I visited Bansekaku for a day trip bath. The day trip bath costs 1100 yen, rental towel is 400 yen, and there is a special set where a 600 yen meal can be added for a total of 1500 yen. The meal options include fried chicken, chicken cutlet, ginger pork, grilled fish, simmered mackerel, tempura udon (or soba), and ramen. For an additional fee, you can also choose a pork bowl for 850 yen or a seafood bowl for 1000 yen. Since it's only 600 yen, you can't expect luxury, but the taste matches the price (laughs).

Located in the basement of the Lake Terrace at the Toya Lake Manseikaku Hotel, Nanakamado is a Japanese restaurant offering seasonal dishes. I visited here for a palate cleanser after a dinner buffet and I must say, it was worth it. The cream cheese soy sauce-marinated sushi (saury, mackerel) was a delightful combination of flavors. The soy sauce-marinated saury had a refreshing taste with bonito flakes and crunchy green onions adding a nice touch. The saury sushi set was originally priced at 1000 yen for 5 pieces, but they accommodated my request for 2 pieces at 400 yen. The sushi rice was well-prepared and the saury had a tender and flavorful texture. The mackerel had a soft acidity and mild umami flavor, surpassing the sushi from the dinner buffet. The pickled ginger, however, was quite spicy and pungent. I had a refreshing Asahi beer to cleanse my palate and then tried the Niseko Junmai sake. Initially, the alcohol had a strong kick, but it mellowed out into a smooth and easy-to-drink sake. The atmosphere was cozy and the staff provided excellent service. Overall, the experience was enjoyable with a slight buzz but not overly intoxicated. The contrast with the dinner buffet was quite noticeable. If I have the chance to stay in the Toya Lake Onsen area again, I would definitely consider coming back here for some casual drinks.