complex planning.
Travelers can conveniently visit Noboribetsu Jigokudani and Showa Shinzan without a private car by joining organized day tours that depart from major cities like Sapporo. These tours typically include round-trip transportation to each site, often with a professional driver and sometimes a guide, making the journey seamless. This eliminates the complexities of navigating public transport schedules or renting a vehicle, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience to these unique natural attractions.
At Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley), visitors can observe a dramatic volcanic crater with sulfuric vents, hot steam, and bubbling hot springs, creating a stark, otherworldly landscape with a distinct sulfurous smell. Showa Shinzan is a geologically young stratovolcano that famously rose from a flat field between 1943 and 1945. Its distinctive red rock and active fumaroles showcase ongoing volcanic activity and rapid geological formation, making it a living geological marvel.
Lake Shikotsu is renowned for being Japan's second deepest lake and is famous for its exceptional water clarity, often considered one of the clearest in the country. It is a caldera lake, similar to Lake Toya, but is less developed, offering a more pristine and tranquil natural environment. Unlike some other lakes, it rarely freezes in winter due to its depth and surrounding geothermal activity, making it a beautiful year-round destination for appreciating nature's quiet grandeur.
The optional Showa Shinzan Bear Ranch provides an opportunity to interact with Ezo brown bears, a native Hokkaido species. Visitors can observe the bears in a controlled environment and often purchase special snacks on-site to feed them, which can be a lively and engaging experience. It is a popular stop, especially for families, offering a close-up encounter with these large animals and a chance to learn about their characteristics.
Tours visiting Lake Toya and Noboribetsu Jigokudani typically offer convenient morning departures from central Sapporo, often from designated meeting points like Sapporo Station or downtown hotels. The full-day itinerary ensures ample time at each attraction, with the return journey usually concluding back in Sapporo in the early evening. Transportation is generally provided by comfortable coach, ensuring a structured and efficient travel itinerary for visiting multiple scenic destinations.
Get Help
