～Michi-no-Eki Boyonakayama～　

Nakayama Pass, at an elevation of 831m, is a strategic point on National Route 230, which connects Sapporo and Lake Toya. It’s a great location for a panoramic view of the majestic Mount Yotei (Ezo Fuji). The conical shape of Mount Yotei is at its most beautiful from here, making for a truly spectacular view.
The local specialty, fried sweet potatoes, are extremely popular. These simple-tasting, fluffy potatoes are wrapped in a sweet batter and deep-fried, making them a classic snack on Hokkaido drives. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants, making it the perfect place to take a break during your trip.

～Silo Observatory～

Silo Observatory, a spectacular spot overlooking Lake Toya, is a relaxing spot you’ll definitely want to stop by during your trip. From the high ground, you can enjoy the magnificent views of Mount Usu, Showa-Shinzan, and the caldera lake, and the sense of openness is so great you’ll want to take a deep breath! Depending on the season, you can also enjoy snow activities and a cafe, so it’s a spot where you can enjoy not only the scenery but also “play” and “food.” It’s also perfect for taking great photos, making it the perfect place to create memories of your trip!

～Lake Hill Farm～

Relax with Farm-Fresh Sweets — Enjoy a Peaceful Moment at Lake Hill Farm.
At Lake Hill Farm, you can savor fresh gelato and oven-baked pizza made with milk delivered straight from the farm. The spacious garden is home to friendly goats and rabbits, creating a soothing atmosphere that feels like stepping into a storybook.
With over 20 flavors of gelato available at all times, plus local specialties like Toyako-style pizza and curry, it’s the perfect stop for a leisurely drive.

・Hands-on experiences such as butter-making and gelato-making are also available (advance reservation required).

～Showa-shinzan & Usuzan Ropeway～

Next, let’s feel the heartbeat of the earth through its volcanoes. Take a walk in the air above Mount Showa-Shinzan and Mount Usu.
Mount Showa-Shinzan was born from eruptions that began in 1943 (Showa 18). What was once a flat wheat field rose repeatedly over just two years to its current state. Standing 398 meters above sea level, it remains an active volcano to this day. Its rugged, reddish-brown rock surface tells the story of how viscous lava pushed up and raised the mountain. The sight of smoke rising from the rock surface is truly impressive! You can really feel the energy of the earth.
Starting from Sanroku Station in the volcano village at the foot of Mount Showa-Shinzan, the approximately 6-minute walk in the air offers views of Mount Usu, Mount Showa-Shinzan, Lake Toya, and Mount Yotei below. In autumn, the entire area is covered in autumn leaves, making the scenery even more beautiful. The Crater Plain Observatory is about a 7-minute walk from the summit station, and from there you can take in views of Mount O-Usu, Mount Ko-Usu, and Mount Usushin, and stroll to the Ginnuma Crater and Mount Usu’s outer rim observation deck.

～Noboribetsu Jigokudani～

Our final destination is “The Valley Where the Earth Breathes, the Valley Where Demons Live.” Located deep within Hokkaido’s Noboribetsu Onsen, Noboribetsu Jigokudani is a scenic spot truly worthy of the name “Hell,” with white smoke rising from the remains of a 450-meter-long explosion crater and the scent of sulfur in the air. The scenery, interwoven with volcanic gases spewing from the reddish-brown rock face and hot springs gushing forth, truly makes you feel the heartbeat of the earth. Stroll along the promenade and visit places like Iron Spring Pond and Oyunuma. You can also enjoy the fantastically lit Will-o’-the-Wisp Path and natural footbaths.

Private Day Trip to Lake Toya, Showa-Shinzan, and Noboribetsu from Sapporo – Itinerary 🚖🚖

09:00 Depart from Sapporo city hotel

  • Hoping for good weather, we chartered a taxi or bus and set off!

10:10 “Roadside Station Boyo Nakayama” Nakayama Pass (rest stop)

  • Take a break at this scenic spot. If the weather is clear, you can enjoy a spectacular view of Mount Yotei, also known as Ezo Fuji. Be sure to try some roasted sweet potatoes, a local specialty of the pass.

11：10　Silo Observatory/Lake Hill Farm

  • Silo Observatory, the best seat for a view of Lake Toya!
  • Next, head to Lake Hill Farm for the decadent combination of stunning views and gelato.

12：00　Lunch:　I’ve listed some recommended restaurants below, but it’s hard to choose…

13：15　Showa Shinzan/Usuzan Ropeway

  • Feel the breath of the earth at Showa Shinzan!
  • Take the Usuzan Ropeway and enjoy the panoramic view of Lake Toya Geopark!
  • If you have time, please stop by Showa Shinzan Bear Ranch. https://kumakuma.co.jp/

15：15　Noboribetsu Jigokudani

  • Head to Noboribetsu Jigokudani, Hokkaido’s premier hot spring source, where you can feel the pulse of the earth.

17：30　Arrival at hotel in Sapporo city

  • We headed straight to Sapporo city on the expressway. Thank you for the day.