Hokkaido Noboribetsu Lake Toya, Otaru Panoramic Tour From Sapporo

Overview

Available languages

Japanese

English

Chinese (China)

Mobile ticket

Discover the beauty of Hokkaido on this full-day tour from Sapporo. Explore Noboribetsu Hell Valley, where geothermal activity creates dramatic volcanic landscapes, and visit the serene Oyunuma Pond. Enjoy free time at Lake Toya, a stunning caldera lake in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, and witness the active Showa Shinzan volcano.

Visit the nearby Bear Park to see Hokkaido brown bears in a unique setting. Take in panoramic views of Lake Toya from the observatory before heading to the charming port town of Otaru. Stroll along its historic canal, discover exquisite glass art at Kitaichi Glass, and explore the Otaru Music Box Museum. In winter, experience the magical Otaru Snow Light Path Festival, with glowing snow sculptures and lantern displays.

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Total Tour duration includes transportation.

Free for children aged 0-2 as long as they will not occupy separate seats

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Round-trip transfers

Admission to Showa Shinzan and Bear Ranch. (Around 5$)

Other personal expenses

shōwa-shinzan bear ranch

What To Expect

Jigokudani

Jigokudani, often referred to as "Hell Valley," is a geothermal area in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, famous for its dramatic volcanic landscape. It's characterized by steaming vents, boiling sulfuric ponds, and streams of hot water, giving it an eerie, almost otherworldly appearance. The name "Jigokudani" translates to "Hell Valley," a reflection of the bubbling, sulfuric activity that dominates the area. Visitors can walk along well-maintained paths to view the geothermal activity up close, with trails leading to various points like Oyunuma Pond and the hot springs river, where you can enjoy a natural footbath. Jigokudani serves as a starting point for those visiting Noboribetsu's hot spring resorts and is a major tourist attraction in Hokkaido.

1 hour 20 minutes•Admission Not Applicable

Oyunuma

Oyunuma Pond is a volcanic pond located in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, known for its hot sulfur springs. It was formed from the remnants of a volcanic eruption and is rich in sulfur and iron. The surface temperature of the water is about 50°C (122°F), and the muddy gray water is a result of the chemical reactions caused by volcanic activity. The pond emits steam and has a slightly sulfuric smell, giving it an otherworldly atmosphere. Oyunuma is a popular stop for visitors to Noboribetsu's Jigokudani (Hell Valley), offering a unique natural spectacle amidst the lush, surrounding forests. Nearby, there's also a hot river where you can dip your feet.

30 minutes•Admission Not Applicable

Options

Hokkaido Day Tour

Reviews

3.32

22 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Nice tour but uncomfortable
Ashley T,
May 31, 2025
- Viator
3.00
So this is just for fair warning I thought the reviews about the bus being small was exaggerated but they were in fact very small. There are a few seats that have no leg room at all. I was forced to sit in the fetal position. Other than that the tour was very nice. We got to see alot of beautiful sites. Our tour guide was very nice.
Guide was a sales person for the so called duty free shop
RODNEY Y,
May 21, 2025
- Viator
2.00
The bus was small quite uncomfortable. Our group was a mix of Chinese tourists and others and everyone was cordial. Our guide however was not very warm, she was really focused on her commissions at her so called "duty free" shop and trying to get us to purchase overpriced beauty products.
Missed appointment
JeanPaul M,
May 18, 2025
- Viator
1.00
We waited in vain for our driver at the appointment and time indicated. We were unable to make the tour and we ask for a refund. Very poor service.
Enjoyable trip
WAICHENG S,
May 17, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Ms Sophia is fluent in both Mandarin & English and is able give good recommendations on which shop & what to buy. The driver is careful & able to keep us safe throughout the trip. Duration allocated is short but enough to give an overview of the places for a first timer.
Not what we expected! Not a fan!
Hugh B,
May 7, 2025
- Viator
3.00
This is a long tour but each of the stops are quick. It was not what we thought we signed up for. The tranquil town they described was a tourist trap and very crowded. Our guides English was not clear and she always seemed in a hurry and not at all helpful. It would have been much better if we did not spend so much time on the bus. Maybe less stops and less bus time.