Lake Toya

洞爺湖

A caldera lake surrounded by volcanic mountains and hot spring resorts, located near the active Usu volcano. A relaxing destination offering lake views, onsen experiences, and scenic mountain hikes.

Things to do

• Lake Toya Circumnavigation by Boat — A scenic 70-minute cruise around the caldera lake offering views of the surrounding volcanic mountains, hot spring towns, and the active Usu volcano across the water.
• Usu Volcano Museum & Ropeway — Ride the ropeway up Mount Usu for panoramic views of the lake and volcanic landscape, then explore the museum documenting the 2000 eruption and geological history.
• Lakeside Onsen Experience — Soak in hot springs at one of the major resorts like Toya Lakeside Toya or Daya that offer rotenburo (outdoor baths) with direct lake and mountain views.
• Showa Shinzan Hiking Trail — Hike the accessible trail up this young lava dome formed in 1943–1945, rewarding visitors with close-up volcanic geology and views of Lake Toya and surrounding peaks.
• Lake Toya Skating & Winter Sports — During winter months, enjoy ice skating on the frozen lake surface or participate in snowshoeing and cross-country skiing around the shoreline.
• Toyako Onsen Town Strolling — Walk through the charming hot spring resort village along the eastern shore, browsing gift shops, cafes, and small museums dedicated to local geology and history.

Food to try

• Hokkaido Jingiskan (Grilled Lamb) — Grill thin slices of Hokkaido lamb over a dome-shaped metal plate at local restaurants, a regional specialty that pairs well with local vegetables and miso sauce.
• Onsen Tamago (Hot Spring Eggs) — Eggs soft-boiled in the natural hot spring waters at onsen resorts, served warm with soy sauce and a sprinkle of salt for a simple, delicate snack.
• Lake Toya Smelt (Shishamo) — Small freshwater fish caught from the lake, grilled whole and eaten as a crispy, calcium-rich side dish or appetizer at local seafood restaurants.
• Corn and Butter Dishes — Hokkaido sweet corn prepared simply with melted butter, reflecting the prefecture's agricultural heritage and available fresh at roadside stands and restaurants around the lake.
• Miso Ramen with Local Pork Broth — Rich, savory ramen noodles in a miso-based broth made with Hokkaido pork, often topped with regional vegetables and served at casual eateries in Toyako Onsen.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Onsen Etiquette — Always wash thoroughly before entering communal baths, remove tattoos or cover them (some onsen still prohibit them), and never submerge your towel in the hot water.
• Visit During Lake Toya Fireworks Festival — The summer fireworks festival (typically late July to August) attracts many visitors; book accommodations well in advance and expect crowded onsen and restaurants during this peak season.
• Explore at a Slow Pace — Lake Toya is designed for relaxation rather than rushing; allow time to sit by the lake, enjoy kaiseki dinners at your onsen resort, and take unscheduled walks to fully appreciate the landscape.
• Learn About the 2000 Eruption — The Usu volcano's recent activity is deeply embedded in local identity; asking staff or guides about their experiences during the eruption shows genuine respect for the community's resilience and natural heritage.