Egawa Rie

ガイド紹介サイト向けに、より魅力的で観光客にアピールできるように調整した英訳はこちらです：

Located in one of Hokkaido’s warmest regions, Date City stands out as a rare example of a town developed by samurai who embraced agriculture as their main livelihood. Shaped by its distinctive terrain, this area has fostered both Jomon and Ainu cultures over thousands of years.

With its rich natural beauty, deep cultural roots, and fascinating history, Date City offers visitors a compact yet immersive experience — perfect for those looking to explore the hidden gems of Hokkaido.

As its name suggests, the town of Toyako is nestled on the shores of Lake Toya — Japan’s third-largest caldera lake — and also stretches to the sea. The area is home to the active volcano Mt. Usu, and is known for its spectacular natural landscapes.

Toyako is also a popular hot spring destination, where visitors can relax in the blessings of nature while gaining a deeper understanding of the earth’s dynamic forces. It’s a place where healing and learning go hand in hand.

Like Toyako Town, Sobetsu also boasts Lake Toya, Mt. Usu, and natural hot springs. One of its most iconic sights is **Showa-shinzan**, a remarkable volcanic lava dome and a designated Special Natural Monument of Japan — a must-see for any visitor.

You can also take the **Usuzan Ropeway** to reach the upper slopes of Mt. Usu, where panoramic views and dramatic volcanic landscapes await.

In Toyoura Town, where fishing is the main industry, you can enjoy incredibly fresh seafood and take part in unique hands-on experiences such as scallop fishing, observing salmon swimming upstream, and even participating in scallop farming activities.

The town is also home to scenic “hidden spots,” including secluded railway stations and untouched coastlines. Toyoura offers a rich blend of natural beauty and culinary delights that make it a truly special destination.

This town was formed millions of years ago by the rising of an undersea volcano. The volcanic activity created a large bay, which in turn helped the coastal region thrive with industrial development.

The construction of railways and roads, including the route to Sapporo, further contributed to the town’s growth. Today, visitors can witness the unique contrast between the natural beauty left by the undersea volcano and the industrial landscape that continues to shape the town.

Noboribetsu, home to one of Japan’s most popular hot springs, is also a favorite among international visitors. The sight of steam rising from the ground and hot springs erupting is truly impressive.

In addition to walking along scenic trails, you can also enjoy natural foot baths. For those in the know, the area also offers breathtaking coastal views, making it a hidden gem for nature lovers.