Lake Toya Onsen: A Volcanic Masterpiece of Fire and Water
Nestled on the northern shores of an almost perfectly circular caldera lake, Lake Toya Onsen (Toyako Onsen) is one of Hokkaido’s most dynamic and visually stunning destinations. Formed by a massive volcanic eruption over 100,000 years ago, the area is still very much alive, with the active Mount Usu and the smoking lava dome of Showa Shinzan serving as a backdrop to the steam-filled resort. Known for its “Long Run Fireworks” that paint the night sky for six months of the year, Toyako is a place where the primal energy of the earth meets a refined, relaxing resort atmosphere. Whether you are soaking in an infinity bath overlooking the lake or exploring the rugged craters of recent eruptions, Toyako offers a profound sense of “Life in Harmony with Volcanoes.”
Even if you land at New Chitose Airport in the morning and stop by Toyako Onsen for lunch and a soak, you’ll have plenty of time to reach Sapporo by evening. The vast nature along the way was perfect for a drive, but you definitely need to watch out for deer and other wildlife!
Key Information
| Address | 〒049-5721 北海道虻田郡洞爺湖町洞爺湖温泉 / Toyako Onsen, Toyako Town, Abuta District, Hokkaido |
| Google Maps | View on Google Maps |
| Spring Quality | Sodium and Calcium-Chloride, Bicarbonate and Sulfate Springs (Neutral to Weakly Alkaline) |
| Benefits | Neuralgia, joint pain, sensitivity to cold, chronic skin diseases, and cuts |
| Access | 2 hours from Sapporo via JR Limited Express “Hokuto” to Toya Station, then 20 min by bus |
| Number of Ryokans | Approximately 15-20 hotels ranging from grand resorts to boutique luxury inns |
| Day-trip Bathing | Widely available at Toyako Manseikaku, Nonokaze Resort, and several public footbaths |
The Healing Waters: Born from Recent Eruptions
The hot springs of Toyako are a relatively modern geological gift, having first gushed forth after the eruption of Mount Usu in 1910. Scientifically, the water is a rich blend of sodium and calcium chloride. These minerals create a “micro-film” on the skin after bathing, which acts as a thermal insulator, preventing the evaporation of sweat and moisture. This makes it a premier “Spring of Warmth,” ideal for deep relaxation and improving circulation. The water gushes at a temperature of approximately 50-60°C and is clear with a yellowish-brown tint, reflecting its high mineral content derived from the volcanic strata of the Shikotsu-Toya National Park.
Top 5 Recommended Ryokans
- The Lake View TOYA Nonokaze Resort (Modern Luxury): A designer resort where every guest room features an expansive view of the lake. The rooftop infinity bath “TENKU” is one of the most photographed in Japan.
- The Windsor Hotel Toya Resort & Spa (Ultra-Luxury): Perched on a 625-meter mountain peak, this hotel hosted the G8 Summit. It offers panoramic views of both the lake and the Pacific Ocean.
- Toyako Manseikaku Hotel Lakeside Terrace (Family Friendly): A large-scale hotel featuring a high-end buffet, a massive garden-view bath, and excellent facilities for children.
- The Lake Suite Ko no Sumika (Exclusive Boutique): An annex to the Sun Palace, offering private open-air baths in every room and a refined “adults-only” atmosphere.
- Granvillage Toya Daiwa Ryokan Annex (Value Heritage): A more traditional, cozy option for those seeking authentic hospitality and easy access to the town’s footbaths.
Must-Visit Public Baths (Soto-yu)
While the resort is dominated by hotel baths, the town is famous for its Hand Baths (Te-ayu) and Foot Baths (Ashiyu). The Toro-no-yu and Nakamachi-no-yu are free public footbaths located along the lakeside promenade where you can soak while watching the ferry boats. For a full-body public bath experience, Yutorelo Toyako offers day-trip access to its sources which are among the closest to the volcanic vents, ensuring the freshest mineral concentration.
Walking Guide & Scenic Spots
Start with the Toyako Gurutto Sculpture Park, a trail of 58 sculptures lining the lakeside. For a dramatic volcanic experience, walk the Konpira Crater Trail, where you can see the remains of buildings destroyed by the 2000 eruption. A short drive away is Mount Usu; take the Usuzan Ropeway to the summit for a 360-degree view of the lake and the smoking Showa Shinzan lava dome. In winter, the Illumination Tunnel in the town center creates a 70-meter pathway of 400,000 blue and white LED lights.
Local Gastronomy & Souvenirs
Try the Toyako Wagyu Beef, a local brand known for its fine marbling and sweetness. Another must-try is Wakasaimo, a traditional sweet made from white beans that looks like a roasted sweet potato but tastes unique to Toyako. For a trendy break, Lake Hill Farm offers award-winning gelato and cream puffs made with fresh milk from the surrounding hills. Souvenirs to look for include hand-crafted “wooden swords” (made famous by popular anime) and volcanic ash-glazed pottery.
Cultural & Historical Context
The Ainu people have long revered this lake, which never freezes even in the harshest winters. They named the nearby peak “Usu” (meaning “bay” or “cove”). The modern history of the onsen town began in 1917, and it has since survived several major eruptions of Mount Usu. The local community has developed a unique “volcano-meister” system, where residents are trained to educate tourists on how to coexist safely with nature’s power, turning disaster history into a source of cultural pride.
Practical Travel Tips
Transportation: Free shuttle buses are provided by many major hotels from Sapporo Station, but these MUST be booked in advance via the hotel’s official website. Fireworks: The display happens nightly from late April to October; the best view is from the lake-facing rooms of the ryokans. Tattoos: Larger resorts like Nonokaze and Windsor are generally international-friendly, but always check the policy for communal baths or book a “Kashikiri” (private) bath.
2025-2026 Latest Updates
The 45th Lake Toyako Long Run Fireworks Display is scheduled to run from April 28, 2026, to October 31, 2026, starting at 20:45 nightly. For winter travelers, the Toyako Winter Fireworks will be held for 10 days in early February 2026, featuring music-synchronized displays. A new Digital Volcanic Map has been installed at the Visitor Center to provide real-time updates on mountain trails in multiple languages.
Safety & Manners
In the onsen, do not put your towel in the water and always rinse thoroughly before entering. When walking the volcanic trails, stay strictly on the marked paths as geothermal heat can create unstable ground. Mount Usu is a monitored volcano; if you hear the local emergency sirens (rare), follow the hotel staff’s instructions immediately. Finally, please respect the sculpture park by not climbing on the artwork.
