The beautiful town of Toyako in Hokkaido is a place where the blessings of nature and the spirit of humanity coexist. Known for its rich natural environment and hot springs, this area has tourism as its main industry, while agriculture thrives due to its fertile soil. The influence of traditional Ainu culture remains strong, with the Hokkaido dialect and Ainu customs integrated into daily life. Toyako is also known as the host of the G8 Summit in 2008, making it a place of international attention. Above all, local festivals such as the Toyako Festival and the winter snow festival enhance the town’s charm. Spending time in Toyako allows you to experience the pleasant natural environment and the depth of Ainu culture, as well as to touch upon the diversity of people’s lives and cultures. Furthermore, the town’s history and lifestyle are reflected in its local food culture. Dishes made with fresh seafood and agricultural products delight the palates of visitors, enriching their stay in this hot spring area. Additionally, hearing the local dialect gives you a sense of the depth of life and culture rooted in the area.
Culture and Customs
Toyako in Hokkaido is a nature-rich area that gained worldwide fame as the host of the G8 Summit in 2008. The tourism industry, which takes advantage of the beautiful scenery, is the main industry, especially known for its hot springs. Agriculture, utilizing the fertile soil, is also thriving, allowing visitors to enjoy local specialties. Historically, the influence of Ainu culture is strong, and its customs continue to thrive. For example, remnants of the Ainu language can be seen in the local dialect, and Ainu traditions are alive in daily life. And the charm of Toyako lies in its festivals. In summer, the Toyako Festival is held, where you can enjoy fireworks over the lake. In winter, the entire town is enveloped in a fantastical snowy landscape during the snow festival. Toyako is a place filled with nature, history, and the warmth of local people. Visit once to feel its charm. The unique dialect of the northern region is woven into everyday conversations, and the lives of local people are imbued with coexistence with nature. Additionally, the town’s industries include not only tourism but also agriculture rooted in the local climate.
Local Specialties
- Toyako Water Source Pork: This local pork is raised on the pure waters of Lake Toya, characterized by its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and sweetness.
- Toyako Wine: Wine made from grapes grown in the Toyako region. The cool climate nurtures a balance of fruity acidity and deep richness.
- Toyako Corn: Corn grown in carefully selected soil in Toyako, rich in sweetness and aroma, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of summer.
- Toyako Soft Serve Ice Cream: Soft serve ice cream made from fresh milk from the Toyako area. It has a moderate sweetness and a smooth texture.
- Toyako Honey: Honey harvested from the nature-rich environment around Lake Toya. It is delicious whether eaten raw or used in cooking.
Annual Events
- “Toyako Long-Run Fireworks Festival”: A large-scale event held during the summer, where fireworks are launched every night for about 20 minutes. The colorful fireworks reflect on the lake’s surface, creating a magical scene.
- “Toyako Marathon”: Held every June, this event features a full marathon course of 42.195 km that circles the lake. Part of the course runs along the lakeshore, allowing runners to enjoy beautiful scenery.
- “Toyako Onsen Snow Festival”: A winter event held in February, where snow and ice sculptures appear throughout the town. At night, they are illuminated, making the snowy landscape even more beautiful.
- “Toyako Winter Festival”: A winter event set against the backdrop of Lake Toya, featuring various programs such as snowman making, ice candle making, snowmobiling, and skiing.
- “Toyako Citizens’ Art Festival”: An event where local artists display their works, held every spring. It showcases a variety of genres including art, photography, crafts, and calligraphy.
Access Methods
- By Air: Direct flights operate from various locations to New Chitose Airport. It takes about 1.5 hours by car from the airport to Lake Toya.
- By Train: Transfer from JR New Chitose Station to the Limited Express Super Hokuto to Toya Station. From Toya Station, you can use a taxi or bus to reach Lake Toya.
- By Bus: Buses operate from Sapporo city to New Chitose Airport, and from the airport, you can use a rental car or taxi to reach Lake Toya.
- By Car: It takes about 2.5 hours by car from Sapporo city and about 1.5 hours from New Chitose Airport. Travel time may vary depending on road conditions, so it’s necessary to check.
- By Ferry: There is a ferry from Tomakomai Port to Lake Toya. It is also possible to load a car, and it takes about 1 hour by car to reach Lake Toya.
Tourist Attractions
- Toyako Onsen – A hot spring area spreading along the lakeshore. Enjoy fireworks over the lake.
- Toyako Observatory – An observatory offering breathtaking views. The scenery changes beautifully with the seasons.
- Rabbit Island – A small island floating in Lake Toya, where rabbits live freely.
- Showa Shinzan – A volcano that suddenly appeared in 1943. Feel the power of nature.
- Toyako Science Center – A facility where you can learn about volcanoes and earthquakes. Enjoyable for both children and adults.
