Tourism and Food - Events
■Toyako Marathon
This is a marathon that takes place along the shores of Toyako in the spring. There are various events ranging from a 42.195-km full marathon to a 2-km child-parent run, and one can take part in multiple events. After the marathon, one can work up a sweat at the Toyako Onsen. The marathon is popular throughout Japan.
■Toyako Industry Festival
This is a famous festival in which Toya beef is barbecued and eaten on the spot. In addition, fresh vegetables and local products are also sold here, which makes it possible to have one’s fill of Toya food. In addition, there are various other enjoyable events, including the recently popular canoe experience, the lion dance (a local entertainment), and Yosakoi ramen. The festival finale is the vegetable throws in which vegetables are thrown from canoes into the lake, and people wade into the lake up to their knees and fight for the vegetables.
■Toyako Onsen Summer Festival
This is a festival that takes place in the middle of the summer - from the end of July through the end of August. During this period, Obon dances are held at the main stage every night, and the festival square is open. In addition, each hotel lends out yukatas.
■Hokkaido Two Day March
This is a walking meet where participants can leisurely walk through the grand nature of the Toyako region for two days. It is a series of discoveries and moving experiences, and one can wash away one’s fatigue at the hot springs. This is a walking festival that has the appeal of conversations with other participants and the chance to experience Toyako’s nature.