The Magic of Lake Toya: An Essential Guide to Hokkaido’s Volcanic Wonder

If you are looking for the perfect blend of dramatic landscapes and ultimate relaxation, Lake Toya (Toyako) is a non-negotiable stop on your Hokkaido itinerary. As part of the Shikotsu-Toya National Park, this nearly circular caldera lake is famous for its sparkling blue water, year-round ice-free surface, and the towering volcanoes that watch over it.

The Heart of the Park: Lake Toya and Its Islands

Lake Toya was formed by a massive volcanic eruption over 100,000 years ago. In its center sit the Nakajima Islands, a cluster of four forested islands that add a fairy-tale touch to the horizon.

During the summer, you can hop on a sightseeing cruise that stops at the largest island, allowing you to walk through the pristine woods and perhaps spot local Ezo deer. In the evening, the lake becomes a stage for the long run fireworks, a spectacular display that illuminates the water every night from late April through October.

A “Museum of Living Volcanoes”

Lake Toya is one of the most geologically active spots in Japan. To truly feel the earth’s power, head to:

• Mt. Usu: An active volcano that has erupted four times in the last century. Take the Usuzan Ropeway for panoramic views of the lake and the Pacific Ocean.

• Showa Shinzan: A literal “new mountain” that rose from a flat wheat field in 1943. Its smoking red peak is a reminder of Hokkaido’s fiery origins.

• Walking Trails: Explore the Nishiyama Foothill Craters to see the ruins of buildings and roads damaged in the 2000 eruption—a sobering and fascinating look at nature’s force.

Relax at Toyako Onsen

After a day of exploring craters, there is nothing better than soaking in a hot spring. Toyako Onsen is one of Hokkaido’s onsen resort towns, lined with hotels and cozy ryokans.

• Lakeside Soaks: Some onsen here feature outdoor baths (rotenburo) with uninterrupted views of the lake.

• Public Footbaths: You don’t even need to stay overnight to enjoy the water; free “ashiyu” (footbaths) are scattered along the lakeside promenade.

Accessing Lake Toya from Sapporo and Chitose

Getting to Lake Toya is a breeze, whether you prefer the comfort of a train or the freedom of a rental car.

• From Sapporo by Train: Take the JR Limited Express Hokuto. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes.

• From Sapporo by Car or Bus: The drive takes about 2 hours. Taking Route 230 offers some of the most stunning mountain scenery in the region.

• From New Chitose Airport (CTS): Take the train via Minami-Chitose. This route takes roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it perfect for travelers heading straight from the plane to the lake.

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