From Sapporo: Noboribetsu, Lake Toya, & Otaru Guided Day Trip, Hokkaido
















From Sapporo: Noboribetsu, Lake Toya, & Otaru Guided Day Trip, Hokkaido
Duration: Flexible (up to 11 hours)
Flexible (up to 11 hours)
Expert local tour guide
Expert local tour guide
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Explore Hokkaido, Japan with this guided day trip offering an memorable journey through Sapporo's natural wonders. Discover Noboribetsu’s Hell Valley and Lake Toya, where boiling sulfuric streams create a dramatic landscape reminiscent of a demon lair. Your adventure continues at Oyunuma Pond, the remnant of a burst crater providing hot spring water for nearby hotels, complete with an observation deck to view the steaming lake up close.
Explore Hokkaido, Japan with this guided day trip offering an memorable journey through Sapporo's natural wonders. Discover Noboribetsu’s Hell Valley and Lake Toya, where boiling sulfuric streams create a dramatic landscape reminiscent of a demon lair. Your adventure continues at Oyunuma Pond, the remnant of a burst crater providing hot spring water for nearby hotels, complete with an observation deck to view the steaming lake up close.
Explore Hokkaido's hidden gems with an expert guide who will lead you through the remnants of a volcanic crater that formed approximately 10,000 years ago.
At Lake Toya Observatory, enjoy stunning views showcasing Mt. Showa and Lake Heart Island amidst picturesque natural landscapes.
Visit Showa-Shinzan Bear Ranch to encounter and feed brown bears as they wave at tourists—an optional activity with additional costs.
Discover the unique fusion of Japanese architecture and old European style in Otaru by strolling along its historic canal streets.
Did you know? The formation of Showa Shinzan mountain is due to volcanic activities from 1943 to 1945, which still result in smoke emissions.
Entry to the Day trip including Noboribetsu, Lake Toya, Bear Ranch & Otaru
Access granted with an Expert guide
Return transfers from Sapporo Station included
Use of air-conditioned vehicle for travel
Admission to Bear Ranch
Meals and beverages

Noboribetsu Jigokudani hot spring landscape in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Japan.
This guided day trip from Sapporo: Noboribetsu, Lake Toya, & Otaru Guided Day Trip, offers a journey through Hokkaido's natural wonders and historical sites. With comfortable transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle provided by your expert guide, you'll explore some of Japan’s most fascinating landscapes.
Noboribetsu Hell Valley Adventure
Begin with the mysterious Noboribetsu Hell Valley or Jigokudani, where boiling sulfuric streams and clouds of hot steam create an otherworldly atmosphere. Nearby is Oyunuma Pond, a crater lake that feeds hot springs for local hotels. An observation deck offers close-up views during non-winter months.
Exploring Lake Toya's Beauty
Your journey continues to the stunning caldera of Lake Toya and its "new mountain," Showa Shinzan, which emits white smoke from a nearby cable car station. Next stop is Bear Ranch in this area, where you can observe Hokkaido’s largest wild mammals at play (entry fees apply). The day wraps up with Otaru's old European charm.
Visiting Otaru
In the historic city of Otaru, visit Kitaichi Glass Otaru to see glasswork artisans in action and explore Music Box Hall’s collection from around the world. In February, experience the beautiful Otaru Snow Light Path festival.
Itinerary Overview
- Pick-up at Sapporo Station: 8am
- Noboribetsu visit: ~60 mins
- Lake Toyako area tour with lunchtime: ~120 mins
- Showa Shinzan Bear Ranch (entry fee not included): ~ 60 mins
- Eight Views of Lake Toya visit: 10 mins
- Lake Toyako Observatory stop: 10 mins
- Otaru exploration with dinner time: ~90 mins
- Return to Sapporo: 6pm

Visitors walking on a wooden path through Hell Valley in Noboribetsu, Japan.

Snow-covered landscape with Lake Toya and surrounding mountains in Hokkaido, Japan.

Noboribetsu Jigokudani hot spring landscape in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Japan.

Visitors walking on a wooden path through Hell Valley in Noboribetsu, Japan.

Snow-covered landscape with Lake Toya and surrounding mountains in Hokkaido, Japan.

Mount Usu with autumn foliage in Noboribetsu, Japan, part of a guided day trip from Sapporo.
What to bring
Comfortable clothes and walking shoes are recommended for this tour. Additionally, consider bringing a hat, sunscreen, water bottle, and camera.
Additional information
- The trails around Oyunuma Pond and the outdoor foot bath may be closed in winter months.
- An email with important details such as your guide's phone number and car license plate will be sent to you the night before departure. Ensure that both your email and mobile are accessible.
- Due to weather or road conditions, there may be changes in the itinerary.
- If visiting in February, check out the Otaru Snow Light Path festival on its official website for schedule specifics.
A minimum of four participants is required. If this number isn't met, an alternative date may be offered or the trip could be canceled.

Otaru Canal at dusk with historic warehouses and city lights reflecting on the water.

Mount Usu with autumn foliage in Noboribetsu, Japan, part of a guided day trip from Sapporo.

Otaru Canal at dusk with historic warehouses and city lights reflecting on the water.
Wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes for ease during the day's activities.
Bring a hat, sunscreen, water bottle, and camera to enhance your experience as you explore various attractions.
Note that some outdoor experiences like trails around Oyunuma pond may be closed in winter months; plan accordingly if visiting outside peak seasons.
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