Toyako and Noboribetsu Hot Spring and Scenery Course

This two day course tours the Toyako and Noboribetsu area, with its dynamic volcanic scenery and fine hot springs. From a sweeping panorama seen from a ropeway, to an observatory overlooking the lake, to the steaming hells, and to soothing baths, it is a journey that lets you feel the powerful nature of Hokkaido. Driving a rental car is recommended.

Course Route

10:00 Up to the summit by the Mount Usu Ropeway Ride the ropeway for about six minutes to the summit overlooking volcano and lake. Below lies the reddish brown Showa Shinzan, and beyond it the blue of Lake Toyako spreads out for a powerful view.

11:30 Close look at Showa Shinzan Look up from the base at the red mountain born of volcanic activity. Still venting steam, it makes you feel that the earth is alive.

12:30 Lunch by Lake Toyako Have lunch with local ingredients while gazing at the lake. You can spend a relaxed time in front of the calm water.

14:00 Lake panorama at Silo Observatory Head to the observatory on the west side of Lake Toyako. It is a superb viewpoint where you can take in the lake, Nakajima island, Mount Usu, and Showa Shinzan all at once.

15:30 Stay at Toyako Onsen Take lodging by the lake and rest in the hot springs. In summer, fireworks are launched over the lake at night, and you can watch them from your room or the lakeside.

9:00 Travel to Noboribetsu Onsen On the second day, drive to Noboribetsu Onsen. The scenery along the way is beautiful, making the drive itself enjoyable.

10:00 Stroll the hells Visit Jigokudani, the source of the Noboribetsu hot springs. Steam rises from the remains of an explosion crater, spreading out into a uniquely rugged landscape.

11:30 Finish in the famous baths of Noboribetsu Round off the trip with a soak in Noboribetsu Onsen, known for its variety of spring waters. Many facilities offer day use bathing.

Highlights

- The grand panorama of volcano and lake from the summit of the Mount Usu Ropeway - The powerful sight of Showa Shinzan still venting steam - The calm scenery of Lake Toyako seen from Silo Observatory - The rugged landscape of the steaming Noboribetsu hells

Access and Tips

- The area is wide, so driving a rental car is convenient - The route from Lake Toyako to Noboribetsu has fine scenery and makes the travel enjoyable - In summer, book lodging to match the Lake Toyako fireworks and enjoy them over the water - The hells have a maintained walking path, so comfortable shoes are reassuring

A Quick Tip

Since the route tours two hot spring towns, staying one night to give yourself time is recommended. The views from Mount Usu and Silo Observatory are best on clear days, so aiming for fine weather makes it even more enjoyable.