Lake Tōya (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Lake Tōya?
Older children can ride swan boats, spot deer on Nakajima Island, watch fireworks and explore the volcano museum, but parents must supervise near deep water and steep trails and note few playgrounds.
Positives:
- Local rentals: Bikes, child seats and life vests are widely available by the lake.
- Free child activities: Foot spas, sculpture walk and farm petting zone have no entry fee.
Challenges:
- English signage: Limited English maps and signs; download apps or bring a guide.
- Variable schedules: Boat and ropeway times change seasonally; check online before going.
What is so special about Lake Tōya for with kids?
- Hands-on farm with animals and open lawns.
- Iconic swan boats for safe family paddling.
- Flat sculpture promenade ideal for bikes and strollers.
- Island cruise with museum stops and short hikes.
- Free nightly fireworks through summer and fall.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 days
Why 1-2 days visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives time to enjoy the farm, boat tours, sculpture walk and evening fireworks without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Lake Tōya
Lake Hill Farm:
Meet rabbits, goats and feed farm animals on a spacious lawn.
Tip: Buy ice-cream from ¥420 and let kids run on the grass.
Swan Boat Ride:
Paddle around the lake in swan-shaped boats for 20 minutes.
Tip: Wear sunscreen; life vests are included.
Sculpture Park Promenade:
Walk or cycle the flat lakeshore path with 58 sculptures.
Tip: Rent family bikes with child seats from ¥500/hour.
Island Boat Tour:
Take a round-trip boat to Naka-jima Island for a small museum and short hike.
Tip: Return boats run every 20–30 minutes; pack light snacks.
Lakefront Fireworks:
Watch nightly fireworks over the lake from April to October.
Tip: Arrive by 8:30 PM and pick a spot on the promenade early.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Swan boat ride (4×¥2,500) | JPY 10,000 |
| Island boat tour (4×¥1,500) | JPY 6,000 |
| Farm snacks and ice-cream | JPY 1,500 |
| Bike rental (4 h) | JPY 4,000 |
| Meals | JPY 5,000 |
| Island museum fees | JPY 200 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 26,700 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit Lake Tōya?
April–October brings nightly fireworks. Summer suits warm boat tours. Late October offers fall foliage. Winter lets kids sled at Lake Hill Farm. Dress in layers and check event dates.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Lake Tōya
- Early bookings: Reserve boats and bike rentals in advance to get family seats.
- Fireworks timing: Arrive by 8:15 PM in summer for best views on the promenade.
Map of Lake Tōya
Address: Lake Tōya, Hokkaido, Japan
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Reviews of Lake Tōya
David Tsui
very peaceful and relaxing location. There is a cruise and swan boats for activities. Very fresh air
Ron Yang
A picturesque lake with many activities and sights along the shore. Tranquil and relaxing. You can drive around the lake. The southern end has a lot of accommodation and food options. The island in the centre: Nakajima, can be reached by ferry. The monthly fireworks display during summer another draw. In all, this place is definitely worth the trip from Sapporo.
Eric Chen
Came here because the lake is the motif of Verity Lake in Pokémon series. The view is beautiful and it is worth taking the cruise to explore the lake. Note that the last ride (16:30) does not bring tourists to the island in the middle of the lake.
Huan lim
30/04/2025 Reached about 10.30am at Lake Toya. Took a bus from Toya station. The area was really quiet, with lots of shop closed. I going to assume it is due to Golden Week. Therefore, there wasn't really anything to do other than sightseeing. The wind was rather strong so the Swan boat was not available for rental. There a few free footbath onsen which was nice to have, not particularly hot b...
SherryG
As per our tourist guide, lake Toya was formed by the eruption of Mt. It, and is the ninth largest lake in Japan in terms of area, and the third largest of the crater lakes. marathon has been held here since 1975, and every year many athletes run along the scenic lakeside course. indeed a great view despite the snow surrounding the lake. We had great lunch here, enjoyed curry rice☺️
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