Toyako Travel Guide

Explore the wonders of Toyako, Japan with this complete travel guide. Discover its must-visit attractions, delicious local dishes, ideal times to visit, and helpful transport information, and more.


Introduction to Toyako

Located in Central Circuit, in Hokkaido, Japan, Toyako boasts picturesque views of Lake Toya. It is a popular tourist destination because of its natural beauty, delicious local cuisine, and a wide range of activities. Tourists can enjoy this city all year-round, making it one of the best destinations in Japan.

List of Places to Visit in Toyako

There are many tourist attractions worth visiting in Toyako, and we’ve listed them below:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Lake Toya Nishiyama Museum of History
  2. Toyako Forest Museum
  3. Former Mizunashi Honjin
  4. Silo Observatory

Natural Attractions of Toyako: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Lake Toya
  2. Mt. Usu
  3. Showa-Shinzan
  4. Toyako Hot Springs

Hiking/Biking Routes of Toyako

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Toyako is the perfect destination. Below are some of the best hiking and biking trails to explore:

  1. Toyako Forest Trail
  2. Onsen Path
  3. Mt. Usu Crater Trail
  4. Showa-Shinzan Trail

Best Things to Do in Toyako: Activities and Tours

There are many activities and tours that tourists can try in Toyako, and some of the most popular are:

  1. Lake Toya Cruise
  2. Ski at Rusutsu Resort
  3. Try local crafts at Atelier Nikola
  4. Take a Dip in the Toyako Hot Springs

Week-Long Itinerary for Toyako

Here’s our week-long itinerary for Toyako, ideal for those who want to explore many attractions in this city:

Day 1: Exploration of Lake Toya

  • Take a morning Lake Toya cruise to see the beauty of the lake from another perspective.
  • Visit the Lake Toya Nishiyama Museum of History to learn more about the city’s heritage.
  • Wrap up your day with a relaxing soak in the Toyako Onsen.

Day 2: Mt. Usu and Showa-Shinzan

  • Hike to the top of Mt. Usu and enjoy the stunning views from the summit.
  • Visit Showa-Shinzan, a volcanic mountain near Mt. Usu
  • Cap off the day with a bath in Toyako hot springs.

Day 3: Explore the City

  • Visit the Former Mizunashi Honjin, a restored historic building.
  • Head to Toyako Forest Museum to learn more about the natural wonders surrounding Toyako.
  • Take a trip to the Silo Observatory for breathtaking views of the city.

Day 4: Rusutsu Resort

  • Take a day trip to the Rusutsu Resort.
  • Ski or snowboard on the mountains in the resort.
  • Take a break and try the delicious food at the restaurants in the resort.

Day 5: Explore Toyako Onsen

  • Enjoy relaxing and rejuvenating baths at the Toyako hot springs.
  • Stay overnight at one of the city’s traditional onsen ryokans.

Day 6: Craft Enthusiasts

  • Visit the Atelier Nikola for hands-on activities crafting for local art.
  • Visit or Art Galleries in the area, particularly the Toto gallery and Yamairu Gallery.

Day 7: Final Exploration

  • Spend your final day taking your time to explore and buy souvenirs to bring home.
  • Take a final walk around Lake Toya and reflect on your trip’s memories.

Food and Drink Scene of Toyako

Toyako’s food scene is rightly famous for its delicious seafood, it’s a paradise for seafood lovers. Among other things, visitors should try the following dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kaisen Don: a rice bowl with fresh seafood such as tuna, salmon, and shrimp
  • Ikura Kakiage Don: rice bowl with a mix of salmon roe and fried vegetables
  • Hokkaido Milk Ice Cream
  • Grilled Salmon

Local Beverages

  • Oolong Tea and Hokkaido Milk
  • Sake
  • Beer

Where to Stay in Toyako: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many accommodation options that cater to tourists with different budget preferences. Below are some hotel categories with examples of specific properties:

Luxury Hotels

  • The Windsor Hotel Toya Resort & Spa

Mid-Range Hotel

  • Toya Sun Palace Resort & Spa

Budget Hotels

  • The Lake Suite Ko no Sumika

What to Buy in Toyako: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs to buy in Toyako are:

  • Seafood Delicacies: look for sushi goods, smoked seafood, or canned seafood that you can bring back home.
  • Wood Carvings: Handmade wood carvings, particularly of animals, are common souvenirs.
  • Imabari towels: Made from cotton, they are popular in Japan for being soft and absorbent.

Local Culture and Customs of Toyako

People in Toyako quite relaxed and casual, with no specific etiquette that tourists need to follow. Japanese people are proud of their culture and history, so it’s essential to be respectful towards it.

Best Time to Visit Toyako

Summer (June-August) is the perfect time to visit Toyako when the weather is pleasant and places like Lake Toya offer stunning views. However, winter (December-February) has its charm where you can enjoy skiing and hot springs under the snow.

Do’s and Don’ts of Toyako

Do:

  • Be respectful towards the local people and their culture.
  • Bring plenty of layers of clothing during winter months and sunscreen during summer.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter in public spaces.
  • Do not touch the food with your hands while dining.

Safety and Health

Safety in Toyako

Japan is generally a safe country to travel. However, tourists should take caution and be alert when in crowded or touristy areas to avoid pickpocketing.

Health in Toyako

Tap water is generally safe to drink in Toyako. Hospitals and clinics are readily available, but it is always best to invest in travel insurance before traveling.

Getting to Toyako: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Toyako

The New Chitose Airport, located in Sapporo, Hokkaido, is the nearest airport to Toyako. Once you reach the airport, you can take a bus or a rental car to reach Toyako.

Other Options

You can travel to Toyako via train or bus as well, book your tickets in advance to avoid any hassles.

How to Get Around in Toyako

Tourists can use buses, taxis, or rental cars to reach their destination in Toyako.

Where to Go Next from Toyako: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the popular destinations near Toyako are:

  • Sapporo: A major city in Hokkaido, popular for its local food and beer.
  • Otaru: Known for its rich history and beautiful canal.
  • Niseko: A popular ski town in Hokkaido, known for its powdery snow.
  • Furano: Famous for its lavender fields and stunning scenery.

Conclusion

Toyako’s natural beauty, delicious food, and endless activities make it an ideal destination for travelers. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or relaxation, Toyako has something to offer. Plan your trip to discover the best of Japan’s stunning lakefront destination.

Lake Toya Lake Toya