Private Day Tour to Hokkaido Noboribetsu and Lake Toya by Car

Exploring Hokkaido in Comfort: Private Day Tour to Noboribetsu and Lake Toya

Imagine a day spent comfortably exploring some of Hokkaido’s most iconic sights—without the hassle of navigating yourself. This private day tour by car offers a chance to visit Lake Hill Farm, Lake Toya’s stunning Silo Observatory, the hot springs street, and the volcanic marvel of Jigokudani (Hell Valley). Priced at around $566 for a group of up to four, the tour lasts roughly 9 to 10 hours, making it a full but manageable day out.

What we love most about this experience is the personalized transport with a bilingual driver—meaning you get to relax, take in the scenery, and ask questions without worry. Plus, the variety of stops offers a balanced mix of nature, local food, and geothermal activity. However, keep in mind that some attractions require extra tickets (like the Usuzan Ropeway), and the schedule can feel a little tight if you want to linger longer at each site.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate comfort, flexibility, and authentic views—especially those eager to see the volcanic landscapes and have a taste of local cuisine. If you’re traveling with friends or family and prefer a private experience with tailored commentary, this is a solid choice—but be prepared for a packed itinerary.

Key Points

• Comfortable private transport with a bilingual driver makes for a relaxed, personalized experience.
• Multiple scenic stops allow for plenty of photo opportunities and local insights.
• Flexible ending points mean you can conclude the tour at Lake Toya or Noboribetsu if staying overnight.
• Cost includes transportation and tolls, but extra tickets for attractions like the ropeway are additional.
• Ideal for those with moderate fitness willing to walk around volcanic sites and enjoy local food.
• Reviews highlight stunning views and delicious food, but mention tight schedules and communication issues.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

If you’re looking to get a genuine taste of Hokkaido’s volcanic charm and natural beauty without the hassle of public transport or self-driving, this private tour offers a compelling option. It’s particularly suitable for those who want a day packed with iconic sights but prefer the comfort of private car travel, especially in a region where distances can be surprisingly long.

Starting the Day: From Sapporo to Lake Hill Farm

The journey kicks off early at 8:30 AM from Sapporo Station, a convenient central meeting point. After about two hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll arrive at Lake Hill Farm, a highlight for many. This farm is famed for its homemade gelato, made with fresh milk from the farm itself. As one reviewer put it, “we loved the way the gelato was made with farm-fresh milk and local ingredients,” which adds a genuine local touch to your experience. No admission fee here, so you can just enjoy the sweet treats and the tranquil scenery.

Panoramic Views from Silo Observatory

Next, a short drive takes you to the Silo Observatory, perched on Lake Toya’s western shore. The views from this vantage point are breathtaking—the sparkling blue lake, islands, and surrounding mountains are all framed perfectly. The observation deck is a quick stop, about 20 minutes, but the scenery is worth savoring. Travelers have praised it for the “beautiful views,” and it’s a great spot for photos or a quick rest before heading to lunch.

Lunch and Relaxation at Toyako Hot Spring Street

The tour then pauses for about an hour at Toyako Hot Spring Street, where you can explore a variety of eateries—ranging from traditional Japanese to seafood specialties, ramen, and Western-style dishes. While lunch isn’t included, many find this a highlight, especially the opportunity to sample fresh seafood like crabs, salmon, or scallops. According to one review, “the street offers regional specialties and desserts,” making it an ideal spot for a casual, delicious meal. It’s a chance to stretch your legs, browse local shops, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Viewing Volcanoes from Mount Usuzan

After lunch, the tour offers two options: riding the Mount Usu Ropeway or visiting the Showashinzan Bear Ranch. The ropeway, with a 6-minute ride, takes you close to the active volcano’s crater with panoramic views of Lake Toya, Mt. Showa Shinzan, and Mount Yotei. The upper deck provides spectacular vistas of the volcanic landscape, and one reviewer appreciated the “nice views of the crater and lake from the ropeway”—a must for geology buffs or anyone interested in volcanic activity.

Exploring Jigokudani (Hell Valley)

In the afternoon, you’ll visit Jigokudani, a volcanic crater with bubbling fumaroles and steaming water, often called “Hell Valley”. Covering 11 hectares, this site offers a fascinating look at Hokkaido’s geothermal activity. It’s a relatively short drive from Mount Usu, about 40 minutes, and a walkable area where you can see hot springs bubbling, smell sulfur, and learn about volcanic processes. One reviewer noted, “the sights are impressive, and the bubbling water is a reminder of the island’s fiery core.”

Flexibility and Endpoints

While the main itinerary concludes back in Sapporo around 4:30 PM, travelers staying in Lake Toya or Noboribetsu can opt to finish the tour there, saving travel time and extending their stay. This flexibility is a real plus, especially for those with accommodations in one of these areas.

The Practical Side: What to Expect and What Not

The private van ensures you’re not stuck with strangers and can customize the timing slightly if needed. The vehicle is air-conditioned, and all tolls and parking fees are covered, making the experience smooth. However, note that attractions like the ropeway require additional tickets (~¥1,800 per person), which you’ll need to purchase separately.

The tour is designed for moderate physical fitness—most stops involve walking, sometimes over uneven volcanic terrain. If you’re comfortable with this, you’ll enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted by Reviews

Several travelers raved about the stunning vistas and the high-quality local food. One said, “all the stops were highlights,” emphasizing the variety of scenery and cuisine. Others appreciated the friendly, helpful driver—though a warning from a review mentioned communication issues: “I booked an English-speaking driver, but the driver was Japanese and did not speak English,” which highlights the importance of clarifying expectations beforehand.

Value and Pricing

At just over $560 for four people, the tour offers value for a private, customizable day—especially considering the convenience of transportation and the effort saved from planning. However, additional costs for attraction tickets and meals can add up, so budget accordingly.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for small groups or families who want a stress-free way to see Hokkaido’s volcanic landscapes without the hassle of driving or navigating public transport. It’s perfect if you’re eager to enjoy stunning views, local cuisine, and geothermal wonders in a single day. Travelers who value comfort and flexibility will appreciate the private vehicle, but those looking for a slow-paced, leisurely visit might find the schedule a bit tight.

The Sum Up

This private day tour offers a well-rounded glance at Hokkaido’s most iconic sights—from volcanic craters and steaming geysers to serene lakes and tasty local foods. The personalized transport means you won’t have to worry about logistics, and the variety of stops provides a good mix of nature, geology, and culinary delights.

While the schedule is packed, most travelers will find that the breathtaking views and authentic experiences outweigh the minor drawbacks like extra ticket costs and tight timing. It’s especially suited for adventurous families, couples, or small groups who want a full day of exploration without sacrificing comfort or flexibility.

If you’re ready to see the fiery side of Hokkaido and enjoy some relaxed sightseeing, this tour can be a highlight of your trip. Just be sure to clarify the language expectations with your driver and plan for a few extra yen for attraction tickets. All in all, a rewarding way to connect with the island’s volcanic heart.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation with an air-conditioned vehicle, fuel, parking, and tolls are included. You and your group will travel comfortably with a bilingual driver.

Can I end the tour at a different location?
Absolutely. If your hotel is in Lake Toya or Noboribetsu, you can finish the tour there, saving travel time and allowing for more leisure.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 9 to 10 hours, starting at 8:30 AM and returning around 4:30 PM. Extra hours are available at an additional cost.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have a chance to eat during the stop at Toyako Hot Spring Street, where many local eateries are available.

What attractions require extra tickets?
The Usuzan Ropeway costs about ¥1,800 per person; other stops like Jigokudani do not require entry fees.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially for families with moderate physical fitness. The vehicle is private, and stops are generally walkable, but be prepared for some volcanic terrain.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is dependent on good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Do I need to speak Japanese?
Your driver may not speak English; confirm your language preferences when booking. Some reviews mention communication issues, so clarifying beforehand is wise.

This private tour offers a great way to experience some of Hokkaido’s most captivating sights with comfort and flexibility, perfect for travelers wanting an authentic day out in Japan’s northern island.