Hokkaido Day Tour from Sapporo: with Bear Park Option

Dive into Hokkaido’s Natural Wonders with a Day Tour from Sapporo

This Hokkaido day tour offers a chance to explore some of the island’s most impressive natural sights—Lake Toya, Lake Shikotsu, Noboribetsu Jigokudani, and Shwa-shinzan—all packed into a roughly 8 to 9-hour journey. For $113 per person, it provides a balanced mix of geological marvels, tranquil lakes, and wildlife encounters, with the possibility to add a Bear Park experience. The tour is designed for those who want to see Hokkaido’s volcanic landscapes and serene waters without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

Two things we particularly like are the opportunity to get up close to geothermal activity at Jigokudani—the Valley of Hell—and the panoramic views from the Mt. Usu Ropeway that give you a visual feast of volcanic terrain. Plus, the lakes are truly postcard-worthy; Lake Toya’s calm waters and Lake Shikotsu’s dramatic scenery make for memorable photo ops.

A potential drawback is the mixed reviews about the tour guide’s language skills and the overall pace. Some travelers felt that the guide’s English was limited, which could affect the experience if you’re hoping for detailed commentary. Also, the itinerary seems to give more emphasis on shopping and minor stops, according to a few reviews, than on fully savoring the natural sights.

This tour suits travelers who prioritize seeing iconic geological sights and lakes, don’t mind a busy schedule, and are comfortable with group travel. If you’re after a relaxed, deeply educational experience with fluent English commentary, you might find it less satisfying. However, if your goal is to tick off some top sights in Hokkaido with a reasonable price tag, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Diverse Scenic Stops: From geothermal valleys to volcanic domes and tranquil lakes, the tour covers a wide range of Hokkaido’s natural beauty.
• Best for Nature Lovers: The stops at Jigokudani, Lake Toya, and Lake Shikotsu are especially appealing for those who love outdoor scenery and geological features.
• Guide and Tour Quality: Opinions vary, with some reviews praising the guide’s enthusiasm and others noting language limitations.
• Value for Price: At $113, it’s a straightforward way to see several highlights without multiple bookings, though some travelers found the focus on shopping less appealing.
• Transportation and Convenience: The tour provides transportation, making it easier to visit multiple locations efficiently.
• Optional Bear Park: The included visit provides insight into wildlife conservation and a chance for some fun bear spotting.

A Closer Look at the Hokkaido Day Tour from Sapporo

Starting at Jigokudani Valley: A Geothermal Spectacle

The tour kicks off early with a visit to Noboribetsu Jigokudani, famously called the Valley of Hell. Here, the landscape is a stark display of geothermal activity—steam vents, sulfuric streams, and bubbling hot springs create a surreal scene. We loved the raw, almost lunar landscape and how it vividly shows the Earth’s interior forces in action. The visit lasts about two hours, giving ample time to stroll along well-maintained paths and snap photos of the steaming vents and rugged terrain.

One thing to keep in mind is that the area is free to visit; no admission fee applies. It’s a highlight for anyone interested in geology or just wanting to see a truly unique natural feature. Expect crisp air and the scent of sulfur—a reminder of the geothermal power bubbling beneath Hokkaido.

The Volcanic Shwa-shinzan and Mt. Usu Ropeway

Next, the tour heads to Shwa-shinzan, a lava dome formed during a volcanic eruption in 1943. Here, the landscape is stark and otherworldly, with lava flows and barren terrain that look like they belong on another planet. Taking the Mt. Usu Ropeway offers a panoramic view of Lake Toya and beyond, including the Pacific Ocean on clear days.

Travelers have expressed admiration for the spectacular vistas from the ropeway, which last about 1 hour and 40 minutes in total. You’ll get a good sense of the area’s volcanic history, and it’s easy to see why the landscape is so distinctive: rugged, blackened lava, contrasting sharply with the lush greenery of surrounding hills. During winter, the snow-blanketed scenery adds an extra layer of beauty, making it a picture-perfect moment.

Wildlife Encounters at Noboribetsu Bear Park

A highlight for many is a visit to Noboribetsu Bear Park, where bears roam in spacious enclosures resembling their natural habitats. This part of the tour, about 50 minutes long, includes educational talks and a chance to see different bear species up close. Travelers seem to appreciate the conservation message and the chance to learn about bears’ natural behaviors.

Several reviews mention that the admission is included, making it more accessible, especially for families or wildlife enthusiasts. The setting is scenic, with mountain views and forested surroundings, adding to the relaxed, natural atmosphere. Some reviewers, however, noted that the guide’s limited English impacted their ability to get detailed info, so if language is important, consider that.

Lake Toya: Picturesque and Relaxing

After the more rugged volcanic landscapes, the tour shifts to Lake Toya, a serene body of water surrounded by volcanic peaks. The two-hour stop here includes a walk along Lake Toya Onsen Street where you can browse shops, cafes, and traditional inns. The calm waters and the mountain backdrop create a peaceful setting that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or photo session.

Many travelers comment on how beautiful the scenery is, with some wishing they had more time to explore the lakeside resorts or soak in an onsen. The area is ideal for those wanting a peaceful break amid natural beauty, but keep in mind, the focus is on sightseeing rather than relaxation.

Lake Shikotsu: A Year-Round Wonderland

The final main stop is Lake Shikotsu, known for its stunning clarity and vibrant seasonal colors. In winter, the lake freezes over, creating a magical icy landscape—and during the fall, the surrounding trees turn fiery red and gold. This approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes visit is perfect for nature lovers wanting to see Hokkaido’s landscapes in multiple forms.

The lake is free to visit, and the scenery lends itself well to photos or just quiet contemplation. The tour allows enough time to appreciate the beauty of Shikotsu, although some travelers wish for a bit more time to truly soak it in.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

The tour is conducted via a cozy bus, with a driver who also introduces the sites—though don’t expect a professional tour guide narrating every detail. The group size can be up to 70 travelers, which is typical for this type of excursion. Some guests have expressed that the guide’s limited English can make it challenging to fully appreciate the sites or historical context.

The Value of the Tour

At $113, including transportation and some entrance fees, the tour offers decent value for those eager to see multiple highlights without the hassle of local planning. However, some reviews suggest that the emphasis on shopping and minor stops might detract from the natural sights for travelers seeking a more immersive experience.

The Guide and Overall Experience

The reviews reveal a mixed bag regarding guides. While some praised Lisa’s enthusiasm and friendliness, others found the guide’s language skills insufficient for a fully enriching experience. A few travelers felt the schedule was somewhat rushed, and that more time at the lakes or natural sights would make the day more fulfilling.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is well-suited for nature enthusiasts eager to see Hokkaido’s volcanic landscapes, lakes, and geothermal activity in a single day. It’s a good choice if you enjoy scenic views and wildlife and are comfortable with group travel. Those who prefer detailed commentary or a more relaxed pace might find it less satisfying, especially given some comments about language limitations and busy schedules.

If your priority is to see Hokkaido’s top natural sights with convenience and reasonable value, this tour provides a solid, if somewhat fast-paced, option. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a snapshot of the island’s volcanic and lake scenery rather than an in-depth geological or cultural experience.

Final Thoughts

This Hokkaido Day Tour from Sapporo delivers on its promise of showcasing the region’s impressive volcanic features, tranquil lakes, and wildlife. The stops at Jigokudani, Lake Toya, and Lake Shikotsu are undeniably beautiful and memorable, offering plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and peaceful walks. The optional visit to Noboribetsu Bear Park adds a fun wildlife element that many travelers enjoy.

While the tour might feel a bit rushed and the guide’s language skills could be better, the overall experience remains a worthwhile way to cover a lot of ground in one day if you’re after a convenient, scenic overview of Hokkaido’s highlights. For those seeking a balance of nature, geology, and wildlife, and who are comfortable with the group setting, this could be a good choice.

However, if you crave detailed commentary, more relaxed pacing, or less emphasis on shopping, you might want to consider alternative options or private tours that focus more on the natural beauty.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes bus transportation, making it easy to move between the different scenic spots without the stress of driving.

How long is the total duration?
The total tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, including stops at each site, so be prepared for a full day.

Are there any entrance fees?
Most of the sites are free to visit, but the Noboribetsu Bear Park is included with admission in the package, and some stops like the Mt. Usu Ropeway** may have optional fees.

What is included in the price?
The price covers driver services, transportation, and Noboribetsu Bear Park admission (if selected). Meals and personal expenses are not included.

Is the guide fluent in English?
Feedback is mixed—some travelers found the guide enthusiastic but limited in English, which could make detailed explanations or questions difficult.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers of all ages can participate, children under 3 can join for free if they do not occupy a seat. If your child needs a seat, you should book a child ticket.

This tour is a practical way to tick off some of Hokkaido’s most iconic sights in a single day, especially if you’re eager to see volcanic landscapes and lakes without the fuss of planning every detail yourself. Just keep in mind the pace, guide language, and focus on scenic beauty—your camera will thank you.