Summer is here! It’s time to kick back, recharge, and make memories that will stick with you forever. This year, instead of doing the same old stuff, why not jet off to Hokkaido, Japan, for an adventure that is totally off the beaten path? Check out Lake Toya — an incredible place in Hokkaido, surrounded by mountains and a crystal-clear lake. It’s like something out of a postcard but even better. And guess what? There’s a ton of cool stuff to do there, whether you’re an introvert who fancies chilling or an extrovert who wants to get your adrenaline pumping. Even better if you’re a blend of both!
Summer Delights in the Lake Toya Area
Image credit: the author
With average daytime temperatures ranging from a comfortable 18.7°C to a pleasant 23.7°C, Hokkaido offers a cooler climate, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a comfortable and rejuvenating summer getaway. Additionally, the island experiences less rainfall compared to other parts of Japan, ensuring more opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration. When visiting Lake Toya, you can rent a bicycle and kayak or canoe to enjoy biking and canoeing. You can also enjoy hiking up the mountains, camping, and swimming, letting the fresh mountain air invigorate you.
Beautiful Fireworks From the Onsen. Image credit: the author.
After a long day of exploring, there is nothing better than soaking in a hot spring. It is so relaxing! You can just let all your stress melt away while you enjoy the beautiful view.
And guess what? There are a a lot of hot springs in the area. One of the best ones is the Toyako Onsen. Not only does it have an amazing view of the lake, but it also has a fireworks show every night from late April to late October. So you can enjoy the fireworks during both spring and autumn. It’s really a sight to see!
Enjoy a Ship Cruise
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To make your summer experience more memorable, take a scenic cruise on Lake Toya for a small fee, whether during the day to enjoy the cool summer breeze and discover the magic of Lake Toya and Mt. Usu, an active volcano that adds a touch of drama to the landscape, or at night to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the lake surrounded by verdant mountains, even as hundreds of fireworks illuminate the sky. But bring a jacket. It gets quite chilly at night.
Summer Events and Festivals at Lake Toya
In summer, Lake Toya comes alive with vibrant festivals. Image credit: the author.
The Toya Industry Festival is a four-hour festival held at the water station in the Toya district in late June. This year’s event was held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. They have many exciting activities, such as barbecues with Toka Lake Wagyu beef, and vendors selling fresh vegetables and specialties from the Toya area. You can enjoy delicious food, purchase local products, and take in the beautiful scenery of Lake Toya. This year, they had some fun events like a traditional lion dance, a special balloon show, a drum performance from the Ryukyu Kingdom, a magic show, and even a vegetable distribution where they throw different vegetables from the lake and you can catch a lot of them if you’re lucky!
Summer Festival 2024 in Lake Toya in Lake Toya will be held in late July at the Lake Toya Kisen Ekimae Pier Special Venue. There will be local performing arts, festivals, and stalls, and it will end with a grand finale of 108 fireworks over the water.
The Toya Summer Festival is coming up in late July! It will be held at the water station and other locations. Are you planning to attend and experience something new? Of course, you should! There will be a sacred virtue festival, a children’s procession, floats, traditional cultural performances like “Chosa,” and even a Yosakoi dance parade from Kagawa Prefecture’s old Zaida town. You don’t want to miss it!
The Yakushi Day Hot Water Ball Festival will be held on August 8th at the Lake Toya Footbath pocket park, located in the center of the Lake Toya hot spring area. It features events such as Yuzen Yakushi Nyorai prayer, mini-concerts, and bingo competitions. You should come!
Triathlon Competition in Hokkaido This is going to be so much fun! Whether you’re an athlete, have wanted a chance to be one, or just want to have a good time, let’s go do some sports! You can go biking, racing, or swimming. It’ll be an awesome chance to see the beautiful nature of Lake Toya and Mt. Yotei. And the best part? You won’t be alone! There’ll be tons of other people there too! Hokkaido Triathlon takes place in August. This year, it will be held on August 18, 2024. It features a scenic course that includes a swim in Lake Toya, a bike ride along the lakefront with views of Mount Yotei, and a run course that winds through the surrounding countryside. The race offers two different distances: a standard-distance triathlon (2 km swim, 136.9 km bike, 23.1 km run) and a shorter intermediate-distance triathlon (2 km swim, 91.7 km bike, 23.1 km run). Get your swimsuit, cycling shoes, or running shoes ready! This is your chance to challenge yourself in a new environment where no one knows you!
What if I’m a Solo-Traveler?
Lake Toya has something for everyone. If you’re traveling alone, you can relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. If you’re with your family, there are many fun activities and festivals to keep everyone entertained. And if you’re on a romantic getaway, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and soak in the hot springs.
There are also many different places to stay in Lake Toya, so you can find something that fits your budget and style. You can stay in a traditional Japanese inn, a luxurious hotel, or a budget-friendly hostel or guesthouse.
And if you want to dine with a great view of the lake, you can find many nice places like the Toya Grill, which many tourists visit. They have everything from pastries and ice cream to steaks and an extensive beverage selection. So whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal with a staff who can speak English, the Toya Grill is an excellent option.
Lake Toya Awaits You
Image credit: the author
If you’ve read up to this point and are still asking yourself, “Should I really travel down there?” or “Do I deserve this amazing summer experience after a hectic spring season?”
This is your sign. The answer is yes! You deserve this. So pack your bags and make this summer count. Because Lake Toya is more than just a summer destination; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to reconnect with nature, immerse yourself in cultural wonders, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Written by Chukwuka Chioma Joan
Related articles:
- Summer Destinations to Visit in Central Hokkaido
- Exploring the Charms of Sapporo in Summer
- The Ainu Tour in Lake Akan, Hokkaido That Will Change Your Perspective on Life
Featured image credits: the author
