Escape the muggy heat of mainland Japan and spend a refreshing summer at Lake Toya in Hokkaido. Relax by the lake during the day, fire up the BBQ in the evening, and watch fireworks launched over the water every single night. Kamonoya, which runs 11 whole-house rentals in the area, shares a local’s guide to making the most of summer at Lake Toya—a summer retreat packed with everything that makes the season special.
Summer weather at Lake Toya — pleasant days, cool mornings and evenings
While some summer days at Lake Toya can be warm, the breeze crossing the lake keeps things comfortable, and the sultry tropical nights you get on the mainland are almost unheard of here. Mornings and evenings are cool—so much so that short sleeves alone can feel a little chilly. Pack a light layer and you’ll be comfortable watching the evening fireworks or taking an early-morning stroll along the lake.
Lakeside strolls and scenic viewpoints
The first thing we recommend for a summer visit to Lake Toya is a leisurely walk along the shore. The lakeside in the onsen town has a well-maintained promenade, and strolling past the sculptures makes for a lovely way to pass the time. When your feet get tired, you can take a break at the free hand baths and foot baths dotted around the onsen town—a touch that’s very much part of the Lake Toya experience.
If you’d like to venture a little farther, head to the Silo Observatory for a sweeping view of the whole lake. The loop around the lake is about 40 km and takes roughly an hour by car; stopping for gelato at Lake Hill Farm along the way is a summer classic. At Showa-Shinzan and the Usuzan Ropeway you can take in the power of the volcanoes and the beauty of the lake at the same time. For the best order to see the sights, take a look at our Lake Toya model course as well.
On the water — canoeing and sightseeing boats
In summer, waterside programs such as canoeing are typically held on Lake Toya. Gliding across the exceptionally clear water is a memory unique to a Lake Toya summer. Please check each operator’s latest information for availability, prices, and how to book.
If you’d rather enjoy the lake in a more relaxed way, the Lake Toya boat cruise to Nakajima is a great option. The cruise around Nakajima, floating in the middle of the lake, is a classic experience that’s easy to enjoy even with children.
Summer means BBQ — no need to hold back in a whole-house rental
A cool summer evening is the perfect time for a BBQ. Every Kamonoya property is a private whole-house or whole-room rental with a fully equipped kitchen, so you can bring your own ingredients and enjoy the evening at your own pace. At a BBQ-friendly property, you can spend the time just with family or friends, without worrying about other guests. For a detailed comparison of properties where you can barbecue, see our guide to BBQ-friendly cottages at Lake Toya. For where to buy ingredients and local food tips, see our Lake Toya food guide.
Pick up your ingredients at the supermarkets in and around the onsen town. For souvenirs, the famous sweets from Wakasaimo Honpo are a classic choice.
Fireworks every night — the Long-run Fireworks Festival
Rounding off a summer evening at Lake Toya is the Lake Toya Long-run Fireworks Festival. Every year from late April to the end of October, fireworks are launched over the lake for about 20 minutes each night, starting around 8:45 p.m. The summer holiday season falls right in the heart of the run. Being able to walk straight down to the lakeside for the fireworks right after your BBQ is a big advantage of staying in the heart of the onsen town. For details, see our fireworks viewing guide.
Recommended stays for summer at Lake Toya
- To enjoy BBQ and fireworks with the family: Toya House (up to 8 guests, from ¥24,000/night). A whole-house rental in the heart of the onsen town, within walking distance of both the BBQ and the fireworks.
- For large groups and three-generation trips: Toya Farmer’s House (up to 18 guests, from ¥25,000/night). A large BBQ-friendly whole-house rental. For choosing a stay for a big group, see our guide to stays for large groups.
- For a couple’s summer getaway: Toya Terraced House (up to 4 guests, from ¥11,000/night). A centrally located property for smaller groups.
You can browse all 11 properties on our facilities list.
Booking directly through our official site is the best-value official rate, with no agency commission (best-rate guarantee). Check availability here
FAQ
Q. Is summer at Lake Toya hot? Do I need air conditioning?
Some days are warm, but mornings and evenings are cool, and the tropical nights you get on the mainland are almost unheard of here. A light layer is reassuring for going out at night. Please check each property’s page or contact us for details on the facilities.
Q. Can I see the fireworks from the accommodation?
Because the fireworks are launched while moving across the lake, how well you can see them varies by location and by night. If you stay at a property in the heart of the onsen town, the lakeside is just a short walk away, so we recommend heading down to the shore to watch. The season typically runs from late April to the end of October.
Q. Do experiences like canoeing require a reservation?
Waterside programs are usually held mainly in summer, but whether they run and how to book vary by operator. The summer holiday season gets busy, so we recommend contacting each operator early to make a reservation.