Explore the natural heaven of living volcanoes and quiet blue lakes in Shikotsu-Toya
Named after its two famous lakes, Toya and Shikotsu, Shikotsu-Toya National Park is the favorite destination for those loving outdoor and volcanic activities, located in southwestern Hokkaido, Japan. Its spectacular highlight is apparently the two famous caldera lakes formed thousands of years ago due to volcanic activity. Not only centers for water-based experiences, such as exploring the lakes by canoe or glass-bottom kayak, these lakes are also great for observing nature and wildlife as well as hiking nature trails to volcanic craters of nearby mountains, including Mt. Usu and Mt. Yotei. Besides, the park is well-known for its natural hot springs and the top choice of tourists is Noboribetsu Onsen resort area. You can take a relaxing bath at the various public and resort spas with different level of heat and healing properties. For the adventurous ones, Jigokudani, or “Hell Valley”, is an awesome spot to discover with its abundance of hot steam vents and sulfurous streams. Visitors can walk in safety on wooden walkways and footpaths to see the sights, while the further walking trails lead you to Oyunuma, a steamy, sulfurous pond filled with 50 degrees Celsius water.
