TOYAKOKISEN (Lake Toya Cruise)
A Dreamlike Journey on a Floating Castle
Sail across the clear blue waters of Lake Toya aboard the graceful catamaran, Espoir, which looks like a floating castle. Feel the refreshing breeze and the gentle waves as you enjoy one of the most romantic moments of your Hokkaido trip.
The elegant 401-ton Espoir is among Japan’s largest. Departing from the pier near Toyako Onsen Station, it runs every 30 minutes from April to October, offering ever-changing seasonal views of the lake.
From the deck, admire the stunning scenery of Mt. Yotei, Mt. Showa-Shinzan, and Mt. Usu as the ship glides toward Nakajima—four small islands at the heart of the lake. The breathtaking harmony of lake and mountains makes this cruise a true highlight of Lake Toya sightseeing. Passengers may choose to disembark at Nakajima to visit the Lake Toya Nakajima Forest Museum and learn about the region’s unique formation.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Category
- With friends
- Sightseeing trains, pleasure boats, cruise ships
- Guys' trip
- Girls' trip
- Couple
- Family
- Travel style
- Lake and marsh, waterfall, pond, dam
- Natural scenery, spectacular views
- Experiences, tours
- Travel Inspiration
- Have fun with the kids
- Best for a girls' trip
- Nearest airports
General Information
- Postal code
- 〒049-5721
- Address
- 北海道虻田郡洞爺湖町洞爺湖温泉29
- Telephone Number
- 0142-75-2137
- Open
- Summer 8:30-16:30 (every 30 minutes)
Winter 9:00-16:00 (every 60 minutes) - Closed
- Open all year round
- Prices
- Paid admission (Infants and toddlers: 1 free per 1 paying adult)
- Car Park
- 150 spaces, free
- Directions
- ●By bus: About 20 minutes from JR Toya Station
●By car: About 10 minutes from Hokkaido Expwy Abuta-Toyako IC - Website
- Remarks
- Schedule and Duration
- Without disembarking at Nakajima: About 50 minutes (from the pier near Toyako Onsen Station → Nakajima → back to the pier).
- With disembarking at Nakajima: Transfer to the next cruise about 30 minutes later, total duration about 80 minutes.
- Operating hours (November – early April): 09:00–16:00, cruises depart every 60 minutes.
During this period, passengers cannot disembark at Nakajima. The cruise lasts about 30–45 minutes.
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
