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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Tōyako sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, Tōyako is a sparkling gem that offers visitors an unforgettable experience.
From exploring the pristine shores of Lake Tōya to delving into the rich cultural heritage of the Ainu people, Tōyako promises to enthrall and enchant at every turn.
Come, let’s discover the endless adventures that await in this stunning corner of Japan.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Tōyako:
1. Lake Toya Park
Lake Toya Park is a beautiful natural park located in the town of Tōyako in Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Lake Toya from several observation decks and trails. Walk along the lakeshore promenade or take a boat tour to explore the lake.
The park also houses a hot spring foot bath, a music fountain, and a full-scale replica of a traditional Ainu style house that showcases the local indigenous culture.
Don’t miss: The Silo Observatory located on the eastern side of the park, offering a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding mountains, town, and lake.
Also, the Oshoro Bay Lookout affords unbeatable views of the lake’s crescent shape and volcanic island Mount Usu.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds.
2. Mount Usu
Mount Usu is an active volcano located in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park on the island of Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Take the Usuzan Ropeway to the summit for stunning views of Lake Toya and the Pacific Ocean.
Don’t miss: The unique landscape of the volcano with its steaming vents and dramatic views of Lake Toya and the surrounding national park.
Insider travel tips: Check the weather forecast before visiting and dress accordingly as temperatures can drop rapidly at the summit.
3. Oshamanbe Onsen
Oshamanbe Onsen is a quaint hot springs town located in Tōyako, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy a traditional Japanese ryokan experience by staying in one of the many ryokans located in the town, and soak in the natural hot springs that are believed to have healing properties.
Take a scenic drive through the surrounding countryside, particularly during the autumn when the leaves change color.
Don’t miss: The Oshamanbe Onsen Festival held in August, where locals wear colorful yukatas and dance to traditional music. Visit the Sakura-no-Yu public bathhouse, which offers ocean views while you relax in the hot springs.
Insider travel tips: Go beyond just soaking in the hot springs – try the unique footbath experience at Oshamanbe Station, where you can relax your tired feet while waiting for the train.
Be sure to try the local seafood delicacies, including freshly caught squid and sea urchin.
4. Lake Hill Farm
A picturesque farm located in Tōyako, Japan.
What to see or do: – Enjoy a scenic stroll through the endless fields of colorful flowers.
Don’t miss: – The guided farm tour, where you can learn about the history, culture, and techniques of Japanese agriculture.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early to avoid the crowds and have the farm to yourself.
5. Toyako Onsen
A popular hot spring resort town located on the shores of Lake Toya in Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Relax in the natural hot springs, take a boat tour around Lake Toya, visit Showa-shinzan, a volcanic mountain that erupted in 1944, take a cable car ride up to the Usu volcano observatory, visit the Toyako Forest Museum, and enjoy various outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing.
Don’t miss: Watching the fireworks show over the lake, which is held every night during the summer months.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to enjoy the hot springs without the crowds, try the local specialty “onsen tamago,” which is an egg boiled in the hot spring water, and consider staying at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) to fully immerse yourself in the local culture.
6. Showa-shinzan Ropeway
A cable car system that takes visitors up to the observation deck of Showa-shinzan, a volcanic mountain in Hokkaido.
What to see or do: Enjoy the stunning view of the mountain and its surroundings from the observation deck at the top of the ropeway. Take a short walk to the Showa-shinzan volcano which erupted at this location in 1943.
Don’t miss: The chance to witness the volcanic activity that is still present in the area. Be sure to bring a camera to capture unforgettable scenes of the mountain and its surrounding terrain.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds. Dress warmly as it can be very windy and chilly at the top of the ropeway.
The area can be slippery in colder weather, so wear appropriate footwear. Upgrade to the VIP gondola for a more private and luxurious experience.
7. Nakajima Island
A small island located in the northern part of Lake Tōya in Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy the serene atmosphere of the island and take a relaxing stroll along the walking trail that circles the perimeter of the island.
Take in the scenic views of the surrounding mountains and lake. You can also rent bicycles, kayaks, and paddleboards to explore the island and lake more thoroughly.
Don’t miss: The Nakajima Tourist Information Center which provides information about the island, including its history and flora and fauna. The center also has a small observation deck that offers beautiful views of the island and the lake.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic lunch or snacks to enjoy by the lake and make a day trip out of it.
It’s also recommended to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat during the summer months, as the island can get quite sunny and hot.
For a more peaceful and immersive experience, it’s best to avoid visiting during the Golden Week holiday in Japan (the first week of May) and during the peak tourist season in July and August.
8. Sairo Observatory
Sairo Observatory is a viewing point located on the top of a hill overlooking Lake Toya in Tōyako, Japan.
What to see or do: The observatory offers breathtaking panoramic views of the clear blue lake and the surrounding volcanic mountains, including Mount Usu.
There are several walking trails that lead up to the observatory, giving visitors a chance to enjoy the stunning scenery along the way.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the observatory at night, as the view of the stars and the city lights reflecting on the lake is unforgettable.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes, as the walking trails up to the observatory can be steep and uneven.
9. Ukimido Park
Ukimido Park is a stunning natural attraction located in the town of Tōyako in Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a picturesque walk around the serene Ukimido Pond which is surrounded by lush forest and a variety of vibrant flowers.
The small temple, Ukimido Hall, sits in the middle of the pond and is connected to the shore by a wooden bridge.
You can also go boating on the pond.
Don’t miss: You cannot miss the mesmerizing twilight views of Ukimido Pond, as the colors of the sky blend seamlessly with the waters of the pond.
Also, keep an eye out for the seasonal Japanese cherry blossoms, foliage, and lilies.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Ukimido Park is during the lavender season (late June to early July) and autumn foliage season (late September to early October).
10. Toyako Forest Museum
A unique, artful museum in Tōyako, Hokkaido, that celebrates the region’s rich natural heritage and cultural history.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a series of stunning, modernist galleries that showcase everything from local flora and fauna to traditional crafts and festivals.
Interactive exhibits and hands-on workshops provide engaging experiences for guests of all ages.
Don’t miss: The intricate dioramas of Toyako’s diverse ecosystems and the museum’s impressive mineral collection. Be sure to also take a stroll through the surrounding woods, which feature over a thousand different plant species.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to beat the crowds and consider taking the Museum’s guided tours to get a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits.
Don’t miss the chance to try Hokkaido’s famous dairy products in the museum’s cafe, which offers sweeping views of Mt. Yotei.
11. Toyako Manseikaku Observatory Lounge Hakuun
Toyako Manseikaku Observatory Lounge Hakuun is a panoramic observation deck located at the top of a hotel in Tōyako with breathtaking views of Lake Toya and the surrounding mountains.
What to see or do: Enjoy the stunning 360-degree views of Lake Toya and its nearby mountains while sipping on a cup of coffee at the lounge.
The observation deck also offers a view of Mount Usu, a nearby active volcano.
Don’t miss: The stunning sunsets that can be seen over the lake from the observation deck are not to be missed. Additionally, the lounge is open in the evening, offering nighttime views of the illuminated lake and starry skies.
Insider travel tips: Visit earlier in the day to avoid crowds and catch a glimpse of the morning mist that often blankets Lake Toya.
Entry to the observation deck is free for hotel guests and just 500 yen for non-guests. Consider taking the hotel’s shuttle bus from the nearby town of Sobetsu for convenient access to the observatory.
12. Sun Lake Oyunuma Natural Footbath
Sun Lake Oyunuma Natural Footbath is a hot spring located in the town of Tōyako, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can relax and soak their feet in the hot spring while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding nature. The water is rich in minerals, and the temperature ranges between 40-50°C.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take a stroll around the nearby Oyunuma Pond, which is known for its vibrant blue color and bubbling mud pots.
The pond is a ten-minute walk from the footbath area and is open for hiking year-round.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Sun Lake Oyunuma Natural Footbath is during autumn when the colors of the leaves surrounding the pond are at their most vibrant.
The spring can get crowded, so arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds. Don’t forget to bring a towel to dry your feet after soaking, as well as a change of socks.
13. Toyako Pleasure Boat
Toyako Pleasure Boat is a popular tourist attraction in Tōyako, Japan, that offers scenic boat rides on Lake Toya.
What to see or do: During the boat ride, you can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the serene lake waters, while listening to informative commentary by the boat’s captain.
You can also take in the view of the famous Nakajima Island, which rises up from the middle of the lake.
Don’t miss: The night cruise, which is especially popular for its spectacular view of the fireworks that are displayed over the lake during the summer months.
Insider travel tips: – Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to avoid long waiting times.
14. Onsen-ji Temple
Onsen-ji Temple is a beautiful Buddhist temple located in the town of Tōyako in Hokkaido, Japan. It is situated on the Eastern shore of Lake Tōya and is a popular destination for visitors to the area.
What to see or do: Take in the stunning scenery surrounding the temple as you explore the historic buildings and picturesque gardens. Visitors can also participate in traditional Buddhist activities such as meditation and sutra copying.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a stroll through the temple’s beautiful gardens which are particularly stunning during the cherry blossom season in spring.
The temple also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, so be sure to check the schedule before you go.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the temple early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
15. Toyako Visitors Center
The Toyako Visitors Center is a tourist information center and museum located on the southern shore of Lake Toya in Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: The center features exhibits on the history, geology and ecology of the region.
Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of Lake Toya and Mount Usu from the observation deck and take a stroll through the beautiful flower garden.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience the power of the nearby active volcano, Mount Usu. The center also offers boat tours of Lake Toya and walking tours of the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: Visit the center early in the morning to avoid the crowds.