Recognized as Japan's first UNESCO Global Geopark, this area lets you experience the magnificent natural heritage of Lake Toya, formed by a massive eruption about 110,000 years ago, alongside the still-active Mt. Usu and Showa-shinzan volcanoes and many other natural wonders.

This Route's Coordinator

This Drive's Route

Shikotsu-Toya-Niseko Route: Toya Area

The Shikotsu-Toya-Niseko Route, which runs through two national and quasi-national parks—Shikotsu-Toya National Park and Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park—is a region where you can encounter beautiful lakes, magnificent peaks, and volcanoes. The route is composed of three areas. These three areas are premier tourist destinations in Hokkaido, boasting top-tier natural resources like Lake Shikotsu, Lake Toya, Mt. Usu, and Mt. Yotei, as well as other outstanding natural assets like Mt. Niseko Annupuri and Mt. Tarumae.

Let's Start the Drive!

1 Silo Observatory

A drive from Sapporo to Lake Toya along National Route 230.
The Silo Observatory, marked by the silo standing along the road, is an observation deck located on a hill on the west shore of Lake Toya. It's a prime viewpoint offering a panoramic vista of Lake Toya, Nakajima Island, Mt. Usu, and Showa-shinzan.
As a popular photo spot for social media, it bustles with tourists year-round.

Silo Observatory

2 Kitsutsuki Canadian Club

The Kitsutsuki Canadian Club, with its distinctive log cabin exterior, is a restaurant where a stunning view of Lake Toya unfolds from the wooden deck on sunny days. The restaurant is nestled in the woods, far from the hustle and bustle.
Their popular hamburg steak, with the tenderness of Ougon pork and the juicy flavor of beef, is sure to whet your appetite. Why not experience the clear, sweet air and the sounds of the winter forest?

Kitsutsuki Canadian Club

3 Showa-shinzan and Mimatsu Masao Memorial Museum

Showa-shinzan is a landmark of the Toya-Usu UNESCO Global Geopark, alongside Mt. Usu and Lake Toya. The story of its formation—emerging from a farmland field during the Showa era war period—is fascinating.
At its base is the Mimatsu Masao Memorial Museum, where you can learn about the coexistence of people and volcanoes, as well as disaster prevention. Every February, the Showa-shinzan International Yukigassen (Snowball Fight) is held here, featuring an impressive, heated battle of flying snowballs.

4 TOYACAFE Coffee Roastery

Housed in a charmingly renovated old folk house on the shores of Lake Toya, TOYACAFE Coffee Roastery will captivate you with the stunning lake view framed by its windows.
They use only fair-trade and organic green coffee beans, which are roasted to order, resulting in a highly aromatic and delicious brew. The owner, Ms. Kaya Nagatomo, is also a certified Volcano Meister, making for lively conversation.

TOYACAFE Coffee Roastery

5 Sobetsu Fruit Village

The town of Sobetsu is one of Hokkaido's leading fruit-producing areas. The Sobetsu Fruit Village is a tourist farm village established in 1987, primarily by young farmers from 23 orchards in Sobetsu.
Driven by a strong desire to let consumers taste truly delicious fruit, each orchard lovingly cultivates its produce with great care.
Come and experience the authentic taste for yourself with some fruit picking.

Sobetsu Fruit Village

Summary

How did you enjoy the tour?
This route was a dynamic journey where you could feel the power of the Earth and the richness of nature. There were also many wonderful spots where you could enjoy both the 'scenery' of the fertile land and the 'food' it produces at the same time!
As we approach spring, the scenery will burst with color, adding to the excitement.
Please continue to take precautions against infectious diseases and enjoy your drive safely.