Things to do in Toyako

Lake Tōya

Lake Tōya is Japan's northernmost non-freezing lake, where the surface never freezes even in winter. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom magnificently along the shores, summer nights feature fireworks displays, and autumn brings beautiful fall foliage. Visitors can enjoy leisurely experiences like cruising the lake on sightseeing boats, observing Ezo deer on the central island, or soaking in open-air baths while admiring stunning views in the hot spring resort area along the southern shore. Lake Tōya is a volcanic lake located in southwestern Hokkaido, offering beautiful water scenery throughout the year. The island "Nakajima" in the center of the lake is home to many Ezo deer and features a forest museum. Visitors can take a sightseeing boat to land on the island. The southern shore of Lake Tōya features popular tourist spots like Toyako Onsen town, Mount Usu, and Showa Shinzan, making it a favored resort destination. Boarding a sightseeing cruise from Toyako Onsen town allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery created by the lake and surrounding mountains. To the south, you can see Mount Usu and Showa Shinzan, while on clear days, Mount Yotei (Ezo Fuji) is visible in the northern distance. The sightseeing boat stops at Nakajima Island, where visitors can explore the Forest Museum and take walks. If you venture further inland, you might encounter adorable Ezo deer. ※During winter, landing on Nakajima is not possible, but you can still enjoy lake cruises. Scenic Viewpoint Located on the northwest shore of the lakeSilo Observation DeckThis popular viewpoint offers a panoramic view of Lake Tōya and is perfect for photography. Volcano Learning Facility The "Toyako Volcano Science Museum" located in the hot spring town recreates the 1977 volcanic eruption using smoke, visuals, and sound effects, allowing visitors to learn about volcanoes. Enjoyment in every season Summer (Weekend nights)A lakeside fireworks display is held, creating a romantic scenic view. WinterThe hot spring town features the "Starlight Street (Corridor of Light)" illumination, allowing visitors to enjoy a magical atmosphere. Lake Tōya is one of Hokkaido's premier resort destinations where you can enjoy beautiful nature throughout the seasons, hot springs, and various activities. It's the perfect tourist spot for a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway.

No. 6 of Family-friendly Attractions in Hokkaido

Showa Shinzan Bear Ranch

Showa Shinzan is an active volcano that was formed by an eruption in the early Showa period, which is also the origin of its name. Originally about 270 meters in elevation, it has gradually risen due to crustal activity and now reaches 398 meters. Known as a "new mountain" that continues to grow, it is one of the rare lava dome-type volcanoes in the world. White steam still rises from its reddish-brown slopes, allowing visitors to feel the earth's energy. At the bear farm located at the foot of Mount Showa Shinzan, approximately 100 purebred Hokkaido brown bears are raised. On the vast premises, the bears live in areas divided by age group. At each entrance of the park, there are feeding stations where you can purchase apples and snacks to enjoy the experience of feeding the bears. The brown bears, accustomed to humans, display adorable gestures as they seek food. For example, they entertain visitors by standing on their hind legs and waving their front paws, bowing, or lying down to perform humorous movements. Special Observation Experience For those who want to observe brown bears up close, you can use the special observation room called the "Human Cage" located within the park. This thrilling experience allows you to face the bears through small windows and feel their powerful presence and breath at close range. Showa Shinzan is a fascinating tourist attraction that combines a rare, still-growing volcano with a bear ranch where visitors can interact with brown bears. This popular destination allows you to simultaneously experience the raw power of nature and close encounters with wildlife.

Toyako Kisen

Toyako Kisen operates sightseeing boats that cruise around Lake Toya, a beautiful caldera lake in Hokkaido. Departing from the pier in Toyako Onsen town, you can enjoy magnificent views of Nakajima Island floating in the center of the lake, as well as majestic sights like Mount Usu, Showa Shinzan, and Mount Yotei. Especially designed to resemble medieval European castles, Espoir creates a special cruise experience that makes you feel like you've stepped into a storybook world. In summer, special fireworks viewing cruises operate in conjunction with the long-running fireworks festival, allowing you to enjoy the magical fireworks reflected on the lake surface up close. This popular tourist spot allows visitors to enjoy Toyako's unique breathtaking scenery while experiencing the beautiful nature that changes with each season.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Toyako

Hokkaido Shikotsu-Toya National Park Silo Observatory

Hokkaido Shikotsu-Toya National Park Silo Observatory is located on the west bank of Lake Tōya in Hokkaido. With its prime location, it is an ideal spot to enjoy a panoramic view of the lake. Standing on the observation deck, visitors can take in the tranquil beauty of Lake Tōya, while also looking out at Nakajima, the majestic Mount Usu, and Showa-shinzan, which together form a magnificent natural landscape. This is not only an ideal place for sightseeing but also a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Whether it is the cherry blossoms in spring, the lush greenery of summer, the colorful foliage of fall, or the snow-covered landscape of winter, the beauty of every season can be fully appreciated. The observation deck is equipped with a convenient parking lot, making it very accessible for self-drive visitors. Small shops and cafes nearby offer a variety of local snacks and drinks, making it an ideal place for visitors to relax. Here, visitors can enjoy delicious food while taking in the magnificent natural view, and experience the unique natural charm of Hokkaido.

2026 Global 50 - Hot Springs Attractions

Lake Toya Hot Spring

Lake Toya Hot Spring is located on the southern shore of Lake Tōya and was formed by volcanic activity—the 1910 eruption of Mount Usu created the hot spring sources on the lakeshore, and it officially opened as a hot spring destination in 1917. The water is a sodium-calcium chloride spring. The hot spring town stretches along the southern shore, with hotels, restaurants, and specialty shops concentrated there. Foot and hand baths are available along the lakeside, where you can stop and relax during your walk. A crater formed after the 2000 eruption of Mount Usu is preserved on the mountainside, allowing you to experience the awe of the volcanic landscape up close. Volcanoes, lakes, and hot springs intertwine here, creating a hot spring destination that offers both geological wonders and a relaxing experience.

Mount Usu

Youzhu Volcano is a famous and frequently active volcano in the world. It erupted 4 times in the 100 years of the 20th century. What is even more amazing is that after each eruption, a new volcano will grow around it: Meiji New Mountain in 1910, 1943 Showa Shinzan in 1977, Usu Shinzan in 1977, and Xishan Crater in 2000, which recently erupted. At present, there is a cable car on the mountain, and there are many tourist trails around the volcano, where you can see the shocking scene of the Usu volcano group. When you reach the mountainside of Usu Volcano, you will see two observatories on the left and right. When you walk to the Toyako observatory on the right, Showa Shinzan once again appears in front of you. Standing here, you can enjoy the scenery of Toya Lake and the surrounding area. If you walk up the mountain on the walking path in the opposite direction, you will arrive at the former observation deck of Mount Yousu Crater, where you can see the view of the Great Crater of Ginuma and Spitfire Bay.

Showa-shinzan

Showa-shinzan is an active volcano that erupted in the early Showa era (20th century) and is also a young active volcano in Japan. Today, geothermal white smoke is emitted year-round from this reddish-brown volcano. The summit cannot be climbed; visitors can only explore and view the volcano from the foot of the mountain. Showa-shinzan was originally only 270 m high. Later, due to crustal movement, the mountain's height gradually increased, and it now stands at 402 m. The attraction area also features the The Peak Tram, Boonie Bears Land, and other small attractions. From here, you can also view another active volcano in Hokkaido in the distance—Mount Usu.

Usuzan Ropeway

Experience the breath of the earth! Ride the brand-new Swiss-made cable car for a 6-minute one-way skywalk. The large windows with wide glass panels offer you spectacular panoramic views. Step on the majestic natural scenery! From the Usuzan Summit Station, crossing the volcanic crater observation deck, there is a one-way approximately 1.1 km, 40–50 minute walk along the "Usu Sommarin Mountain Trail" leading to the Usu Sommarin Mountain observation deck. From the Usu Koboyama observation deck, you can take in panoramic views of the volcanic crater, Lake Toya, Mount Yotei, and the Pacific Ocean. Connected to the mountain road leading to Usu Town in Date City, this is a popular hiking trail. Learn how volcanoes work and receive blessings! At Mount Usu, the Ropeway's six stations, and the summit station, display boards are set up to guide visitors through the eruption history and volcanic mechanisms of Mount Usu. At these facilities, you can learn about the world's rare geopark located in a volcanic zone.

Ukimido Park

No. 4 of Family-friendly Attractions in Hokkaido

Noboribetsu Bear Park

This is the place where you can observe bears up close, attached to the No. 1 Ranch. It is designed as if humans are in a cage, and the bears are surrounding them, so you can experience what it's like to be the prey. You can also closely observe the bears' characteristics, such as their eyes, ears, noses, and fur, up close.  The female brown bears are very active, standing on two legs, lying down, and begging for treats in silly poses. Some of them are quite skillful, standing up and spinning around to show off, and some even balance in a V shape. Here you can observe the movements, dexterity, and intelligence of the bears. From spring to autumn, the No. 2 Ranch is home to either "curious and playful young bears between the ages of 3 and 5," "unique bears between the ages of 9 and 11," or "veteran bears between the ages of 18 and 30 who are skilled at appealing their desires." During the winter, "curious and playful young bears" appear.