Nature and Activities in Niseko, Rusutsu, and Toya

The Niseko and Rusutsu area is known globally as a luxurious Japanese resort. It goes without saying that its powdery snow attracts skiers and snowboarders from around the world, while its rich nature excites visitors all year round. The region is famous for its clear water, with the Shiribetsu river having been chosen as the best river in the whole of Japan, and boasts a vast forest with a variety of animals. In recent years, the resort’s gorgeous dormitories have been drawing the interests of investors.

Mount Yotei

Mount Yotei is perhaps the epitome of the area’s natural beauty. Called Ezo Fuji (Mount Fuji of Hokkaido), it can be seen from anywhere, with nothing nearby to block its view, and is very symmetrical. Mount Yotei shows different faces with each season. In winter, the mountain and surrounding fields are completely covered with snow. While visitors enjoy gazing at the landscape from the mountain’s slopes, a view of the mountain itself from the nearby area is not to be missed. In summer, Yotei dramatically changes its appearance. The deep green of the mountain and forest is accented against the brisk blue Hokkaido sky. One way to enjoy this view is via hot air balloon. The Niseko Balloon ride is held twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.

Lake Hill Farm

One of the biggest industries in Hokkaido is dairy farming. Dairy products such as gelato and soft-serve ice cream are must-try treats at the dairy farms of Hokkaido. Lake Hill Farm is a recommended place to visit when in the Niseko Rusutsu area. They have a wide range of ice cream flavours, but the simple milk flavour is unmissable. The cows raised on the vast farm produce milk with a rich taste, resulting in a natural and not-too-sweet ice cream. Lake Hill Farm is famous not only for its sweet treats, but also for its pizza. The dough made from home-grown wheat and the cheese made in the nearby factory exemplify the terroir of Hokkaido. While tasting the delicious food offerings, visitors can enjoy nature as well. The area’s beautiful mountains, nature, and animals heal both mind and body.

Shikotsu Toya National Park

The beautiful nature of Hokkaido can be seen in all its glory from the Silo Observation Deck in Shikotsu Toya National Park. The deck is located on the western shore of Lake Toya, and offers a spectacular panorama of the lake and surrounding mountains. Mt. Usu volcano and Mt. Showashinzan are famous mountains in the area, while Nakajima Island sits in the middle of the lake. In addition to the refreshing green of the summertime, the moody red of autumn attracts plenty of visitors to lake Toya. For those with a penchant for Japan’s renowned autumn leaves, Lake Toya will certainly not disappoint. Located nearby, Wakasaimo is a Japanese sweets shop offering sweet-potato products, which make for an excellent souvenir or post-outdoor-activity treat.

The Niseko, Rusutsu, and Toya area has no shortage of attractions and activities. Boasting magnificent mountains, rivers, forests, and lakes, the area’s nature can be enjoyed from an observation deck or even a hot air balloon, while its dairy farms offer delicious ice creams, gelato, and pizza. A journey to the area will certainly prove to be an exciting adventure.

More information about Hokkaido can be found on the Good Day Hokkaido website.

The website’s “Trip Planner” section can be used to find the perfect itinerary.