In 2008 Toya received its most illustrious guests to date when it was chosen by Japan to host the G8 Summit, to showcase Japan's natural beauty to the world.

On the south side of Lake Toya proudly stands one of Japan's youngest volcanoes, Showa-Shin-Zan, which was "born" as recently as 1943, when a series of earthquakes saw a bump appear, which grew into a mound, which grew into a hill, which grew into the 400-metre peak which stands today, still mildly active and attracting curious visitors. Be wary however as the next-door peak of Usu-zan blew its top in 2000; evacuations were necessary in the surrounding area to prevent casualties. You can find out more about the unpredictable nature of Toya's geology at a handful of small museums.

The volcanic activity in the area means of course plenty of hot spring baths, and Toya is one of Hokkaido's premier hot spring resorts with a range of baths to try out (some offering stunning lake views), with many accommodations opening their baths to non-staying guests during the day. You will also find several foot-baths, or ashi-no-yu along the lakeside, and during the summer months the resort puts on nightly firework displays.

Toya makes a good base for exploring this corner of Hokkaido. Other places of interest in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park include Lake Shikotsu, the hot spring mecca of Noboribetsu and hiking and walking just about anywhere!