【Group of 1+】Hokkaido Noboribetsu & Lake Toya Day Tour | Noboribetsu Jigokudani & Showa Shinzan, Mount Usu, Bear Ranch & Lake Toya & Lake Hill Farm | Depart from Sapporo
- A collection of two routes available year-round: the spring/summer sightseeing route (April-November) and the winter-exclusive snow route (December-March), open for booking all year round.
- Visit three famous hot spring spots in one day: the volcanic landscape of Noboribetsu Jigokudani, the lake views of Lake Toya and Mount Yotei, and a free foot bath in Jozankei.
- Rich selection of optional experiences: Mount Usu Ropeway, Bear Ranch (self-funded), and snowmobiling in winter.
- Travel in a licensed sightseeing bus with a bilingual guide (Chinese/Japanese). No need to drive yourself, enjoy a stress-free trip.
Package options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| 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 |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Bus tour |
| Transport | Bus tour |
Product Info
【Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley)】
Located northeast of the Noboribetsu Onsen area, this is a 450-meter-wide explosion crater formed by the eruption of Mount Hiyoriyama. Jigokudani is a massive volcanic crater and the source of Noboribetsu's hot springs. In winter, the contrast between the snowy landscape and the rising steam is truly breathtaking! This desolate scenery is reminiscent of hell, hence the name 'Jigokudani' (Hell Valley).
【Usuzan Ropeway】
Mount Usu is a world-renowned active volcano that has erupted four times in the last century. Take the ropeway to the summit for an effortless climb, where you can capture Lake Toya and Showa Shinzan in one frame. On clear days, you can even see Mount Yotei in the distance—perfect for panoramic shots!
【Bear Park】
Located near the entrance of the Showa Shinzan Ropeway, the Bear Park is home to over 100 purebred Hokkaido brown bears. Brown bears are the largest wild mammals in Hokkaido. At the park, you can feed them; when they see food, the bears often stand up and wave at visitors, which is incredibly cute and endearing!
【Lake Hill Farm & Mount Yotei】
Known as the 'Ezo Fuji', Mount Yotei features a near-perfect conical shape and is the most iconic photo spot in Niseko. You can easily frame the entire mountain from various vantage points, including nearby farms, observation decks, Lake Hangetsu, and Kyogoku Spring Water Park, to capture stunning Japanese-style landscape photos!
【Lake Toya Observatory】
The best spot for panoramic views of Lake Toya, offering a clear sight of the central island, Mount Yotei, and the Showa Shinzan volcanic group. Famous for being the world's largest caldera lake, 'Lake Toya' is renowned for its volcanic landscape. The shimmering water looks particularly enchanting against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
【Jozankei】
Known as 'Sapporo's backyard', it is just a 1-hour drive from Sapporo. Boasting high-quality natural hot springs, it offers picturesque scenery all year round. In autumn, the mountains are ablaze with vibrant fall foliage, making it a famous spot for leaf-peeping in Hokkaido. In winter, it features one of Sapporo's largest ski resorts, where you can enjoy snow activities and soak in hot springs to shake off the chill—a rich and relaxing experience.
【Snow World Toya】
A winter-exclusive snow park where you can experience thrilling snowmobiling (at your own expense) while enjoying views of the majestic Mount Yotei. With clear blue skies, pristine powder snow, lush green pines, and rolling snow-covered mountains, every view is a healing winter scene. Immerse yourself in the joy of playing in the snow in Hokkaido.
【Lake Hill Farm】 is a highland farm by Lake Toya with an expansive view of the lake surface. On clear days, Mount Yotei is clearly visible in the distance. With vast green pastures and cows and sheep wandering around, you can observe the animals up close. In spring and summer, the flower fields are in full bloom, and paired with the farm's wooden cabins, it's the perfect spot for Japanese-style pastoral photos!
【Lake Toya】 is a circular caldera lake formed by volcanic eruptions and is part of the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. It is truly magical—even in the freezing Hokkaido winter, the lake never freezes over and maintains its deep blue water year-round. You can take a sightseeing boat to enjoy a unique tour of Lake Toya~
【Lake Toya Observatory】 The best spot for panoramic photography of Lake Toya, offering views of the island in the middle of the lake, Mount Yotei, Showa Shinzan, and more. Lake Toya is famous for its unique volcanic landscape, boasting the world's largest crater lake. The shimmering lake surface is especially enchanting against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
【Noboribetsu Jigokudani】 Located northeast of the Noboribetsu Onsen area, this is a 450-meter-wide explosion crater formed by the eruption of Mount Hiyoriyama. Jigokudani is a massive volcanic crater and the source of Noboribetsu's hot springs. In winter, the contrast between the snowy landscape and the rising steam is truly breathtaking! This desolate scenery is reminiscent of hell, hence the name 'Jigokudani'.
【Usuzan Ropeway】 Take the ropeway to the summit for an effortless climb, where you can capture Lake Toya and Showa Shinzan in one frame. On clear days, you can even see Mount Yotei in the distance—perfect for panoramic shots!
【Showa Shinzan Bear Park】 Located near the entrance of the Showa Shinzan Ropeway, the Bear Park is home to over 100 purebred Hokkaido brown bears. Brown bears are the largest wild mammals in Hokkaido. At the park, you can feed them; when they see food, the bears often stand up and wave at visitors, which is incredibly cute and endearing!
【Snow World Toya】 A winter-exclusive snow park by Lake Toya with an expansive view. On clear days, you can ride a snowmobile across the snowfield and see Mount Yotei directly—perfect for capturing stunning snow photos.
【Mount Yotei】 Known as the 'Ezo Fuji', it features a near-perfect conical shape and is the most iconic photo spot in Niseko. You can easily frame the entire mountain from various vantage points, including nearby farms, observation decks, Lake Hangetsu, and Kyogoku Spring Water Park, to capture stunning Japanese-style landscape photos!
【Jozankei】 A comfortable valley hot spring town near Sapporo, hidden between the mountains. The Toyohira River flows through it, and it is most famous for the 'Red Futami Suspension Bridge'. The combination of the red bridge, the stream, and the forest makes for great photos.
【Lake Hill Farm】 is a highland farm by Lake Toya with an expansive view of the lake surface. On clear days, Mount Yotei is clearly visible in the distance. With vast green pastures and cows and sheep wandering around, you can observe the animals up close. In spring and summer, the flower fields are in full bloom, and paired with the farm's wooden cabins, it's the perfect spot for Japanese-style pastoral photos!
【Lake Toya】 is a circular caldera lake formed by volcanic eruptions and is part of the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. It is truly magical—even in the freezing Hokkaido winter, the lake never freezes over and maintains its deep blue water year-round. You can take a sightseeing boat to enjoy a unique tour of Lake Toya~
Purchase Notice
[Tourism Conditions]
Travel departure point and destination: Hokkaido
Trip duration: Day trip
Transportation: Bus
Bus company name: Honkichi Co., Ltd.
Meals included: Breakfast 0, Lunch 0, Dinner 0
Accommodation facilities: None
Minimum group size: 1
Tour guide: 1
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating company name: FESTON CO., LTD.
Address: 〒115-0052 2-29-3 Akabane Kita, Kita-ku, Tokyo 503 Akabane
License exemption number: Tokyo Governor Registration Travel Industry 2-8602
Travel Association Name: JATA Cooperative Member
Reminders
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 18:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: High blood pressure, Heart disease, Acrophobia, Asthma, Epilepsy, Pregnant women
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Children aged 0-2 years old who do not occupy a seat are free, but participation is not recommended. If you must participate, please inform us in advance via email. If you do not inform us in advance and there are not enough seats, the driver has the right to refuse service. Children under 2 years old who need to occupy a seat must purchase a ticket at the same price as adults and must be noted in the remarks. Children over 2 years old are charged the same price as adults.
Senior citizens aged 65 and above must ensure they are in good health and fit to travel, and must be accompanied by a family member or friend aged 22 or above throughout the trip.
This is a shared ride with fixed itinerary. Customers participating in this tour are requested to adhere to the time allotted at each attraction and follow the instructions of the driver/guide.
No refunds will be given for any absences or cancellations due to personal issues, lateness, or other reasons. Please take note.
No refunds will be given to those who leave the group midway through the trip. Furthermore, any consequences arising from this, including personal injury or property damage, will be the sole responsibility of the individual.
Please be sure to comply with local Japanese laws and regulations, and do not bring any items prohibited by Japanese law, so as to avoid violating the law and affecting your own rights.
Depending on the day's traffic conditions, weather, holidays, and crowds, arrival times for each itinerary may vary, and the order of the itineraries may also be reversed. If there are delays or cancellations due to traffic congestion on special days or force majeure, please understand that no refunds will be given on this basis.
Vehicle type: Vehicles will be assigned based on the number of participants. For smaller groups, a driver will also serve as the accompanying person throughout the tour; no additional tour leader will be provided. Please be aware that this is a shared ride service; other guests will be traveling with you.
The day trip itinerary does not include personal travel insurance and personal accident insurance. Please purchase these separately if needed. Outdoor activities and high-risk sports involve specific risks and dangers; please assess your own health and abilities. Our company assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage caused by accidents or unforeseen circumstances. Thank you for your understanding.
Please keep your passport and valuables with you at all times during the trip. You will be responsible for any loss, theft, or damage.
Please do not eat or drink inside the vehicle. If any stains are caused, compensation will be required according to local cleaning standards. Thank you for your understanding.
FAQs
1. How long should one plan to spend exploring Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley)?
To fully appreciate Noboribetsu Jigokudani's unique volcanic landscape, including its steam vents and sulfurous streams, visitors typically spend about 60 to 90 minutes. This allows ample time to walk along the well-maintained boardwalks, observe the bubbling mud pots, and capture photos of the dramatic scenery. The main walking paths are relatively easy to navigate, but wearing comfortable shoes is highly recommended for a pleasant experience.
2. What are the geological characteristics of Noboribetsu Jigokudani and its volcanic activity?
Noboribetsu Jigokudani, often referred to as "Hell Valley," is a dramatic volcanic crater site that continuously emits sulfurous steam and hot gases, creating an otherworldly, barren landscape. It is the primary source of Noboribetsu's famous hot spring waters. While not an active volcano in the eruption sense, it exhibits ongoing geothermal activity, making it a visually striking natural wonder. The valley features reddish-brown terrain, numerous steam vents, and bubbling pools.
3. What are the transportation options for reaching Noboribetsu Jigokudani from Sapporo?
From Sapporo, visitors can reach Noboribetsu Jigokudani by taking a train to Noboribetsu Station, followed by a local bus ride to the Onsen town. For a more convenient and comprehensive experience, joining a guided day tour from Sapporo is an excellent option. Such tours typically include round-trip bus transportation, eliminating the hassle of public transport planning and allowing travelers to comfortably visit multiple attractions in the region, including Noboribetsu Jigokudani.
4. What unique activities or sights can visitors experience at Lake Toya and Showa Shinzan?
At Lake Toya, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the caldera lake and its surrounding mountains, including Mt. Usu. Boat cruises are often available, offering unique perspectives of the lake and its islands. Showa Shinzan, a remarkable lava dome that emerged rapidly in the 1940s, stands as a living geological monument. Visitors can observe the mountain's still-steaming summit and learn about its dramatic formation. A bear park is also located nearby for wildlife interaction.
5. What can visitors expect to see and do at the Mt. Usu Bear Park near Showa Shinzan?
At the Mt. Usu Bear Park, located adjacent to Showa Shinzan, visitors have the opportunity to observe Hokkaido brown bears up close in a natural habitat. The park features a unique feeding experience where you can safely toss apples or biscuits to the bears from observation enclosures, watching their playful and sometimes surprising interactions. It provides an engaging and educational experience to learn about Hokkaido's indigenous bear population and their behaviors.
6. Are there opportunities for snow activities like snowmobiling near Lake Toya or other tour attractions during winter?
During the winter season, Hokkaido's snowy landscape transforms, offering various exciting snow activities. Many areas around Lake Toya and other popular tourist destinations provide opportunities for activities such as snowmobiling. These can often be found at dedicated activity centers or farms in the vicinity. Engaging in snow activities offers an exhilarating way to experience the region's beautiful winter scenery, subject to weather conditions and local operator availability.
7. What kind of experience does Lake Hill Farm offer visitors?
Lake Hill Farm, situated near Lake Toya, offers a charming rural retreat where visitors can enjoy Hokkaido's fresh agricultural produce. It is particularly renowned for its delicious homemade ice cream and gelato, crafted from local dairy. Guests can savor these treats, explore the pleasant farm grounds, and sometimes interact with farm animals. It provides a relaxing stop for enjoying local flavors and scenic surroundings, offering a taste of Hokkaido's pastoral beauty.
8. What benefits does having a Chinese and Japanese speaking driver-guide provide on a Hokkaido day tour?
Having a Chinese and Japanese speaking driver-guide significantly enhances a Hokkaido day tour by ensuring seamless communication and a more enriching experience. The guide can offer insightful commentary on local culture, history, and the attractions, deepening your understanding. This eliminates language barriers, provides ease of navigation in a comfortable, government-approved vehicle, and removes any stress related to public transportation or directions, allowing for a truly relaxed and enjoyable journey through Hokkaido.
