In summer, Lake Toya is a cool highland resort that lets you forget the sweltering heat of mainland Japan. The breeze off the lake is refreshing, mornings and evenings are pleasant, and there’s plenty to enjoy all day—from playing at the water’s edge to fireworks at night. Kamonoya, which runs 11 whole-house rentals around Lake Toya, shares the activities and ways to spend a summer day here from a local’s point of view. For the bigger picture of enjoying Lake Toya in summer, see our summer Lake Toya guide as well.
Canoeing, SUP and lakeside dipping — playing on the water at Lake Toya
One thing you’ll want to try on Lake Toya in summer is getting up close to the water. Canoeing is easy for beginners and families with children, and lets you take in Nakajima and the surrounding mountains from the water. SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) is all about the floating feeling of gliding across the surface on your feet; until you get used to balancing, starting on your knees is reassuring. On a hot day, wading in the shallows to cool your feet is another way to enjoy the lake.
Guided tours are often scheduled in the calm early-morning hours, which tend to be steadier and more enjoyable than the breezier afternoons. Gliding slowly over the clear water in the morning is an experience unique to Lake Toya in summer.
What to bring and safety tips for the water
To make the most of your time on the water, the following items come in handy.
- Clothes you don’t mind getting wet, a change of clothes and a towel: You’ll often get splashed, so a full spare set is reassuring.
- Sandals that won’t slip off, or shoes you don’t mind getting wet: Your feet will get wet when getting in and out and in the shallows.
- Sun and cold-weather protection: The sun is strong on the water and reflects off the surface. Along with a hat and sunscreen, a layer to throw on is comfortable in the morning and evening.
For safety, the basics are wearing a life jacket and following the operator’s safety instructions. Even on the lake, wind can whip up waves, and tours may be cancelled depending on the weather. Avoid forcing your way into areas not intended for swimming, and choose activities suited to your condition and your children’s ages.
How to think about booking activity programs
Canoe and SUP tours are run by several operators, mainly in summer each year. Most require advance reservations, and prices, minimum ages and whether a tour goes ahead on the day (a weather call) vary by operator. Slots fill up quickly during the summer holidays, so once your dates are set, we recommend contacting each operator early to book. If you’re combining a tour with your stay, choosing one that fits comfortably before or after check-in lets you use the day at a relaxed pace.
An easier way to get out on the water — the sightseeing boat and a lakeside stroll
If gear-based activities feel like a lot, the Lake Toya sightseeing boat’s Nakajima cruise is an easy way to enjoy the breeze out on the lake. The cruise around Nakajima, floating in the center of the lake, is a classic outing that’s easy even with children. Between activities, it’s also nice to walk the lakeside promenade in the center of the onsen town and take a break at the free hand baths and foot baths dotted along the way. For lakeside drives and nearby spots, see our summer Lake Toya guide and Lake Toya lakeside drive guide.
Water by day, long-run fireworks by night
After a full day on the water, the Lake Toya Long-run Fireworks close out the evening. Summer falls right in the middle of the festival season, with fireworks launched over the lake for about 20 minutes each night from around 8:45 p.m. Cooling off on the water by day and watching the fireworks from the lakeside by night—that’s a Lake Toya summer day. For viewing spots and tips, see our guide to watching the Lake Toya Long-run Fireworks Festival.
Whole-house rentals that make an ideal summer base
Being able to hang up wet gear without a second thought, or shower right after playing in the lake—for an active summer trip, a whole-house rental where you can relax in privacy is a real convenience. All of Kamonoya’s properties are whole-house or whole-unit rentals with a full kitchen. In a private space where you won’t run into other guests, you can make the most of a summer at Lake Toya. Some properties also let you buy up local ingredients and enjoy a BBQ (please check each property page for details on facilities).For where to buy ingredients and local food tips, see our Lake Toya food guide.
- For a family summer trip: Toya House (sleeps 8, from ¥24,000/night). A whole-house rental in the center of the onsen town, within walking distance of the lakeside. BBQ available too.
- For groups and larger parties: Toya Farmer’s House (sleeps 18, from ¥25,000/night). A whole-house rental where a large group can enjoy a lively stay.
- For couples and small groups: Lake Toya Building 1R (sleeps 3, from ¥7,000/night). A light-on-your-feet base in the town center.
You can browse our other properties from the list of facilities.
Booking directly through our official site is the best-value official rate, with no agency commission (best-rate guarantee). Check availability here
FAQ
Q. What should I bring for playing on the water?
Clothes you don’t mind getting wet plus a change of clothes and a towel, and sandals that won’t slip off or shoes you don’t mind getting wet, will keep you comfortable. The sun is strong on the water, so bring a hat and sunscreen, and a layer to throw on is reassuring against the morning and evening chill. Life jackets are usually provided on tours, but it’s worth checking with the operator just in case.
Q. Can I swim or play in the water?
You can enjoy light water play, like wading in the shallows to cool off, but many areas aren’t intended for swimming, and conditions on the lake change with the weather and wind. If you’re with children, keep a close eye on them, wear life jackets, and follow the operator’s safety guidance.
Q. Can I still see the fireworks in summer?
Yes. Summer falls right in the middle of the Lake Toya Long-run Fireworks Festival season, with fireworks launched over the lake for about 20 minutes each night from around 8:45 p.m. Along with playing on the water during the day, you can enjoy the fireworks from the lakeside at night.