Toyako, with its stunning volcanic landscapes, pristine lakes, and abundant hot springs, is a natural magnet for travelers eager to see the best of Hokkaido. What makes Toyako especially appealing for tours is its compact yet diverse scenery—traversing from bubbling Jigokudani to lively Lake Toya with ease. We’ve rounded up options that suit different tastes, whether you want a quick nature fix, a culture, or a private day trip. For example, the Hokkaido Noboribetsu & Lake Toya Tour with its flexible schedule and scenic views is perfect for those who love a mix of nature and culture. Or, if winter landscapes are more your style, the Sapporo Winter Tour offers snow activities, zoo visits, and spectacular scenery in one day.
Some tours stand out for their depth, like the Hokkaido Nature and Gourmet Experience, which combines a scenic walk with a hands-on culinary class—an ideal pick for food lovers. Meanwhile, the Private Day Tour to Noboribetsu + Toyako Lake provides a personalized experience for those seeking comfort and tailored sightseeing, including a visit to Otaru. Finally, for family or winter adventurers, the Penguin Fun & Snowmobile Tour combines wildlife encounters with snowmobile thrills, making winter in Hokkaido memorable.
1. Hokkaido Noboribetsu & Lake Toya Tour with Ropeway Ticket
At number 1, this tour offers a compact yet comprehensive day exploring Hokkaido’s volcanic wonders and the tranquil Lake Toya. The tour includes stops at Jigokudani, known as Hell Valley, where steaming vents and sulfuric fumes paint a vivid picture of the region’s volcanic activity. You’ll also visit Showa Shinzan, an active volcanic cone, for some dramatic photo ops. The highlight is the optional ropeway ride, providing sweeping views of the landscape and a chance to spot local wildlife such as bears—if you’re lucky.
This tour stands out for its flexibility and ease of access from Sapporo, making it ideal for travelers short on time but eager for a rich experience. The inclusion of Lake Toya adds a scenic, peaceful ending to the day, with plenty of time to stroll around or relax in the hot springs. With a rating of 4.4/5 from 23 reviews, visitors praise its well-rounded itinerary and memorable sights. The modest price of $71 per person makes it a good value for those wanting a quick, scenic adventure.
Bottom line: This tour delivers a well-rounded taste of Hokkaido’s volcanoes and lakes in one convenient day, especially appealing if you want a flexible, scenic experience with the option of a ropeway adventure.
2. Hokkaido Winter : Sapporo to Noboribetsu, Lake Toya, Volcano
At number 2, this 10-hour winter tour combines scenic volcano views, hot springs, and winter festivities. It begins with a pickup from central Sapporo and heads towards Jigokudani for its steaming vents and sulfurous landscape, capturing the essence of Hokkaido’s volcanic activity in winter. From there, the itinerary includes stops at the Shikotsu Lake Ice Festival, famous for its elaborate ice sculptures, and Toyako Onsen, where you can soak in soothing hot springs after a day in the cold.
What makes this tour appealing is its focus on Hokkaido’s winter scenery—the snow-dusted volcanoes and frozen lakes are spectacular. You’ll also visit Showa-Shinzan, and have the chance to shop at Mitsui Outlet Park, perfect if you want some retail therapy. It’s a well-rounded day that balances nature, culture, and leisure at an affordable price of $62 per person. Guests note that the view of Jigokudani in winter is extraordinary, and the tour’s pace keeps things engaging without being rushed.
Bottom line: Ideal for families and winter lovers, this tour captures Hokkaido’s snowy landscapes, volcanoes, and hot springs in one affordable, full-day journey.
3. Hokkaido Nature and Gourmet Experience (near Lake Toya)
Number 3 on our list is a 4-hour culinary and nature immersion that offers a different way to experience Toyako. Set on a scenic hilltop property, this tour combines a guided nature walk with a hands-on seafood cooking class. It’s a perfect choice for those who want more than just sightseeing—they want to taste Hokkaido’s renowned ingredients firsthand.
The tour highlights include learning about the region’s local produce and seafood, then putting that knowledge into practice in the kitchen. The course meal features seasonal ingredients, making it a tasty and educational experience. The guide shares stories about the area’s natural features, making it engaging without being overly touristy. Priced at $170 per person, it’s more of an investment, but the focus on local cuisine and active participation makes it stand out.
Guests love the intimate setting and the chance to relax, explore, and cook in a scenic environment. It’s especially suited for food lovers, couples, or anyone looking for a meaningful experience beyond sightseeing.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a short, hands-on culinary adventure with a scenic backdrop—especially if you appreciate local ingredients and cooking.
$170 per person
4. Sapporo: Private Day Tour to Noboribetsu + Toyako Lake
Number 4 is an intimate, private tour designed for travelers who prefer a customizable experience. For around $489 per group (up to three people), this tour offers the flexibility to tailor your day to your interests. It includes stops at Noboribetsu’s hot springs and Hell Valley, as well as the scenic Lake Toya.
The guide customizes the itinerary based on your preferences, making it ideal for those who want to focus on particular sights or add extra stops like Otaru or local eateries. The private nature allows for more in-depth exploration while avoiding large tour groups. Reviewers praise the professional and friendly service and the chance to ask questions about the region’s history and geology.
This option is best suited for travelers seeking comfort, flexibility, and a personalized experience. It’s an excellent choice if you want to combine sightseeing with specific interests, such as hot springs or photography.
Bottom line: For travelers who value customization and privacy, this private tour offers a tailored, comfortable way to explore Toyako, Noboribetsu, and beyond.
$489 per group up to 3
5. Penguin Fun & Snowmobile : Sapporo Winter (Asahiyama Zoo)
Rounding out our list is the Penguin & Snowmobile Tour, perfect for families or winter sports enthusiasts. It’s a full-day adventure that starts with a visit to Asahiyama Zoo, famous for its penguin walks and exhibits. You’ll see penguins, seals, and monkeys in the snow—an adorable sight that children and adults alike love.
The tour’s signature feature is the snowmobile ride, which takes you across snowy fields and forests, giving you a real thrill in Hokkaido’s winter landscape. Afterward, explore Ningle Terrace, a charming shop area for local crafts, and enjoy scenic stops like Shikisai-no-oka and the Ken & Mary Tree. At $54 per person, it’s an accessible way to combine wildlife, outdoor fun, and cultural sights.
The tour is ideal for active families or those who want to experience Hokkaido’s winter in a fun, engaging way. Reviews mention the excitement of the snowmobile and the joy of seeing animals in their winter habitat.
Bottom line: This tour is great for families and winter lovers who want a full day of snow fun, wildlife encounters, and scenic stops.
$54 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your Toyako adventure, consider your budget, interests, and preferred pace. If you want a comprehensive day with volcanoes and lakes, the Noboribetsu & Lake Toya Tour with Ropeway is a solid choice. For winter scenery and hot springs, the Sapporo Winter Tour delivers spectacular views and cultural stops. Food enthusiasts should look at the Nature and Gourmet Experience for a short, immersive culinary outing, while those seeking privacy will appreciate the Private Day Tour for its flexibility.
Travelers on a tighter schedule might prefer shorter tours like the Gourmet Experience or the Penguin Snowmobile Adventure. Book early—especially in peak seasons—so you don’t miss out on these memorable ways to explore Toyako.
Final Thoughts
Temple and volcano views, hot springs, and delicious local food make Toyako a versatile destination for all kinds of travelers. The Hokkaido Noboribetsu & Lake Toya Tour offers a reliable, scenic introduction, while the Private Tour appeals to those wanting a personalized experience. If winter landscapes excite you, the Sapporo Winter tour ranks high for its mix of natural beauty and cultural highlights. For families and adventure lovers, the Penguin & Snowmobile tour provides a full day of fun and discovery.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance is wise, especially during peak seasons. These carefully curated experiences make it easy to enjoy Toyako’s stunning scenery and unique attractions, turning your visit into an authentic, memorable adventure.