Winter trip to Lake Toya: a perfect combination of snow and hot springs

Hokkaido in winter is a dream world covered in silver. In this world of ice and snow, Toya Lake has become an excellent destination for winter travel with its unique charm. This winter trip to Lake Toya made me deeply feel the perfect combination of nature and hot springs, and also made me have a deeper attachment to this land. --- #### **Day 1: Arrival at Lake Toya, first sight of snow scenery** From Sapporo, take the JR express train for about 2 hours to arrive at Toyako Station. As soon as you get out of the station, the cold air hits you in your face, but the scene in front of you makes you forget the cold instantly - the snow-covered streets, the hazy lake in the distance, and the quiet atmosphere, it's like entering a fairy tale world. After checking into the hot spring hotel by the lake, I couldn't wait to walk to the lake. Lake Toya is not completely frozen in winter. A thin mist floats on the lake, blending with the surrounding snow scene like an ink painting. The island in the lake appears particularly mysterious, looming in the snow. --- #### **Day 2: Lake Cruise and Volcano Exploration** Early in the morning, I took a winter boat tour on Lake Toya. Although the weather was cold, the heating on the boat made us feel comfortable. The cruise ship slowly sails towards the middle island in the lake. Along the way, you can see ice floating on the lake and occasionally water birds flying over the lake. The captain enthusiastically introduced the history and natural scenery of Lake Toya, giving people a deeper understanding of the lake. In the afternoon, I headed to nearby **Usuyama** and **Showa Shinzan**. These two volcanoes are important landmarks in the Lake Toya area. In winter, the volcanoes are covered with snow, which makes them look particularly spectacular. Take the cable car up to Mt. Usu and overlook the panoramic view of Lake Toya from the top of the mountain. The lake and the snow scenery complement each other, which is a beautiful sight. --- #### **Day 3: Double enjoyment of hot springs and food** On this day, I decided to enjoy the hot spring culture of Lake Toya. The hotel we stayed in provided an open-air bath. Soaking in the warm spring water and gazing at the lake view in the distance greatly relaxed both body and mind. The hot spring experience in winter is particularly special. Your body is wrapped in warm spring water, while snowflakes are floating above your head. This feeling of ice and fire is unforgettable. At lunch, I tasted the local specialty of Lake Toya - **lake fish cuisine**. The fresh fish is simply cooked to retain its original flavor, and paired with Hokkaido rice, it is an unforgettable meal. The dinner was Kaiseki cuisine provided by the hotel. Each dish was exquisite and delicious, showing the richness and deliciousness of Hokkaido ingredients. --- #### **Day 4: Stroll along the lake and say goodbye** On my last day, I strolled along the lakeside trail of Lake Toya. The trail in winter is covered with snow, making a crackling sound under your feet. The surrounding trees are covered with frost, and the sunlight shines through the branches onto the snow, making it sparkle. Such tranquility and beauty make people reluctant to leave. At noon, I enjoyed a cup of hot coffee in a cafe on the hot spring street, looking at the snow scene outside the window and thinking back on the journey over the past few days. My heart was filled with satisfaction and gratitude. In the afternoon, I reluctantly boarded the return train, but the beautiful scenery and warm memories of Lake Toya will always remain in my heart. --- #### **Travel Tips** 1. **Transportation**: Take the JR express train from Sapporo to Toyako Station in about 2 hours, and then take a bus or taxi to the lake. 2. **Accommodation**: It is recommended to choose a hot spring hotel by the lake to experience the open-air bath and lake view. 3. **Clothing**: The temperature in Hokkaido is low in winter, so you need to prepare warm clothes, non-slip shoes, etc. 4. **Activities**: Winter cruises, volcano explorations, and hot spring experiences are all must-try activities. --- #### **Summarize** Lake Toya in winter is a magical place. Here you can enjoy magnificent natural scenery, warm hot springs, delicious food, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes you forget your worries. If you are planning a winter trip, Lake Toya is definitely a destination not to be missed. Here, you can find your own winter fairy tale and feel the unique warmth and beauty of Hokkaido.