Start your day at the high platform observatory on the west shore of Toyako Lake overlooking the lake and Nakashima Island
About this spot
An observatory standing on a high platform along National Route 230 on the west shore of Toyako Lake, offering a panoramic view of Toyako Lake from a height of about 150m above the lake surface. It is a standard viewspot where you can see Nakashima Island floating in the mirror-like lake surface below, Usui Mountain and Showa Shinzan on the opposite shore, and on clear days, a grand panorama extending all the way to Yotei Mountain, known as the "Ezo Fuji." Located at the gateway to the lake on the route from the Sapporo area toward Toyako Lake, taking in the positional relationship between lake and volcano here first makes the views from the subsequent pleasure cruise and ropeway many times more interesting. With gift shops and light meal corners on-site, you can preview Hokkaido souvenirs, take a breather while enjoying the scenery, and spend a leisurely time with three generations, which is also appealing.
Tips
About 15 minutes by car from the Toyako Hot Spring Town, along National Route 230 with free parking. Tour buses tend to stop during certain times, so arriving early in the morning allows for a more relaxed viewing. The high platform is windy, so having a light jacket to wear is reassuring for grandparents.
Best time to visit
Approximately 30-45 minutes. The morning when the air is clearest offers the best views, and you'll want to take photos before the sun creates backlighting.
Access & map
3-5 Naruka, Toyako Town, Abuta District, Hokkaido 049-5832 (〒049-5832 北海道虻田郡洞爺湖町成香３−５)
Model course featuring this spot
Toyako Lake Pleasure Cruise and Usui Mountain Ropeway - A Tour of Lake and Volcano
Hokkaido
Explore features & model courses
Like this spot? Sign up free to save it to your own booklet as a plan or a want-to-go.