Your nationally licensed guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel in central Sapporo. After a brief introduction to the day’s itinerary, depart by private vehicle for Shikotsu-Toya National Park.

Enjoy a short rest stop at Nakayama Pass, where you’ll be rewarded with one of the best views of Mt. Yotei, often called “Hokkaido’s Mt. Fuji.” Don’t miss the local specialty, “Age-imo,” deep-fried potato skewers beloved by travelers.

Lake Toya is a scenic caldera lake located within Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Surrounded by mountains and dotted with four small islands, the lake is known for its clear waters and hot spring towns along the shore. On this tour, you will visit the Sairo Observatory, the best viewpoint to admire the lake’s full panorama and Mt. Yotei in the distance.

The Mt. Usu Ropeway offers a scenic 7-minute ride to the summit. From the observation deck, enjoy sweeping views of Showa Shinzan below, the sparkling waters of Lake Toya, and the vast Pacific Ocean stretching into the horizon. On clear days, you can even see Mount Yotei, often called “Hokkaido’s Mt. Fuji.”

Formed in 1943 when farmlands were uplifted by volcanic activity, Showa Shinzan is one of Japan’s youngest mountains. Standing beside Mt. Usu, it remains a rare example of a landscape born within living memory, where visitors can feel the raw power of the earth up close. The contrast between the red-brown mountain surface and the surrounding greenery makes it a striking sight.

Visit Oyunuma, a dramatic volcanic pond formed by the geothermal activity of Mt. Hiyori. Steam rises from the mineral-rich water, creating a unique and otherworldly landscape surrounded by forest. Stop at the observation area to take photographs and learn about the geothermal activity of Noboribetsu.

Walk through Noboribetsu Jigokudani, also known as Hell Valley. Follow the walking paths and boardwalks through a rugged volcanic crater filled with rising steam, hot spring streams, sulfurous rock formations, and geothermal vents. Your nationally licensed guide interpreter will explain how the volcanic activity of the valley supplies the natural hot spring water used throughout Noboribetsu Onsen. There will be time to enjoy the scenery, walk through the valley, and take photographs.

Finish the sightseeing portion of the tour at Lake Shikotsu. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the lakeshore and photograph the clear water surrounded by mountains and forest. When the Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center is open, you may also visit its exhibits to learn about the lake’s volcanic origins, wildlife, and natural environment.

After visiting Lake Shikotsu, return to your hotel in Sapporo.