Experiencing spring in Lake Toya

• 
• May 2026

Spring arrives late across western Hokkaido. And in Lake Toya, early spring feels restrained compared to the dramatic blooms appearing elsewhere in Japan. Mist hangs low above the water while mountains slowly emerge from lingering winter cloud cover.

Roads between Rusutsu and the lake pass through farmland beginning to soften into green. Lunch then often happens in tiny roadside cafés where menus are handwritten and service unfolds without urgency. Grilled fish, curry rice, fresh vegetables, and hand-dripped coffee suit the slower pace of the season.

And in Shiribetsu Retreat, evenings revolve naturally around warmth. Windows opened slightly to let cold spring air inside. Shared meals stretching late into the night. Sauna steam rising against dark glass.

Follow the itinerary below and come and experience Hokkaido with us.

Sample Itinerary

• 8:00 AM
• –
• Breakfast with local pastries and Hokkaido milk.

• 10:00 AM
• –
• Scenic drive toward Lake Toya.

• 12:30 AM
• –
• Lakeside lunch of grilled fish and vegetables.

• 3:00 PM
• –
• Walk or hike nearby forest trails.

• 6:00 PM
• –
• Sauna and slow evening indoors.

Recommendations

• Visit Lake Toya in the morning while mist still lingers above the water
• Stop at local farm stands even if they appear informal or unmanned
• Keep layers nearby. Spring temperatures shift quickly in Hokkaido
• Use the sauna during colder spring evenings rather than after outdoor activities
• Prioritize scenic drives over tightly packed sightseeing schedules