Springtime Escape to Hokkaido's Volcanic Jewel: Lake Toya
A lake cruise boat glided past Mount Yōtei
In Hokkaido, Japan, within the embrace of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, lies a captivating sight: Lake Toya (洞爺湖, Tōya-ko⭐⭐), a volcanic caldera lake formed over 110,000 years ago by a mighty eruption. Crystal-clear waters, fed by hot springs and hidden underground streams, fill this nearly circular lake, which stretches 10 kilometers east to west and 9 kilometers north to south. Mount Usu, a stratovolcano gracing the southern rim, adds a dramatic touch to the landscape.
In the heart of the lake lies Nakajima Island, home to the fascinating Tōya Lake Forest Museum. Numerous parks, walking trails, and onsen (hot spring baths) pepper the lakeshore, while the Toya Long Run Fireworks Festival explodes with color for a mesmerizing 187 days, from April 28th to October 31st.
Toya Nonokaze Resort: Immerse yourself in the splendor and elegance of Hokkaido (YouTube link)
Photo Gallery
Between April 18th and 20th, 2024, I visited Lake Toya after spending time in Noboribetsu (登別). The weather during my stay was mostly cloudy, obscuring the peak of Mount Yōtei (羊蹄山), also known as Ezo Fuji (蝦夷富士) or 'Hokkaido's Mount Fuji'.
A lake cruise departed from the Toyakokisen ferry terminal during my visit, but it didn't stop at the Tōya Lake Forest Museum on those days. While many tourist groups opted for the cruise, I decided to explore the lakeshore for its scenic views and relaxation.
Numerous sculptures dot the lakeshore, adding artistic flair to the scenic view
Seen against the backdrop of Nakajima Island, the lake cruise offered a sense of the lake's immensity
The hotel lobby displayed a photo showcasing the full grandeur of Mount Yōtei
The clouds cleared, letting the setting sun peek through briefly
Like a shy maiden, Mount Yōtei veiled itself in clouds, revealing only a sun-dappled shoulder
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