Lake Toya and Noboribatsu Hell Valley Private Day Trip

Venture into the natural splendor of Hokkaido’s Shikotsu-Toya National Park on a private day trip to Lake Toya and Noboribetsu Hell Valley. Explore the mesmerizing landscapes, from the crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs of Lake Toya to the otherworldly volcanic terrain of Noboribetsu. With an English-speaking guide by your side, uncover the region’s unique geological features and gain insights into the captivating history that has shaped this remarkable natural wonder. Prepare to be immersed in a world of breathtaking vistas and unforgettable experiences.

Key Points

Explore the natural landscapes of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, including the serene Lake Toya and the volcanic Noboribetsu Hell Valley.
Enjoy a private guided tour with an English-speaking driver, with all transportation, entrance fees, and logistics covered.
Ride a cable car up Mount Usu for breathtaking panoramic views of the stunning Hokkaido scenery.
Benefit from a 100% recommendation rate based on 14 excellent reviews, with guests praising knowledgeable guides and personalized attention.
Relax in a foot bath and experience the region’s diverse natural beauty, from crystal-clear lakes to volcanic landscapes.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This private day trip to Lake Toya and Noboribetsu Hell Valley showcases the stunning natural landscapes of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, located just outside of Sapporo.

Highlights include a visit to scenic Lake Shikotsu, one of Japan’s deepest and clearest lakes, and the caldera lake of Lake Toya, home to volcanic islands.

Guests will also ride a cable car up Mount Usu for breathtaking views. A private guide and 4WD transport provide a personalized experience throughout the full-day tour.

With 14 excellent reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this trip offers an immersive introduction to Hokkaido’s natural wonders.

Want to keep it personal? More private experiences we love in Sapporo

Inclusions and Logistics

The tour includes an English-speaking local guide and driver who’ll provide transportation in a private 4WD vehicle.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Sapporo, New Chitose Airport, or Chitose are included.

Participation and entry fees for all listed activities, as well as parking fees, highway tolls, and meals, are covered.

Guests can enjoy the freedom of a private tour with the flexibility to customize the itinerary.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

With all logistics taken care of, travelers can focus on soaking in the stunning landscapes of Shikotsu-Toya National Park.

Traveler Experience and Reviews

What do travelers have to say about this tour? Based on 14 glowing reviews, the Lake Toya and Noboribetsu Hell Valley Private Day Trip earns an impressive 4.9 rating.

Guests praised the knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking landscapes they experienced. Common highlights included the stunning views from the cable car, relaxing foot baths, and opportunities to learn about Hokkaido’s history and agriculture.

Travelers appreciated the personal attention from guides Sumi and Taki, who took photos and provided snacks and water to enhance the overall experience.

Many expressed a desire to return for more tours, making this a highly recommended option for visiting Hokkaido.

Guides and Personal Touch

Because the guides Sumi and Taki were highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to accommodate guest needs, travelers appreciated the personal attention they received. Guests enjoyed learning about Hokkaido’s history and agriculture from the knowledgeable guides. To enhance the overall experience, the guides provided snacks, water, and took photos. The table below highlights the positive feedback on the guides’ performance:

Attribute	Feedback
Knowledge	Guests praised the guides’ extensive knowledge of the region.
Friendliness	Guides were described as warm, welcoming, and attentive.
Accommodation	Guides tailored the tour to individual needs and preferences.
Personal Touch	Gestures like providing refreshments and photos were appreciated.

Stunning Landscapes of Shikotsu-Toya National Park

Nestled within the Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Lake Toya and Noboribetsu Hell Valley offer a stunning natural landscape that captivates visitors.

Lake Toya, a caldera lake with several islands, boasts crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs. Nearby, Noboribetsu Hell Valley features a volcanic landscape with steaming fumaroles, mud pots, and hot springs.

The cable car ride up Mount Usu provides sweeping views of the serene lakes and rugged terrain. Guests are awestruck by the region’s natural beauty, from the pristine waters to the dynamic volcanic features.

The tour allows travelers to enjoy Hokkaido’s breathtaking scenery.

Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Sapporo

Exploring Lake Toya and Noboribetsu Hell Valley

The day trip begins with a drive through the scenic countryside of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, offering travelers a glimpse into the region’s natural wonders.

The first stop is Lake Toya, a stunning caldera lake with serene islands. Visitors can explore the area by boat or on foot, admiring the tranquil waters and surrounding mountains.

Next, the tour heads to Noboribetsu Hell Valley, a volcanic wonderland known for its fumaroles, hot springs, and dramatic landscape.

Travelers can witness the hissing steam vents and learn about the area’s geological history from the knowledgeable guide.

This unique experience showcases the diverse natural beauty of Hokkaido.

The Cable Car Ride up Mount Usu

After exploring the serene shores of Lake Toya, the tour continues with a thrilling cable car ride up Mount Usu.

As the cable car ascends, guests are treated to panoramic vistas of the surrounding volcanic landscape.

The ride offers:

Sweeping views of the caldera lake and its islands
A unique perspective on the region’s volcanic history
An opportunity to witness the ongoing geothermal activity
A chance to appreciate the scale and grandeur of the natural setting
A memorable experience that enhances the overall tour.

The cable car provides an exhilarating way to reach the summit and take in the breathtaking beauty of Shikotsu-Toya National Park.

Recommendations and Tips for Your Day Trip

For those seeking a scenic escape from Sapporo, this day trip to Lake Toya and Noboribetsu Hell Valley is highly recommended.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with serious medical conditions. Prepare for extended driving, but enjoy the stunning countryside views along the way.

While it’s not a physically demanding tour, some guests mentioned feeling fatigued from the long hours. However, most travelers expressed a desire to return for more tours, praising the knowledgeable guides and beautiful landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, there is a private tour option available. The tour includes an English-speaking guide, private transportation, and all necessary entry fees and activities, providing a personalized experience in Shikotsu-Toya National Park.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Preferences?

Yes, the private tour can be customized to your preferences. The knowledgeable guides are praised for their ability to accommodate guest needs and tailor the experience to individual interests.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?

The tour provider accommodates various dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Guests can notify the guide in advance about their dietary needs, and the guide will ensure appropriate meals and snacks are provided throughout the day.

How Strenuous Is the Hiking Involved?

The tour involves some moderate hiking, but it’s not overly strenuous. Guests can expect gentle walks around the lakes and a cable car ride up Mount Usu, providing spectacular views without extensive physical exertion.

Are There Any Discounts for Children or Seniors?

The tour operator offers discounts for children, but not seniors. Children under 12 receive a 20% discount, making this an affordable family-friendly option. The tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues or serious medical conditions.

The Sum Up

This private day trip to Lake Toya and Noboribetsu Hell Valley offers a unique opportunity to experience the stunning landscapes of Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Travelers can enjoy the crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs of Lake Toya, followed by an exploration of the volcanic terrain of Noboribetsu Hell Valley. With an English-speaking guide and personalized attention, this tour promises breathtaking views and memorable moments in one of Hokkaido’s natural wonders.