Lake Toya Onsen | Review by Ming Yu

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Lake Toya Onsen

Relax in the famous hot spring that springs on the shore of mystical Lake Toya.

30 Oct 2026 See More

The moment I stepped onto the streets of Lake Toya Onsen, there was a faint scent of sulfur and hot spring water in the air. I naturally slowed down and began to relax. The most appealing part is soaking in a hot spring while admiring the lake and mountains. Especially when staying at a hotel with a lake view, immersing yourself in the warm natural hot spring water while looking out at the mirror-like lake and distant mountains makes the day’s fatigue disappear instantly.

Besides the ultimate comfort of the hot spring hotels, there are also several convenient free footbaths and hand baths scattered around the hot spring district, so you can stop anytime to soak your feet and warm up. At night, the streetlights reflect beautifully along the lakeshore, and walking in the cool evening breeze feels especially refreshing. Whether you want to completely unwind on vacation or experience Hokkaido’s unique hot spring culture, this is an incredibly soothing hot spring destination that will make you want to linger when visiting Lake Toya!

Other Reviews by Ming Yu

Ajidokoro Satou

Ajidokoro Satou is a creative izakaya run by a skilled owner who honed his craft at various Japanese restaurants in Tokyo, specializing in traditional cuisine, kaiseki, and sushi. Known among locals for its exquisite seasonal dishes, the restaurant focuses on authentic Japanese flavors crafted from carefully selected ingredients.
- Fuchu, Chofu, Tama
- Izakaya
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The two things you absolutely can’t miss here are the signature live squid fishing and the katte-don with toppings of your choice! After catching a live squid yourself, the staff immediately prepares and slices it right in front of you. When it arrives at the table, the tentacles are even still moving slightly. Dip it in a little soy sauce and put it in your mouth—the incredible sweetness and springy texture are truly surprising. Then order a generously topped seafood bowl loaded with salmon roe, sea urchin, and scallops. Every big bite is filled with the fresh flavors of the sea. Pure happiness!
Kaiten Sushi Hakodate Marukatsu Suisan Main Branch

Located just a short walk from JR Hakodate Station inside the Hakodate Bay Gourmet Club, a dining complex in the bay area, this conveyor-belt sushi restaurant is operated directly by a long-established fishmonger.
- Hakodate and Matsumae
- Japanese Cuisine
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At dinnertime, I walked over to Hakodate Bay Gourmet Club next to the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses. Seeing the red-brick building and signs for all the famous restaurants instantly made my stomach growl! This place brings together some of Hakodate’s most famous local foods, from the fresh conveyor-belt sushi at Marukatsu Suisan and the light broth of Ajisai’s shio ramen to the fragrant Jingisukan barbecue at Youyoutei. I spent ages standing in front of the sign by the entrance, unable to decide what to eat.

I finally picked a place and ordered sashimi and sweet shrimp delivered straight from the harbor. Every bite was full of sweetness, and it was so satisfying with an ice-cold beer! The restaurant was filled with lively laughter, and the warm aroma of food drifted through the air, completely soothing my sore feet and exhaustion after walking all day. Whether you’re craving seafood, ramen, or barbecue, you can find it all here. It’s definitely a delicious spot you shouldn’t miss when visiting the Hakodate Bay area!
Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse Hakodate History Plaza

Built in 1909 (Meiji 42), the Kanemori warehouses played a major role in the development of shipping in Hakodate Port. Hakodate History Plaza is a valuable facility that preserves the building’s original character, from its beautiful English-bond red brick exterior to the cypress pillars supporting the high ceilings.
- Hakodate and Matsumae
- Commercial Buildings
30 Oct 2026 See More

Walking along the harbor into Hakodate History Plaza inside the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, the moment I pushed open the heavy iron door, I was greeted by the faint, rustic scent of the high wooden structure. The atmosphere was quieter than outside, with a calm sense of history.

This used to be an actual commercial warehouse, but it has now been transformed into a stylish retro space. The beer hall inside is the biggest attraction. Sitting beneath the towering wooden beams and pillars, enjoying a glass of Hakodate beer brewed with local water along with some piping-hot signature snacks, that slightly tipsy, relaxed feeling was so comfortable! Browsing handicrafts with a nostalgic Meiji-era style or stopping to try the extremely popular cheesecake, I took my time walking around this historic space, and before I knew it, half the afternoon had passed. This is definitely the most worthwhile quiet corner to stop and savor when visiting the Kanemori warehouse district!