| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Minimum participant requirement | 6 travelers |
| Tour types | None |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Bus tour |
| Transport | Bus tour |
【Travel Conditions】
Travel origin and destination: Hokkaido
Travel days: Round trip
Transportation: Chartered bus
Bus company name: Tongxin International Co., Ltd.
Meals: Breakfast 0 times, Lunch 0 times, Dinner 0 times
Accommodation facilities: None
Minimum group size: 6
Team leader: 1
Tour guide: 0
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating company name: Tongxin International Co., Ltd.
Address: 3F, 422, Minami 8-jo Nishi 4-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
License Number: Hokkaido Governor's Registered Travel Business Area No. 3-674
Travel Association Name: Japan Travel Agents Association Cooperating Member
A minimum of 6 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 1 day(s) before departure (local time 17:00). 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
Passengers are requested to adhere to the scheduled itinerary. If you are late, it will be considered an automatic cancellation of the trip, and the fees paid will not be refunded.
If you wish to bring luggage, please indicate this in the reservation notes beforehand (including strollers and wheelchairs, etc.). The vehicle type will be adjusted according to the number of participants. If you confirm the vehicle type is suitable for luggage 3-5 days before departure, a fee of 1500 yen per piece of luggage will be charged. Please pay the tour guide in cash before boarding.
We will be waiting for you at the meeting point selected on your order. Please do not change the pick-up point without prior notice (at least 3 days in advance) (as this will prevent us from meeting you smoothly, causing delays or causing you to miss the trip).
A departure notification will be sent to your email address before 5 PM the day before departure. Please check your email then. The email will contain your tour guide's contact information, vehicle license plate number, and detailed itinerary information. Thank you.
For groups of 10 or fewer, a driver/guide will be provided. To ensure the safety of our guests, the driver will only provide a brief introduction to the attractions and the travel schedule. We appreciate your understanding.
Lake Toya is renowned for its picturesque beauty as a caldera lake, formed from ancient volcanic eruptions. It never freezes, even in winter, due to geothermal activity. Its iconic features include four volcanic islands, known collectively as Nakajima, at its center, contributing to its serene and secluded charm. The surrounding volcanic landscape, including Mount Usu and Showa Shinzan, adds to its dramatic scenery and geological significance.
Visitors to Lake Toya can enjoy various activities throughout the year. Popular options include leisurely strolls along the tranquil lakeside, boat cruises to Nakajima islands, and visiting nearby attractions like the Toyako Visitor Center. In summer, water sports are popular, while evenings often feature fireworks displays. The area also offers opportunities to savor fresh local produce and explore the surrounding natural beauty.
The volcanic activity of Mount Usu has profoundly shaped Lake Toya, a caldera lake, and created Showa Shinzan, a lava dome that rose dramatically from a flat field. These active volcanoes cause continuous geothermal heat, preventing Lake Toya from freezing. The landscape around Showa Shinzan vividly displays recent lava formations, making it a living geological museum. This ongoing volcanic process contributes to the region's dynamic terrain and rich mineral springs.
From Sapporo, visitors can reach Lake Toya and Noboribetsu by train or bus. For Lake Toya, take a limited express train from Sapporo to Toya Station, then a local bus to the lakeside. For Noboribetsu, take a limited express train to Noboribetsu Station, followed by a bus to the hot spring town. Renting a car also offers flexibility to explore these areas and other nearby sites at your own pace.
Yes, it is feasible to visit key highlights like Lake Toya and Showa Shinzan on a day trip from Sapporo, especially with an organized tour. A structured itinerary ensures efficient travel between locations, allowing time to enjoy the lakeside scenery, explore the Showa Shinzan volcano, and visit attractions like the bear ranch within a single day. Independent travel by public transport would require careful planning due to travel times.
At the Showa Shinzan bear ranch, visitors can observe and interact with Hokkaido brown bears, often feeding them snacks. The ranch is conveniently located near the base of the Showa Shinzan volcano, allowing for close-up views of its unique lava dome formations. It offers a combination of wildlife interaction and a chance to appreciate the geological wonder of a rapidly formed mountain.
The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, held in winter, transforms the area into a magical ice wonderland. Visitors can explore intricately sculpted ice structures and caves made from the lake's pure water, illuminated with colorful lights. Activities typically include ice sliding, snowshoeing, and enjoying local food stalls. The festival culminates in evening firework displays on weekends, showcasing the beauty of the frozen landscape.
At Yangti Mountain Famous Water Park, visitors can sample and collect sweet, natural spring water, renowned for its purity. It's an opportunity to experience a local natural resource. Gaoqiao Ranch offers the joy of roaming vast pastures, interacting with farm animals, and savoring fresh, direct-from-the-ranch foods and dairy products. Both locations provide a relaxing, close-to-nature experience, complementing the scenic beauty of Lake Toya.