Private Day Tour to Hokkaido Noboribetsu and Lake Toya by Car

Exploring Hokkaido’s natural wonders is a must for any traveler. This private day tour to Noboribetsu and Lake Toya promises a breathtaking adventure. With a comfortable car and knowledgeable driver, you’ll witness volcanic landscapes, serene lakes, and stunning fall foliage. From the Usuzan Ropeway’s panoramic views to the tranquility of Lake Toya, this tour offers a chance to learn about Hokkaido’s stunning beauty. Whether you’re seeking stunning scenery or a chance to savor local specialties, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive private day tour exploring the volcanic landscapes of Noboribetsu and the serene natural beauty of Lake Toya in Hokkaido.
• Convenient pickup from Sapporo Station and comfortable air-conditioned transportation with English/Mandarin-speaking driver.
• Panoramic views from the Usuzan Ropeway in Noboribetsu and the opportunity to explore the volcanic terrain.
• Stunning vistas of Lake Toya, a caldera lake surrounded by mountains, with included round-trip Usuzan Ropeway tickets.
• Flexibility to sample local specialties and enjoy nearby hot springs at your own expense.

Overview and Highlights

The private day tour to Hokkaido promises an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the captivating landscapes of Noboribetsu and Lake Toya in a single day.

Highlights include the Usuzan Ropeway, which offers panoramic views of the volcanic Noboribetsu region, and the serene Lake Toya, renowned for its natural beauty.

With private transportation and an English/Mandarin-speaking driver, the tour provides a hassle-free way to discover these iconic Hokkaido destinations.

While meals aren’t included, the tour allows travelers to sample local specialties at their own expense, adding to the authentic cultural experience.

Getting to the Meeting Point

Participants will gather at the red statue located at the south exit of JR Sapporo Station. This is the designated meeting point for the private day tour to Hokkaido Noboribetsu and Lake Toya.

The tour operator provides pickup from hotels upon request, so travelers should provide their hotel location when booking. The tour is accessible by public transportation, as the meeting point is conveniently situated at Sapporo Station.

With clear instructions and a central pickup location, getting to the start of the tour is straightforward and hassle-free for participants.

Private Transportation and Comfort

As the private day tour begins, travelers are provided with comfortable, air-conditioned transportation for the journey. The vehicle comes equipped with infant seats, ensuring the safety of all passengers. A table outlining the key transportation details:

Throughout the tour, the driver’s professionalism and the comfort of the vehicle contribute to a smooth and enjoyable experience for travelers.

Visiting Noboribetsu

After departing from Sapporo, the tour heads towards the volcanic region of Noboribetsu.

Visitors ascend the Usuzan Ropeway, which offers panoramic views of the caldera and steam vents below. At the summit, they can explore the volcanic landscape and learn about the area’s geothermal activity.

The tour then descends to the Jigokudani, or "Hell Valley", a dramatic gorge with steaming sulfuric vents. Here, guests can observe the dynamic volcanic forces that shaped the region.

The tour provides an up-close encounter with Hokkaido’s impressive volcanic terrain and geothermal wonders.

Exploring Lake Toya

From Noboribetsu, the tour continues on to the scenic Lake Toya, a caldera lake nestled in the mountains.

Visitors can take in the serene beauty of the lake and its volcanic surroundings. The tour includes a round-trip ticket for the Usuzan Ropeway, which offers panoramic views of the lake and the dormant Mount Usu volcano.

The lake is known for its three distinctive features:

1. Pristine waters that reflect the sky and mountains.
2. Vibrant fall foliage that paints the landscape in rich hues.
3. Nearby hot springs that provide a relaxing end to the day.

Local Specialties and Cuisine

Though the tour’s focus is on the natural landscapes, it also provides opportunities to sample local Hokkaido specialties.

Travelers can indulge in the region’s famous dairy products, like rich, creamy milk and artisanal cheeses. Hokkaido is also known for its seafood, such as fresh salmon and crab.

The tour may include stops at local markets or specialty shops, allowing visitors to enjoy the local food culture. Plus, the driver can recommend the best places to try traditional Japanese dishes or regional cuisine.

This culinary aspect enhances the overall tour experience.

Accessibility and Tour Conditions

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible.

Service animals are allowed, and the tour is near public transportation. A moderate physical fitness level is required, and travelers mustn’t have any serious medical conditions.

The tour confirmation is received at booking unless within 7 days of travel, in which case it’s within 48 hours.

Travelers can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience starts. The tour has a tight schedule with timed stops, making it ideal for those wanting to see many places in one day.

Traveler Feedback and Experiences

What do travelers say about this private day tour to Hokkaido?

Reviews are mixed, with some feedback on the guide’s language proficiency and the tour’s strict schedule.

Travelers appreciated the beautiful scenery at Lake Toya and trying local specialties.

While the driver’s professionalism and the comfort of the vehicle received positive comments, some found the schedule too tight, limiting flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour allows for extra hours beyond the initial 10-hour duration. Additional hours can be added at a cost of 6,000 JPY per hour, providing flexibility to extend the tour as needed.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary?

The tour allows for some customization, as extra hours can be added at a cost of 6,000 JPY per hour. However, the itinerary is tightly scheduled, so significant changes may not be possible. Travelers should discuss any desired modifications with the tour provider.

How Experienced Are the Drivers in Navigating the Local Routes?

The drivers are experienced in navigating the local routes, as they’re familiar with the roads and destinations. They’ll guide you efficiently through the area, ensuring a smooth and seamless experience throughout the tour.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

There aren’t any discounts or package deals mentioned for this tour. The pricing starts at $537.13 per group of up to 4 people, with additional hours costing $60 per hour. No promotional offers are noted in the details.

Can We Make Additional Stops Along the Way?

According to the tour details, additional stops along the way may be possible, but will likely require an extra hourly fee. The tour is tightly scheduled, so flexibility for extra stops may be limited.

The Sum Up

This private day tour offers a captivating glimpse into Hokkaido’s natural wonders. From the volcanic landscapes of Noboribetsu to the serene beauty of Lake Toya, travelers can experience the region’s stunning scenery in the comfort of private transportation. With an English/Mandarin-speaking driver, this tour ensures a seamless and memorable adventure, showcasing the breathtaking sights and local flavors of Hokkaido.