An Unforgettable Day Trip from Sapporo
Lake Toya, Showa Shinzan & Noboribetsu
Experience some of Central Hokkaido’s most spectacular scenery on a private day trip from Sapporo.
From panoramic mountain views and the beautiful waters of Lake Toya to volcanic landscapes and the dramatic hot springs of Noboribetsu, this carefully planned journey brings together some of Hokkaido’s most memorable sights in one day.
Roadside Station “Boyou-Nakayama”
Nakayama Pass
At an elevation of 831 metres, Nakayama Pass is an important point along National Route 230, which connects Sapporo and Lake Toya.
It is one of the best viewpoints for seeing the magnificent Mount Yotei, also known as “Ezo Fuji” because of its beautiful conical shape.
We believe the view of Mount Yotei from here is one of the most beautiful and perfectly shaped views of the mountain.
One of the most popular local snacks is age-imo, potatoes coated in a slightly sweet batter and deep-fried.
Simple, delicious and filling, age-imo is a classic Hokkaido road-trip treat.
With shops and restaurants available at the roadside station, Nakayama Pass is also the perfect place to take a break during your journey.
Silo Observatory
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Toya from Silo Observatory, a peaceful viewpoint that is well worth visiting during your journey.
From the elevated viewpoint, you can see Mount Usu, Showa Shinzan and the magnificent scenery surrounding Lake Toya’s volcanic caldera.
The sense of openness is incredible and the view is the perfect place to stop, relax and take a deep breath.
Depending on the season, visitors can also enjoy snow activities and cafés, making this more than just a sightseeing stop.
With spectacular scenery, activities and great photo opportunities, Silo Observatory is an ideal place to create lasting memories of your Hokkaido trip.
Lake Hill Farm
Relax with Delicious Farm Sweets
Take a relaxing break at Lake Hill Farm, where you can enjoy delicious farm-made treats surrounded by beautiful countryside.
Lake Hill Farm serves gelato made with fresh milk from the farm as well as freshly baked pizza.
The spacious garden is home to friendly goats and rabbits, creating a peaceful atmosphere that feels almost like stepping into a storybook.
The popular gelato is available in more than 20 flavours.
There is also a great selection of lunch options, including local pizza and curry made with ingredients from the Lake Toya area, making it an excellent stop during your drive.
You can also enjoy hands-on experiences such as butter making and gelato making.
Advance reservations are required for some activities.
Showa Shinzan & Mount Usu Ropeway
Experience the Power of Hokkaido’s Volcanoes
Next, experience the power of the earth at Showa Shinzan and Mount Usu.
Showa Shinzan was formed by volcanic activity that began in 1943.
What was once a flat wheat field repeatedly rose from the ground over a period of only around two years, eventually forming the mountain we see today.
At 398 metres high, Showa Shinzan remains an active volcanic area.
Its distinctive reddish-brown, rugged surface tells the story of the powerful geological forces that pushed highly viscous lava upward from beneath the earth.
Seeing volcanic steam rising from the rocky surface gives you a real sense of the incredible energy beneath Hokkaido.
The Mount Usu Ropeway departs from the base station in Volcano Village at the foot of Showa Shinzan.
The approximately six-minute ride takes you high above the landscape, offering spectacular views of Mount Usu, Showa Shinzan, Lake Toya and Mount Yotei.
In autumn, the surrounding mountains are covered in brilliant colours, making the scenery even more spectacular.
From the upper ropeway station, it is approximately a seven-minute walk to the Crater Basin Observatory.
If time allows, you can continue walking towards the Gin-numa Great Crater and Mount Usu Outer Rim Observatory, enjoying views of O-Usu, Ko-Usu and Usu Shinzan along the way.
Noboribetsu Hell Valley
Where the Earth Comes Alive
Our final destination is Noboribetsu Hell Valley, a dramatic volcanic landscape where the earth seems to come alive.
Located behind Noboribetsu Onsen, Hell Valley was formed by a volcanic crater approximately 450 metres in diameter.
Steam rises from the ground while the strong scent of sulphur fills the air, creating an otherworldly landscape that truly lives up to its name.
Volcanic gases emerge from the reddish-brown rocks and hot springs bubble and boil throughout the valley, offering a fascinating glimpse into the power of nature beneath the earth.
Walking along the trails, you can discover highlights including Tessen Pond and Oyunuma Pond.
Depending on the season and time of day, you may also be able to enjoy the atmospheric Oni-bi no Michi illumination and a natural hot-spring foot bath.
🚌🚌Sapporo → Lake Toya → Showa Shinzan → Noboribetsu🚖🚖
Sample Itinerary: Private Day Tour
09:00 — Depart from your hotel in Sapporo
We set off from your Sapporo hotel by private taxi or private bus.
Let’s hope for clear skies and beautiful views!
10:10 — Roadside Station “Boyou-Nakayama” at Nakayama Pass
Take a break at this spectacular mountain viewpoint.
On a clear day, you can enjoy an excellent view of Mount Yotei, also known as “Ezo Fuji”.
Don’t forget to try the famous age-imo, a local speciality of Nakayama Pass.
11:10 — Silo Observatory & Lake Hill Farm
Enjoy a privileged view of Lake Toya from Silo Observatory.
Then it’s time for the perfect combination of spectacular scenery and delicious gelato at Lake Hill Farm.
12:00 — Lunch
There are several excellent restaurants to choose from, so deciding where to eat may be the hardest part!
Wakasaimo Honpo “Sendouan”
https://www.wakasaimo.com/sendouan/
Restaurant “Boyotei”
レストラン「望羊蹄」
http://www.boyotei.com/
Cafe & Restaurant “THE TOYA”
https://cafeandrestaurant-the-toya.hp.peraichi.com/
13:15 — Showa Shinzan & Mount Usu Ropeway
Experience the power of the earth at Showa Shinzan.
Then take the Mount Usu Ropeway for spectacular panoramic views across the Lake Toya Geopark.
If time allows, a visit to the Bear Park is also recommended.
15:15 — Noboribetsu Hell Valley
Experience the power of the earth at Noboribetsu Hell Valley, one of Hokkaido’s most famous hot-spring and volcanic areas.
17:30 — Arrive back at your hotel in Sapporo
Relax as we take the expressway back to Sapporo.
Thank you for travelling with us and we hope you enjoyed an unforgettable day in Hokkaido!