Come along for a winter road trip adventure from Sapporo to Toyako (Lake Toya) and Noboribetsu! 🚗❄️ This was our first time driving in snowy conditions in Hokkaido, and the views along the way were absolutely worth it—peaceful lakes, Mt Yotei , and steamy volcanic valleys all in one day. In this video, we’ll share our full 1-day itinerary, some food stops, scenic views, and a few tips for anyone planning to self-drive in Hokkaido during winter.
🗺️ 1-Day Itinerary Overview
8:00 AM – Pick up rental car in Sapporo
The day began early with a rental car pickup in Sapporo. Driving in the snow for the first time can feel a little intimidating, but with proper winter tires, a slow and steady pace, and a good GPS, it’s very manageable. Pro tip: always keep an eye on weather updates and allow for extra time between destinations.
– Takeaway Breakfast from Sandria Sandwich Shop
Before hitting the road, a quick stop at Sandria, a beloved local sandwich shop that’s open 24/7. Their sandwiches are surprisingly filling and perfect for takeaway on a long drive.
🏞️ Aikawa Viewpoint｜相川展望台
Aikawa Viewpoint is one of those quiet, lesser-known spots that rewards the stop with stunning panoramic views. Located near Lake Toya, this viewpoint offers a sweeping look over the surrounding mountains and valleys, especially magical in winter when everything is blanketed in snow.
It’s a peaceful spot—no crowds, just fresh mountain air and silence. On a clear day, you can even catch sight of Mount Yotei in the distance. A perfect place to take a break from the drive, stretch your legs, and soak in the beauty of Hokkaido’s natural landscape.
🐄 Lake Hill Farm
First stop of the day: Lake Hill Farm, a peaceful dairy farm just outside Lake Toya. In winter, the landscape transforms into a snowy field with views of Mount Usu and the surrounding mountains. The farm is also known for its soft-serve ice cream (yes, even in winter!) and cozy little shop.
🌊 Lake Toya Scenic Viewpoint
After Lake Hill Farm, a short drive brought us to Lake Toya itself. This caldera lake is stunning year-round, but the contrast of blue water against the snowy backdrop makes it especially beautiful in winter. There are several viewpoints along the lakeshore—perfect for a quick photo stop.
🦀 Lunch at Kani Ō (かに王)
For lunch, we headed to Kani Ō, a popular seafood restaurant famous for its Kegani (Horsehair Crab) and fresh local seafood. The portions were generous, the crab was sweet and tender, and it was the perfect way to warm up from the cold.
♨️ Oyunuma River Natural Footbath
Next, we drove to Oyunuma River, a natural hot spring stream that flows through the forest in Noboribetsu. The footbath area is a short walk from the parking lot, and even in winter, the warmth of the geothermal water makes it a relaxing stop. Sitting by the steaming water, surrounded by snow-covered trees, is pure bliss.
🔥 Hell Valley (Jigokudani), Noboribetsu
Just a few minutes from the footbath is Jigokudani, or Hell Valley. This dramatic volcanic landscape is one of Noboribetsu’s most famous sights, with sulfur vents, hot steam, and a rugged terrain that looks like something from another planet. In winter, the contrast of snow and steam makes the entire valley feel even more surreal.
🍣 Dinner at Nagoyakatei Hassamu
After the return drive to Sapporo, we ended the day with a casual dinner at Nagoyakatei Hassamu, a local favorite conveyor belt sushi spot. Fresh, quick, and surprisingly affordable—just what’s needed after a full day on the road.
Final Thoughts
This one-day road trip offers a fantastic taste of Hokkaido’s winter charm—from hot springs and dramatic landscapes to fresh seafood and peaceful lake views. While it’s a full day, each stop offers something unique, and the drive itself is part of the experience.
Whether you’re planning a winter adventure or just looking to get out of the city, Toyako and Noboribetsu make for a perfect day trip from Sapporo.
🎒 Travel Tips:
- Rent a car with proper snow tires and 4WD if possible
- Leave early to make the most of daylight (sun sets early in winter)
- Pack warm clothing and towels for the footbath
- Some restaurants may require reservations, especially during peak lunch hours
- Don’t forget snacks and drinks for the drive
