Abuta District Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
Lake Tōya Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
Get your fresh air, greens, mountains and lake here!
Yearning for some fresh air, greens, mountains and lake, then you should visit Lake Toya at Hokkaido in May / Jun.
The weather is cooling and you also get to see fireworks at the lake between 8.40pm to 9.10pm.
If you are driving, you can get another view of Lake Toya from Shukutsu Toya National Park Observatory.
The Lake Toya area is also an onsen town, many resorts offer osen facilities.
#laketoya
#hokkaido
#summer
#nature
Getting There - Drive or JR Toya station or bus shuttle service offered by some resorts from airport.
Attractions - Lake Toya
Onsen with a Breathtaking View of Lake Tōya
Lake Toya is a must-visit destination in Hokkaido during winter. It not only boasts a magnificent scenery but also features one of the world`s most unique natural occurrences - its lake never freezes during winter. This is due to the stratovolcano, Mount Usu, around the lake. Very interesting isn't it?
There are many things to do in Lake Toya, and the best decision we made was to go for Onsen. We have Onsen in Singapore but it's an entirely different experience to do it in winter. When temperature dips to sub zero, the cold never truly leaves you, regardless of the number of layers you wear. Onsen becomes a source of warmth, comfort and relief. We felt so so blessed then, the feeling was indescribable.
Things to note: There are public and private Onsen. Strict rules must be followed at the public hot spring baths - tattoos, photography and the use of bath towels are prohibited. For private ones, there are no restrictions. We stayed at Toyako Manseikaku. It has the perfect view of the lake and a public Onsen. We also made frequent trips to their in-house café as the views from there are exceptional! Starting from SGD$200 per night, guests can enjoy their Onsen for free and complimentary buffet breakfast for two. If you prefer privacy, you can also book a private spa at Nonokaze Resort for just SGD$33 per 50 minutes.
1. Toyako Manseikaku
Address - 21 Toyako Onsen, Toyako-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido
Getting there - Sapporo Station ⇔ Hotel Shuttle Bus
[Express Toya] (1,100 yen per person for one way
2,200 yen per person round trip). Need to book in advance.
2. Nonokaze Resort
Address - 29-1 Toyakoonsen, Toyako, Abuta District, Hokkaido
Getting there - There is a hotel shuttle bus that operates to and from JR Sapporo and New Chitose Airport. It is free from JR Sapporo Station and costs 1000 yen one way from New Chitose Airport. Need to book in advance.
#tripblazers #winter #laketoya #hokkaido
Strolling along Lake Toya
#celebratewithtrip
Lake Toya was born more than 110,000 years ago following a huge volcanic eruption. We took our time for a relaxing long stroll along the lake. There are a lot of very nice modern sculptures along the way.
Lake Toya (洞爺湖) is one of the best hot spring towns in Japan for budget travelers. The combination of many free hot spring facilities, cheap bus routes and some super cheap accommodation makes the place stand out from the others.
#laketoya #friendstrip #hokkaido #2015
celebratewithtrip
laketoya
Horaiken Ramen
#celebratewithtrip
Nice local ramen restaurant. We stopped by Lake Toya for lunch so we just tried this. They have the most common ramen on their menu. Simple, great flavors and good service.
#laketoya #friendstrip #hokkaido #japan
celebratewithtrip
laketoya
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Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
Snowy Powdery Ski Resort with the best view!
#skiadventure
Address - Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu Ski Resort (Japan, 044-0081 Hokkaido, Abuta District, Kutchan, Niseko Hirafu 1-jo 2-91)
Ambiance/Facilities - Snowy and lively vibes, ski, snowboard, restaurants, snow school
Highlights - Powdery snow that are loved by everyone
Avg. Price per Person - $100 to $200
Rating - 5.0/5.0 snowflakes
Best place to ski or snowboard or even just to admire the white and pure snow. Its great for beginner or veteran as there are many different levels slopes available. Enjoy authentic Japanese food like sushi at the end of the day add a sweet touch to you trip. You will definitely have a memorable ski adventure! #snow #ski #niseko #hokkaido #japan
Winter is the time to go to Hokkaido, these ski resorts are not to be missed
There are nearly a hundred large and small ski resorts in Hokkaido in winter, from local ski resorts to giant resorts, from the world-famous ski resorts of Niseko and Rusutsu, to the ski resorts near Sapporo city, Hokkaido is full of surprises❄
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1⃣ Rusutsu Resort
⭐Features: The largest ski resort in Hokkaido, with 37 ski trails spread across three mountains: West Mountain, East Mountain, and Isola Mountain, boasting high-quality powder snow, with a total skiing distance of 42 kilometers
🏂🏻Ski Trails: Beginners are recommended to go to the East Mountain snow area, advanced skiers can try Isola Mountain
⛄Special Activities: Dog sledding, snowmobiling
🚗Transportation: About 1 hour and 30 minutes from Sapporo New Chitose Airport
📍13 Izumikawa, Rusutsu-mura, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido
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2⃣ Niseko Resort
⭐Features: Located in the southwest of Sapporo, it has the best quality powder snow in Japan, attracting skiers from all over the world
🏂🏻Ski Resort: There are 4 ski resorts, from difficult to easy: Village Ski Resort, Hirafu Ski Resort, Annapuri International Ski Resort, Garden Ski Resort
⛄Special Activities: The hotel has rich facilities, and there are high-quality hot springs nearby
🚗Transportation: About 2 hours drive from Sapporo Station
📍Niseko, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido
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3⃣ Sapporo Teine
⭐Features: High-quality powder snow above 1000m altitude, overlooking Sapporo city and Ishikari Bay
🏂🏻Ski Trails: A super long beginner's ski trail of 6km, you can find Chinese coaches, suitable for family trips
⛄Special Snow Activities: Children's Park, snow entertainment facilities
🚗Transportation: Only 40 minutes from the city center, very convenient!
📍593-3 Teinehoncho, Teine-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
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4⃣ Furano Ski Resort
⭐Features: Located in central Hokkaido, near Furano city, you can overlook the magnificent scenery of Tokachidake and Daisetsuzan
🏂🏻Ski Trails: There are 28 ski trails, rich in variety, from beginners to advanced skiers can enjoy the fun
🚗Transportation: About 2 hours and 30 minutes drive from Sapporo
📍 Nakamise, Furano, Hokkaido
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5⃣ Hoshino Resort Tomamu Ski Resort
⭐Features: Complete hotel facilities, with a dreamy ice world 'Ice Village'
🏂🏻Ski Trails: 29 different ski trails, meeting the different needs of beginners to advanced skiers
⛄Special Activities: The fog ice observation deck suitable for photo shooting, and the ice castle made entirely of ice
🚗Transportation: About 2 hours drive from Sapporo
📍Tomamu, Shimukappu-mura, Yufutsu-gun, Hokkaido
Powder Snow Paradise Hirafu Ski Resort
Hello everyone, today I am going to introduce you to the Hirafu Ski Resort in Niseko. I have skied all four ski resorts in Niseko, all four ski resorts share a mountain and are connected. From left to right: Annupuri, Niseko Village, Grand Hirafu, Hanazono. Unless you are an expert, it is not recommended to buy a full mountain pass, because it is impossible to brush all four ski resorts. Hirafu Ski Resort is the earliest developed ski resort in Niseko. It is not large in terms of skiing area, but the town has a lot of supporting facilities, including restaurants, bars, supermarkets and specialty stores of major ski brands.
In terms of transportation, I first flew to New Chitose Airport, then took a bus, about three hours, there are many bus stops, as long as you go to a famous hotel, basically point to point. If you are not sure where to get off, tell the bus driver the address when you get on the bus, and he will suggest where you should get off.
About the cost:
Ski suit 1500~3000 yen per day
Ski board and ski boots 2000~4000 yen per day
Adults (16-64 years old) 9300 yen
Teenagers (13-15 years old) 7500 yen
Children (4-12 years old) 5800 yen
Chinese ski instructor (6 hours per day) 70000~90000 yen
Hirafu Ski Resort, the largest ski resort in Niseko
I went skiing in Niseko, Japan. There are four ski resorts in Niseko, and I went to Hirafu Ski Resort this time. Hirafu Ski Resort is the largest ski resort in Niseko, not only with a variety of ski trails, but also with charming scenery. You can overlook Mount Yotei directly from the mountain! It is very suitable for skiers with some experience, but the design of the beginner's trail is not friendly to beginners. The living function around Hirafu is also the best, whether it is restaurants, accommodation or transportation, it is very convenient.
About the cable car ticket: Most people will buy the Shinsetsu Valley United Mountain Cable Car Pass, which can be used for all cable cars. The price of the United Mountain Cable Car Day Pass is 8500 yen per day; a separate cable car pass can be purchased at each resort, the price is about 2000 yen. Because I only went to Hirafu Ski Resort, I bought a separate ticket.
What else can you do besides skiing:
🔹Watch the sunrise at Mount Yotei: Known as the Mount Fuji of Hokkaido, you must get up early to watch the sunrise
🔹Kutchan Town: It's only a short drive from Shinsetsu Valley, where there are comprehensive grocery stores, many restaurants, and more accommodation options. Although it is a bit far from the ski resort, it can be reached by highway, and there are public buses in and out of the resort every day
🔹Hot springs: An activity that must not be missed when coming to Hokkaido
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Niseko Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
Niseko-The Best Powder Snow & Ski Destination
Niseko, a ski town located in Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, is famous for its winter and amazing mountains with plenty of the finest powder snow you can imagine. This has been attracting skiers from around the world to Niseko for decades. Niseko and its neighboring Rusutsu in western Hokkaido are known all around the world as the top-class destinations for skiers and snowboarders who usually arrive as early as first week of December when it starts to snow heavily.
#2032wintervacation #mytripvlog #tripblazers #wanderlust
2032wintervacation
mytripvlog
Here’s 3 secret ski trips off the beaten path I have done in 2020:
1. Niseko in Japan. Famous for endless deep powder and this view over Mt Yotei volcano. One of my best ski trips ever!
2. Skiing in Iceland is rare for most and days like this one with perfect blue skies as definitely not common. however this day everything just lined up and then Iceland is an amazing place to ski.
3. Lyngen in Norway. We went by boat to access remote islands and the walk up to the peak to ski down. An incredible nature experience and great skiing too.
#skiing #unforgettableexperiences #travelinspiration #instagramworthydestinations #skitrip #winterwonderland
#awesomepic
Sapporo is fun but...
my dream place
real heartbeat of Niseko🥺❤️❄️
Dream time in Japow
Snowed everyday, the powder was phenomenal and had the best time definitely recommend
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The Lake View Toya Nonokaze Resort Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
One of the best ONSEN hotels near Lake Toya!
There is free shuttle bus service from Sapporo station to the hotel! The view from the rooms is just impeccable, breathtaking! They have indoor and outdoor ONSEN baths. They have so many different baths and they’re incredible. The beds are also very comfortable and the rooms are nice and clean. It’s really fun to experience soaking in ONSEN bath whilst it was snowing. I really love this stay! #onsenhotel
Exploring the Beauty of Lake
#winhkflight Title: "Discovering Tranquility: Exploring the Beauty of Lake Toya"
Introduction:
Nestled in the picturesque region of Hokkaido, Japan, Lake Toya is a breathtaking natural wonder that captivates visitors with its serene beauty and tranquil surroundings. Formed within the caldera of a dormant volcano, this pristine lake offers a peaceful retreat amidst the stunning landscapes of Japan's northernmost island.
As you approach Lake Toya, you'll be greeted by crystal-clear waters that shimmer under the sun, framed by verdant forests and rolling hills. The panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, including the iconic Mount Yotei, provide a stunning backdrop for leisurely strolls and scenic boat cruises along the lake's shores.
Lake Toya is not only a scenic marvel but also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can explore the network of hiking trails that wind through the lush forests surrounding the lake, offering opportunities to spot native wildlife and enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape.
One of the highlights of Lake Toya is its geothermal activity, evidenced by the steaming hot springs and bubbling mud pools that dot the shoreline. Many resorts and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) in the area offer rejuvenating hot spring baths, where guests can relax and unwind while taking in panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
In addition to its natural attractions, Lake Toya also boasts a rich cultural heritage and a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can experience traditional Ainu culture at the nearby Ainu Kotan village, enjoy water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding on the lake, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this idyllic destination.
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Lake Toya offers an unforgettable experience that celebrates the beauty of nature and the tranquility of Hokkaido's countryside.
Dining view from the hotel at Lake View Toya Hotel.
Hokkaido Lake Toya Onsen Hotel ♨️ Naonofu, a hot spring hotel overlooking snow-capped mountains and lakes.
Lake Toya's winter is truly beautiful,
Agreed with family to come back again in the future, next time we will choose to drive ourselves and fully experience this place.
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All rooms have a view of the snowy mountains 🏔️ and lakes as soon as you open your eyes,
5 years ago, I stayed here in the spring. This time, it's my second visit to the Nai Zhi Feng Hot Spring Hotel (couldn't book the other ones I wanted, such as the Wei Hotel and the Lake Residence).
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About the hotel:
1. The floor-to-ceiling glass in the lobby also offers a view of the snow-capped mountain (Mount Yotei), which is great for taking photos.
2. Private hot spring can be reserved in advance with the hotel for a 50-minute session (3,300 yen).
3rd and 9th floors are public hot springs, separated by gender, with indoor pools and an open-air wind corridor on the top floor. The outdoor hot springs offer unobstructed views of the beautiful scenery, and even in the midst of ice and snow, soaking in the hot springs will not feel cold.
4. The room includes breakfast and dinner, both in buffet style. Overall, the food is decent with options such as sashimi, sushi, steak, tempura, salad, fruits, and drinks. Considering the cost is shared among the room rate, the value for money is good.
5. Hotel prices vary by season 💰, with winter being peak season.
6. Hotel guests can book a bus to New Chitose Airport or JR Sapporo Station at their own expense.
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Transportation:
Driving from Chitose Airport to Naizofu takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes.
From Toyako JR Station, it takes about 20 minutes by taxi to reach Naizono Kaze.
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Recommended activities:
Take a castle-shaped sightseeing boat to admire the beautiful scenery of Lake Toya on the water.
From the observation deck at Lake Toya, you can take in the panoramic view of the entire lake from a high vantage point.
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Recently there is also a winter fireworks festival, from February 3rd to February 12th.
Starts at 8:30 every night and lasts for 5 minutes.
This is my first time watching fireworks in the snowy landscape with sub-zero temperatures in winter, super romantic.
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📷: Fujifilm XS10
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Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
The mediocre Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Niseko Village is overshadowed by the Garden Park Hyatt
I was really looking forward to this Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Niseko Village for the New Year, after all, it's the most unique existence in the Ritz system, with high positioning and very few in number. However, the actual experience can only be said to be mediocre, especially compared to the Garden Park Hyatt I stayed at later, there is a huge gap.
📍Location: Located in Niseko Village, one of the four major ski resorts in Niseko, there are not as many as in Hirafu, but some public transportation needs to be taken from the nearby Hilton, which is a bit inconvenient.
🏨Hardware facilities: If you look at the appearance of the hotel for the first time, you will be disappointed. It's too ordinary and lacks design. However, after entering the lobby, it's not bad. The most beautiful part of the hotel is the lobby. The volume is not large, the restaurant, gym and hot spring are all on the same floor as the lobby. There is no swimming pool. The rooms are relatively spacious and the design is good, but the materials are not high-grade. For example, the bathroom of this grade of hotel actually uses the Kohler brand. The snow house is on the basement floor and is very small. The service is relatively limited and there are few staff. You can ski in and out.
📝Others: The overall service level is relatively ordinary. Although it's not bad, it doesn't match the positioning of the hotel brand. It's not enthusiastic about Marriott Titanium members. Although I understand that the rooms cannot be upgraded during the snow season, the attitude itself is just average. Especially the restaurant feels particularly ordinary, the dining options are very few, there is only one all-day restaurant and a sushi restaurant.
Overall, it's a lot worse than the Garden Park Hyatt, but the price might be even higher. Overall, it's not cost-effective💰
The Most Beautiful Luxury Wilderness Hotel | Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Niseko Village
Hokkaido Winter Skiing Trip - A Guide to Secluded Snowy Hotels
The fifth Ritz-Carlton Reserve boutique hotel worldwide, and the first in Japan, located in Higashiyama Niseko Village - a Ritz-Carlton Reserve boutique resort hotel
📍Location: Opened in December 2020, Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Aza Soga919-28, Niseko Village)
🏨Hotel Environment: A certain distance from the town's commercial street, the lobby environment is very modern and dreamy, with high floor-to-ceiling windows that directly overlook the snow outside
🛏Room Features: The most distinctive feature should be the snow view, a moment of inner peace, the room comes with a hot spring♨️, the experience is great for a vacation, the secluded meals are also good, the only bug is that the public space and rooms are not big
🎰Design Features: Fairy-tale outdoor snow view, really atmospheric, there is also an outdoor hot spring to soak in, and the room comes with indoor hot spring facilities~
📝Note tips: The view is indeed a secluded work, it is not very convenient to travel, check the car time in advance to the town, there are also nearby ski fields, remember to bring your own equipment haha
Higashiyama niseko village
#hotelreview
Truly first class hotel 🏨 the all stag are kind and very courteous ,the restaurants also variety of food and delicious too,room are perfect clean and tidy so compartable .also lucky give me the upgrade room just for free ,it fantastic,the hotel also have a hot spring and u can get activity nearby especially winter sport ,overall it a best stay and memorable
Higashiyama Niseko Village
#2024wish
The food was delicious. I was reassured that they were careful about my allergies. The room was clean and relaxing and comfortable, I felt that it was difficult to communicate with the staff if they could not speak English. The amenities included cleansing and facial wash, so it would have been nice to have a set that included lotion and milk. Beautiful and relaxing ski in and ski out hotel,overall it ok for me.the food little pricey
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Recommended Attractions at Popular Destinations
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