Hokkaido Lake Toya and Noboribetsu Private Day Tour（from Sapporo)

Venture out on an unforgettable private day tour from Sapporo, exploring the natural wonders of Hokkaido. Enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Toya, a crater lake renowned for its crystal-clear waters. Then, uncover the volcanic mysteries of Noboribetsu Jigokudani, or "Hell Valley," and indulge in the restorative powers of its mineral-rich hot springs. With a knowledgeable driver to guide you, this customizable tour promises an enriching experience that delves deep into Hokkaido’s captivating landscapes and cultural heritage.

Good To Know

• Explore the scenic Lake Toya, nestled in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, with a boat cruise for panoramic views.
• Marvel at the volcanic landscape of Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley), featuring steaming fumaroles and bubbling hot springs.
• Enjoy the relaxing Noboribetsu Onsen, a famous hot spring resort offering mineral-rich waters and spa treatments.
• Set out on a scenic drive through Hokkaido’s breathtaking landscapes, with a knowledgeable driver to provide insights.
• Customize the itinerary to suit individual interests, ensuring a memorable Hokkaido experience.

Exploring Lake Toya

After a scenic drive from Sapporo, visitors will be captivated by the serene beauty of Lake Toya. Nestled in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park, the lake is known for its striking caldera formation and crystal-clear waters.

Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakefront promenade, admiring the stunning views of the nearby Mount Usu volcano and the Nakajima Islands. For a unique perspective, guests can take a boat cruise across the lake, offering panoramic vistas of the picturesque surroundings.

With its tranquil atmosphere and natural wonders, Lake Toya provides a peaceful respite from the bustling city.

Marveling at Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley)

What awaits visitors at the next stop, Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley)? This volcanic valley showcases Hokkaido’s dramatic volcanic landscape.

Visitors can explore the steaming fumaroles, bubbling hot springs, and sulphuric streams that give the valley its otherworldly, hellish appearance.

Wooden walkways and observation decks allow visitors to safely take in the sights and sounds of this geothermal wonderland.

Guided tours provide insights into the valley’s geology and history.

With its otherworldly scenery and unique thermal activity, Noboribetsu Jigokudani offers a captivating glimpse into Hokkaido’s volcanic origins.

Visiting Noboribetsu Onsen

From the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Noboribetsu Jigokudani, the tour moves on to the soothing natural hot springs of Noboribetsu Onsen.

Noboribetsu Onsen is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak in the steaming mineral-rich waters, which are said to have therapeutic benefits.

The resort offers both indoor and outdoor bathing facilities, as well as a variety of spa treatments.

After a day of exploring the volcanic terrain, this peaceful onsen retreat provides the perfect opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate before returning to Sapporo.

Enjoying the Scenic Drive

As the tour departs Noboribetsu Onsen, visitors can sit back and enjoy the scenic drive through the breathtaking landscapes of Hokkaido.

The air-conditioned vehicle winds through the rolling hills, passing by verdant forests and glittering lakes.

Towering mountains rise in the distance, their peaks capped with snow.

Along the way, the driver points out notable landmarks and shares insights about the region’s history and culture.

With free bottled water provided, guests can relax and soak in the stunning vistas that unfold before them during the 10-hour journey back to Sapporo.

Customized Itinerary

The tour’s customized itinerary allows visitors to tailor their experience to their interests.

Guests can choose the order and duration of stops at Lake Toya and Noboribetsu. They may opt to spend more time at the scenic Lake Toya, or explore the volcanic landscapes and hot springs of Noboribetsu.

The private driver provides flexibility, ensuring a seamless journey that caters to individual preferences. This personalized approach enables travelers to make the most of their day, creating a memorable Hokkaido experience.

The tour’s inclusion of transportation and bottled water further enhances the convenience and comfort of the journey.

Transportation and Comfort

Travelers can expect a comfortable and convenient journey with the private transportation provided for this tour.

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a pleasant ride, keeping guests cool and relaxed. Complimentary bottled water is available to stay hydrated during the excursion.

The driver, who speaks either Chinese or Japanese, will handle all the fuel, parking, and toll costs, allowing travelers to sit back and enjoy the scenic route.

Communication with the driver is straightforward, as travelers must provide a phone number with international roaming or have popular messaging apps like WeChat, Line, or WhatsApp.

Communication and Coordination

Communicating with the driver is straightforward for this tour. Tourists must provide an international phone number or have WeChat, Line, or WhatsApp for the driver to contact them.

This ensures clear communication before and during the tour. The driver speaks Chinese or Japanese, making it easy for guests to coordinate pickup within the Sapporo city area.

Since the tour lasts 10 hours, having a reliable means of communication is crucial. Tourists should confirm the start time with the local provider in advance to ensure a smooth experience.

Inclusions and Exclusions

As the tour is private, the inclusions cover the essentials – an air-conditioned vehicle, private transportation, a free bottle of water, and all fuel costs, parking fees, and tolls.

However, meals and personal consumption are excluded, so travelers will need to budget for their own food and any additional expenses.

The tour also excludes personal insurance, so it’s recommended to have appropriate coverage.

The driver speaks either Chinese or Japanese, which may be helpful for communication during the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended, but this would incur additional costs. Customers should check with the local provider in advance to see if an extended tour is available and inquire about the pricing for this option.

Can We Make Additional Stops Along the Way?

Yes, the tour can typically accommodate additional stops along the way. Travelers should discuss their preferences with the local provider in advance to ensure the itinerary can be customized to their needs within the allotted tour duration.

Are There Any Discounts for Group Sizes Larger Than 5?

The tour provider doesn’t offer discounts for group sizes larger than 5. The price is fixed at $760 per group, regardless of the number of participants up to 5 people. Larger groups would need to book multiple tours.

Can the Driver Provide Recommendations for Local Restaurants?

The driver can likely provide recommendations for local restaurants, but the tour details don’t mention this service being included. Tourists may want to inquire about the driver’s familiarity with the area and willingness to suggest dining options during the tour.

Is There Flexibility to Adjust the Pickup Location Within Sapporo?

Yes, there’s flexibility to adjust the pickup location within Sapporo. The tour provider allows pickup from anywhere in the Sapporo city area, so you can choose a convenient location that works best for your group.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the natural wonders of Hokkaido on this private day tour. Bask in the serene beauty of Lake Toya, marvel at the volcanic landscapes of Noboribetsu Jigokudani, and rejuvenate with a relaxing soak in the region’s mineral-rich hot springs. With a knowledgeable driver and a customized itinerary, you’ll discover the very best of this captivating destination.