Toyako → Noboribetsu

It feels so good, because it’s spring when all the sprouts and buds begin to come out.

Winter has come and gone, and the long-awaited spring is finally here. The best driving spot for this joyous and exciting season is Toya, which is home to a wide variety of facilities and abounds with nature. The Abuta Toyako Interchange of the Hokkaido Expressway has been relocated, providing better access to Toyako Onsen. Toya is an area of Hokkaido known for its mild climate. Many people have probably already visited the area numerous times, but we encourage you to take the time to once again pay close attention to the beautiful nature of Lake Toya. A caldera lake nearly round in shape with the Nakajima Islands in the center, its scenery is exquisitely beautiful. Feel the vibration of your car and then stand beside the lake where only the sounds of nature can be heard. Let your mind drift as you engrave the genuine beauty in your mind’s eye, while enjoying the lush greenery and warm sunshine.

Snowcapped Mt. Yotei as seen from a pleasure boat. The lake surface is especially beautiful.

Feel the energy of the brownish-red mountain The verdant green of Ura-Toya (opposite side of Toyako Onsen) is absolutely beautiful.

Drive to the foot of Mt. Usu, which erupted four times in the 20th century, and Mt. Showa Shinzan. After enjoying the views of brownish-red Mt. Showa Shinzan at Usuzan Sanroku Gondola Station (Kazan-mura), set out on a six-minute aerial trip. The views of Lake Toya as seen from the ascending gondola are also spectacular. You’ll face the looming rugged hillside of Ousu as the gondola makes its way to Sancho Station. Upon arrival, go to Gin-numa Crater, while looking down on Mt. Showa Shinzan and Lake Toya. Beyond the steaming crater, Uchiura Bay can be seen. For those who wish to travel on foot, there is a walking path connecting the Outer Rim Boardwalk and the Hot Spring Resort Crater Observation Deck area. Why not give it a try? After returning to your car, drive around Lake Toya, enjoying the 58 sculptures of Toyako Sculpture Park along the lakeside, as well as the views of the lake from the former Toya Village on the opposite side of the hot spring resort area, commonly known as Ura-Toya. Then head for Naka-Toya, where you’ll find a campsite. You can take in the stream and rest under the shade of the trees. It’s fun to observe Lake Toya from various angles. You can also relax while riding a pleasure boat, which will give you an inside look at Lake Toya. And don’t forget to take a foot bath to refresh your legs, which are probably tired from hitting the accelerator. Now that you’ve come this far, you should try the pork chops at Boyotei to fill your stomach. Then, it’s time for dessert and souvenir shopping. How about freshly made Imoten at the Wakasaimo Honpo Toyako Main Shop?

Water-shooting geyser
In pursuit of famous hot springs

Are you fascinated by the natural beauty of Lake Toya and interested in going a little further? If so, take the Hokkaido Expressway from Abuta Toyako Interchange to Noboribetsu Onsen. As everyone knows, Noboribetsu Onsen is a famous hot spring resort. With vapor rising from the hot spring water, the rich nature catches your eye. This is a hot spring resort with nostalgic scenery and a sense of familiarity. Why not feel the energy of the earth living in Tessenchi at the far end of Jigokudani Boardwalk? It’s a geyser that shoots out hot water. See the boiling water and feel the power. After that, relax at the natural foot bath near the Oyunuma River Scenic Path. This lush area is sure to comfort your mind and body.