Sapporo: Hokkaido, Noboribetsu and Lake Toya Day Tour Day Tours

Must Do Experiences

• Stroll through the otherworldly steam vents and rugged terrain of Noboribetsu's Jigokudani (Hell Valley).

• Take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the caldera Lake Toya and its central Nakajima Island.

• Spot the wild brown monkeys and diverse wildlife roaming around the lush Showa Shinzan volcanic dome.

• Enjoy a relaxing optional soak in the mineral-rich hot spring foot baths scattered around the Noboribetsu area.

Hidden Gems

• Visit the lesser-known Oyunuma Brook, where you can experience a natural, free foot bath heated directly by the earth's geothermal vents.

• Look out for the nightly summer fireworks displays over Lake Toya, which are often visible from the lakeside promenades even outside of major festival dates.

• Explore the quiet, moss-covered trails of the Noboribetsu Primeval Forest just a short walk from the main Hell Valley tourist path.

What Makes it Special

• The itinerary dynamically adapts to Hokkaido's distinct seasons, ensuring you see the region's landscapes at their absolute peak, from vibrant autumn foliage to pristine winter snowscapes.

• Expert bilingual guides provide deep cultural and geological insights in both English and Japanese, bridging the gap for international travellers.

• Hassle-free round-trip transportation from Sapporo in a comfortable, climate-controlled tour bus allows you to simply sit back and enjoy the scenic countryside.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

This full-day tour is best enjoyed starting early in the morning to maximize daylight hours, especially during the shorter winter days. While the tour operates year-round, visiting in autumn offers spectacular foliage around Lake Toya, whereas winter provides a magical, snow-draped contrast to the steaming vents of Hell Valley.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the dramatic steam plumes of Jigokudani against the dark volcanic rock during the mid-morning light for the most striking contrast.

• Use a polarizing filter when shooting Lake Toya to reduce glare on the water and enhance the vibrant reflections of the surrounding mountains.

• Keep your camera lens protected with a microfiber cloth, as the high humidity and sulfur steam in Noboribetsu can easily cause fogging.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When using the public foot baths, it is customary to wash your feet before entering and to bring your own small towel to dry off afterward. Please respect the natural environment by staying strictly on the marked boardwalks in Hell Valley, as stepping off-path damages the fragile geothermal crust and is considered highly disrespectful. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, so a simple bow and a polite thank you to your guide is the best way to show appreciation.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Noboribetsu Hell Festival in late August features spectacular parades with locals dressed as demons and traditional Japanese taiko drumming.

• Lake Toya hosts the spectacular Long Run Fireworks display nightly from late April to October, where a moving boat launches fireworks across the water.

• Winter brings the enchanting Lake Toya Winter Illumination and the Sapporo Snow Festival season, transforming the entire region into a magical snowy wonderland.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Never touch the water or mud in Jigokudani, as the geothermal springs are boiling hot and highly acidic, posing severe burn risks.

• Stay on designated pathways and heed all warning signs, as the volcanic ground can be unstable and emit toxic sulfur gases in unventilated hollows.

• Keep a safe distance from the wild brown monkeys around Showa Shinzan and do not feed them, as they can become aggressive when habituated to human food.