Noboribetsu and Toya Full Day Tour

If you’re planning a day trip that packs in some of Hokkaido’s most striking natural sights and cultural highlights, this Noboribetsu and Toya tour offers an excellent option. For around $75 per person, you’ll get to explore Hell Valley’s geothermal marvels, take in breathtaking views from Mount Usu, and relax in the scenic setting of Lake Toya’s hot springs. It’s a well-organized, 10-hour journey that balances nature, history, and a touch of local culture.

One of the things we love about this tour is how it combines diverse experiences in a single day—from the raw power of volcanic activity at Jigokudani to the tranquil beauty of Lake Toya. It’s perfect for those who want a broad snapshot of Hokkaido’s geological wonders without the hassle of self-driving or multiple bookings. The guided aspect, with knowledgeable guides and careful drivers, ensures you get the most out of each stop.

A possible consideration, however, is the limited time at each site—most visitors only get 30 minutes to 1.5 hours at each location, which means you won’t be able to explore every detail. Also, note that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget for a meal during the day. Still, if you’re after a convenient, value-packed adventure that showcases Hokkaido’s volcanic landscape, this tour is hard to beat.

This tour is ideal for travelers eager to see Hokkaido’s geological spectacles, enjoy some cultural interactions, and relax in scenic hot springs—all in one day. It suits those who prefer guided tours that maximize time efficiency while providing insightful commentary along the way.

Key Points

• Diverse highlights: Combines natural wonders like Jigokudani, Mount Usu, and scenic Lake Toya, plus cultural experiences at Noboribetsu Date Village.
• Expert guides and drivers: Guides like Akiko are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, ensuring you understand the significance of each stop.
• Scenic views: Expect breathtaking vistas from the Mt. Usu Ropeway and around Lake Toya, perfect for photography lovers.
• Value for money: For about $75, you gain access to multiple sites, some with included entrance fees, along with comfortable transportation.
• Time management: While the stops are well-paced, the short durations mean you get a taste rather than an in-depth exploration.
• Seasonal considerations: Winter travel can mean shorter daylight hours and snow, which might impact walking and stay durations at certain sites.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Noboribetsu Date Historic Village

The tour kicks off with a visit to Noboribetsu Date Village, a charming Edo-period-themed park. Here, you can enjoy kimono rentals, watch Oiran performances, and even try ninja experiences. It’s like stepping back in time, but with the comfort of a guided tour. For those with a Jidaimura & Jigokudani Plan, this stop includes admission tickets, making it easy to access all attractions without extra costs.

Reviewers have pointed out how helpful the guides are here. One noted that guide Akiko made the experience informative and engaging. The village offers a lively atmosphere with street interactions that make history feel alive. It’s a great way to add a cultural layer to a natural landscape-focused day.

Stop 2: Jigokudani (Hell Valley)

Next, you’ll head to the famous volcanic crater of Jigokudani, or Hell Valley. This area is a geological wonder, with steaming vents, sulfuric streams, and rugged terrain that visually scream “volcano in action.” The pathways allow for easy walks amid the geothermal activity, making it accessible even for those with limited mobility.

Guests often comment on the sulfur smell, which is a signature of the geothermal activity, and the impressive landscape that looks almost otherworldly. It’s a quick 30-minute stop, but enough to get a real sense of the raw power of nature that shaped this part of Hokkaido.

Stop 3: Toyako Onsen and Lake Toya

The next stop is Lake Toya, a caldera lake renowned for its peaceful surroundings and mineral-rich hot springs. Here, you can relax in hot spring foot baths, take in the serene views of the lake and mountains, and perhaps enjoy some local snacks or ice cream.

While lunch isn’t included, the tour allotments allow for about an hour and a half to grab a meal—whether you prefer a quick snack or a sit-down restaurant. Reviewers have appreciated this flexibility, noting that they could choose their own meal options and enjoy the tranquil landscape.

Stop 4: Showa-shinzan and Mount Usu

This part of the tour showcases Showa-shinzan, a volcano that appeared in the 1940s and is now recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark. Many find it fascinating because of its unusual origin—it literally grew from the ground in just a few years.

Optional stops here include the Usuzan Ropeway, which offers a quick 6-minute ride for spectacular views over Lake Toya and Mt. Yotei. You’ll also have the chance to visit Bear Ranch (if on the ticket plan), where you can see brown bears and even feed them apples and cookies. One reviewer described the bear experience as “horrible” due to the concrete enclosures, so if animals’ welfare concerns you, be aware that this is a controversial aspect.

Stop 5: Silo Viewing Platform (or Nakayama Pass Road)

As the day winds down, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Toya from the silo platform when weather permits. The sightline is spectacular, with the blue lake contrasting sharply against the surrounding greenery and mountains. The souvenir shop nearby features local treats, like the Toyako Caramel Pudding—a sweet highlight for many visitors.

In winter, the tour might skip this stop due to earlier sunsets, replacing it with a rest at Nakayama Pass Road, ensuring travelers still get a scenic break.

Practical Aspects and Value

This tour offers a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle that keeps you relaxed between stops, and the small group size (up to 40 travelers) helps foster a more intimate experience. The timing is well-organized, with each site allotted enough time to appreciate without feeling rushed.

The admission fees for the Bear Ranch and Mt. Usu Ropeway are included if you opt for the ticket plan, adding value to the package. Keep in mind, lunch is not included, so budgeting around 1,000-2,000 yen for a meal is wise—either grab a quick bite or sit down at a local restaurant.

The tour’s start at 8:30 am from Sapporo and return around 6:30 pm make it a full but manageable day, especially if you’re eager to see multiple sights without the stress of planning individual transport.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Many reviewers highlighted the knowledgeable guides that made the experience special. One commented, “Akiko was very helpful and informative—she made the stops even more interesting,” which speaks to the quality of the tour leadership.

Others appreciated the scenic views, with one noting they “captured a thousand great pictures of Lake Toya,” emphasizing how photogenic the scenery is. However, they also pointed out the disappointing conditions at the Bear Ranch, which might influence how animal lovers view that part of the trip.

The short visit durations mean you get a snapshot of each site, but not a deep dive—so if you’re looking for an in-depth geological tour or cultural experience, you might want to supplement this with additional visits later.

The Sum Up

This Noboribetsu and Toya tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed way to see some of Hokkaido’s most iconic volcanic and scenic sites in just one day. Its combination of geothermal wonders, stunning vistas, and cultural experiences makes it ideal for travelers who want an overview without the hassle of independent travel.

The expert guides and comfortable transport elevate the experience, while the inclusion of key attractions at a reasonable price makes it a good option for most visitors. However, those looking for a deep cultural or wildlife tour might find the short stops and limited animal welfare considerations less appealing.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone eager to tick off some of Hokkaido’s most dramatic landscapes in a single, enjoyable day.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have approximately 1.5 hours to find your own meal at Lake Toya or nearby.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, starting at 8:30 am and ending back at the meeting point around 6:30 pm.

Are admission fees included?
Admission to Noboribetsu Date Village, Showa-shinzan, and the Mt. Usu Ropeway are included if you select the ticket plan. The Bear Ranch visit is also included with the ticket plan.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor conditions is best. In winter, warm layers and waterproof gear are advisable due to snow and geothermal activity.

Is this tour suitable in winter?
Yes, but be aware that shorter daylight hours and snow might reduce walkable areas and stay durations. The schedule may be adjusted accordingly.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Most sites are accessible via walking paths, but some areas may be rugged. Check with the tour provider if you have specific mobility concerns.

How many people are in the group?
The tour accommodates up to 40 travelers, fostering a friendly, small-group atmosphere.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book around 58 days in advance for availability, especially in peak seasons.

This comprehensive experience delivers a fantastic overview of Hokkaido’s volcanic landscape, cultural sites, and scenic beauty — perfect for curious travelers eager to see it all with ease and insight.