Guided Tours

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

View of the Otaru Canal at dusk in Otaru

Discover Hokkaido’s gems such as the Noboribetsu Hell Valley and the Europe-influenced Otaru city, on a guided day trip including return transfers.

Highlights

An expert guide will take you on a trip to Hokkaido’s off the beaten paths, including relics of a volcanic crater formed about 10,000 years ago.
Picture-perfect views await at the Lake Toya Observatory, displaying the natural landscapes around the lake such as Mt. Showa and Lake Heart Island.
Want to meet and feed brown bears? Head to the Showa-Shinzan Bear Ranch where the mammals love to wave at tourists (at your own expense).
Experience the delightful blend of Japanese architecture with old European style in Otaru as you walk along ancient canal streets.
Fun Fact: The Showa Shinzan mountain was formed as a result of volcanic activities from 1943 to 1945. It continues to emit smoke to this day.

Inclusions

Day trip to Noboribetsu, Lake Toya, Bear Ranch, & Otaru
Expert guide
Return transfers from Sapporo Station
Travel in air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions

Entry to Bear Ranch
Food and drinks

Cancellation policy

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Your experience

Unveiling Hokkaido’s natural wonders

Looking for a day filled with natural sights, history, and wildlife encounters? This day trip including comfortable transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle is for you. The journey takes you to the Noboribetsu Hell Valley or Jigokudani. The boiling sulfuric streams and plumes of hot steam will make you feel as if you are in a demon lair. Close by is the Oyunuma Pond, the remains of a burst crater and a source of hot spring water for nearby hot spring hotels. There is an observation deck where you can see the steaming lake up close. Though this spot is closed in winter, it provides an unforgettable experience during other seasons.

Discovery of wildlife and history

The trip continues to the scenic Lake Toya, a caldera lake that is the perfect example of the beauty that can result from nature’s destructive action. Be ready for the sight of Showa Shinzan, a “new mountain” that relentlessly emits white smoke. Near the mountain’s cable car is the Bear Ranch, where you'll meet Hokkaido's largest wild mammals and witness their playful side (entry at your own expense). The day concludes in Otaru, a city known for its old European style. You can visit the Kitaichi Glass Otaru workshop to appreciate exquisite crafts of glass, and the Music Box Hall that houses thousands of music boxes from all over the globe. If you visit in February, witness the Otaru Snow Light Path festival, where glittering lights and a snowy town create a mesmerizing atmosphere.

Itinerary

8am - Pick-up from Sapporo Station
Noboribetsu, ~60 mins
Lake Toyako area, ~120 mins including free time for lunch
Showa Shinzan Bear Ranch (price excluded), ~ 60 mins
Eight Views of Lake Toya, 10 mins
Lake Toyako Observatory, 10 mins
Otaru, ~90 mins including free time for dinner
6pm - Return to Sapporo

Know before you go

What to bring

It is recommended to wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes.
It is recommended to bring a hat, sunscreen, water bottle, and a camera.

Additional information

The walking trails around Oyunuma pond and the outdoor foot bath experience may be closed during winter.
The evening before your journey, you will receive an email containing crucial details, including the tour guide's phone number and the car's license plate number. Please make sure that your email and mobile phone can be reached.
The itinerary may be altered due to external factors such as weather and road conditions.
If you visit in February, you can see the Otaru Snow Light Path festival. Please refer to the official website to check the festival’s specific schedule.
This trip requires a minimum of 4 participants to operate. If the number is not reached, an alternate date may be suggested or the trip may be canceled.

My tickets

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.
Please arrive at the meeting point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.
Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.