Hokkaido Noboribetsu Lake Toya, Otaru Panoramic Tour From Sapporo

Exploring Hokkaido’s stunning natural wonders is a dream for many travelers. The Noboribetsu Lake Toya, Otaru Panoramic Tour from Sapporo promises to deliver an unforgettable experience, whisking visitors through breathtaking landscapes and cultural highlights. From the volcanic landscapes of Noboribetsu to the tranquil waters of Lake Toya, this full-day adventure offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s diverse beauty. However, there’s more to this tour than meets the eye, and savvy travelers would do well to uncover the details before embarking on this captivating journey.

Key Points

• This full-day Hokkaido panoramic tour covers approximately 400 km, showcasing natural wonders like Noboribetsu, Mount Usu, Lake Toya, and Otaru.
• The tour is priced from $117 per person, with children aged 0-2 traveling for free on laps, and a maximum group size of 40 participants.
• The tour includes round-trip transfers, admission to Showa Shinzan, and the Bear Ranch (approximately $5), but excludes the Bear Ranch entry fee and lunch.
• The tour departs at 8:00 AM from Sapporo Station North Square and is guided by English, Chinese, Cantonese, and Japanese-speaking guides.
• The tour has an overall rating of 3.9 based on 9 reviews, with positive feedback on the extensive site coverage and knowledgeable guide, but some criticism regarding the large group size and minimal on-site guidance.

Tour Overview

This full-day Hokkaido panoramic tour takes travelers on an approximately 400 km journey from Sapporo to explore the region’s natural wonders.

Priced from $117 per person, the tour has a maximum group size of 40 and is free for children aged 0-2 who can sit on laps.

Highlights include Noboribetsu, Mount Usu’s Bear Ranch, Lake Toya, and the charming town of Otaru.

Expect scenic views, local cuisine, and interactions with nature, guided by an English, Chinese, Cantonese, and Japanese-speaking guide.

This tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with confirmation received upon booking.

Meeting and Pickup Details

As participants prepare for the Hokkaido Panoramic Tour, they’ll find the meeting point at Sapporo Station North Square, located at Kitashichijo Nishi 3-chome in Chuo-ku, Sapporo City.

To ensure a smooth departure, travelers should arrive 10 minutes before the 8:00 AM start time.

The tour uses wheelchair-accessible transportation and is near public transit options.

Participants can expect the tour to end back at the original meeting point.

1. Meeting Point: Sapporo Station North Square
2. Arrival Time: 10 minutes before 8:00 AM departure
3. Start Time: 8:00 AM
4. Return: Back to the original meeting point

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Hokkaido Panoramic Tour includes round-trip transfers and admission to Showa Shinzan and the Bear Ranch, which costs approximately $5. However, the entrance ticket to the Bear Ranch is not included, and lunch is not provided – guests must bring their own takeaway. A table of the inclusions and exclusions is shown below:

Inclusions	Exclusions
Round-trip transfers	Entrance ticket to Bear Ranch
Admission to Showa Shinzan	Other personal expenses
Admission to Bear Ranch (approx. $5)	Lunch (bring your own takeaway)

Travelers should come prepared with cash for the Bear Ranch entry and pack a light lunch to make the most of this immersive Hokkaido tour.

Tour Highlights

The Hokkaido Panoramic Tour immerses travelers in the stunning natural wonders of the region, showcasing key sites like Noboribetsu, Mount Usu, Lake Toya, and Otaru.

Visitors will marvel at the dramatic landscapes, from the steaming volcanic craters of Noboribetsu to the serene beauty of Lake Toya.

The tour also includes:

1. An up-close encounter with the region’s majestic bears at the Bear Ranch.
2. Breathtaking views from the top of Mount Usu, a dormant volcano.
3. A stroll through the charming seaside town of Otaru, famous for its glasswork and delectable local cuisine.
4. Insightful commentary from a knowledgeable guide fluent in multiple languages.

Reviews and Feedback

How does the Hokkaido Panoramic Tour fare in the eyes of past travelers? Based on 9 reviews, the tour maintains a solid 3.9 overall rating.

Travelers laud the extensive coverage of key sites and a knowledgeable guide fluent in multiple languages. However, the large group size and minimal guidance on-site have drawn some criticism.

Plus, the Bear Ranch experience has been a point of contention, with the cash-only entry causing inconvenience. Some suggest replacing the Bear Ranch with a cable car ride for a more enjoyable visitor experience.

Exploring Noboribetsu

Noboribetsu stands as a captivating gem within the Hokkaido Panoramic Tour, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the region’s volcanic wonders.

The tour takes guests to the heart of this remarkable landscape, where they can:

1. Explore the Jigokudani, or "Hell Valley," a surreal volcanic crater exuding sulfurous steam vents and bubbling mud pools.

2. Witness the impressive Oyunuma, a natural hot spring fed by underground thermal activity, where visitors can dip their toes in the warm waters.

3. Visit the Ainu Museum, showcasing the indigenous Ainu culture and their deep-rooted connection to the land.

4. Hike along the scenic trails, marveling at the rugged volcanic formations and the stunning vistas that Noboribetsu has to offer.

Discovering Mount Usu and Bear Ranch

After exploring the volcanic wonders of Noboribetsu, the Hokkaido Panoramic Tour continues its journey to the captivating Mount Usu and the Bear Ranch.

Nestled within the caldera of Mount Usu, visitors can marvel at the serene Bear Ranch and observe the majestic brown bears in their natural habitat. Though the additional entry fee isn’t included in the tour, it’s a chance to witness these magnificent creatures up close.

While the large group size and minimal guidance have drawn some criticism, the opportunity to interact with nature and learn about the bears makes this stop a highlight of the panoramic adventure.

Discovering Lake Toya and Otaru

From the stunning vistas of Mount Usu, the tour continues its panoramic journey to the serene Lake Toya.

Nestled in a volcanic caldera, this picturesque lake offers a feast for the senses:

1. Mirrored reflections of the surrounding mountains dance on the glassy surface.
2. Vibrant hues of blue and green blend seamlessly, creating a breathtaking natural display.
3. Visitors can savor local delicacies like the famous Toya cheesecake and indulge in delectable ice cream.

The charming town of Otaru, known for its historic canal and glassblowing artisans, rounds out the day’s exploration.

Since You Asked

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

This tour can be booked for a private group, though the maximum group size is typically 40 travelers. Private group bookings may offer more flexibility and a more personalized experience compared to the standard group tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Travelers can customize their tour by adding more stops or spending more time at specific sites. This flexibility allows them to tailor the experience to their interests and preferences.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy. Customers can cancel their booking for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour’s start time. There are no fees for cancellations made within this window.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit My Interests?

The tour can be customized to suit your interests, though specific requests may incur additional fees. Speak with the helpful staff to see what options are available to personalize your experience.

Is There Any Flexibility in the Pickup or Drop-Off Locations?

The tour company generally offers a set pickup and drop-off location, but they may be able to accommodate special requests if communicated in advance. It’s best to inquire about any flexibility in the meeting and ending points.

The Sum Up

This Hokkaido tour offers a fantastic opportunity to explore stunning natural landscapes and cultural sites. From the volcanic wonders of Noboribetsu to the unique wildlife at Mount Usu’s Bear Ranch, and the serene beauty of Lake Toya, travelers will be captivated by the diverse experiences this full-day adventure provides. With a knowledgeable guide and breathtaking scenery, it’s a must-do for anyone visiting Sapporo and the surrounding Hokkaido region.