■Table of Contents Introduction The Mizu-no-Kamuy Area: A Connected Journey Through Eastern Hokkaido's Akan-Mashu and Kushiro Shitsugen National Parks Who the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area is for: A Journey to Slow Down and Take It In Exploring Kushiro: Wetlands, Wildlife, and Wide-Open Skies — Canoeing, Observation Decks, Red-Crowned Crane Watching, and One of the World's Three Great Sunsets Things to Do in Kushiro Shitsugen National Park What Are the Highlights of Lake Akan? The Appeal of a Stay-Based Area Where Marimo, Akanko Ainu Kotan, and Lake Akan Onsen Come Together Akanko Ainu Kotan: A Place to Encounter Ainu Culture Spending a Blissful Moment at Lake Akan Onsen What Are the Highlights of Lake Mashu? Introducing the Sea of Clouds, Observation Decks, Teshikaga, and Kawayu Onsen Lake Mashu's Fog and Sea of Clouds Useful Nearby Information for Enjoying Lake Mashu More Deeply What Foods Should You Try in the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area? Eastern Hokkaido Cuisine Nurtured by the Blessings of Water and the Local Climate Kushiro Area: Seafood and Robatayaki Lake Akan Area: Lake Blessings and Ainu Food Culture Teshikaga and Mashu Area: Inland Blessings and Local Foods of a Hot Spring Region How Can You Enjoy Each Season? Seasonal Highlights of the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Spring to Summer (May to August): A Season of Green and Blue, Easy for First-Time Visitors to Explore Autumn (September to October): Autumn Leaves, Clear Air, and a Season You Will Want to Photograph Winter (November to March): Red-Crowned Crane Watching, Snowy Scenery, and a Sacred Season for Hot Springs How Do You Access the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area? Getting Around by Car, Public Transportation, and Bus Main Access Bases for the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Traveling by Car Traveling by Public Transportation What Are the Recommended 1-Night, 2-Day and 2-Night, 3-Day Model Itineraries? Easy Routes for First-Time Visitors Travel Through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area, Connecting Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu See more Introduction The eastern shore of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, presents a landscape that shifts dramatically as you travel, giving a continuously-changing atmosphere to your journey. The Mizu-no-Kamuy Area[Untouched Hokkaido] (0:54), connecting the national parks at Kushiro Shitsugen and the Akan and Mashu Lakes, is a special region where visitors can experience majestic natural beauty and serene lakes, offering stunning landscapes and quiet tranquility. You can take in vast marshlands, be soothed by the still waters, and experience both the volcanic terrain and Ainu culture that have each had a hand in shaping this land. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area If it's your first visit, it is recommended to plan on at least two or three days to comfortably see what the area has to offer. For traveling without a car, basing your trip in Kushiro, Lake Akan Onsen, or Kawayu Onsen and exploring from there can make it easier to get around. In this article, we will introduce the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area, along with its key sights, suggested routes, and seasonal attractions. The Mizu-no-Kamuy Area: A Connected Journey Through Eastern Hokkaido Kushiro Wetlands, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu: For those familiar with the region, just hearing these names is enough to conjure images of Hokkaido's vast, untamed landscapes. The Mizu-no-Kamuy Area brings these three regions together, offering a single travel experience encompassing nature, Ainu culture, hot springs, and local cuisine across eastern Hokkaido. "Kamuy" means "god" or "spirit" in the language of the Ainu, who are indigenous to Hokkaido. For the Ainu, spirits are believed to inhabit all elements of the natural world, including mountains, rivers, and animals. Water itself has been held to be sacred since ancient times, with rivers, lakes and wetlands all existing in harmony with spirits. Thus Mizu-no-Kamuy, the area of the water spirits, is a name that perfectly reflects the essence of this land. The sense of harmony and interconnection is a fascinating aspect of Mizu-no-Kamuy. The wetlands, lakes, volcanic terrain and cultural sites are not isolated, separate points, but form a continuous, cohesive journey. Travel through this area reveals how these separate elements shape and flow into one another like the water for which the region is named, making for a deeper, more holistic experience than can be had by simply visiting individual points of interest. This sense of a "journey to encounter the Kamuy of Water" is the underlying philosophy behind the Mizu-no-Kamuy area. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Who the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area is for: A Journey to Slow Down and Take It In The Mizu-no-Kamuy Area is especially suited to travelers who want more than just a checklist of scenic views. Its a place to settle into, from soaking in the beautiful nature and Ainu culture, to literally soaking in the hot springs and enjoying the varied local food. For travelers drawn to wide-open skies, clear air, and a silence that makes you stop and listen, this journey is sure to leave a lasting impression. It is a rewarding destination not just for repeat visitors, but also for anyone looking to experience a different side of Hokkaido. Travel here is less about covering distance and more about lingering. After visiting Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, the lasting impression, more so than the mere vastness of the wetlands, but the time spent in a landscape where the sky and earth seem to connect. At Lake Akan, a walk along the lakeshore or time spent in Akanko Ainu Kotan has a cultural dimension that goes beyond the scenery. At Lake Mashu, the lake takes on an entirely different aspect depending on the weather, with a crystal-clear beauty on sunny days, and an otherworldly atmosphere when wrapped in fog. Because the atmosphere is so inconstant, both from place to place and even in the same area seen twice in different circumstances, simply moving through the region is enough to convey a natural sense of depth. Although it is possible to see it in a packed one day or one-night-two-day, allowing yourself at least two full days makes for a far more relaxed and rewarding experience, especially if it is your first time. Exploring Kushiro: Wetlands, Wildlife, and Wide-Open Skies There is a natural logic to beginning any journey through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area at the Kushiro Shitsugen Wetlands. Stretching across the land north of Kushiro city, Kushiro Shitsugen National Park is Japan's largest wetland and a site of international significance, designated under the Ramsar Convention for the protection of the world's most important wetland ecosystems. But its true scale becomes apparent the moment you first step out onto one of the observation decks and take in what lies before you. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area The wetlands extend toward the horizon, while the Kushiro River (0:25) winds below in broad, unhurried curves. Almost nothing man-made enters your field of vision. This kind of stillness and sense of space is genuinely difficult to find elsewhere, and the sensation of having arrived somewhere distinctive, singular, and unmistakably unique to eastern Hokkaido, is inescapable. The Kushiro River itself runs a stretch of 154 km, beginning at Lake Kussharo in Akan-Mashu National Park. The clear water flows out from the lake's southern shore, quietly flowing through old-growth forest before reaching the wetlands. If you visit Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo later in your trip, that connection becomes clear: the river first seen meandering through the marshlands has its origins in the lakes you encounter upstream. It adds a sense of continuity to the journey, linking the region together and clarifying the landscape into an interconnected whole. Things to Do in Kushiro Shitsugen National Park Observation Decks Hosooka Observatory, Sarubo Observatory, Kottaro Wetland Observatory, and Kushiro Marsh Observatory (7:25) each offer different perspectives over the wetlands. The scenery shifts dramatically with the weather and time of day, so it's worth visiting more than one. A guided tour of Hokuto Observatory can be seen from (7:25) in the video. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Canoeing on the Kushiro River Canoeing is one of the best ways to experience Kushiro, with two distinct routes offering very different landscapes. ・Kushiro River Headwaters Canoe Tour (3:32) Starting near Lake Kussharo, this route follows the narrow upper reaches of the Kushiro River through dense, first-growth forest. The water is clear, the current gentle, and at times the trees arch overhead to form a tunnel of green. It is a quiet, more enclosed experience, less about wide views and focusing more on immersion in a pristine natural habitat. The sense of adventure and the wonder of being deep in untouched nature makes this a different experience from the lower reaches. This is recommended for those who want to "venture into old-growth forest with crystal-clear streams." Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area ・Kushiro Wetland Canoe Tour (6:54) Further downstream, the river widens as it flows through Kushiro Shitsugen National Park. The river is wide and the current is gentle, so even beginners can paddle comfortably. Moving at water level through the reeds, you may spot wildlife such as red-crowned cranes or kingfishers along the banks. Being on the river in such an open, expansive landscape gives an immersive feeling of becoming part of the wetland ecosystem that is hard to find elsewhere. Guided tours offer explanations and context on the ecosystem, wildlife and plant life, adding greater depth to the scenery before you. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Boardwalk Walks The walking trail next to Kushiro Marsh Observatory has the Satellite Observatory at its midpoint, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland. The boardwalks around Onnenai Visitor Center are also popular routes that allow visitors to walk through the wetland itself. You can take your time enjoying the sensation of the peatland underfoot—peat is a layer formed over many years by accumulated plant matter—and the world of wetland plants spreading around you. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Red-Crowned Crane Watching Kushiro Shitsugen National Park is known worldwide as a habitat for the red-crowned crane. The red-crowned crane is designated as a Special Natural Monument of Japan, one of the most important natural monuments protected by the Japanese government under law. Once on the brink of extinction, it has recovered in numbers through conservation efforts and is now a symbolic wild animal of Japan. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area The Kushiro and Nemuro regions are Japan's largest breeding area for red-crowned cranes. Their elegant appearance as they live in wetlands and farmland deeply moves visitors to this region. In winter especially, you can see red-crowned cranes dancing against snowy scenery, creating an unforgettable sight. From winter to early spring, you may also see courtship dances, in which males and females face each other, spread their wings, and leap into the air. These precious moments allow you to feel the mystery of life up close. Well-known observation spots include the Akan International Crane Center, where cranes gather through feeding, and the Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary, where wild red-crowned cranes can be observed in a more natural state. The best season for red-crowned crane watching is from mid-December to February. During this period, dozens to more than one hundred cranes may gather for wintering, and their vivid white and red forms against the snowfield create a winter view unique to Kushiro. After first taking in the scale and richness of eastern Hokkaido's nature at Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, continuing on to Lake Akan and Lake Mashu creates a smooth and meaningful flow for the entire journey. You can watch the Kushiro area from (6:18) in the video. Kushiro Shitsugen National Park Basic Information [Address] Kushiro City, Kushiro Town (Kushiro District), Tsurui Village (Akan District), Shibecha Town (Kawakami District), Hokkaido [Access] About 40 to 60 minutes by car from Tancho Kushiro Airport What Are the Highlights of Lake Akan? The Appeal of a Stay-Based Area Where Marimo, Akanko Ainu Kotan, and Lake Akan Onsen Come Together If Kushiro Shitsugen National Park is a place where you feel endless openness, Lake Akan is an area where lake scenery, culture, and hot springs overlap—an area best enjoyed by staying for a while. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Lake Akan is widely known as the habitat of marimo, a type of algae that grows into spherical shapes and is designated as a Special Natural Monument of Japan. Taking a sightseeing boat across the lake to Churui Island and seeing real marimo up close at the Marimo Exhibition and Observation Center is a memorable experience for both children and adults. The sight of round green spheres gently floating in the water has a strangely calming charm. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Yet the appeal of Lake Akan cannot be explained by the fame of marimo alone. The quiet time that flows along the lakeshore, moments of encountering Ainu culture, and the relaxing atmosphere unique to a hot spring area all come together, making this a place that remains deeply in your travel memories. Akanko Ainu Kotan: A Place to Encounter Ainu Culture In one corner of the Lake Akan Onsen town is Akanko Ainu Kotan. "Kotan" is an Ainu word meaning "settlement" or "village," and Akanko Ainu Kotan is known as a place where Ainu culture is passed down to the present day. It is not merely a tourist facility. One of its major characteristics is that Ainu people still live there today, continuing their culture through daily life. Within the area are shops selling crafts such as wood carvings and embroidery, restaurants where visitors can taste Ainu cuisine, and facilities introducing traditional dance and culture. As you walk through the kotan, you can come into contact with Ainu history and culture. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area At the Akanko Ainu Theater "Ikor," visitors can watch live performances of traditional Ainu dance. It is one of the cultural experiences that represents Lake Akan and is well worth visiting. The powerful yet delicate dancing and music have an impact that slowly reaches deep into the heart. These performances are also registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, offering a chance to encounter the essence of Ainu culture that can only be felt here. At craft shops within the kotan, you can see traditional Ainu handwork such as wood carving and embroidery up close. Wood carvings include ornaments with motifs connected to nature, such as bears and owls, as well as trays, small boxes, and other items used in daily life. They have a strength within their simplicity. Embroidery is often applied to clothing, bags, and small cloth items. The distinctive patterns using curved lines are beautiful and leave a strong impression at first sight. Some of these patterns are believed to carry meanings of protection or warding off evil, revealing a depth that cannot be seen by viewing them only as designs. Once you learn the meanings and techniques behind each piece, souvenirs from your trip will feel even more special. Activities Around Lake Akan: Going One Step Deeper into Nature The Lake Akan area is also a place for rich nature experiences that go beyond lakeside walks. The lakeside walking trail is a path maintained along the shore, where you can walk while feeling the changing expressions of Lake Akan up close. As you walk through scenery where forest trees and the lake surface appear alternately, a quiet time flows, separate from the bustle of the hot spring town. The route is easy to walk, so it can be enjoyed casually even during a short break. Along the way, taking a sightseeing boat on Lake Akan to a spot where you can observe the Special Natural Monument marimo is also an experience not to be missed. The sight of spherical marimo resting in the water is a unique natural formation that can be seen only at Lake Akan. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Along the lakeside course, there is also an area dotted with "bokke"—mud volcanoes created by geothermal activity that causes mud to bubble up from underground. The sight of mud bubbling up from the earth makes you feel that the ground is still alive. Walking through the Bokke Forest, where steam drifts through primeval woodland, is an experience unique to the lakeside trail, allowing you to feel the geothermal energy of this hot spring area with all five senses. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area On the Akan Fishing Tour (1:45), you can enjoy fishing in Lake Akan and nearby rivers nurtured by the rich water system. Spending time with fish unique to eastern Hokkaido, such as white-spotted char and rainbow trout, offers a vivid sense of being embraced by nature. Tours with local guides who help you find the best fishing spots can be enjoyed by a wide range of visitors, from beginners to experienced anglers. About 30 minutes by car from Lake Akan is Onneto, a mystical lake also known as "Goshikinuma," or the Five-Colored Marsh, because its surface changes color moment by moment against the backdrop of Mt. Meakan and Akan Fuji. Onneto Cycling (1:53), enjoyed along the lakeshore, is a refreshing experience that lets you ride through vast nature with the wind against your face. As you pedal slowly along a route surrounded by greenery, you can fully enjoy the changing colors of the lake and the silence of the forest. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Rising close to Onneto is Mt. Meakan. This 1,499-meter mountain is popular for Mt. Meakan hiking (2:13), which takes visitors from the trailhead to the summit. If walking the 12 km lakeside walking trail, the round trip to the summit of Mt. Meakan varies depending on physical strength and walking pace, but it is safest to allow around seven hours. From the summit, you can see the powerful scenery of the active crater and the spectacular views of Lake Akan and Onneto spread out below at the same time. The panoramic view of volcanic landforms, lakes, and forest is something that can only be encountered here. When hiking, be sure to prepare proper equipment and check the weather in advance. Spending a Blissful Moment at Lake Akan Onsen Along the shore of Lake Akan is Lake Akan Onsen, where hot spring inns line the lakeside. Onsen refers to Japan's unique bathing culture using natural hot water heated by geothermal energy. At this hot spring area close to the lake, you can gaze at waterside scenery while soaking in the bath. A calm travel atmosphere flows here, different from the sense of openness felt at Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area The walkable hot spring town is lined with souvenir shops and restaurants. Simply strolling while feeling the lakeside air allows you to experience the gentle charm unique to this place. In addition to spots where you can enjoy footbaths—outdoor facilities where you warm your feet in hot spring water (5:40)—there are also hand baths, said to have originated at Lake Akan Onsen, where you can warm your hands and casually feel the comfort of the hot springs while walking around. Please note that many hot spring facilities may refuse entry to guests with tattoos. Be sure to check with each facility in advance. At dusk, the color of Lake Akan's surface changes softly. At night, you can warm your body in the hot springs, and in the morning, quietly gaze at the lake wrapped in morning mist. By spending time together with the lake as it changes expression throughout the day, the appeal of Lake Akan will remain even more deeply in your heart. If you are traveling through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area, Lake Akan is an area where you should definitely consider staying overnight. The beauty of nature, the comfort unique to a hot spring area, and the environment where visitors can encounter Ainu culture all come together, greatly enhancing the satisfaction of the journey. You can watch the Akan area from (1:08) in the video. Lake Akan Basic Information [Address] 〒085-0467 Akanko Onsen, Akan-cho, Kushiro City, Hokkaido [Access] About 60 minutes by car from Kushiro Airport What Are the Highlights of Lake Mashu? Introducing the Sea of Clouds, Observation Decks, Teshikaga, and Kawayu Onsen As you leave Lake Akan and head toward Lake Mashu, the atmosphere of the journey gradually changes. The scenery outside the car window slowly deepens in forest color, signs of people fade away, and a greater stillness settles into the clear air. Then, the moment you stand at the observation deck, the dignified blue surface of Lake Mashu appears before your eyes. This scenery has a quiet power that leaves you at a loss for words, different from showy beauty. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Lake Mashu is a caldera lake located at an elevation of around 350 to 400 meters. It was formed by volcanic activity about 7,000 years ago. A caldera lake is a lake created when rainwater or groundwater collects in a depression formed after the summit area of a volcano collapses due to a major eruption (1:17). Lake Mashu is surrounded by an outer rim of mountains, and almost no large rivers flow into it or out of it. Because it is an environment that is not easily affected from outside, Lake Mashu's high transparency and clear blue surface have been preserved. Thanks to this terrain, which limits external influence, Lake Mashu has long been known as one of the clearest lakes in the world. In 1931, a transparency of 41.6 meters was recorded, known as a world record for lake transparency. Its perfectly clear water creates the striking blue known as 'Mashu Blue.' Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area The Ainu people called this lake "Kamuito," meaning "Lake of the Gods" in the Ainu language. In the Ainu worldview, where kamuy, or gods, are believed to dwell in all things in nature, Lake Mashu has long been spoken of with awe as a special place. Its dignified stillness beyond human reach, its mystical expression when wrapped in fog, and its breathtakingly clear blue—the name Kamuito seems to express everything about this lake. On a journey through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area, viewing Lake Mashu after holding its Ainu name in your heart will make it even more deeply memorable. The appeal of Lake Mashu is not simply that it is blue and beautiful. It is not a place where visitors go down to the lakeshore to play. Rather, it is a place best enjoyed by quietly viewing it from observation decks, taking in not only the beauty of its outline but also the atmosphere surrounding the lake. Lake Mashu's Fog and Sea of Clouds Lake Mashu is also known for its frequent fog and has long been familiar to people as "foggy Lake Mashu." The clear, vivid blue of the lake on a sunny day is magnificent, but when fog appears, the entire lake is wrapped in a white veil, deepening its mystical atmosphere. Both sunny days and foggy days reveal different expressions that are characteristic of this lake. In recent years, Lake Mashu's sea of clouds (3:19) has attracted particular attention. A sea of clouds is a natural phenomenon in which fog or clouds floating at a low elevation look like an ocean when viewed from a higher place. In the early morning, when fog drifts low and conditions are right, a dreamlike view may appear from the observation deck, with Mt. Mashu rising above the sea of clouds. Because this scenery can only be seen when conditions align, the sense of "being lucky if you see it" also becomes part of the joy of the journey. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Useful Nearby Information for Enjoying Lake Mashu More Deeply Lake Kussharo Lake Kussharo is Japan's largest caldera lake. At Sunayu, visitors can enjoy the unique experience of digging in the sand and seeing hot spring water bubble up. Lake Kussharo is the source of the Kushiro River. The river meanders through primeval forest, passes through Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, and flows into the Pacific Ocean. Its total length is 154 km. It is also known as a river without dams or weirs, making it a dream river for canoe enthusiasts. Kawayu Onsen Kawayu Onsen is known for its strongly acidic sulfur springs. Its source is acidic hot water heated by underground magma from the active volcano Mt. Io, also known as Atosanupuri. The water that springs from the underground hot spring layer is characterized by its strong acidity and is known as a distinctive hot spring that leaves the skin feeling smooth. For those who want to feel the power of the source up close, a visit to Mt. Io, or Atosanupuri, where white smoke rises into the air, is also recommended. It is popular to combine Kawayu Onsen with Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo as part of an itinerary around the Teshikaga area. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area You can watch Kawayu Onsen from (5:22) in the video. Atosanupuri / Mt. Io Hiking Tour Mt. Io, or Atosanupuri (4:13), located right beside Kawayu Onsen, is a powerful active volcano where white smoke constantly rises. Many areas are normally restricted due to volcanic gas and safety management, but by joining a tour accompanied by a local expert guide certified by the Teshikaga Ecomachi Promotion Council, visitors may be specially guided into places that are usually inaccessible to the general public. The sulfur crystals deposited on the ground, along with the sound and heat of fumaroles close by, create a one-of-a-kind experience that cannot be felt through ordinary sightseeing. If you want to safely experience the activity of a volcano, joining a guided tour is recommended. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Teshikaga Town Teshikaga Town is the gateway to Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo. It also has many restaurants using local ingredients, including those around Roadside Station Mashu Onsen. A roadside station, or Michi-no-Eki, is a rest facility where travelers can stop during a journey. Depending on the facility, visitors can also enjoy local ingredients, souvenirs, and light meals. The spectacular scenery stretching before Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, the history and culture of Lake Akan, and the stillness within the clear air of Lake Mashu—these three places, each with different expressions, make a journey through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area rich and rewarding. You can watch the Mashu area from (3:18) in the video. Lake Mashu Basic Information [Address] 〒088-3201 Mashu Lake First Observatory, Teshikaga Town, Kawakami District, Hokkaido [Access] About 20 minutes from JR Mashu Station What Foods Should You Try in the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area? Eastern Hokkaido Cuisine Nurtured by the Blessings of Water and the Local Climate The appeal of the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area is not limited to scenery, hot springs, and culture. Food unique to this land greatly enhances the satisfaction of the journey. Around Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu, the ingredients nurtured by waterside blessings, the cool climate, and the expansive land differ from place to place, and the impression of the flavors also changes depending on where you visit. Memories of travel are made more vivid not only by the landscapes you see, but also by the flavors you taste there. In Kushiro, close to the port, seafood has a strong presence. Around Lake Akan, you can encounter the blessings of the lake and the mountains. If you extend your trip toward Teshikaga and Kawayu Onsen, you can enjoy ingredients unique to inland areas and flavors rooted in the region. Even while traveling through the same broad area, the gradual changes in food impressions add greater depth to a journey through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area. In this region, as the scenery shifts from wetlands to lakes and hot spring towns, the way you enjoy food naturally changes as well. That is why planning your trip with "what to eat" in mind allows you to experience the appeal of this land in a more three-dimensional way. Kushiro Area: Seafood and Robatayaki Kushiro is one of Hokkaido's leading fishing port towns. Fresh seafood such as Pacific saury, shishamo smelt, autumn salmon, and horsehair crab can be found here. Kattedon at Washo Market—an original seafood rice bowl where you choose your favorite seafood from shops in the market and place it on rice—is one of Kushiro's classic local foods. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area You can watch Washo Market's kattedon from (6:28) in the video. Kushiro's robatayaki is a traditional Japanese dining style in which fresh ingredients are grilled over charcoal and eaten around an open hearth. It is deeply rooted in local culture. The experience of eating seafood slowly grilled over charcoal in an unpretentious restaurant offers a simple satisfaction different from photogenic tourist cuisine. The robata area near Kushiro Port is one place you will want to visit at night. You can watch Kushiro's robatayaki from (6:46) in the video. Lake Akan Area: Lake Blessings and Ainu Food Culture At Lake Akan, winter wakasagi fishing is one of the popular experiences. Wakasagi, or Japanese smelt, is a type of freshwater fish. Some facilities allow you to eat the fish you catch as freshly fried tempura, offering the luxury of enjoying the lake's blessings directly. Around Akanko Ainu Kotan, more cafes and restaurants are also offering menus where visitors can encounter Ainu food culture. Ainu cuisine using venison, wild vegetables, and other ingredients offers flavors unique to an Ainu region with its own distinct food culture. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Teshikaga and Mashu Area: Inland Blessings and Local Foods of a Hot Spring Region Dairy farming is active around Teshikaga, and sweets and soft-serve ice cream made with local milk and dairy products are popular. At Kawayu Onsen, dinners at hot spring inns often feature ingredients from eastern Hokkaido, allowing visitors to experience the rich appeal of inland cuisine. A well-known local specialty is Teshikaga ramen, characterized by soup made with underground water from Lake Mashu. Mashu soba, loved for its pleasant aroma and clean finish, and butadon pork rice bowls served with a fragrant sauce are also popular, expanding the enjoyment of a journey that does not end with scenery alone. In recent years, Mashu melon (5:48) and Mashu mango (6:02) have also attracted attention as food topics from eastern Hokkaido. Mashu melon, cultivated using the clear waters of Lake Mashu and a climate that is cool yet blessed with sunlight, is known for its refreshing sweetness and firm flesh, and is also highly popular as a gift item. Production of Mashu mangoes through greenhouse cultivation is also spreading. The unexpectedness of growing a tropical fruit in northern land has made it a topic of interest and a popular travel souvenir. If you see them at places such as Roadside Station Mashu Onsen, be sure to take a look. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area How Can You Enjoy Each Season? Seasonal Highlights of the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area The Mizu-no-Kamuy Area shows completely different expressions depending on the season. The dramatic change in scenery depending on when you travel is one of the great appeals of this region. Spring to Summer (May to August): A Season of Green and Blue, Easy for First-Time Visitors to Explore Approximate temperatures: May is around 8 to 10°C, while July and August are around 16 to 21°C. Although temperatures vary depending on the area and elevation, summers are cool compared with Honshu, Japan's main island. Long sleeves or a light outer layer will help you stay comfortable. This is the season when the greenery of Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland deepens, and the rich blue of Lake Akan and Lake Mashu stands out beautifully. Because the daylight hours are long, you can enjoy a full day of activities. Nature-based activities such as Kushiro Wetland canoeing (6:53) and boardwalk walks are especially rewarding during this period. Escaping the summer heat of Honshu and spending time in cool eastern Hokkaido is also a pleasant option. Kushiro often has foggy days, so bringing one extra layer is recommended. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Autumn (September to October): Autumn Leaves, Clear Air, and a Season You Will Want to Photograph Approximate temperatures: September is around 13 to 18°C, while October is around 6 to 12°C. Mornings and evenings can be cold, so layered clothing is recommended. The forests of Akan turn colorful, and the views from Lake Mashu's observation decks become even clearer. The air is clearer than in summer, and there are more days when distant views can be seen. This is also a season when tourist crowds become somewhat calmer, making it a hidden gem period for traveling slowly at your own pace. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Winter (November to March): Red-Crowned Crane Watching, Snowy Scenery, and a Sacred Season for Hot Springs Approximate temperatures: From December to February, temperatures are around −9 to −2°C. Cold can be especially severe inland and around Lake Akan, so be sure to prepare full winter gear such as warm outerwear, gloves, and winter boots. Winter in eastern Hokkaido is crisp and severe, but the scenery created by that cold air is exceptional. Watching red-crowned cranes in snow-covered wetlands is an experience only winter can offer. Ice fishing for wakasagi on Lake Akan and the snowy scenery of Lake Mashu are also highlights. Above all, winter makes hot springs feel even more comforting. At both Lake Akan Onsen and Kawayu Onsen, open-air baths in the snow are exceptional. When you enter a bath in below-freezing air, steam rises thickly from the hot spring, creating a dreamlike world. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area From autumn to winter, especially September to February, Kushiro is also known for its breathtaking sunsets, counted among the "world's three great sunsets." The term "world's three great sunsets" refers to a concept passed down among travelers and writers around the world as places where especially beautiful sunsets can be seen, and Kushiro is counted as one of them. The setting sun viewed from the Kushiro River area or around Nusamai Bridge (8:09) is a scene that stays in your travel memories for a long time. If you visit the Kushiro area, be sure to include time in your itinerary to look up at the sky at dusk. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area There are few regions where the scenery changes so much from season to season. This is one reason why many people who visit once want to return again. How Do You Access the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area? Getting Around by Car, Public Transportation, and Bus The Mizu-no-Kamuy Area spreads out around Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu. Because highlights are scattered across a wide area, the ease of travel changes greatly depending on which transportation method you choose. If you want to travel widely and enjoy the changing scenery, a car is convenient. If you prefer a relaxed stay based around Lake Akan Onsen or Kawayu Onsen, planning mainly around public transportation will make the trip easier to organize. Main Access Bases for the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area Kushiro Airport About 1 Hour by Car to Lake Akan Onsen / About 30 Minutes to Central Kushiro Kushiro Airport is about 1 hour and 45 minutes by plane from Tokyo Haneda and is a convenient gateway to the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area. For visitors from overseas, a common route is to transfer to a domestic flight in Tokyo—Haneda or Narita—or Sapporo New Chitose Airport. Seasonal flights may operate from the Osaka and Nagoya areas depending on the time of year. Major spots around Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland can also be reached in about 30 minutes to 1 hour. For first-time visitors touring the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area, entering through Kushiro Airport makes it easier to plan a route in the order of Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu. Memanbetsu Airport About 1 Hour 10 Minutes by Car to Kawayu Onsen / About 1 Hour 30 Minutes to Lake Akan Onsen If you want to focus your trip on Lake Akan, Lake Mashu, and Kawayu Onsen, entering through Memanbetsu Airport is also convenient. The Lake Mashu area is about 1 hour away, making this route suitable for travelers who want to center their trip around Lake Mashu and Teshikaga. When traveling from Memanbetsu Airport toward Kushiro and Mashu, be sure to stop by Bihoro Pass along the way. From the observation deck overlooking Lake Kussharo, the full view of Japan's largest caldera lake spreads out in a vast panorama, offering one of eastern Hokkaido's finest scenic views. If you take in the scale of eastern Hokkaido with your whole body at this pass at the beginning of your trip, the overall impression of the journey will become even richer. The roadside station "Gurutto Panorama Bihoro Pass" is also located nearby and is convenient for breaks and light meals. Kushiro Station About 20 to 40 Minutes by Car to the Kushiro Shitsugen Area / About 2 Hours by Bus to Lake Akan Onsen Kushiro Station is the main base when accessing the area by JR, or Japan Railways, Japan's major railway system. A common route is to travel from Sapporo or New Chitose by limited express train. It is a convenient station to use as a starting point for rail travel. Traveling by Car Connects Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu Easily — Suitable for 2 Nights, 3 Days Central Kushiro → Lake Akan Onsenabout 1 hour 30 minutes Lake Akan Onsen → area around Lake Mashu First Observatoryabout 1 hour 15 minutes Lake Mashu → Kawayu Onsenabout 20 to 30 minutes With a car, it is easier to explore the three areas of Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu at your own pace. In Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, highlights such as Hosooka Observatory, Hokuto Observatory, and the Onnenai Boardwalk are scattered across the area, so having a car makes it easier to combine multiple spots. At Lake Akan, lakeside walks and Akanko Ainu Kotan can be enjoyed, while around Lake Mashu, visits to observation decks and stops at Kawayu Onsen can be added without difficulty. A car greatly increases the freedom of your trip. If you want to explore the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area widely over two nights and three days, traveling by car is the easiest method for planning. Rental cars are easy to arrange at both Kushiro Airport and Memanbetsu Airport, allowing you to depart directly after arrival and move efficiently even with limited time. If you drive in Japan with a foreign license, you will need documents according to your country or region, such as an International Driving Permit or a valid foreign driver's license with a Japanese translation. Japan drives on the left side of the road. Be sure to check requirements before departure. In winter, roughly from November to March, roads may be snowy or icy due to snow accumulation and freezing. Choose a vehicle equipped with studless winter tires or check with the rental car company in advance. Traveling by Public Transportation Easier to Explore with Lake Akan Onsen or Kawayu Onsen as a Base Kushiro Station → Lake Akan Onsen (Akan Bus)about 2 hours Lake Akan Onsen → Mashu Station and the Kawayu Onsen areaCheck schedules and transfers in advance It is possible to travel through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area by public transportation, but services in this region are not as frequent as in urban areas, so it is important to allow extra time for travel. Akan Bus operates between Kushiro Station and Lake Akan Onsen, with a travel time of about 2 hours. If traveling by public transportation, rather than trying to pack Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu all into one itinerary, it is easier to plan your trip by staying at bases such as Lake Akan Onsen or Kawayu Onsen and exploring the surrounding areas. For example, you could stay at Lake Akan Onsen and enjoy lakeside walks and Akanko Ainu Kotan, then move to Kawayu Onsen on another day to explore Lake Mashu and the Teshikaga area. This kind of flow allows you to reduce travel strain while still enjoying the differences in scenery. Travel Tip Because this is a wide area, allowing extra time for transportation will lead to a more satisfying trip. By narrowing down the places you want to visit and avoiding an itinerary that rushes through scenery, you can enjoy the relaxed style of travel that suits the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area. What Are the Recommended 1-Night, 2-Day and 2-Night, 3-Day Model Itineraries? Easy Routes for First-Time Visitors Assuming use of a rental car, with travel times after picking up the car at Kushiro Airport or Kushiro Station. Travel times and experience or stay times are shown separately. Course A | 1 Night, 2 DaysKushiro Shitsugen Wetland → Lake Akan Day 1 9:00 Depart Kushiro Airport → Hosooka Observatory Travel: 40–50 min Depart by rental car and head to one of the representative observation spots of Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland. 10:00 Hosooka Observatory Stay: 30–60 min Experience the vastness and scale of the wetland at the beginning of your journey. 11:00 Hosooka Observatory → Canoe Boarding Area Travel: approx. 5–20 min The travel time to the canoe boarding area varies depending on the course. The shortest route is about 5 minutes by car. 12:00 Kushiro Wetland Canoeing Experience: 1.5–2.5 hours Experience the wetland from the perspective of the water. Joining a guided tour and making advance reservations are recommended. 15:00 Canoe Boarding Area → Kushiro City Travel: 30–60 min 16:00 Check In, Dinner, and Overnight Stay in Kushiro City Overnight stay At night, enjoy the food of this port town with Kushiro robatayaki and seafood. Do not miss Kushiro's evening view from Nusamai Bridge, counted among the world's three great sunsets. Day 2 8:30 Kushiro Marsh Observatory Walk Walk: 40–60 min View the wetland from a different angle than the previous day and feel the depth of the scenery. 10:00 Kushiro Shitsugen Area → Lake Akan Onsen Travel: approx. 1 hour 30 min From wetland to lake—the changing scenery outside the car window is also part of the journey. 11:30 Akanko Ainu Kotan and Sightseeing Boat Stay: 1–1.5 hours Experience Ainu culture and take a sightseeing boat to the Marimo Exhibition and Observation Center. 13:30 Day-Use Hot Spring Bath and Lakeside Walk 1 hour or more Conclude the journey with hot springs and the lakeside atmosphere. Hand baths and footbaths can also be enjoyed casually. 15:00 Return To Kushiro Airport: approx. 1 hourTo Memanbetsu Airport: approx. 1.5 hours Course B | 2 Nights, 3 DaysKushiro Shitsugen Wetland → Lake Akan → Lake Mashu and Teshikaga Day 1 9:00 Depart Kushiro Airport → Kushiro Marsh Observatory From airport: 40–60 min From Kushiro Station: 20–40 min Depart by rental car. 10:00 Kushiro Marsh Observatory Stay: 30–60 min Enjoy a panoramic view of the vast wetland and experience the scale characteristic of eastern Hokkaido at the start of your trip. 11:00 Onnenai Boardwalk or Canoe Experience (6:53) Travel: up to 40 min Boardwalk: 30–60 minCanoeing: 1.5–2.5 hours Choose according to weather and physical condition. Advance reservations are recommended for canoeing. 16:00 Check In, Dinner, and Overnight Stay in Kushiro City Overnight stay Enjoy robatayaki and seafood, adding the flavors of a port town to your travel memories. Kushiro's sunset, counted among the world's three great sunsets, is best viewed from Nusamai Bridge. Day 2 8:30 Revisit Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland and Watch Red-Crowned Cranes Morning to late morning Visit observation decks you could not see the previous day, or in winter, head to red-crowned crane watching spots. 10:00 Kushiro Shitsugen Area → Lake Akan Area Travel: approx. 1 hour 30 min The atmosphere of the trip shifts from the openness of the wetland to the calm lakeside scenery. 12:00 Lake Akan Area: Lakeshore, Kotan, and Sightseeing Boat Stay: 2–4 hours If the timing works, be sure to watch a traditional Ainu dance performance (check in advance). You can also enjoy lakeside walking trails and the Akan Fishing Tour. 17:00 Check In, Dinner, and Overnight Stay at Lake Akan Onsen Overnight stay Relax in the hot springs. Enjoy the evening view of the lake and morning mist from your accommodation. Day 3 7:30 Morning Walk Along Lake Akan 30–60 min Encounter the morning mist over the lake, an experience possible because you stayed overnight. 9:00 Lake Akan Onsen → Lake Mashu Observation Deck Travel: approx. 1–1.5 hours Stay: 30–60 min Experience the quiet beauty of Mashu Blue. Whether sunny or foggy, the lake has its own expression. 11:30 Lake Mashu → Lake Kussharo Sunayu Travel: approx. 30–40 min Enjoy the unique lakeside experience of digging in the sand and finding hot spring water. 12:30 Lake Kussharo → Kawayu Onsen and Mt. Io / Atosanupuri Travel: approx. 15–20 min Experience the strongly acidic sulfur spring atmosphere. Enjoy footbaths (5:40) or day-use bathing, and also visit Mt. Io, or Atosanupuri, where volcanic smoke rises. 13:30 Lunch and Shopping in Teshikaga / Roadside Station Mashu Onsen Lunch and shopping Conclude the journey with local foods such as Teshikaga ramen and Mashu soba. Do not forget souvenirs such as Mashu melon and Mashu mango. 15:00 Return To Memanbetsu Airport: approx. 1 hour 10 minTo Kushiro Airport: approx. 1 hour 40 min Travel Through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area, Connecting Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu You are captivated by the endless expanse of Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland. At Lake Akan, you encounter the calm time flowing along the lakeshore and the depth of Ainu culture. At Lake Mashu, you stand speechless before a blue lake wrapped in silence. A journey through the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area gently connects each landscape and experience, and before you know it, they become one great travel story. Image source :Mizu-no-Kamuy Area The Mizu-no-Kamuy Area, traveled by connecting Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu, is a destination that leaves memories far deeper than simply visiting tourist spots. For your next trip to Hokkaido, why not choose this area as your destination—a place where you can slowly savor not only beautiful scenery, but also stillness, culture, hot springs, and food? When planning your trip, bus schedules, sightseeing facility hours, and seasonal operations may change, so checking the latest information on official websites before departure will give you peace of mind. Also, depending on your country or region of residence, a visa may be required to enter Japan. Be sure to check before departure. [Official Website] https://untouchedhokkaido.jp/en *This article has been written based on information as of March 2026, under the supervision of the Mizu-no-Kamuy Area. 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■ Table of Contents A Miraculous Story You Can Only Encounter in Engaru, Hokkaido The National Treasure: The Obsidian Stone Tool Assemblage of Shirataki What Is Obsidian? The “Volcanic Glass” That Enchanted Ancient Peoples What sort of place is the Shirataki Geopark Visitor Center? Learn about the natural beauty and enduring history of Engaru, Hokkaido Discover the Engaru Town Buried Cultural Heritage Center, Where National Treasure Obisidian Tools from Shirataki Are On Display How to Best Explore Geosites That Tell the Story of the Earth No. 8 Stream Outcrop (Obsidian Outcrop) Summit of Akaishiyama Ganbō Rock (Inkarushi) Tengudaira Observation Point Taihei Plateau Yamabiko Falls Muri Wind Cave Tourist Spots to Enjoy in Engaru | Must-See Highlights in Each Area ■ Engaru District｜Spectacular Flower & Nature Spots Cosmos Garden Taiyō no Oka Engaru Park Roadside Station “Engaru Forest of Okhotsk”｜A Station Full of Activities ■ Maruseppu District｜Forest Railways & Insect Paradise Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori｜Ride the “Amemiya 21” Maruseppu Insect Ecology Museum｜Insects Donated by SHO Aikawa ■ Ikutahara District｜Hands On Museums & Art World Chacha World｜A Dreamful World of Toys & Shadow Play Seiji Fujishiro Koropokkuru Shadow Play Museum｜A Fantasy of Light & Shadow Hidden Tourist Spots Recommended by Engaru Locals Miharashi Farm｜Idyllic Pastoral Scene Typical of Hokkaido Engaru Station｜Switchback That Enthralls Railway Fans A Side of a Self Defense Forces Town Engaru Town Gourmet & Local Products｜Taste the Blessings of the Land Gourmet Inspired by Obsidian Shirataki Potatoes｜Brand Potatoes Renowned for Sweetness & Texture Engaru’s Asparagus｜Green Gift Heralding Spring Engaru Town Event Calendar｜Festivals & Events Coloring the Seasons Taiyō no Oka Cosmos Festa Engaru Ganbō Summer Festival Recommended Lodging and Hot Springs in Engaru | How to Enjoy the Ultimate in Relaxation “Mauresan sō” Maruseppu Hot Spring in a Forest Resort Day Use Hot Spring “Pokke no Yu” “Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori Campground” Surrounded by Nature Distinctive Lodgings by District Accessing Engaru and How to Best Sightsee Around Town 【By Air】 【By JR】 【By Car】 【In Town Sightseeing】 Summary of Engaru Town’s Attractions｜A Call to a Special Hokkaido Experience Show More A Miraculous Story You Can Only Encounter in Engaru, Hokkaido Here lies the obsidian that became the stone tools that are Japan’s oldest National Treasure. This is also the only town in all of Hokkaido where a National Treasure and a Geopark come together. Formed through the merger of the three towns of Engaru, Maruseppu, Ikutahara and the village of Shirataki, Engaru is a destination where flowers and forests, railways and hotsprings, and timeless history all come alive. On this wide northern expanse, where Ezo deer and red foxes run free, you can experience both the romance of the ancient past and the living breath of nature. In this article, we’ll dive into Engaru’s unique charms, from information about obsidian and geoparks to an introduction of the local hot springs, sightseeing spots, and gourmet dining beloved by locals. Seasonal landscapes, such as Taiyō no Oka with its fields of flowers, forest railways weaving through the trees, frozen waterfalls glistening in winter and star-filled night skies, leave unforgettable impressions on visitors. Come to Engaru, and discover the “miraculous stories” that can only be found here, admist the warmth and insight of those who live here in harmony with the land. The National Treasure: The Obsidian Stone Tool Assemblage of Shirataki The Shirataki area of Engaru Town in Hokkaido is best known for possessing Japan’s oldest National Treasure, the Obsidian Stone Tools Excavated from the Shirataki Archaeological Sites. In Hokkaido, only two items are designated as National Treasures: the “Hollow Clay Figurine (Chūkū Dogū)” in Hakodate City and this Shirataki assemblage. Its rarity underscores the significant cultural value that Engaru Town proudly holds. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association The excavated stone tools date from the Paleolithic era, long before the Jomon period, approximately 30,000 to 12,000 years ago. That people of the time crafted sharp blades and hunting tools by skillfully processing obsidian testifies to their advanced techniques and wisdom. These items are not merely tools but precious cultural heritage that still convey human ingenuity and the breath of antiquity to us today. What Is Obsidian? The “Volcanic Glass” That Enchanted Ancient Peoples Obsidian is a natural glass formed when magma ejected from a volcano cools rapidly. Because obsidian breaks with fracture points as sharp as a knife, it was an ideal material for tools in ancient times. You can see this obsidian in the video from 0:40. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association The Shirataki sourced obsidian is especially high in quality, distinguished by its jet black luster and a translucent aesthetic. During the Paleolithic era, it was fashioned into knives and arrowheads. Archaeological evidence confirms that it was transported not just across Hokkaido but also to Honshu and Sakhalin, suggesting Shirataki’s role as a hub in ancient wide area trade networks. Even today, its beauty continues to captivate. At Engaru’s Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center, obsidian is on permanently display, allowing visitors to examine it up close, and enjoy its mysterious, distinctive glow as light passes through it. Truly, obsidian is not just stone, but a jewel born from the earth. What sort of place is the Shirataki Geopark Visitor Center? Learn about the natural beauty and enduring history of Engaru, Hokkaido In 2010, the “Shirataki Geopark” was certified by the Japan Geopark Network. A geopark is akin to an “outdoor museum”, a place where you can enjoy learning how the earth was formed, and how life and human culture emerged from it. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association At the heart of it is the “Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center”. Inside, exhibitions showcase the allure of Shirataki obsidian and the formation of the land through volcanic activity. Displays show how obsidian emerges from magma, and how people in the Paleolithic era crafted it into tools through interactive videos and models. The Geotour is held annually from July to October, and allows you to go inside actual geosites accompanied by expert guides to get an intimate look at the Earth's magnificent natural forces firsthand. A must for anyone interested in visiting geosites! The mountaineering tour to Mt. Akaishi, the obsidian’s birthplace, is especially popular. Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center Basic Information 【Address】〒099 0111 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Shirataki 138 1 【Hours】9:00–17:00 (last admission 16:30) 【Closed】Year end & New Year’s holidays 【Admission】Free 【Access】About 15 minutes on foot from JR Shirataki Station, about 5 minutes by car from Shirataki IC 【Official Site】Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center Discover the Engaru Town Buried Cultural Heritage Center, Where National Treasure Obisidian Tools from Shirataki Are On Display The Obsidian Stone Tools Excavated from the Shirataki Archaeological Sites were designated a National Treasure on June 27, 2023 (Reiwa 5). A total of 1,965 items were collectively designated: 1,514 stone tools and 451 sets of fragments for assembly. These artifacts are outstanding in both content and quantity among Japan’s Paleolithic relics, and are considered invaluable and significant even on a global scale. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association At the “Engaru Archaeological Heritage Center,” you can view the display of the National Treasure Obsidian Stone Tools from the Shirataki Archaeological Sites and learn about the process of tool making. The center also offers hands on experiences such as obsidian crafting, making it a perfect place to engage directly with the ancient past. Engaru Town Buried Cultural Heritage Center Basic Information 【Address】〒099 0111 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Shirataki 138 1 (2nd floor of Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center) 【Hours】9:00–17:00 (last admission) 【Closed】Year end & New Year’s holidays 【Admission】Adults: ¥320 (Groups: ¥260) High school students and younger: ¥160 (Groups: ¥130) * For participatory programs, additional learning fees apply: Adults ¥110, High school & younger (including preschoolers) ¥60 【Access】About 15 minutes walk from JR Shirataki Station, about 5 minutes by car from Shirataki IC 【Official Website】Shirataki Geopark Exchange Center How to Best Explore Geosites That Tell the Story of the Earth Within Shirataki Geopark, there are many “geosites”, points of interest where you can experience the landscapes, rocks, and human history shaped by the earth itself. From waterfalls and cliffs to obsidian outcrops and sweeping highland vistas, these are places where nature speaks its story. Shirataki’s geosites aren’t just for sightseeing; they are places where we are invited to wonder how rocks formed, or what life was like for people in ancient times. There are many spots that let you expand your imagination. Be sure to visit as many as you can! No. 8 Stream Outcrop (Obsidian Outcrop) One of Shirataki’s signature geosites, this outcrop represents one of the world’s largest obsidian deposits. The towering clif face, more than 15 meters high, clearly shows layers of obsidian lava, revealing traces of volcanic activity from about 2 million years ago. In Paleolithic times, obsidian was mined here and crafted into knives and arrowheads used in daily life. Visiting the site offers a striking understanding of the connection between humanity and earth, making it an inspiring spot not only for archaeology enthusiasts but also nature lovers. This geosite can be viewed in the video from 1:51. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099 0126 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Shirataki Oku Shirataki 【Viewing Method】Because it lies within national forest, free exploration is not permitted; you must join a tour held by the “Shirataki Geopark Promotion Association.” Summit of Akaishiyama The summit is strewn with large and small pieces of obsidian on its surface, which sparkle under sunlight. It resembles a galaxy spread across the sky. The hue and gleam shift with the angle of light, and each step reveals a different perspective. Geologically unique, tours along the Mt. Akaishi summit route are consistently popular. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Viewing method: Because it lies within national forest, free exploration is not permitted; you must join a tour held by the “Shirataki Geopark Promotion Association.” Ganbō Rock (Inkarushi) Rising about 78 meters above ground, Ganbō Rock, called Inkarushi in Ainu, meaning “place with a good view”, is a symbol of Engaru. The town’s name is derived from this word. Visible from nearly every corner of the town, the rock offers ever-changing perspectives depending on where you view it. According to legend, it was once an Ainu battlefield, lending a dramatic historic dimension to its natural beauty. A climb from base to summit takes only minutes, and the view is breathtaking. Ganbō rock has been recognized as one of Hokkaido’s Top 100 Natural Sites. Ganbō Rock (Inkarushi) is viewable from the video at 2:53. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Nishimachi 1 chōme 【Access】Approximately 5 min by car from JR Engaru Station Tengudaira Observation Point This gentle grassland was formed by a volcanic phenomenon known as “pyroclastic flow.” Behind it stand Tengudake and Hirayama, volcanoes of the Northern Daisetsu range, making for a majestic view. In early morning, a sea of clouds may spread, creating a dreamlike panorama. The observation point is showcased in the video from 2:33. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Shirataki Tengudaira 【Access】Approximately 5 min by car from Roadside Station “Shirataki” Taihei Plateau At the Taihei Plateau, a 360-degree view stretches as far as the eye can see. While the daytime scenery is great, the highlight is the summer night sky, free from any obstructions or artificial lights. Under the full starry sky, many stars appear rapidly, creating an atmosphere that is perfect for couples looking for a romantic outing. Between late May and early October, hay bales dot the fields, adding a quaint rustic charm. It is selected as part of the “Taihei Geopark Road” and included among “Hokkaido’s 100 Roads.” Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Taihei 【Access】About 40 minutes by car from Maruseppu IC Yamabiko Falls Standing about 28 meters tall, Yamabiko falls is notable in that you can view the water from behind, a feature that has earned it the nickname “Back-view falls”. In spring and summer, visitors can enjoy the refreshing spray set against vibrant greenery, while autumn brings a stunning contrast between the colorful foliage and the cascading water. In winter, the fall may freeze entirely, lending a magical ambiance as it transforms into a curtain of ice. With distinct charms for every season, Yamabiko Falls is a spot you’ll never tire of visiting. Yamabiko Falls appears in the video starting at 3:48. Photo: Yamabiko Falls, Engaru, Hokkaido Basic Information 【Address】Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri In winter, vehicle traffic is blocked at a gate about 2 km before the falls’ parking lot. From January through March, a “Yamabiko Falls Night Tour (illumination)” and daytime “Yamabiko Falls Observation Event” are held, during which the gate is temporarily opened. Muri Wind Cave (Murifūketsu) A mysterious geologic formation where cold air blows even in summer. Cold air accumulated underground escapes from cracks, making the surroundings cool even in midsummer. This unique environment allows alpine plants to grow naturally, making it like a “natural refrigerator.” It is a place to experience a minor miracle created by nature, and is recommended as an oasis from the summer heat. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Location】Maruseppu District, Engaru Town Tourist Spots to Enjoy in Engaru | Must-See Highlights in Each Area After experiencing the earth’s history at Shirataki Geopark, why not venture out into the other areas of Engaru? The four districts, Engaru, Shirataki, Maruseppu, and Ikutahara each offer unique attractions, from natural panoramas to cultural experiences. Based on popularity in local tourist association and travel sites, here are recommended must-sees for use in planning your trip. ■ Engaru District｜Spectacular Flower & Nature Spots Even in the town’s central area, nature thrives, and is brightened by seasonal flowers year-round. Home to one of Japan’s largest cosmos gardens and a new roadside station, along with many sights that truly reflect the spirit of Engaru. Cosmos Garden The symbol of tourism in Engaru is the cosmos garden at Taiyō no Oka Engaru Park. Covering a vast 10-hectare area, one of the largest in Japan, around ten million cosmos flowers bloom in the Cosmos Garden, entering their peak between late August and late September, creating a true “carpet of flowers.” About 20 varieties of cosmos are planted in the garden, and pink, white, orange blossoms sway in the wind to make for a natural masterpiece. The flower-picking experience is popular with families, while photographers and social media enthusiasts flock to the gardens for its perfect photo opportunities, especially at sunset when the fields glow. From the garden’s observation deck you can not only view the cosmos field but also gaze at distant mountain ranges. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Taiyō no Oka Engaru Park Taiyō no Oka Engaru Park spans 65 hectares and offers seasonal floral views from spring through autumn. Within, the “Shibazakura Park” area features moss phlox blooms (known as Shibazakura in Japanese), from mid to late May a pink carpet spread across the hill. In early bloom, Ezo cherry blossoms appear, and at peak season combine with simultaneously blooming tulips for a spectacular seasonal display. Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0407 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Marudai 70 1 【Admission】Adults ¥600, Elementary School Students ¥300 (only during cosmos bloom period) 【Hours】9:00–17:00 【Open Season】Late April to early October Taiyō no Oka Engaru Park (Cosmos Garden) Official Site Roadside Station “Engaru Mori-no-Okhotsk”｜A Station Overflowing with Activities Opened in December of Reiwa 1 (2019), Mori-no-Okhotsk attracted attention as Hokkaido’s first roadside station with an integrated ski resort. Adjacent to the Engaru IC on the Asahikawa–Mombetsu Expressway, it serves as the gateway to the Okhotsk region. From spring to autumn, visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, the longest zipline in Japan with a 25% slope, as well as a treetop adventure course. The treetop adventure follows wires and ladders between trees across about 400 m and includes 29 attractions, allowing guests to walk from tree to tree high above the ground. In winter, skiing is available, making Mori-no-Okhotsk a year round tourist destination. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association The high concentration artificial carbonated footbath “Mori-no-Okhotsk Ashiyu” is also popular. The roadside station’s restaurant uses local asparagus and Shirataki potatoes in many dishes. The standout is a black “Geo Curry” inspired by obsidian: a rich black curry containing chunks of meat shaped like obsidian that is as unusual-looking as it is delicious. Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0344 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Nogami 150 1 【Hours】9:00–18:00 【Closed】None Roadside Station Engaru Mori-mo-Okhotsk Official Site ■ Maruseppu District｜Forest Railways & Insect Paradise Deep in the heart of the forest, you’ll find a unique area where Hokkaido’s only forest railway still runs, alongside exhibits of fascinating insects. This is a hands-on destination where both children and adults can enjoy learning and playing together, making it perfect for a family trip! Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori｜Ride the “Amemiya 21” Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori is home to Hokkaido’s last operating forest railway. The steam locomotive, affectionately called “Amemiya 21”, was built in the Taishō era (1912-1926) and is an authentic forest railway engine. The two-kilometer journey through the park takes you slowly into the depths of the woodlands, an exciting experience even for those who aren’t train enthusiasts. From your seat you can enjoy vibrant natural scenery, especially in the autumn. The insect ecology museum also has rare insects that can be observed, and along with enjoying nature at the campsite provides a variety of experiences for all ages. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0213 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri 80 【Open Season】April 29 – late October Engaru Town Official: Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori • Steam locomotive “Amemiya 21” runs within the park from late April to late October (check official site for operating days) • Fare: Adults ¥800, ages 4+ ¥400 Engaru Town Official: Forest Railway Steam Locomotive Amemiya 21 Maruseppu Insect Ecology Museum｜Featuring Insects Donated by Actor Sho Aikawa A museum exhibiting live insects in ecological displays throughout the year. Highlights include the “Butterfly Plaza”, which features tropical butterflies flying freely year-round, and the “Entrance Hall”, where visitors can see live beetles and stag beetles from around the world. The star of the show is the Hercules beetle, the world’s largest beetle species. In the “Aniki no Mori” (Big Brother’s Forest), donated by actor Sho Aikawa, visitors can encounter rare specimens such as the massive Acteon elephant beetle and the dazzling rainbow stag beetle, widely regarded to be the most beautiful beetle in the world. Children and adults alike can become engrossed in the wide variety of fascinating displays. Photo: Hercules beetle Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0213 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri 68 【Closed】Tuesdays, Year end & New Year Engaru Town Official: Maruseppu Insect Ecology Museum ■ Ikutahara District｜Hands On Museums & the World of Art Ikutahara is a place where culture and creativity come alive. From wooden toys to shadow theater, this is the perfect place to relax, explore, and engage with art that sparks your imagination. Chacha World｜A Dreamland of Toys & Shadow Play Step into a museum showcasing wooden toys from around 40 countries! More than 10,000 pieces can be found, from intricate automata to puppets and classic nutcrackers. Toys are more than just displayed. There are numerous areas where visitors can build or play with toys, from puzzles like Cuboro or Capala to mechanical toys or blocks. Children love it, and adults often find themselves charmed as well. Finally, at the woodworking studio “Zevetto”, you can even craft your own toy from natural wood, for a unique personalized keepsake to remember your trip. Photo: Chacha World, Engaru Town Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0701 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Ikutahara 143 4 【Hours】 April–October: 9:30–18:00 November–March: 10:00–17:00 【Closed】 April–October: None November–March: Mondays (if holiday, closed next day) Year end & New Year holidays The woodworking studio “Zevetto” is closed Mondays & Thursdays Chacha World Official Site Seiji Fujishiro Koropokkuru Shadow Play Museum｜A Fantastical World of Shadow & Light This museum permanently exhibits works by the renowned Japanese shadow play artist Seiji Fujishiro. Step inside to immerse yourself in an enchanting world light and shadow bring his creations to life. Around 30 of his works are on permanent display, including the masterwork Kosai Rikuri, “Brilliant Colors”, which encompasses the entire wall of an elevator hall at 9 meters high and 18 meters wide, making it one of the largest shadow works in the world. Photography is prohibited inside, so the only way to experience the magic is to see it with your own eyes. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0701 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Ikutahara 143 4 (co located with Chacha World) Seiji Fujishiro Koropokkuru Shadow Play Museum Hidden Tourist Spots Recommended by Engaru Locals Famous spots are nice, but it’s also worth experiencing the lesser-known charms of Engaru that only locals might know. From tranquil pastures with grazing cows to a railway treasures beloved by railway enthusiasts, and even unique events reflecting the town’s strong ties to the Japan’s Self Defense Force, these offbeat and unique experiences can make your trip especially memorable. Miharashi Farm｜Idyllic Pastoral Scene Typical of Hokkaido On the outskirts of Engaru, Miharashi Farm offers the quintessential Hokkaido landscape of open fields, grazing cattle, and endless blue skies. Especially in summer, the contrast between the vivid green meadows set against the horizon offers a sense of freedom openness that simply cannot be found in the city. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0407 Engaru Town, Marudai Engaru Station｜A Switchback That Enthralls Railway Fans Engaru Station on the JR Sekihoku Main Line is a special station for railway enthusiasts, as it is one of the few stations in Japan that uses a switchback system, where trains must reverse before continuing in a new direction. The station platform offers a close look at this unusual maneuver, attracting observers from across the country. Photo: JR Sekihoku Main Line Engaru Station Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0415 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Iwamidōri Minami 1 3 3 A Self Defense Forces Town Engaru Town hosts the Land Self Defense Force Engaru Garrison and is known as a Self Defense Forces town. Every August, the garrison opens its gates for a festival featuring equipment displays, training exercises and mock battles, offering a rare close-up look at JSDF activities. The warm interaction between the townspeople and service members of the garrison highlights the close relationship between the base and local community, contributing to a unique community atmosphere. Engaru Gourmet & Local Specialties｜Taste the Bounty of the Land No trip is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Engaru’s food culture, rooted in its vast nature and history, offers plenty of distinctive dishes. From creative obsidian themed cuisine to the sweet, hearty “Shirataki Potatoes” grown in volcanic soil, to the crisp asparagus that proclaims the arrival of spring and summmer, each bite captures the essence of Engaru. Be sure to enjoy these special local flavors alongside your sightseeing! Gourmet Inspired by Obsidian Obsidian is a symbol of Engaru, and is celebrated in many creative obsidian-themed dishes. The most popular is the striking black curry at Roadside Station “Engaru Okhotsk-no-Mori.” With the deep black obsidian color of its roux and its chunks of meat shaped to look like obsidian shards, it leaves both a visual and culinary impression. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Shirataki Potatoes｜Brand Potatoes Renowned for Sweetness & Texture Grown in the Shirataki area, “Shirataki Potatoes” benefit from the local climate’s dramatic temperature shifts and rich volcanic soil, resulting in natural sweetness and excellent texture. Particularly the three varieties “Danshaku,” “May Queen,” and “Kita Akari” are famous for their fluffy texture. Around October each year, local restaurants hold the “Engaru Love Fair,” offering a variety of original dishes using Shirataki Potatoes. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Engaru Asparagus｜Green Gift Heralding Spring Asparagus is a signature flavor of Engaru in spring and summer. Nurtured by snowmelt and abundant sunlight, Engaru’s asparagus grows thick, juicy, and sweet. Engaru Asparagus is also commercially known under the brand “Engaru Nyokkīs”. Engaru is notable in that asparagus has not one but two harvest seasons, and the summer harvest, also known as Komorebi Asparagus, meaning “sun-dappled Asparagus”, is especially prized. From July to August, local restaurants host the “Artisanal Summer Harvest Asparagus Fair,” offering original dishes featuring summer asparagus. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Engaru Town Event Calendar｜Festivals for Every Season Throughout the year, Engaru comes alive with seasonal events that showcase the best of the region. From fireworks illuminating summer nights to cosmos festivals with live musical performances and more, these events seamlessly combine nature’s beauty with the warmth and energy of the local community to make memorable moments. Wrapped in a community’s warm atmosphere, these events are sure to add color and excitement to your trip. Taiyō no Oka Cosmos Festa On the first Sunday of September, the “Cosmos Festa” is held at the town’s vast blooming cosmos gardens. Visitors can admire fields of colorful flowers while enjoying various stage performances and entertainment. February 14 is Valentine’s Day, and in Japan, March 14 is “White Day”, while exactly six months later, September 14 is known as “Cosmos Day.” Every year seeds are carefully sown to ensure the flowers will be in full bloom for this special date. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Engaru Ganbō Summer Festival Held in July, this summer tradition features music parades, the impressive “1,000 Person Dance, and various other performances. vHeld in July, this summer tradition features music parades, the impressive “1,000 Person Dance, and various other performances. Many food stalls with local specialties open, and the streets are filled with energy, giving you a chance to feel the town’s vibrancy and festive atmosphere. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Recommended Lodging and Hot Springs in Engaru | How to Enjoy the Ultimate in Relaxation Engaru offers a range of lodging options such as Mauresan sō and North King, that run the gamut from forest resorts to cozy onsen inns. Many feature distinctive facilities such as alkaline hot springs, prized for their skin-softening qualities. After a long day of sightseeing or outdoor excursions, they soothe fatigue, help you recharge, and make your stay even more memorable. Forest Resort “Mauresan sō” at Maruseppu Onsen Nestled in the forest of Maruseppu, this resort hotel with its striking triangular roofs and white walls offers hot springs that are both gentle on skin and retain warmth well. The resort has a chic “Ezo Modern,” atmosphere, featuring warm wooden interiors with reading spaces brimming with books and relaxation lounges throughout. Lodging plans vary greatly, with six types of rooms including both Japanese and Western styles and special rooms with private baths, with a total of 25 rooms available. Nearby, three cottages made of Finnish pine offer their own private hot spring, giving the visitors the feeling of staying in a secluded villa. Meals feature fusion courses that make use of seasonal local ingredients such as fresh sashimi, beef from near Okhotsk, handmade soba, allowing visitors to fully savor Hokkaido’s bounty. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】099-0213 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri 172 Day Use Hot Spring “Pokke no Yu” Opened in September 2019, this day use hot spring features a soothing alkaline spring that warms easily and is known for leaving skin feeling soft and silky. Particularly noteworthy is the wood-fired Finnish sauna, a rare sight even in Hokkaido. Many visitors come just to experience it. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0213 Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri 177 “Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi no Mori Campground” Surrounded by Nature Equipped with auto sites, bungalows, and free camping areas, this campground is perfect for combining river activities with forest exploration. Suitable for families or solo campers, it offers a more rustic, immersive way method of experiencing Engaru’s natural beauty Under a blanket of stars, gather around a campfire then awaken to fresh air and birdsong, for a unique alternative to hotel or onsen stays with its own type of luxury. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Basic Information 【Address】〒099-0213 Hokkaido, Mombetsu District, Engaru Town, Maruseppu Kamimuri 80 Distinctive Lodgings by District Lodgings near Engaru Station Several hotels within walking distance of the station make ideal bases for tourists and business travelers alike. Shirataki District “Makiba Hokkaido Taro chan House” A pet friendly entire house rental. With a spacious dog run, sauna, and even horseback riding, it’s a rare facility. It’s popular with families and dog lovers wanting to enjoy Hokkaido travel with pets. Ikutahara District “Ikutahara Onsen Hotel North King” A lodging with flowing natural hot springs, day-use bathing, a bedrock sauna, and its own restaurant. Surrounded by tranquility, it’s perfect for relaxed bathing in a peaceful atmosphere. Image source :Engaru Town Tourism Association Access to Engaru Town & How to Tour the Town Engaru, where you can immerse yourself in the great outdoors of Hokkaido, is accessible by air, train, or car. Flights from Memanbetsu, Asahikawa, or Okhotsk Mombetsu airports, taking the JR Sekihoku Main Line, or driving along scenic car routes are all viable options. Because the town’s attractions are spread over a wide area, renting a car is recommended for efficient sightseeing. Below is a quick guide to reaching Engaru and getting around. Access Methods to Engaru Town 【By Air】 The air gateways to Engaru Town are Memanbetsu Airport, Asahikawa Airport, and Okhotsk Mombetsu Airport. • From Memanbetsu: approximately 1h30m to 2h by car • From Asahikawa: about 2h to 2h30m by car • From Okhotsk Mombetsu: about 40–50 minutes by car While Kitami Bus links from Memanbetsu exist, buses are limited, so renting a car is more convenient for sightseeing. 【By JR】 Engaru is served by the JR Sekihoku Main Line, plus stations at Shirataki, Maruseppu, and Ikutahara. Use express or local trains. (At JR Engaru Station) • From Sapporo: ~3h30m via the “Okhotsk” limited express • From Asahikawa: about 2h • From Kitami: about 1h30m by local train 【By Car】 Driving gives you freedom and is ideal for sightseeing. Engaru lies along National Route 39, with good access from major cities. • From Sapporo: ~280 km (about 4h) • From Asahikawa: ~100 km (about 1h30m) • From Kitami: ~40 km (about 45 min) Many roadside stations and scenic spots lie along the route, turning the drive itself into part of the journey. 【In Town Sightseeing】 Because Engaru’s attractions are widely dispersed, a rental car is the most efficient way to tour. Approximate travel times between districts: • Engaru district ⇔ Shirataki district: ~30 km (about 40 min by car) • Engaru district ⇔ Maruseppu district: ~20 km (about 30 min by car) • Engaru district ⇔ Ikutahara district: ~15 km (about 20 min by car) Summary of Engaru Town’s Attractions｜A Call to a Special Hokkaido Experience Engaru Town is a special place in Hokkaido where Japan’s oldest National Treasure whispers ancient memories, Shirataki Geopark tells the earth’s story, and majestic nature shifts through the seasons in harmonious procession. Once formed by merging three towns and a village, this vast town encompasses four unique districts: Engaru, Shirataki, Maruseppu, and Ikutahara each offering different emotional experiences. Ten million cosmos blooms, obsidian tools of the late Paleolithic era, the nostalgic whistle of a forest railway winding through the trees, serene hot springs and camping under pure blue skies, and the heartfelt smiles of the people you will meet are all treasures awaiting your visit. Feel the timeless romance exerted by obsidian’s jet black luster. Walk geosites and listen to the earth’s pulse. At night, immerse yourself in the starlit sky, all in Engaru. Let this special experience leave a lasting imprint on your next Hokkaido journey. Japan’s oldest National Treasure and miraculous natural landscapes await you in Engaru. See you there! Official Sites Engaru Town Official Engaru Town Tourism Association Information in this article was current as of September 2025, prepared under the supervision of the Engaru Town Tourism Association. 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北海道和寒町エリアの魅力紹介動画の見所 こちらの動画は「わっさむ 食と観光の魅力発信/北海道和寒町役場」が公開した「「総集編」　北海道和寒町［和寒町観光PV］」です。 自然の多く残る北海道和寒町は、冬にはウィンタースポーツが盛んな地域で、多くの日本人のスキー選手を輩出している歴史があることでも有名です。 今回はそんな北海道和寒町について、動画と共にこちらの記事で紹介していきます。 北海道和寒町はウィンタースポーツとアウトドアが盛ん！ 日本の北に位置し、気候的にかなり冷え込む北海道和寒町はウィンタースポーツ盛んで、スノーモービルやスキー、クロスカントリーやスノボー楽しむことが出来ます。 動画の0:20から北海道和寒町で楽しめるウィンタースポーツの様子をご覧になることができます。 雪原でのウィンタースポーツの印象がある北海道ですが、夏は綺麗な緑溢れる自然の良い景色を堪能することができ、アウトドアイベントも盛んに行われているので、夏の観光もおすすめです。 三笠山自然公園キャンプ場や南丘森林公園、三笠山自然公園はどれも自然いっぱいで日本でも屈指の絶景を堪能出来る人気の観光名所で、その様子は動画でもご覧になれるので、お楽しみください。 北海道の楽しみは冬だけじゃない！北海道和寒町の秋の祭り！ 実は北海道はかぼちゃの作付け日本一で、秋にはかぼちゃをメインとした祭りの「パンプキンフェスティバル」が開催され、沢山のかぼちゃがハロウィン仕様にデザインされ飾られたり、実際に食したりすることができます。 『熱気球搭乗体験』『南瓜ランタン彫り体験』等も楽しめるので、北海道和寒町へ観光する際には、紅葉も綺麗な秋の時期に予定を合わせてみてはいかがでしょうか？ 北海道和寒町の魅力紹介まとめ 春夏秋冬、日本の四季の良さを遺憾なく堪能出来る観光スポットとして、まさに万人におすすめが出来る北海道和寒町の良さ、ぜひ動画でご覧下さい。 北海道と言えば、日本でも屈指のグルメが多くある地域としても有名で、ジンギスカンや冬キャベツの元祖とも言われている越冬キャベツ等も観光の際には外せませんね。 今回紹介させて頂いた動画とこの記事が、北海道和寒町への観光をご検討する際の手助けとなれば、幸いです。

■Table of Contents The Nayoro Sunflower Festival, the most famous summer event in Nayoro (名寄市, Nayoro-shi), Hokkaido Introducing the Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park, the venue for the Nayoro Sunflower Festival 2025 Nayoro Sunflower Festival event information Recommended Event #1: Sunflower Goods Market Recommended Event #2: Sunflower picking & wrapping Recommended Event #3: Photo spots in the sunflower field! About Nayoro, where the Nayoro Sunflower Festival is held Recommended spots to enjoy along with the Nayoro Sunflower Festival Introducing spots for fun activities in Nayoro Airsoft Survival Game Canoe Cycling Introducing sightseeing spots in Nayoro Nayoro Munincipal Observatory Kitasubaru Sun Pillar Community Center Nayoro Health Forest (なよろ健康の森, Nayoro Kenkou no Mori) Nayoro Museum of the North (名寄市北国博物館 , Nayoro-shi Kitaguni Hakubutsukan) Roadside Station "Mochi Rice Village ☆Nayoro" Recommended Specialty Products for Nayoro Souvenirs Sunflower Oil Kita no Kagayaki Sunflower Oil Dressing Sunflower Oil Kita no Kagayaki Edible Chili Oil (Rayu) (Medium Spiciness) Local gourmet foods you should be sure not to miss when sightseeing in Nayoro Restaurants where you can eat sunflower oil pork, a local gourmet dish of Nayoro Soba Restaurant Benihana The Soul Food loved by Nayoro Residents! What is Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan? Introducing restaurants where you can eat Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan Restaurant Akagera Ajidokoro Toricho Western Izakaya Bistro Shoraku Kitchen Nagominiwa Nayoro Restaurant Minefuku 4season Recommended places to stay when visiting for the Nayoro Sunflower Festival Mori no Kyukamura Auto Camp Site Nayoro Onsen Sun Pillar Grand Hotel Fujika Hotel Bird Inn Hotel Mystays Nayoro New Fujiya Hotel Hotel Sunflower Sengiya Ryokan A list of articles introducing the Nayoro Sunflower Festival and recommended spots for sightseeing in Nayoro VIEW MORE The Nayoro Sunflower Festival, the most famous summer event in Nayoro, Hokkaido In Nayoro, where many sunflowers are grown, the entire city is covered in sunflowers! Every August, Nayoro's big summer event, the Nayoro Sunflower Festival is held at Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park, and many people come to enjoy the wonderful scenery. This article will focus on information about the "Nayoro Sunflower Festival", a summer event held in Nayoro! In addition, various spots for activities, sightseeing spots, and local gourmet food throughout Nayoro city that you can enjoy when visiting for the Nayoro Sunflower Festival will also be introduced. This article will introduce the charms of Hokkaido's Nayoro city you may not have heard of, from its spectacular natural beauty to its popular tourist attractions! Please enjoy it until the end. Photo: "Sunflower field at Sun Pillar Park", Nayoro, Hokkaido Introducing the Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park, the venue for the Nayoro Sunflower Festival At Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park, around 300,00 sunflowers bloom over an area of about 3 hectares (around 0.6 the size of the Tokyo Dome). This park became famous nationally as the filming location for the movie "Stargazing Dog (星守る犬, Hoshi Mamoru Inu) "starring Toshiyuki Nishida, which was released in 2011. The film "The Destiny" starring Mickey Curtis was also filmed there in 2023. The highlight of Hokkaido Sunflower Park is "Sunflower Hill". You can see the city of Nayoro beyond a vast carpet of flowers! This beautiful scenery can be seen from 0:55 in the video. The sowing of the seeds is timed to ensure that the flowers are at their best for being seen around Mountain Day (August 11th). Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park Photo: Sunflower Field at Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park General Information 【Address】147 Nisshin, Nayoro City, Hokkaido 096-0066 【Access】10 minutes by car from Nayoro station 【Blooming information】 The time of full bloom depends on the weather, but is usually around Mountain Day (August 11th). 【Parking】Available Event Information (Subject to change depending on the year) The Nayoro Sunflower Festival held at Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park is usually held from the first Saturday in August to the third Sunday after Obon, although it may change depending on the weather conditions of the year. The 2025 event will be held from Saturday, August 2 to Sunday, August 17, 2025. The Nayoro Sunflower Festival is a major summer event in Nayoro that attracts many tourists from outside Hokkaido! During the festival a variety of events are held, and along with the sight of many sunflowers blooming to face the open sky, you can see the smiling faces of many visitors! Photo: "Sunflower Tourist Information Center", Nayoro, Hokkaido Recommended Event #1: Sunflower Goods Market Sunflower goods are on sale at the Sunflower Tourist Information Center. At the Sunflower Tourist Information Center, which will be set up in the sunflower field for the duration of the event, Nayoro specialties such as sunflower oil and other agricultural products, and original goods such as limited edition T-shirts, will be on sale! Other popular items include "Shaved Strawberries", a sweet made from shaved frozen strawberries, shaved ice and grilled corn available at food stalls. Business hours are from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM for the duration of the event. Photo: Goods for sale at the Sunflower Tourist Information Center Recommended Event #2: Sunflower picking & wrapping You can pick sunflowers blooming at the festival, wrap them at the Sunflower Tourist Information Center, and take them home with you! Available for sale from 9:00 AM to 18:00 PM for the duration of the event. Photo: Nayoro Sunflower Festival Sunflower picking and wrapping Recommended Event #3: Photo spots in the sunflower field! In the middle of the sunflower field, a yellow door that matches the sunflowers and a monument with the word "NAYORO" in large letters suddenly appears. Why not take out your camera and take a picture that will look great on Instagram or other social media? A photo that captures a moment of beauty is sure to become a wonderful memory. The yellow door can be seen at 1:48 and 2:17 of the video. Photo: Monument with the letters "NAYORO" Recommended Event 4: A New Café Opens in the Sunflower Field! In 2025, the "Sunflower Field Café" will open right in front of the sunflower field. We’ve prepared a relaxing menu that everyone—from children to adults—can enjoy. Additionally, on Saturday, August 9; Sunday, August 10; and Monday, August 11, 2025, you can enjoy a special experience of making your own original uchiwa (traditional Japanese fan). The Nayoro Sunflower Festival is an event beloved not only by locals, but by tourists from outside Hokkaido! Visitors can experience Hokkaido's nature, food and culture, all in a spectacular setting surrounded by beautiful sunflowers in full bloom! About Nayoro, where the Nayoro Sunflower Festival is held Nayoro, Hokkaido is a city located in the northern part of Hokkaido, with a population of around 25,000 people (as of October 31, 2023.) The name Nayoro comes from the Ainu language "Nai Oro Puto", meaning "The place where rivers meet." This is due to the fact that Nayoro is the meeting point of the Teshio river (天塩川, Teshiogawa) and Nayoro river (名寄川, Nayorogawa). Despite being surrounded by nature, Nayoro is well provided for with large commercial facilities, general hospitals, and a public transportation system, with Nayoro continuously placing highly in "Best Places to Live" rankings for Hokkaido. In recent years an increasing number of people from other prefectures have moved to Nayoro, and Nayoro has been making efforts to provide job and housing opportunities for those moving into the area. Access to Nayoro is as follows. ◆ Asahikawa Airport → Nayoro City (Around 94 minutes) Take a bus from Asahikawa Airport to Asahikawa Station (35 minutes), then take a limited express train from Asahikawa Station to Nayoro Station (59 minutes) ◆ Sapporo City → Nayoro City By car: Around 2 hours and 45 minutes from Sapporo city By train (limited express): Around two and a half hours Agriculture is a key economic activity in Nayoro, which produces a variety of specialties, from the largest production of sticky rice in Japan by both production volume and area, as well as green asparagus, pumpkins, potatoes, and sweet corn. In Nayoro, the temperature drops to around -20°C in February, visitors can see "diamond dust", a phenomenon where the water vapor in the air freezes to form small ice crystals that sparkle in the light of the sun. The "Sun Pillar", a phenomenon where diamond dust reflecting sunlight appears as a pillar of light, is a winter specialty of Nayoro. Photo: Diamond Dust Sun Pillar Recommended spots to enjoy along with the Nayoro Sunflower Festival When visiting Nayoro to see the Nayoro Sunflower Festival, why not take a tour of the city? Here is an introduction of popular spots in Nayoro, such as spots for activities, sightseeing spots, and accomodations to recover from the fatigue of your journey! Along with the Nayoro Sunflower Festival, here are other activities to make your trip even more memorable! Introducing spots for fun activities in Nayoro Airsoft Survival Game A survival game played using airsoft guns that fire BB bullets can be enjoyed in Nayoro exclusively in the summer. The completely grass-covered field is located in the parking lot of the Pyashiri Ski Resort, and plywood panels, drum cans, scrap tires, etc. are scattered around the field to add excitement to the game. You can rent a complete set including an airsoft gun and necessary equipment, so you don't have to bring anything! Infrared guns and water guns are also available, so even small children can have fun. The field is also available for one-day private reservation by parties of up to 20 people! Photo: Airsoft Survival Game General Information 【Address】096-0066, Nisshin, Nayoro City, Hokkaido, Nayoro Pyashiri Ski Resort 【Access】10 minutes by car from Nayoro station, or about 6 minutes by car from Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park, the venue for the Nayoro Sunflower Festival 【Ages 】3 years and up 【Period】July to August (period may vary) 【Hours】Morning 9:00-12:00, Afternoon: 1:00-4:00 【Rental Contents】 Pack for empty-handed visitors: Airsoft gun, infrared gun, magazine, battery, clothing (poncho or jacket), goggles, face mask, gloves, BB bullets (around 2,000 rounds) Airsoft Survival Game (half-day experience) reservation page Airsoft Survival Game (1 day private reservation) reservation page Canoe Cycling "Canoe Cycling" is an activity featuring both bicycling and canoeing along the Teshio river. The Teshio river is the second longest river in Hokkaido (after the Ishikari river, 石狩川, Ishikarigawa), and the fourth largest in Japan. Canoe Cycling can be enjoyed during the summer period from early June to the middle of October, and the entire journey takes around three hours from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. While riding to the starting point for canoeing, cyclists can feel the beautiful breeze of Hokkaido's natural beauty. The canoe journey begins at the riverbank right after the cycling ends. Because 70% of the Teshio river basin is covered by forest, visitors are afforded a view of nature that cannot normally be seen. Local canoe guides will accompany visitors, so both beginners and families can participate with peace of mind. Photo: Canoe cycling General Information 【Ages】Elementary Students and up 【Period】Early June to Mid-October 【Meeting Area】 The 1st floor of Station Exchange Plaza Yorona Tourist Information Center Around 6 minutes by car from the Nayoro Sunflower venue Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park 1-10 Higashi 1-jo Minami 7-chome, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0001 【Time requires】From 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, around 180 minutes Canoe Cycling Reservation Page 【Meeting Location Map】 Introducing sightseeing spots in Nayoro Here are some of the must-see spots in Nayoro. If you enjoy these along with the Nayoro Sunflower Festival, you are sure to double the memories of your trip! Nayoro Munincipal Observatory Kitasubaru The Nayoro Munincipal Observatory Kitasubaru is an observatory with an attached planetarium, and is the second largest telescope in Japan that is available to the public. The planetarium features the latest digital planetarium equipment projected on a dome screen 8 meters in diameter! Since the planetarium also has a piano, concerts are sometimes held. Photo: Nayoro City Observatory Kitasubaru, Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】157-1 Nisshin, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0066 【Access】15 minutes by car from Nayoro Station 【Hours】 April-October: 1:00 PM to 9:30 PM November-March: 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM Sun Pillar Community Center The central space of the Sun Pillar Community Center is a multipurpose hall, used as a curling hall in the winter and as a playground for light sports like ball pool and ping pong in the summer! Beginners must be accompanied by someone with experience to use the curling hall. Children's play equipment, including large equipment, is located near the main entrance and is available for use throughout the year. Photo: Sun Pillar community Center, Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】147 Nisshin, Nayoro, Hokkaido 090-0066 【Access】10 minutes by car from Nayoro Station 【Hours】 April to October: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM May to September: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM November to March: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM Nayoro Health Forest Nayoro Health Forest is a vast park with a total area of around 200 hectares, roughly 42 times the size of the Tokyo Dome. It is a facility designed to improve both health and motivation through sports and cultural exchange! In addition to sports facilities such as a 400-meter track for track and field events, a soccer field, and a 36-hole golf course park, walking trails are also available to be enjoyed by both children and adults! In winter, it offers one of the best cross-country ski courses in Hokkaido, and the area is crowded with officially recognized competitions and training camps. Photo: Nayoro Health Forest, Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Aza Nisshin, Nayoro, Hokkaido, 096-0066 【Access】10 minutes by car from Nayoro Station Nayoro Museum of the North The Nayoro Museum of the North is a facility where visitors can learn about the northern winter lifestyle and natural phenomena particular to the north, under the themes of "Winter, Snow and Cold". Visitors can experience the wisdom of our ancestors born from the harsh natural climate of the north. The "Kamuy Forest Corner" introduces the natural environment and culture of the Ainu. The Nayoro Museum of the North is surrounded by greenery, and from the gallery hall visitors can obsere nature and wild birds in each of the four seasons! There are also hands-on activities such as making shika-fue (traditional japanese bamboo flutes) and baking your own rice crackers, so why not make a reservation in advance and give it a try yourself? Photo: SL Snowplow at "Nayoro Museum of the North", Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】222 Midorigaoka, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0063 【Access】Six minutes by car from Nayoro station 【Official Website】Nayoro Museum of the North Roadside Station "Mochi Rice Village ☆Nayoro" Mochi Rice Village ☆Nayoro is a roadside station located at the southern entrance to Nayoro. The store is full of dependable, reliable agricultural products from Nayoro, products made using Nayoro's famous glutinous rice, special products such as sweets and soba made in Nayoro. At the restaurant "Kaze Yorimichi" visitors can enjoy dishes made with local ingredients, such as 100% soba noodles or dishes made with local mochi. Photo: Roadside Station "Mochi Rice Village ☆Nayoro" Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】334-2 Nishimachi, furencho, nayoro, Hokkaido 098-0507 【Access】Ten minutes on foot from Furen Station Recommended Specialty Products for Nayoro Souvenirs Products made from sunflowers grown in Nayoro are especially recommended as special local product souvenirs for sightseers. These unique products are sure to please as souvenirs! If you bring them home for your own dining table, you may enjoy a meal that is a little different than usual. Sunflower Oil Kita no Kagayaki Photo: Sunflower Oil Kita no Kagayaki The sunflower oil "Kita no Kagayaki" is made from 100% non-genetically modified sunflower seeds grown in Nayoro. It is a raw, first-pressed sunflower oil made without the use of food additives and using only the first oil to be pressed, letting the flavor, richness and minerals of of sunflower seeds be enjoyed to the fullest. Sunflower Oil Dressing Photo: Sunflower Oil Dressing This dressing utilizes the characteristics of Nayoro sunflower oil to the fullest and has no peculiar or unpleasant aroma. It is a versatile dressing that goes with a variety of dishes, such as salads or as a sauce for cold shabu-shabu. Sunflower Oil Kita no Kagayaki Edible Chili Oil (Rayu) (Medium Spiciness) Photo: Sunflower Oil Kita no Kagayaki Edible Chili Oil (Rayu) (Medium Spiciness) Fried garlic and fried onions are added to "Kita no Kagyaki" sunflower oil to give this rayu a savory aroma and texture. It goes well with rice and a variety of Japanese, Western and Chinese dishes, and its rarity makes it a popular souvenir. The products that have been introduced here are available for purchase at the Sunflower Tourist Information Center at the Nayoro Sunflower Festival venue. They are also available throughout the year at the roadside station "Mochi Rice Village ☆Nayoro", 「 the Nayoro branch of the Aeon shopping mall」and the gift shop Clim, which can be found on the first floor of Station Exchange Plaza Yorona. These products are also available as hometown tax return gifts. Local gourmet foods you should be sure not to miss when sightseeing in Nayoro Restaurants where you can eat Sunflower Field Pork, a local gourmet dish of Nayoro. "Sunflower Field Pork" is pork from pigs raised on a diet of the leftovers from locally grown sunflower seeds after their oil has been extracted. Sunflower Field Pork is characterized by its mild, refreshing taste and lack of oiliness. Photo: "Sunflower Field Pork", a local gourmet dish from Nayoro, Hokkaido Soba Restaurant Benihana The most popular item on the menu is the Cutlet and Rice (カツめし Katsumeshi), Meal Set, which includes "Sunflower Field Pork" covered in the restaurant's original sauce. Photo: "Cutlet and Rice Meal Set" at Soba Restaurant Benihana in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Nishi 4-jo Minami 4-chome, Nayori, Hokkaido, 096-0014 【Telephone】01654-3-3553 【Hours】11:AM to 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM 【Access】14 Minutes on foot from Nayoro station When visiting Nayoro, a local gourmet dish you should be sure not to miss is "Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan". Here the characteristics and history of Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan will be introduced, as well as restaurants where you can eat Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan. The Soul Food loved by Nayoro Residents! What is Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan? Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan is a home-cooked dish eaten in Nayoro that has been passed down as part of Nayoro's unique food culture since the early Showa era, and is the soul food of Nayoro. Photo: "Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan", a local delicacy of Nayoro, Hokkaido While regular Jingisukan is grilled, Nayoro is stewed in a butcher shop's secret signature sauce. Along with vegetables such as onions and Nayoro bean sprouts, other ingredients including rice cake, udon noodles, and fried tofu are used to soak up the flavor of the sauce. Jingisukan has long history in the Nayoro area. Sheep were valued for their wool's use as raw materials for military uniforms during the Taisho era, and bred in the Chiebun district of Nayoro, with the sheep tending including some 3,000 sheep at its height. Mutton had a strong odor and was initially thrown away without being used as food, but dipping the meat in sauce to remove the odor became popular in the Nayoro area in the early Showa era, and mutton began to be consumed, initially mainly among wool producers. Although sheep farming has ended in Nayoro since the latter half of 1955, Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan remains popular among Nayoro residents as a home-style dish throughout the year. There are six restauraunts in Nayoro that serve the town's original Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan! Introducing restaurants where you can eat Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan Restauraunt Akagera This restauraunt is located on the 1st floor of the Nayoro Onsen Sun Pillar Lodging. The single-person pot "Stewed Jingisukan Set Meal" is very popular. Photo: "Stewed Jingisukan Set Meal" at "Restauraunt Akagera" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Nisshin, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0066 【Telephone】01654-2-2131 【Hours】 Lunch 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM Dinner 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM 【Access】15 minutes by car from Nayoro Station 【Official Website】 Restaurant Akagera Ajidokoro Toricho This long-established store has been in business for 75 years. Besides Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan, there are over 100 items on the menu, with yakitori and kamameshi (A type of rice cooked together with various ignredients) also being particularly popular. Photo: "Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan" from "Ajidokoro Toricho" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Nishi 2-jo Minami 6-chome, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0012 【Telephone】01654-2-2379 【Hours】5:00 PM to 11:00PM 【Access】10 minutes on foot from Nayoro Station Western Izakaya Bistro Relax in a restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere based on a wood-grain interior, where all dishes are handmade without the use of any ready-made products. Photo: "Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan" from "Bistro" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Ogawa Building, 1F, 4-23-1 Nishi 4-jo Minami, Nayoro, Hokkaido, 096-0014, Japan 【Telephone】01654-2-0080 【Hours】5:30 PM to 10:00PM 【Access】10 minutes on foot from Nayoro Station Shoraku Kitchen Nagominiwa Nayoro Enjoy a menu that focuses on Hokkaido-sourced ingredients, such as seafood directly delivered from Wakkanai. Photo: "Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan" from "Restaurant Minefuku" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】3 Minami-cho, Furencho, Nayoro, Hokkaido 098-0505 【Telephone】01655-3-2308 【Access】4 minutes on foot from Furen Station 4season A snack bar with 12 counter seats and 16 box seats. Photo: "Nayoro Stewed Jingisukan" from "4season" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Nishi 4-jo Minami 5-chome, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0014 【Telephon】01654-3-4564 【Hours】8:00 PM to 1:00 AM 【Access】10 minutes on foot from Nayoro Station Recommended places to stay when visiting for the Nayoro Sunflower Festival Here is a list of recommended accommodations for those visiting Nayoro for the Nayoro Sunflower Festival! Please contact each separate lodging facility for reservations or room rates. Mori no Kyukamura Auto Camp Site The Mori no Kyukamura Auto Camp Site is located within Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park, the venue for the Nayoro Sunflower Festival. Besides the center house, there are also five cottages and twenty expansive lawn tent sites. The indoor play garden in the Sun Pillar Community Center contains a large playground where children can play free of charge. In the evening, visitors may also enjoy stargazing at night at the Nayoro Astronomical Observatory Kitasubaru, located within the park. There is a bathing facility called "Nayoro Onsen Sun Pillar" just 10 minutes by car from Mori no Kyukamura, so you can recover from the fatigue of your journey with a sauna or bath. Photo: "Mori no Kyukamura Auto Camp Site", Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Nisshin, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0066 【Access】10 minutes by car from Nayoro Station, within Hokkaido Sun Pillar Park 【Business Periods】 Summer Period: from April 29th/ October 31st Tent sites and cottages are available Winter Period: From November 1st to April 28th only cottages are available Nayoro Onsen Sun Pillar "Nayoro Onsen Sun Pillar" is the only hot spring facility in Nayoro, and the large public bath also includes a sauna. Visitors can stay there overnight, or just visit during the day to enjoy the hot springs. Photo: Nayoro Onsen Sun Pillar, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Nisshin, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0066 【Telephone】01654-2-2131 【Access】15 minutes by car from Nayoro Station 【Official Website】Nayoro Onsen Sun Pillar Grand Hotel Fujika The Grand Hotel Fujika has the largest number of guest rooms in all of Nayoro with 165 rooms in total, and is also located in the center of the city, making it a recommended lodging to use as a base for your travels. Photo: "Grand Hotel Fujika" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Nishi 5-jo Minami 4-chome, Nayoro, Hokkaido, 096-0015, Japan 【Telephone】01654-3-2323 【Access】5 minutes by car from Nayoro Station Hotel Bird Inn The Hotel Bird Inn, with its impressive, spacious entrance, is a hotel where all rooms are barrier-free. All twenty-one guest rooms are spaciously designed, and each room has its own separate bathroom and toilet space. Photo: "Hotel Bird Inn" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】Nishi 2-jo Minami 4-chome, Nayori, Hokkaido, 096-0012 【Telephon】01654-9-4567 【Access】10 minutes on foot from Nayoro Station Hotel Mystays Nayoro Hotel Mystays Nayoro, located right next to Nayoro shopping arcade, is a convenient hotel for both shopping and dining. Besides the large public bath, there is also a laundry area to provide peace of mind for long-term guests. Photo: "Hotel Mystays Nayoro" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】5-11 Nishi 3-jo Minami, Nayoro, Hokkaido, 096-0013 【Telephone】01654-8-8100 【Access】10 minutes on foot from Nayoro Station 【Official Website】Hotel Mystays Nayoro New Fujiya Hotel New Fujiya Hotel is conveniently located just a short two minute walk from Nayoro Station on the JR Soya main line. A complementary light breakfast service including bread, coffee and eggs is provided at no additional charge. Photo: New Fujiya Hotel, Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】5-chome Odori Minami, Nayoro, Hokkaido 096-0010 【Telephone】01654-2-2167 【Access】2 minutes on foot from Nayoro Station Hotel Sunflower Hotel Sunflower has a distinctive yellow exterior, appropriate for a hotel in Nayoro, the city of sunflowers. Both Japanese-style and Western-style rooms are available, so please choose according to your preference. Photo: Hotel Sunflower, Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】8-13-2 Odori Minami 8-chome, Nayoro, Hokkaido 090-0010 【Telephone】01654-3-2929 【Access】3 minutes on foot from Nayoro Station Sengiya Ryokan Photo: "Sengiya Ryokan" in Nayoro, Hokkaido General Information 【Address】9-1-1 Odori Minami, Nayoro, Hokkaido, 096-0010 【Telephone】01654-2-3254 【Access】5 minutes on foot from Nayoro Station A list of articles introducing the Nayoro Sunflower Festival and recommended spots for sightseeing in Nayoro Can you imagine the sight of 300,000 sunflowers in full bloom? Visitors can enjoy the unimaginably beautiful sight of a carpet of yellow sunflowers blooming under the big open sky and wide landscape at the Nayoro Sunflower Festival. The sights you see at the Nayoro Sunflower Festival, a cherished summer tradition of Nayoro, will surely remain in your heart for the rest of your life as a precious memory of your sightseeing in Hokkaido. Nayoro in Hokkaido has many spots for activities that you should be sure to try at least once, as well as a number of recommended sightseeing spots you should be sure to visit. Be sure to visit these other places as well as the Nayoro Sunflower Festival. Make great summer memories in Nayoro! If you are interested in sightseeing in Nayoro, be sure to check out the official website listed below as well as the "Cool Japan Video" account, which are both full of the latest information about Nayoro. 【Official Website】Official Nayoro Tourism and Town Development Association COOL JAPAN VIDEOS, a Social Networking Site Dedicated to the Beauty of Japan .caption-heading-2 { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; margin-bottom: 15px; max-width: 800px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 40px; } .caption-information-table { background-color: #efefef; margin-top: -20px; margin-bottom: 50px; padding: 20px; border-radius: 8px; width: 90%; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-information-table.blue { background-color: #fffaef; } .caption-information-table .title { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; } @media screen and (max-width: 1024px) { .caption-information-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 30px 15px; } } .caption-heading-table .caption-text li { line-height: 2.5rem; margin-top: 1.3rem; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading { position: relative; border-left: 5px solid #ff1300; padding-left: 10px; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 50px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 1px 15px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-heading-table ul{ counter-reset: listnum; /* カウンターをリセット */ list-style: none; /* 標準のスタイルは消す */ font-size: 1.5rem !important; margin-bottom: 15px; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li{ margin-left: 1.1em; text-indent: -1.1em; font-weight: bold; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li::before{ counter-increment: listnum; /* counter-resetと同じ文字列 */ content: counter(listnum); /* カウントした数に応じて番号を表示 */ content: counter(listnum) ". 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Video introduction of "Kofuku Station" in Kofuku-cho, Obihiro City, Hokkaido This video, released by "Shinji kawamura," introduces Kofuku Station on the former Japanese National Railways' Hiroo Line that used to run in Hokkaido. The video is titled "Kofuku Station, a Holy Space for Lovers" (幸福の駅　恋人の聖地　Happy station A sweetheart's holy place). Aikoku Station (愛国駅) and Kofuku Station (幸福駅) on the former Japan National Railways' Hiroo Line are popular stations that have become nationwide trends. As you can see from 0:19 in the video, the inside of Kofuku Station is covered with copies of tickets, business cards, photos, and message cards A tourist once stuck his business card on the wall in the station wishing for happiness and that's how the tradition of stickying lucky cards on the walls was established. More About Kofuku Station, a Holy Space for Lovers in Hokkaido! Photo：Kokufuki Station - station nameplate, Hokkaido Kofuku Station is a station on the Hiroo Line of the Japan National Railways that used to exist in the town of Kofuku (幸福町, Kofuku-Cho), Obihiro City (帯広市, Obihiro-Shi), Hokkaido. The popularity of this station has exploded since 1973, when it was featured in NHK TV program "Shin-Nihon-Kiko" (A Travelogue for New Japan) and used as a filming location for a TV drama with the catchphrase "From the Land of Love to Kofuku." It's said that buying a ticket at this station would bring love and happiness and because of this the station sold 13 million tickets. Unfortunately, Kofuku station closed on February 2, 1987, when the Hiroo Line was discontinued. Since the Hiroo Line was discontinued, Kofuku Station has become a railroad park and Aikoku Station was turned into a transportation memorial hall. Both have become popular tourist destinations. Things To Do Near Kofuku Station, a Holy Space for Lovers in Hokkaido! Photo：Kofuku Station & a diesel train, Hokkaido In 2013, with the concept of "old but new," the station building was renovated to reinforce its earthquake resistance. A fountain called "Ai-no-Izumi" (The Fountain of Love), and a symbol tree called "Kofuku-no-Ki" were newly installed and the station was reborn as a more attractive site. The diesel trains, platforms, and abandoned railroad cars are still in their original state, allowing you to glimpse back in time. At Kofuku Station, known as a holy space for lovers, you can enjoy the "Kofuku Station Happy Ceremony," a wedding experience that includes a commemorative photo shoot while wearing a wedding dress. At the gift shop in the station building, you can buy souvenirs, such as key chains and tickets. Summary of "Kofuku Station," a Holy Space for Lovers in Hokkaido! Photo：Kofuku Station & a diesel train, Hokkaido The signboard and the Happiness Bell at Kofuku Station are just perfect for Instagram. There is a Kofuku Shrine near Kofuku Station and an Aikoku Shrine near Aikoku Station. These are also worth a visit. Sapporo (札幌, Sapporo) and Hakodate (函館, Hakodate) are the most popular tourist destinations in Hokkaido, but now you might want to believe in the sign of good luck and visit Kofuku Station. 【Tripadvisor】Kofuku Station https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g608507-d1882914-Reviews-Kofuku_Station-Obihiro_Hokkaido.html

Sunflower Sapporo: Video Introduction This video, titled "Japan's Overnight Capsule Ferry 24 Hour Travel from Tokyo to Hokkaido｜Mitsui MOL Ferry Co.｜Sunflower｜Boat Journey｜Oarai to Tomakomai" (Japan's Overnight Capsule Ferry｜24 Hour Travel from Tokyo to Hokkaido 商船三井フェリー さんふらわあ 船旅 大洗→苫小牧), was uploaded by "Travel Alone Idea." On the very same commercial route, MOL Ferry's Sunflower Sapporo has attracted attention for its success in unmanned operation. This article/video will guide you through the ferry trip as if you were on a tour. If you're looking for different ways to travel in Japan knowing what each type of transportation offers is important. The video will also take a look at the accommodations and restaurants on board, so be sure to check it out. Sunflower Sapporo – A Ferry for Travelers Photo：Tomakomai Ferry Terminal, Tomakomai, Hokkaido The Sunflower Sapporo ferry runs between Oarai Port in Ibaraki Prefecture and Tomakomai Port in Hokkaido. Fares vary from 9,800 yen to 63,200 yen depending on the accommodation type you choose. Fares also vary by season. If you're planning on bringing a car with you on the ferry, you'll need to check those rates as well. The Sunflower Furano is a ferry of the same type as the Sunflower Sapporo, and both ferries operate at night. Guest Rooms on the Sunflower Sapporo Source :YouTube screenshot The Sunflower Sapporo offers several types of accommodations. The large "Tourist" accommodations with only a curtain partition are recommended for seasoned travelers and those who wish to enjoy a cruise that doesn't break the bank. The "Comfort Type" accommodations shown in the video are casual rooms that are set up as private rooms and offer more privacy. Each room is equipped with a TV so you can relax during your trip. [Video] 3:18 - Comfort Type Guest Room Other accommodations include the "premium" type, which features deluxe rooms with private balconies, as well as the "suite" type, and even Japanese-style accommodations. Breakfast and Services on the Sunflower Sapporo Source :YouTube screenshot The Sunflower Sapporo has a buffet-style restaurant where passengers can enjoy a meal with a lovely view of the sea, for an additional fee. The ship also has a store where you can buy souvenirs, a large public bath, a sauna, coin-operated laundry machines, a game center, and other services to help you enjoy your trip. Free Wi-Fi is also available on board, although the connection might be a bit slow for video streaming. [Video] 5:40 - Restaurants Onboard the Ferry Sunflower Sapporo's Pet Policy Pets are allowed on the Sunflower Sapporo. Pet rooms are available for pets, and the ferry also offers rooms for those who wish to stay with their pets during their voyage. Both require advance reservations and filling out a confirmation form, so please keep this in mind when making reservations. There is also a free dog run so your pet can enjoy the cruise as well. It's quite accommodating for those looking to travel with their pets! Tokyo-Sapporo Pacific Story: An Affordable Way to Explore Japan Pacific Story is a connecting ticket that offers special discount rates for express buses and ferries from Tokyo Station to Sapporo Station. It eliminates the hassle of purchasing a ticket when transferring between buses and ferries, allowing you to enjoy a hassle-free journey. You can also arrange your trip so that you can stay overnight in Mito or Oarai, or in Tomakomai or Sapporo. To use Pacific Story, reservations must be made at the Passenger Booking Centers. Summary of the Sunflower Sapporo Photo：Sunset from a ferry The Sunflower Sapporo and Sunflower Furano are overnight ferries and are favorites among boat travelers. The best part of traveling by boat is that you can spend time relaxing and enjoying the view of the sea, something you cannot experience when traveling by plane or train. Consider trying this means of transportation as a way to enjoy the sea as you travel between Tokyo and Sapporo! 【Official Website】Mitsui O.S.K. Ferry Co.｜If You're Traveling by Sea, MOL Ferry https://www.sunflower.co.jp/en/

Video Introduction of the Eurasian Red Squirrel of Hokkaido This video, titled "The Eurasian Red Squirrel Playing in a Field of Pink and Blue Flowers [2020]" (エゾリス駆ける、ブルーとピンクのお花畑は そのまんまメルヘンの世界だった 2020), was uploaded by "Shinji kawamura." The video shows footage of the Eurasian red squirrel eating nuts and running around cutely. What the Cute Eurasian Red Squirrels of Hokkaido Look Like Photo：A Eurasian Red Squirrel, Hokkaido The Eurasian red squirrel weighs approximately 300 to 410 grams and is approximately 22 to 27 cm in length, which is about the size of a kitten. A baby squirrel is about 6 to 8 centimeters long, making it very small and cute looking. The tail of the Eurasian red squirrel is covered with hair that is roughly 5 cm long, which makes the body of the squirrel itself appear larger. The hair itself is very fine, so you can see in the video how it fluffs up whenever the squirrel moves around. [Video] 4:04 - The cute tail of the Eurasian red squirrel Lifespan of the Eurasian Red Squirrel Photo：A Eurasian Red Squirrel, Hokkaido Natural predators of the Eurasian red squirrel include birds, such as crows, owls, and hawks, as well as cats and foxes. They live in nests in trees to protect themselves from their natural predators. The life span of the Eurasian red squirrel is said to be 2 to 4 years, but in some cases, they may live as long as 6 years. In Japan, they have to endure the harsh cold of Hokkaido, but they do not hibernate. Before winter is in full swing, they gather nuts and bury them in the ground to prepare for winter. Starting from around December, Hokkaido is covered with snow, so it's difficult for humans to tell where the squirrels have hidden their nuts. However, the Eurasian red squirrel can pinpoint the location of buried nuts and eat them. And while the winter coat of the Eurasian red squirrel is characterized by its fluffiness, it changes into a summer coat during the spring and summer months, giving them a slender appearance. Where to Spot the Eurasian Red Squirrel Photo：A wooden path at Maruyama Park, Sapporo The cute and cuddly Eurasian red squirrel lives in places where it's very cold, such as the northern part of Eurasia. In Japan, they can only be seen in Hokkaido. They inhabit the plains and subalpine forests of Hokkaido. It's difficult to go to a natural forest to see Eurasian red squirrels, even if you would like to see them in person after watching a video. We recommend Maruyama Park in Sapporo, Hokkaido. You may be lucky enough to see wild Eurasian red squirrels in Maruyama Park, a park surrounded by nature in Sapporo, Japan. In addition, an albino Eurasian red squirrel was spotted on the campus of Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine and blew up on the internet for a while. Incidentally, the Birds and Wildlife Protection Law prohibits the breeding of Eurasian red squirrels. Therefore, you have to go to Hokkaido to see them in Japan. If you want to see these cute little creatures, consider making a trip to Hokkaido! Summary of the Eurasian Red Squirrel Japan offers beautiful natural scenery in each of its four seasons. In this article, we introduced the cute Eurasian red squirrels of Hokkaido. They look like something out of a fairy tale. The sight of them running around energetically in a field of flowers is quite relaxing. Hokkaido is the only place in Japan where you can see Eurasian red squirrels in the wild. In Maruyama Park in Sapporo, there is a possibility to see Eurasian red squirrels in their natural habitat. If you're planning a trip to Hokkaido, consider checking them out? [Video] 1:13 - Eurasian red squirrels eating nuts Until you actually get to see them in person, please enjoy the lovely footage introduced in this article.

Video Doukai of “Lake Nukabira” Ice Bubble, Kamishiboro-cho, Hokkaido This video, titled "Lake Nukabira in Hokkaido, a Treasure Trove of Ice Bubbles in Winter...." (北海道糠平湖、この冬アイスバブルの宝庫に...。), was uploaded by "Shinji Kawamura." Lake Nukabira's Ice Bubbles Photo：Ice bubbles at Lake Nukabira, Hokkaido Lake Nukabira, located in Kamishihoro, Hokkaido, a town with great natural beauty in Northern Japan, is a man-made dammed lake completed in 1956. Around Lake Nukabira are the hot springs and ski slopes of Nukabira Gensenkyo. These facilities, as well as smelt fishing on Lake Nukabira are also popular during the winter months, when the Lake Nukabira Ice Bubbles can be enjoyed. The Lake Nukabira Ice Bubbles refer to the phenomenon in which gases generated by microorganisms decomposing plants, etc. that have sunk to the bottom of the lake are trapped in ice as the lake freezes. The sight of countless bubbles freezing like white jellyfish in the ice at various depths is nothing short of magical! It's an exceptional sight created by nature that looks great on Instagram. You can enjoy a fantastic sight of the Lake Nukabira Ice Bubbles throughout the video. [Video] 0:25 - Lake Nukabira Ice Bubbles When to See the Lake Nukabira Ice Bubbles Photo：Ice bubbles at Lake Nukabira, Hokkaido The ice bubbles can be seen from early January to late February, provided that snow is not covering the ice. Since the ice bubbles are often seen in years with little snowfall, if you want to see the ice bubbles at Lake Nukabira, we recommend checking the weather conditions and snowfall. Since there are few places in Japan where you can see ice bubbles, seeing them at Lake Nukabira can be considered lucky. For safer viewing, it's recommended that you join a tour organized by Higashitaisetsu Nature Guide Centre, which will take you to places where you can see the ice bubbles. Sightseeing and Attractions at Lake Nukabira Photo：Taushubetsu Bridge, Hokkaido The video only shows beautiful images of Lake Nukabira's ice bubbles, but there are also various leisure and sightseeing spots around Lake Nukabira. One of the most famous sights of Lake Nukabira is Taushubetsu Bridge. Taushubetsu Bridge is an arch-shaped bridge over which the old Japan National Railways Shihoro Line ran. The reflection of Taushubetsu Bridge on the lake is fantastic, and there are tours where visitors can see the bridge in all seasons. In the video, you can see a series of arch bridges on a frozen Lake Nukabira. [Video] 0:00 - Taushubetsu Bridge In winter, you can enjoy Lake Nukabira's ice bubbles as well as the aforementioned smelt fishing, and in summer, you can enjoy fishing for different varieties of trout. From the end of June to the end of September, the Lake Nukabira Campground, a place rich in nature, can be used! From the campground, visitors can also take a day trip to the Nukabira Gensenkyo. The foot-pedaled trolley train, modeled after the tracks of the old Japanese National Railways, is also popular! Mori no Torokko Ecorail allows parents and children to enjoy a train trip in the great outdoors, which is approximately 1 km round trip. It also doesn't require any reservations! Access to Lake Nukabira ・From Obihiro Station, 100 minutes by bus (20 minutes walking from Nukabira Gensenkyo Office) ・Approximately 77 minutes by car from Obihiro Station Summary of Lake Nukabira's Ice Bubbles Lake Nukabira, located near the center of Hokkaido, is a popular tourist spot where you can enjoy the magnificent nature of Japan throughout the year. This article introduced information about when and under what conditions you can see the Lake Nukabira ice bubbles, as well as information about leisure and sightseeing activities to enjoy at Lake Nukabira. Seeing the fantastic ice bubble of Lake Nukabira in winter will surely have you wanting to see it in person. Be sure to check weather conditions in advance so that you can visit and experience the natural beauty of Japan during winter. 【TripAdvisor】Lake Nukabira https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1120379-d8734770-Reviews-Lake_Nukabira-Kamishihoro_cho_Kato_gun_Hokkaido.html

Cape Erimo" in Erimo-cho, Horosen-gun, Hokkaido, Japan This video, titled "Cape Erimo, a Spectacular View of Hokkaido｜Short Version｜DRONE×HOKKAIDO" (北海道の絶景・襟裳岬ショートバージョン DRONE×HOKKAIDO), was uploaded by "Shinji kawamura." The video features drone footage of Cape Erimo in Hokkaido, Japan. Be sure to check it out to see some of the amazing views that Cape Erimo has to offer! Amazing Views on Cape Erimo Photo：Hatsuhinode on Cape Erimo Many Japanese people have this idea that there's nothing to do on Cape Erimo. But, let's start with some basic information about Cape Erimo. Cape Erimo is located at the southernmost tip of the Hidaka Mountains, known as the backbone of Hokkaido, jutting out into the Pacific Ocean. A scenic tourist destination, Cape Erimo is located in Erimo, in Hokkaido's Horoizumi District. It is also known for its strong winds and the large amount of sea fog that occurs from May to August. The cape is approximately 60 meters tall, and from the tip of the cape, a reef continues for approximately 2 km, offering a magnificent view of nature's beauty. The spectacular view was designated as a national cultural asset, in August 2010, with the name "Meisho Pirikanoka" (meaning "beautiful shape" in the language of the Ainu)." Furthermore, Cape Erimo is also known as a spot for the Japanese tradition "Hatsuhinode" (the first sunrise of the year), and many tourists come to see the majestic sight. Cape Erimo is not a place with nothing, but rather, a popular spot where you can take Instagrammable photos. Cape Erimo - Now a Popular Tourist Spot! Photo：Cape Erimo, Hokkaido In Japan, there's a song called "Cape Erimo" that was sung by Chiyoko Shimakura. Later, in 1974, "Cape Erimo" composed by Takuro Yoshida and sung by Shinichi Mori became a big hit. The phrase in the lyrics, "Erimo no Haru wa nani mo nai Haru desu" (Spring in Erimo is a spring of nothing), left a lasting impression on people. This single phrase of the hit song made it famous as a place offering nothing. However, Cape Erimo is actually a place with loads of natural beauty, as mentioned above. It is now one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Hokkaido, and has become such a famous tourist attraction that people no longer say that Cape Erimo has nothing to offer. Popular Tourist Attractions on Cape Erimo! Photo：Cape Erimo, Hokkaido Let's take a look at the sightseeing spots in Cape Erimo, which has now become famous as one of Hokkaido's most scenic and beautiful sightseeing spots. Cape Erimo is famous for its strong winds, and "Kaze no Yakata," a facility where visitors can experience those winds, opened in 1997. Visitors can experience wind speeds as high as 25 meters per second. As we mentioned previously, Cape Erimo is known for its beautiful sunrises, and the panoramic view of the sunrise from the cape is truly something to marvel at! On New Year's Day, the observatory and observation decks are filled with tourists who come to see the first sunrise of the year. Furthermore, Cape Erimo is also a habitat for wild seals, so you can even try seal watching with binoculars. If you want to see them up close, we recommend joining a seal-watching tour by kayak. Seals give birth in the spring, and if you're lucky, you might be able to spot a mother and her pups. There is also a theater showing videos taken by nature photographer Eiichi Kurasawa, where visitors can learn about the ecology of the harbor seals seen at Cape Erimo. A monument of "Cape Erimo," the song that made Cape Erimo famous, stands side by side with the other monument to the song with same name. This sight of two monuments, for the song of the same name, side by side, is not often seen in other places. Dining Recommendations on Cape Erimo Photo：Whelk sashimi When it comes to dining on Cape Erimo, the fresh seafood is a must. You can enjoy seasonal seafood, such as whelks grown in the rough seas of Cape Erimo. The sushi is also highly recommended. Ginzushi (銀寿し) and Isami Sushi (いさみ寿し) are famous sushi restaurants in the area. Cape Erimo also has a hotel called Erimo Kankokan (えりも観光館) not far from the observatory. It's recommended for those looking to watch the sunrise from the sea in the morning. Summary of Cape Erimo, Hokkaido Did you enjoy this video showing aerial footage of Cape Erimo, a place of natural beauty? The image of Cape Erimo as a place with nothing to offer was generated by the lyrics of a hit song, and it turns out that it is actually a scenic sightseeing spot created by a harsh natural environment. Consider visiting Cape Erimo, a place where you can feel nature on a grand scale! 【Official Website】Cape Erimo https://www.town.erimo.lg.jp/kankou/pages/k9mfea0000000bnv.html 【TripAdvisor】Cape Erimo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1065243-d1372677-Reviews-Cape_Erimo-Erimo_cho_Horoizumi_gun_Hokkaido.html

A world just like the one in the movie “Frozen”! Introducing the “Snow Crystal Museum” in Hokkaido! Before we begin, please watch the video [A snow princess, “Asahikawa museum reminding of the movie Frozen（雪のプリンセス 旭川の美術館「アナ雪に似てる」と人気に）” ] uploaded by “Mainichi Newspaper” posted above. Feel the atmosphere just like in “Frozen.” The atmosphere covers the entire museum. The movie “Frozen” is a popular Disney movie was released in 2013. And the fantastical museum in Hokkaido has recently attracted a lot of attention, mainly on SNS, as it is just like in the movie “Frozen.” What kind of tourist spot is the Snow Crystal Museum? Source :YouTube screenshot The Snow Crystal Museum in Asahikawa, Hokkaido was built in 1991, with the image of snow crystals in mind. The spiral staircase at 0:26 in the video has garnered a lot of attentions on social media platforms. People began making comments on review websites saying that the view in the museum reminded them of the castle in the movie “Frozen.” Since then, the annual number of visitors suddenly jumped to 80,000! A princess experience at the “Snow Crystal Museum”. Source :YouTube screenshot You can rent the gorgeous dresses and transform yourself into a princess at the Snow Crystal Museum in Hokkaido.It feels even more surreal when you take a picture at the castle entrance reminiscent of medieval Europe, or in the frozen corridors. If you're interested in the princess experience, please check out 0:52 in the video to see what it's like. Besides the photogenic, sparkling stained glass sector, there's also a theater, a resource center, a cafe, restaurants and a gift store are available. The “Snow Crystal Museum” is also a perfect place for a wedding! This museum is also suitable for a wedding, wedding photo venue, or various other events. Thanks to Hoshino resort and other hotels in the area, it makes for a very convenient location for visitors. An overview of Hokkaido's “Snow Crystal Museum”. Source :YouTube screenshot As shown in the video, the Snow Crystal Museum in Hokkaido is a popular Instagram spot as well. The facility has many features that a strikingly similar to the castle in “Frozen.” Asahikawa Zoo is another popular tourist spot in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, so try and stop by the Snow Crystal Museum after your visit to the zoo (or vice versa). If you like the movie “Frozen,” or you were fascinated by the video, please visit the Snow Crystal Museum in Hokkaido! ◆Snow Crystal Museum◆ 【Address】 3-1-1 Minamigaoka, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 【Operating Hours】9am - 5pm 【Entrance fee】Adult 800 yen, High school and University students 600 yen, Elementary, Middle school students 500 yen, over 65 400 yen 【Access】15 minutes by bus from JR Asahikawa Station, 10 minutes by car from Hokkaido Express way Asahikawa Takasu Interchange. 【Parking】 Available (Free) 【Telephone No】0166-736-7017 【Tripadvisor】Snow Crystal Museum https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g319103-d1424077-Reviews-Snow_Crystal_Museum-Asahikawa_Hokkaido.html

Autumn Leaves at the Hoheikyo Dam in Sapporo, Hokkaido: Video Introduction This video, titled "A Place to View the Autumn Leaves｜Hoheikyo Dam｜Jozankei, Sapporo, Hokkaido｜4K" (紅葉スポット 豊平峡ダム　北海道札幌市定山渓　Hoheikyo Dam　4K), was uploaded by "M Channel." There are many prominent tourist attractions in Sapporo, Hokkaido, but one famous for its autumn leaves is the Hoheikyo Dam, located on Lake Jozan. This video features the beautiful colors of nature at Hoheikyo Dam in autumn. Be sure to check it out to see the breathtaking autumn leaves of Hokkaido, Japan! Characteristics and Attractions of the Hoheikyo Dam, Where Lake Jozan Is Located Photo：Hoheikyo Dam, Sapporo, Hokkaido Hoheikyo Dam, located in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, is a 102.5-meter-tall arched concrete dam that has been selected as one of the Top 100 Water Resources and Top 100 Dammed Lakes in Japan. Since general vehicles are not allowed to enter, hybrid electric buses operate from the entrance of the dam to Hoheikyo Park. [Video] 0:33 - Hybrid Electric Buses at Hoheikyo Dam The observation deck is a viewpoint that offers breathtaking scenery and spectacular views throughout Japan's four seasons. If the weather is good, you can see a rainbow form in the water released from the dam. The dam discharge times are as follows. [June - Oct.] Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM [June, Sept., Oct.] Weekdays: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM [July, Aug.] Weekdays: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Hours may vary by season, so please check the website of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism in advance. [Video] 2:33 - Water Being Discharged from Hoheikyo Dam When to See the Autumn Leaves at the Hoheikyo Dam Photo：Late autumn at Hoheikyo Dam, Sapporo, Hokkaido The leaves at Hoheikyo Dam usually begin to change color in late September, and the best time to view the autumn foliage is from early to mid-October. However, during peak season, the surrounding roads become congested, parking lots fill up, and one-hour waits become very common. Some places have time limits, so it is recommended to visit first thing in the morning when the autumn leaves are in season. [Video] 1:14 - Autumn Leaves at Hoheikyo Dam A Hoheikyo Onsen Specialty! Delicious Indian Curry! At Hoheikyo Onsen, a 13-minute drive from Hoheikyo Dam, there are day-trip hot springs and campgrounds, as well as canoeing experiences and barbecue facilities. One of the must-try foods at Hoheikyo Onsen is Indian curry. It has a nice texture and delicious flavor! The Indian curry, made with carefully selected naan, dozens of spices, and onions, is a superb dish that once eaten is unforgettable, and many repeat customers come back for more. There are five levels of spiciness to choose from, so you can select the spiciness that suits you best. If you're a fan of spicy foods, maybe try the hottest level? It takes about 80 minutes to reach Hoheikyo Onsen from the Sapporo Station bus terminal, and a free shuttle bus is available from Makomanai Subway Station, making it easily accessible. If you visit Hoheikyo Dam for sightseeing, definitely sit down for some lunch in the area! Summary of Sightseeing at the Hoheikyo Dam Photo：The observation deck at Hoheikyo Dam, Sapporo, Hokkaido Hoheikyo Dam is not only famous for its colorful autumn leaves, but also for the picturesque reflections that can be seen on the lake. They're super photogenic and look great on Instagram as well. The water being discharged from the dam also makes for great photos as well. In addition, there's a free lift car to the rest house, which takes you to the lookout point in just a minute! That being said, it's not that far, so you can go there on foot as well. There's also a well-maintained promenade and a viewing platform, making it possible to enjoy the scenery with a nice hike. Autumn here is spectacular, but consider visiting in other seasons as well! 【TripAdvisor】Hoheikyo Dam https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298560-d14802021-Reviews-Houheikyou_Dam-Sapporo_Hokkaido.html

Mt. Tengu in Otaru, Hokkaido: Video Introduction This video, titled "Otaru Tenguyama (Mt. Tengu) - Enjoy a Spectacular View of the Sky｜Official PR Video" (札幌から一番近い 天空の絶景を存分に楽しめる小樽天狗山 -Mt.TENGU-｜公式PR動画), was uploaded by Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway. The video introduces various things to do on Otaru Tenguyama (Mt. Tengu), including a ropeway, beautiful views from the observation deck, a shrine and cafeteria at the top of Tenguyama, and more. There's no shortage of fun things to do on Mt. Tengu. What is Otaru Tenguyama? Photo：The view from Otaru Tenguyama, Hokkaido Otaru Tenguyama, aka Mt. Tengu, is a 532.4-meter-tall mountain located in Otaru, Hokkaido. It is a symbolic mountain of Otaru and overlooks the city of Otaru and the Sea of Japan. Otaru Tenguyama is approximately 15 minutes from the Otaru IC by car, and 17 minutes by bus from JR Otaru Station. You can also drive to the top of Mt. Tengu, but we recommend taking the ropeway if it's your first time visiting the mountain; the 30-seat ropeway takes roughly 4 minutes to reach the top, and offers a spectacular view of Otaru Bay, Ishikari Bay, and even the Shakotan Peninsula on a clear day. In the winter, you can enjoy skiing at a ski resort where two lifts are in operation. In the warmer months, there are zip lines, hot air balloon rides, mountain climbing/hiking, slides, and camping facilities that are popular during summer vacation. Otaru Tenguyama is an appealing tourist attraction that can be enjoyed all year round. Otaru Tenguyama (Mt. Tengu) – Observation Deck, Shrine, and Gorgeous Night Views Photo：Tenguu Terrace, Otaru Tenguyama, Hokkaido Here, we'll take a look at some things to do on Otaru Tenguyama. ・Observation Deck Otaru Tenguyama has five observation decks with different views. Tenguu Terrace, located at the Tengu Cherry Blossom Observatory, offers an unobstructed view from a wooden deck with no railing. Some visitors take pictures with their takeout drinks they ordered from the nearby TENGUU Café! [Video] 0:19 - Tenguu Terrace ・Mt. Tengu Shrine Mt. Tengu Shrine, located at the top of Mt. Tengu in Otaru, Hokkaido, is dedicated to the deity Sarutahiko. Located near the shrine is a large tengu, which is said to ward off evil and make wishes come true when its long nose is stroked. [Video] 0:37 - Mt. Tengu Shrine ・Night Views Otaru Tenguyama is also known for having one of the three best night views in Hokkaido. In addition to the Tenguu Terrace observation deck, the Manten Stage offers a night view of the highway and a starry sky. [Video] 1:55 - The Night View from Otaru Tenguyama Photo：Chipmunk Park, Otaru Tenguyama, Hokkaido ・Chipmunk Park Chipmunk Park is a park where you can see cute chipmunks up close and feed them. (The park is open from late May to mid-October.) [Video] 0:33 - Cute Squirrels at Chipmunk Park Winter at Otaru Tenguyama – Skiing & Fireworks One of the best things to do during winter at Otaru Tengu is enjoy some winter sports on the ski slopes, which offer a spectacular view of the area. Skiing while enjoying the view below is a great way to unwind and have some fun. Otaru Yuki Hanabi (Otaru Snow Fireworks) is a fireworks display held at the ski resort in December, and is a popular annual event. The 2022 Otaru Snow Fireworks was held on December 17, but the schedule for 2023 has yet to be determined. Please check the Otaru Yuki Hanabi official website for information regarding the 2023 event. Otaru Tenguyama – One of the Top 3 Nights Views of Hokkaido + Nearby Night Views Photo：The night view from Mt. Hakodate, Hokkaido Otaru Tenguyama is one of the top 3 night views of Hokkaido, along with Mt. Hakodate and Mt. Moiwa, but there are other lesser-known night view spots scattered around the area. Some recommended night view spots are the Asahi Observatory, which can be easily accessed via a 5-minute drive from Otaru Station; the Mount Kenashi View Point, a 30-minute drive from Otaru Station; and the illumination of the Otaru Canal, a famous tourist attraction in Otaru, Hokkaido. After enjoying the night view of Mt. Tengu, consider visiting one of these other locations. Other Things to Do in Otaru, Hokkaido Besides Otaru Tenguyama, there is a myriad of things to do in Otaru. Otaru Museum A museum offering a variety of activities with which to learn about the history and natural scenery of Otaru, Hokkaido. The museum is made up of two facilities: the main museum and the canal museum. The museums are located just 20 minutes apart and so its recommended that you visit both as there are also discounted tickets that can be used at both facilities. Hours: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm Admission Fee: General admission: 400 yen (winter 300 yen), high school students and senior citizens living in the area: 200 yen (winter 150 yen), Junior high school students and younger: free Otaru Aquarium Built in 1958, the Otaru Aquarium has a variety of exhibits, including penguins, dolphins, sea lions, etc. Children and adults alike can enjoy learning about the various marine life at the aquarium and even watch the impressive dolphin shows. The aquarium shop features a variety of cute stuffed animals and souvenirs to commemorate your trip. Hours: Mar. 18 - Oct.15 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (4:30 pm last admission) Oct. 16 - Nov. 26 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (3:30 pm last admission) Dec. 16 - Feb. 25 - 10:00 am - 4:00 pm (3:30 pm last admission) Admission Fee: Adults: 1,800 yen, Children: 700 yen, Young children (Ages 3 and under): 350 yen Otaru Canal The Otaru Canal is a 1,140-meter-long canal running through the city of Otaru. Built in 1923, the Otaru Canal was used to transport cargo from offshore. The canal is lined with 63 atmospheric street lights, and the buildings that line the canal, once used as warehouses, have been transformed into restaurants and other facilities. It's a scenic location to explore the history of Otaru. What to Eat in Otaru? Otaru is home to tons of delicious foods to try. Because Otaru is a port town, it has some of the freshest seafood that money can buy. You can enjoy sampling various types of sushi, seafood bowls and more. Besides seafood, we recommend trying Otaru Ankake Yakisoba, a famous food from Otaru. The dish features fried noodles, lots of sauce, and a variety of vegetables from Otaru and is sold in restaurants all over Otaru. Summary of Otaru Tenguyama Otaru Tenguyama is full of attractions all year round. After seeing all the amazing attractions in the video, don't be surprised if you're itching to visit the area this summer! In addition to the video introduced here, the Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway YouTube channel also offers live footage from the ropeway's cameras. You can check out the current view from Mt. Tengu and even night views from the mountain. Otaru Tengu is located relatively close to Sapporo, so consider stopping by if you're traveling in Hokkaido! Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway Information 【Address】Tenguyama, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0012 【Operation Period】April 15 - November 5 【Hours】9:00 am - 9:00 pm 【Admission Fee】Adults: 1,600 yen, Children: 800 yen, Pets: 300 yen ※Discounts available for groups of 20 or more 【Parking】Available (Free) 【TripAdvisor】Otaru Tenguyama

北海道函館市の人気観光スポット「五稜郭」の桜紹介まとめ こちらの動画は「nippon.com」が公開した「Hakodate’s Cherry Blossoms Spring 2018 | nippon.com」です。 こちらの記事では、北海道函館市にある五稜郭の桜や箱館山からの夜景を紹介致します。 歴史ある日本の桜の名所と、古くから美しいと評価される夜景を、是非動画をご覧ください。 北海道函館市の人気観光スポット・五稜郭の歴史 五稜郭は、江戸時代末期に現在の函館市の中心地に建造されました。 もともとは外国船から箱館港を守るために建造されたようですが、戊辰戦争最後の戦場「箱館戦争」で旧幕府軍に占領され、木材不足のために一部が解体されて陸軍の訓練所として利用されるなどの紆余曲折がありました。 その後、1914年に五稜郭公園として一般開放され、現在は函館を代表する観光スポットとなっています。 1952年には北海道唯一の国指定特別史跡となりました。 「五稜郭」の桜の見頃や見どころ 五稜郭は函館市の桜の名所としても非常に有名で、ソメイヨシノを中心に1,600本もの桜があり、毎年桜の季節になると函館市民や観光客で大いに賑わいます。 五稜郭公園の桜の見どころは、お堀の外周の遊歩道。桜を見上げながらゆっくりと散策を楽しめます。桜を見ながらゆっくりと休憩ができるカフェ「自家焙煎コーヒー ピーベリー」もおすすめです。 また、五稜郭タワーの高さ約90mにあるガラス張りの展望台から見下ろす桜も人気で、五稜郭の星型を桜が彩る風景は一見の価値あり。 五稜郭の桜の見頃は、例年4月下旬から5月上旬にかけて。2024年の函館市の桜開花予想によると、2024年は例年よりも早く4月27日頃に見頃を迎えるようです。 隣接する五稜郭タワーの展望台からその景色を見下ろすと、星形の城郭に沿って綺麗な桜のピンク色を見ることが出来ます。 是非、地上と展望台の両方から五稜郭の桜を楽しんでみてはいかがでしょうか。 北海道函館市で夜景を楽しむ 昼間に桜を楽しんだ後は、箱館山で美しい函館市街の夜景を楽しむことが出来ます。 箱館山の山頂からは、海に挟まれた函館の街が光のアーチを作り、海岸線を縁取っています。 函館の夜景は古くから世界三大夜景と言われ、最近でも旅行ガイド「ミシュラン・グリーンガイド・ジャポン」で三ツ星を獲得する美しい景色です。 何度見てもまた行きたくなるような特別な魅力があります。 北海道函館市の人気観光スポット五稜郭紹介まとめ 北海道函館市にある五稜郭公園の桜と箱館山からの夜景について紹介させて頂きました。 どちらも日本が誇る非常に美しく素晴らしい景色です。 是非動画をご覧になって頂き、北海道旅行の際は実際に足を運んでいただければと思います。

Video introduction of "National Takino Suzuran Hillside Park" in Sapporo, Hokkaido This video, titled "A Summer Recommendation" (夏のおすすめ), was uploaded by "Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park" (国営滝野すずらん丘陵公園). Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park is located in Sapporo, Hokkaido, and is known as the only national park in Hokkaido. With seasonal flowers and forests where visitors can stroll and enjoy beautiful natural scenery, the park is a popular spot for the people of Sapporo and tourists alike. Check out the video to see flowers blooming in the short summer season, as well as highlights and things to do at Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park. Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park - Enjoy Flowers in All 4 Seasons! Photo：Tulips at Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park At Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park, visitors can enjoy various kinds of seasonal flowers from spring to autumn. Here, we'll introduce the best time to see flowers in the park. Flowers that are at their best in spring (April to May): Pansies, violas, lily of the valley, tulips Among the representative flowers of spring, tulips and lily of the valley are so popular that events are held in conjunction with their blooms. Flowers that are at their best in summer (June to August): Lavender, allium, nepeta, and sunflowers In summer, flowers bluish-colored flowers, such as lavender, Hokkaido's representative flower, can be seen in full bloom. The sunflowers that bloom all over the area under the sunlight are a spectacular sight. Flowers that are at their best in autumn (September to October): summer cypress, dahlias, and cosmos In autumn, white, pink, deep pink, and various varieties of cosmos swaying in the wind are popular among tourists. Visitors can also enjoy many varieties of dahlias in full bloom. Things to Do at Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park From Spring to Fall Photo：Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park, Ashiribetsu Falls Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park isn't just a place for viewing flowers. Here we'll introduce other ways to enjoy the Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park from spring to autumn. ●Takino Forest Zone: East Area An area where visitors can enjoy playing in a forest. Morimino Tower, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding forest, a place to enjoy playing in water, and large playground equipment, makes this area very popular with children. ●Takino Forest Zone: West Area In spring, visitors can observe wildflowers, in summer they can enjoy spotting various wildlife and insects in the rice paddies and streams, and in autumn, based on the theme of "symbiosis between people and nature," they can enjoy the remains of houses and charcoal-making sites. ●Keiryu Zone In the Keiryu Zone, visitors can enjoy cycling while viewing four beautiful waterfalls, including Ashiribetsu Falls, selected as one of the Top 100 Waterfalls in Japan, as well as seasonal flowers. There's also a fishing pond and barbecue area where families can enjoy playing and eating together. ●Central Zone The central zone includes a large flower garden where you can feel Japan's four seasons, 'Kodomo no Tani' (Children's Valley) where kids can play on large playground equipment, and Mori no Sumika, a place to play in the forest. It's also an area where both children and adults can enjoy themselves as there is a secret spot with an viewing platform and an astronomical observatory. Enjoy the Snow at Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park's Snow World in Winter! Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park is a ski slope where visitors can enjoy playing in the snow in winter. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing is also popular, allowing visitors to roam freely on the fresh snow! In addition, you can enjoy a full range of winter activities such as hiking in the snow with walking skis, snow marathons, and snow tubing. Summary of Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park Photo：Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park, east entrance If you haven't checked out the video yet, be sure to give it a watch! At Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park, you can see wild birds and other wildlife, such as chipmunks, Ezo squirrels, and foxes. You can enjoy flowers throughout Japan's four seasons, and you can take beautiful photos of the autumn foliage during fall. To get to Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park, it's a 35-minute bus ride from Makomanai Subway Station, and a 5-minute walk from the nearest bus stop. Parking is available for visitors coming by car. Due to measures against the novel coronavirus, there may be restrictions on facilities, so we recommend checking for up-to-date information in advance. Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park is a great place to see, feel, and play in nature throughout the four seasons. Pets are allowed in the park, although they must be leashed. Consider visiting with the family, including the family pet, and enjoying the outdoors together! 【Official Website】Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park – Official Website https://www.takinopark.com/ 【TripAdvisor】Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298560-d1384143-Reviews-Kokuei_Takino_Suzuran_Hillside_National_Park-Sapporo_Hokkaido.html

capture the grandeur of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost prefecture. We'll introduce photos that capture popular sightseeing spots, the unique wildlife of Hokkaido, and more. We hope this will help you get an idea of what Hokkaido is all about! COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that introduces the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Our photo contests allow you to participate and even win with photos taken via your smartphone! Stick around to learn more! ■Table of Contents - Hokkaido in Past Photo Contests  Shirogane Blue Pond  Hill of the Buddha  Lake Nukabira  Daisetsuzan National Park  Abashiri Prison Museum  Flowerland Kamifurano  Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival  The Ezo Red Fox of Hokkaido  Mt. Asahi  Notsuke Peninsula - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - Current Photo Contest - Summary of Hokkaido in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests Hokkaido in Past Photo Contests We have picked out some amazing photos of Hokkaido from among the many wonderful entries that convey the charms of Japan. We'll also introduce some popular photo spots as well! COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 林 優 Location: Shirogane Blue Pond (Hokkaido) Sightseeing at Shirogane Blue Pond Shirogane Blue Pond is a popular sightseeing spot where the surface of the water appears various shades of blue during different seasons, at different times of the day, and in different weather conditions. The surface of the water appears blue when light reflects off the aluminum and sulfur in the water flowing into the pond from the Biei River. The blue water and withered larch trees create a fantastic scene. At night in fall and winter, the area is lit up and visitors can enjoy a very different scenery from that during the daytime. A Video Article About Shirogane Blue Pond in Biei, Hokkaido Video article 2:10 This Blue Pond in Biei, Hokkaido Is a Natural Miracle Created by Nature. The Beautiful Scenery of This Popular Sightseeing Spot Fascinates All Who See It! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: umestagram Location: Hill of the Buddha (Hokkaido) Highlights of the Hill of the Buddha, a Popular Tourist Attraction in Sapporo, Hokkaido From the outside of the Hill of the Buddha, only the head of the Great Buddha can be seen poking out from the top of the lavender-covered hill. Designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, the Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall) was built so that a concrete approach leads to the basement of the lavender hill. Looking up through the dimly lit space, visitors can see the Great Buddha surrounded by natural light filtering in through the open ceiling. A Video Article About the Hill of the Buddha in Sapporo, Hokkaido Video article 5:58 Hill of the Buddha - A New Attraction in Sapporo, Hokkaido Designed by a World-Famous Architect. Come Check Out the Buddha as He Pokes His Head Out From a Hill Surrounded by Lavenders! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 三浦奈津美 Location: Lake Nukabira (Kato, Hokkaido) Highlights of Lake Nukabira, a Popular Tourist Attraction in Kato, Hokkaido Lake Nukabira is a man-made lake surrounded by dense virgin forests. At the bottom of the lake is a large human-shaped rock called 'Nukabira.' Taushubetsu Bridge on the east bank of the dam is a concrete arch bridge of the former Japan National Railways' Shihoro Line. It is also called the "phantom bridge" because it appears in winter when the water level is low and sinks to the bottom of the lake and disappears when the water level increases. A Video Article About Lake Nukabira in Kato, Hokkaido Video article 2:40 Discover the Amazing Ice Bubbles at Lake Nukabira! Sightseeing Information for the Fantastical Lake in Hokkaido, Japan! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 古谷久樹 Location: Daisetsuzan National Park (Hokkaido) The Cute Northern Pika of Japan The northern pika is found only in some high-altitude areas of Hokkaido. It can fit in the palm of your hand, is 10 to 20 centimeters long, and weighs 60 to 160 grams. Its ears are round and small, and it's characterized by its frequent squeaking. In 2012, it was listed as a near-threatened species on the Red List of endangered species by the Ministry of the Environment. A Video Article About the Northern Pika Video article 3:01 The Northern Pika of Japan: Learn About the Cute Critter Known as the "God of Rocky Lands" and Found in the Outdoors of Hokkaido. Also See Its Characteristic High-Pitched Cry! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: HAYATO/日本の風景写真･絶景スポット Location: Abashiri Prison Museum (Abashiri, Hokkaido) Highlights of the Abashiri Prison Museum, a Popular Sightseeing Attraction in Abashiri, Hokkaido The Abashiri Prison Museum is an open-air history museum that preserves and exhibits the former buildings of Abashiri Prison. The wooden prison buildings that were used during the Meiji Era (1868-1912) have been relocated and reconstructed on a vast site. Eight of the buildings have been designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. There are also six registered Tangible Cultural Properties at the museum, including a building made of bricks made in the prison. Visitors can learn about the history of Abashiri Prison, which was instrumental in the development of Hokkaido, from the many exhibits. A Video Article About Tourist Attractions in Hokkaido Video article 3:30 Hokkaido - Endlessly Sweeping Horizons and Magnificent Scenery! Set off on a Trip to Hokkaido's Scenic Locations to Enjoy Spectacular Views of Japan's Natural Landscape! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 長野恵莉佳 Location: Flowerland Kamifurano Highlights of Flowerland Kamifurano, a Popular Tourist Attraction in Kamifurano, Hokkaido Flowerland Kamifurano is a vast flower garden where colorful flowers bloom from June to the end of September. It's a popular tourist attraction with magnificent views of the Tokachi Mountain range and Mt. Asahi. Admission is free, and visitors can ride a tractor bus that circles the 100,000-square-meter flower garden and enjoy the fresh Hokkaido breeze and the fragrance of the flowers in a relaxing atmosphere. A Video Article About Sightseeing in Biei and Furano, Hokkaido Video article 3:18 Outstanding Views of Flowers and Nature in Biei and Furano, Hokkaido. The Scenic View of Lavenders and Poppies, Together With the Natural Scenery of the Surrounding Area, Will Make Your Trip Unforgettable! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: koichi hakuchuu Location: Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival (Chitose, Hokkaido) The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival of Chitose, Hokkaido One of the top winter festivals in Hokkaido. The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, started by local volunteers, has a history of more than 40 years. Ice sculptures of various sizes are made by pumping up water from Lake Shikotsu and spraying it onto structures. The ice sculptures line the shores of Lake Shikotsu in the extreme cold, glowing with the blue color of Lake Shikotsu during the day and illuminated with colorful lights at night, creating a fantastic atmosphere. A Video Article About the Sapporo Snow Festival Video article 2:12 The Sapporo Snow Festival Popular Among Overseas Tourists! The Pure White Snow of Nature and Colorful Projection Mapping in the City of Sapporo, Hokkaido, in a Brilliant Competition! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: ぬこであります(´ー｀) Location: Kushiro, Hokkaido The Ezo Red Fox of Hokkaido, Japan The Ezo red fox is a widespread inhabitant of the plains and alpine zones of Hokkaido. In recent years, there have been reports of sightings in Aomori Prefecture as well. The Ezo red fox is slightly larger than the Japanese red foxes that inhabit Honshu (Japan's main island), measuring 60 to 80 centimeters in length. The backs of its ears and ankles are black, and their lifespan in the wild is about 6 to 7 years. A Video Article About the Ezo Red Fox Video article 3:15 Cute Ezo Red Foxes Playing in Hokkaido. Learn About the Wildlife of Japan! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: しま Location: Mt. Asahi (Kamikawa, Hokkaido) Highlights of Mt. Asahi, the Tallest Peak in Hokkaido Mt. Asahi, one of the One Hundred Famous Mountains of Japan, is the tallest peak in Hokkaido, located in the northern part of Daisetsuzan National Park. It is a 2,291-meter-high volcano, and the ropeway takes you to the fifth station at an altitude of 1,600 meters. Various alpine plants and magnificent mountain scenery can be enjoyed on Mt. Asahi. Trekking and cross-country skiing courses are available, so visitors can enjoy activities in all four seasons in the great outdoors of Hokkaido. A Video Article About Sightseeing in Hokkaido Video article 3:00 The Town of Wassamu, Hokkaido Is a Place Where You Can Enjoy All Four Seasons of Japan! Check Out the Attractions of Wassamu Town in Hokkaido, a Place You Won't Want to Miss! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: HAYATO/日本の風景写真･絶景スポット Location: Notsuke Peninsula (Hokkaido) Highlights of the Notsuke Peninsula The Notsuke Peninsula is a spit in the eastern part of Hokkaido, between the Shiretoko and Nemuro Peninsulas. The spit is approximately 26 kilometers long, and was created by sediment carried by ocean currents and deposited over many years. From spring to fall, the spit is covered with fields of Kamchatka lilies, zenteika, and beach roses. In winter, the entire area freezes over, creating ice as far as the eyes can see. The scenery of dead forests caused by the erosion from seawater is also very popular. A Video Article About the Yezo Sika Deer Inhabiting Hokkaido Video article 2:06 Yezo Sika Deer: Learn About the Magnificent Deer of Hokkaido's Snowy Notsuke Peninsula! All About Yezo Sika Deer and Their Problem as a Disruptive Species YouTube Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that showcases the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS Anyone can enter COOL JAPAN VIDEOS' photo contests! Below are some of the features of our contests. ・On top of single-lens reflex cameras and digital cameras, photos taken with smartphones and other devices can also be submitted. ・Each person can submit as many photos as they like during the contest period. ・Editing of images, such as cropping and color changes, is also allowed! Here you can find all of the past photo contest winners in one place. You can also see the prizes for each contest, as well as the locations where the photos were taken and the judges' critiques. Click here to see past photo contest winners Text only Photo Contest Results - COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Winning Photos - Discover the Charms of Japan! Current Photo Contest The following is information about the current photo contest. [Ongoing From March2024] The 22th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Spring in Japan Submission period: March 1, 2024 12:00 AM – April 30, 2024 11:59 PM (JST) Prizes: ■Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card (1 Winner) ■Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card (5 Winners) Spring in Japan Photo Contest Landscape Photography Summary Did you enjoy these landscape photos from past photo contest entries? Some of these landscapes can only be seen in specific conditions. Japan is full of rich nature, historical locations, and seasonal events! Share your photos with the world and help showcase the beauty of Japan through COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! Related Articles Text only Children of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Heartwarming Photos That Will Put a Smile on Your Face! Text only Autumn in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Autumn in Japan Text only Mt. Fuji in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Showcasing the Different Views of Mt. Fuji Text only Hokkaido in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: From Popular Sightseeing Spots to Exotic Animals, Discover the Beauty of Japan's Northernmost Prefecture! Text only Tohoku in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: Hot Springs, Festivals, Snowscapes, and More – 10 Beautiful Photos of Japan's Tohoku Region! Text only Kyoto in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Kyoto, the Ancient Capital of Japan, and Its Most Popular Tourist Attractions! Text only Tokyo in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Featuring the Charms of Tokyo, the Capital of Japan + Popular Tourist Attractions! Text only Winter in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Capturing the Beauty of Winter in Japan. Snowy Landscapes, Glittering Illuminations + More! Text only Kansai in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Spectacular Views of Japan's Kansai Region. From Night Views to Traditional Events, Discover the Best Photo Spots in Kansai! 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The Vast Sceneries of Hokkaido This video, titled "Hokkaido , Japan / 4K UHD," was produced by SL Film Studio. Hokkaido is a popular tourist destination for visitors to Japan, and there are many things to see and do there. In this article, we'll show you some of the best places to visit in Hokkaido, alongside the video! Recommended Destinations in Hokkaido The Sapporo Clock Tower is one of Hokkaido's most popular tourist attractions, and Odori Park is the site of major festivities in Hokkaido. The Okurayama Observation Deck was the site of the 1972 Winter Olympics in Sapporo. Shiroi Koibito cookies are a famous souvenir found in the area. Asahikawa has unique tourist attractions, such as Asahikawa Ramen Village. Asahiyama Zoo is another famous location in Hokkaido. The zoo features behavioral exhibits that show the animals in their natural state. When we think of Hokkaido's wildlife, bears and foxes are the first things that come to mind. If you want to learn more about the ecology of foxes, there's Kitakitsune Farm (Fox Farm), which is famous for its wooden bear carvings and traditional crafts. Historical Sightseeing Locations in Hokkaido Otaru Port, where the Otaru Canal is located, is the gateway of pioneers in Hokkaido. Along the walkway, you'll see gas lamps and stone warehouses that retain remnants of days long passed. Goryokaku in Hakodate is an essential part of Hokkaido's history, and is one of the top tourist attractions in Hokkaido. It's based on early modern European castle technology. Abashiri Prison is an inseparable part of the eastern Hokkaido area's history. Despite its name, the Abashiri Prison has an impressive modern interior with a touch of Western architecture. Hokkaido's Spectacular Natural Scenery and Winter Leisure If you visit Hakodate in Hokkaido, you can take the Mt. Hakodate Ropeway to enjoy the beautiful night view. Cape Soya, the northernmost cape in Japan, and Lake Akan, introduced at 1:49 in the video, are also worth a visit. Ainu Kotan in Kushiro City, Hokkaido, is a tourist attraction that conveys the traditional culture of the Ainu people. Lake Mashu, on the other hand, is a popular scenic spot famous for being the clearest lake in Japan. Shirogane Blue Pond and the famous Shirahige Waterfall in the Shirogane Onsen area, can be seen at 1:25 in the video. The clear blue water is a natural wonder and great for taking Instagram pics! There are also hot springs in Noboribetsu and Toyako (Toya Lake). From 2:52 in the video, you can see a cruise on Lake Toya. In addition to the rich natural scenery, you can also enjoy skiing and other leisure activities. Kiroro Resort, which takes its name from the Ainu language, is a famous hotel resort in the area. Enjoy the Gourmet Cuisine of the Cold Climate Hokkaido is full of delicious food. Representative dishes include the lamb dish Genghis Khan (Jingisukan), ramen, seafood dishes with crab, soup curry, and pork bowls. Other typical Hokkaido delicacies include "chanchan yaki," a dish made with grilled fish such as salmon, and vegetables and seasoned with miso, Ishikari Nabe, a hot pot dish with salmon as the main ingredient, and Zangi, which is similar to fried chicken. Summary of Hokkaido - An Easy-To-Visit Tourist Destination Thanks to the Diversified Transportation With the diversification of transportation, including airplanes and the shinkansen (bullet train), you can enjoy your trip to Hokkaido through a variety of means. There are 14 airports in Hokkaido, and rental cars are also available. The weather from November to March can be colder than in the middle of winter on the mainland, so you'll want to be prepared for the elements. Check out the video to enjoy the magnificent scenery of Hokkaido!

The Beautiful Snowscapes of Japan This video, titled "4K Beautiful snow scene in Japan 日本の雪景色 TOP14名所 winter scenery snowscapes snow light tourism trip," was produced by Discover Nippon. Japan is a country where you can enjoy the nature of all four seasons. The Japanese archipelago has a unique vertical topography, which means that in winter, the temperature in Hokkaido, located in the north of the country, can drop below 10 degrees Celsius, while in the subtropical region of Okinawa, it's possible to wear a t-shirt year round. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the most beautiful snowscapes of winter in Japan alongside a beautiful 4K video! Sightseeing in Tokyo on a Snowy Day When people think of snow in Japan, they generally think of the snowy landscapes of Tohoku and Hokkaido; however, several times a year, snow falls in the capital city of Tokyo as well. The snow brings the city to a halt, making the Imperial Palace and Sensoji Temple, with its low traffic (both human and vehicle), a tasteful, hidden tourist destination. Tokyo's snowy scenery, which can only be seen once or twice a year, is a rare sight. However, transportation is tremendously impeded, so please be cautious when collecting information on traffic and weather forecasts. Places to See Japan's Representative Snowscapes If you're looking for beautiful snowscapes in Japan, then we've got just the list for you: ・Akita Prefecture：Igloos ・Gifu Prefecture：Shirakawa, The Northern Alps ・Hokkaido：Otaru Canal, Sapporo Snow Festival ・Yamagata Prefecture：Ginzan Onsen, The Ice Trees of Zao ・Ishikawa Prefecture：Kenroku-en covered in snow Even if you're not in the Tohoku region, you can still enjoy the spectacular snowscapes of the mountains, and even in the Tohoku region, there's not so much snow on the Pacific side. We recommend the hot springs in the mountains and onsen areas on the Sea of Japan side. Active Snowfall Scenery and Sights to Enjoy There are also plenty of places to enjoy winter sports in Japan. Japan is a popular destination for winter sports, having hosted two Winter Olympics to date. Many of the ski resorts where you can snowboard are located near hot spring resorts, so you can relax after a long day of skiing/snowboarding with delicious food and hot springs. If You're Traveling the Snowscapes of Japan, Hot Spring Tourism Is the Way to Go! Here's a list of hot spring resorts with snowy landscapes and winter sports: ・Nagano Prefecture has a great view of the Northern Alps and popular hot springs and ski resorts such as Hakuba. ・Niigata Prefecture is famous for its snow, hot springs and delicious seafood. ・Hokkaido is a paradise of hot springs, where many foreign tourists come to enjoy the large scale resort hotels with ski slopes. After skiing and snowboarding, you can replenish your stamina with Ghengis Khan (Jingisukan), a Japanese lamb dish. ・After skiing, you can enjoy playing in the snow in an igloo and relaxing in hot springs in Akita Prefecture. Kiritanpo hot pot is the specialty in this area! All of these are great places to visit, so find which one suits you best! Hokkaido and Nagano Prefecture are the host cities of the Winter Olympics, so it's safe to say that they're the Meccas of winter sports in Japan. Sightseeing at Temples and Shrines Where You Can Enjoy the Majestic Snowy Scenery Here are some temples and shrines we recommend checking out: ・Yamadera (Yamagata Prefecture)： Yamadera, also known in children's songs, is a famous temple located in Yamagata Prefecture. ・Chuson-ji Temple (Iwate Prefecture): Chuson-ji is a World Heritage Site! The beauty of Konjikido with a snowy landscape is unbeatable. ・Iwakiyama Shrine (Aomori Prefecture): Iwakiyama Shrine, located on Mt. Iwaki, which is often mentioned in songs, is an Important Cultural Property of Japan and is the setting for Sansho the Bailiff. ・Towada Shrine (Aomori, Japan): A historical shrine with a lake with a beautiful emerald green surface. The contrast between the snowy winter landscape and the lake is like a beautiful painting. Summary of the Snowscapes of Japan Winters in snowy countries can be hard in terms of climate, but the beautiful, ink-painting-like world created by the snow that covers Japan's beautiful natural landscape is well worth seeing. Enjoy Japan's snowy landscape in the beautiful 4K video.

New Attractions in Hokkaido: Video Introduction This video, titled "[Official] PR Video 'HOKKAIDO MIRAI NOTE'" (【公式】PR動画「北海道ミライノート」 /HOKKAIDO MIRAI NOTE』) , was uploaded by "Hokkaido Official" (北海道公式). This video introduces the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, a popular tourist attraction, as well as small events and out-of-the-way places in Hokkaido. With its row of ice sculptures, the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is one of Hokkaido's representative winter festivals. The natural blue glow during the day and the colorful lights at night create a fantastic world. The festival is shown in the video, so be sure to check it out. [Video] 2:32 - Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival New Attractions in Hokkaido: Exciting Summer Events Photo：Hokkaido Balloon Festival, Kamishiro, Hokkaido The below is details for the summer events introduced in the video. Sapporo 8Fes (さっぽろ八月祭, Sapporo Hachigatsusai) Location: Sapporo Kita 3-jo Plaza Event period: Around the end of July Sapporo 8Fes is held at a venue covered with the symbolic "Furoshiki" (a Japanese traditional wrapping cloth), where visitors are able to enjoy a variety of Bon dances, as well as other various programs such as Mochimaki (rice-cake shower) and Nigiwai Ennichi (a summer festival). [Video] 0:31 - Sapporo 8Fes TOBIU CAMP Location: Tobiu Art Festival Event period: Around early September TOBIU CAMP is a forest space where visitors can enjoy unique experiences such as camping and a wide variety of handmade food. The fairytale-like worldview is especially breathtaking, utilizing expressions such as art, music, Ainu folk songs and dances, dance performances, and theater, set in a wooden school building and vast pastureland. [Video] 1:40 - Scenes from Tobiu Art Festival Hokkaido Balloon Festival (北海道バルーンフェスティバル) Location: Kamishiro Aviation Park Event period: Mid-August With the sound of the balloon's roaring burner visitors are taken 20 meters into the air. You can experience a 5-minute anchored flight, which offers a spectacular panoramic view from inside the balloon. In addition, at night, the entire venue is illuminated by burner flames, creating a fantastical view that you can't experience during the day. [Video] 1:51 - Hokkaido Balloon Festival Events and schedules may change due to COVID-19 so be sure to check the latest information before visiting. Even More Places to See in Hokkaido! Check Out These Recommended Tourist Attractions! There are many other events, sightseeing and gourmet spots in Hokkaido. In the video you can see many more spots. Even if you've visited Hokkaido before, there may be spots and events that you've never heard of. If you have a chance to visit Hokkaido, consider adding these new spots to your travel plans! Photo：Soya Misaki Wind Farm, Hokkaido Soya Misaki Wind Farm - Wakkanai Space Forest Festival - Taiki Morihiko - Sapporo City Kita no Sumai Sekkeisha - Higashikawa gla_gla - Toyako Mêmu Meadows - Taiki Former Shimizusawa Thermal Power Plant - Yubari Photo：Ishiyama Green Space, Hokkaido Ishiyama Green Space - Sapporo City Shiribetsu River Rafting - Kutchan Mt. Io - Teshikaga Factory Night Views - Tomakomai Obihiro Racecourse - Obihiro Photo：Tokkarisho Lookout, Hokkaido Tokkarisho Lookout - Muroran Cape Chikyu - Muroran Summary of New Attractions in Hokkaido Hokkaido is always ranked high in prefectural attractiveness rankings and rankings of the best prefectures to visit in Japan and is a popular sightseeing destination. Of course, the grand nature and views are wonderful but the nice cafes and plenty of photogenic spots are great as well! Hokkaido, with its rich charm, is a place with activities for all types of people, such as those traveling with children, female travelers looking for girls' trips, and foodies looking for some gourmet sightseeing. As you can see from the video, there are still many events and spots that are not well known. There still might be more nice, out-of-the-way spots not shown in the video. When traveling in Hokkaido, take the opportunity to discover new and charming spots that you won't find in a guide book. 【TripAdvisor】Hokkaido

Introducing Iwamizawa, Hokkaido! This video, titled "PR Movie of Iwamizawa / IWAMIZAWA TRIP ～digest～" (岩見沢観光PRムービー / IWAMIZAWA TRIP ～digest～), was uploaded by "Iwamizawa Tourism Association Official Channel" (岩見沢市観光協会 公式チャンネル). It introduces Iwamizawa in Hokkaido. Iwamizawa is located in central Hokkaido and it was once one of the 12 railroad towns in Japan which were officially designated as such by the former Japanese National Railway. There are tourist spots where you can enjoy an extraordinary atmosphere, including wineries and log cottages. Enjoy the attractions of Iwamizawa, Hokkaido in this video. Iwamizawa Is Brimming With Natural Scenery Source :YouTube screenshot Hokkaido is often visited by people seeking natural landscapes. One view we recommend seeing while in Iwamizawa is Hokkaido Greenland. Here, you'll find a popular garden with 8,800 roses of around 630 varieties. They can be enjoyed from late June to mid-October. You should stop by the rose garden, observatory and the hill of beach roses in Iwamizawa Park, which can be seen at 2:40 in the video, and Iwamizawa Shrine which is shown from 1:57. Places to Grab a Bite to Eat Around Iwamizawa, Hokkaido Source :YouTube screenshot We recommend trying the famous Tengu Manju and soft serve ice cream. Of course, ramen from Hokkaido is some of the best you'll find in Japan. At Hosui Winery, wine is made from grapes grown in a rich natural environment which can be seen from 0:16 in the video. Recommended Hotels in Iwamizawa, Hokkaido Source :YouTube screenshot "LOGHOTEL THE MAPLELODGE," "Little Rock Hills," and "Silver Pine" are all places we highly recommend. These can be seen from 0:54 in the video. What better way to relax than creating lifelong memories next to a fireplace in a special cottage. There are also camp sites and Japanese inns with natural outdoor hot springs and spas in Iwamizawa, Hokkaido. Enjoy Events in Iwamizawa, Hokkaido! Source :YouTube screenshot We recommend throwing on a yukata and heading out to the annual Furusato Hyappei Festival (ふるさと百餅祭り) held in Iwamizawa, Hokkaido, as shown at 3:01 in the video. During the festival, mochi pounding is done with a massive mortar and mallet, using rice from Iwamizawa. At the end of the festival, mochi is thrown to commemorate the longevity of the people. Summary of Iwamizawa, Hokkaido Source :YouTube screenshot There are a lot of photogenic places with natural scenery in Iwamizawa, Hokkaido. Consider booking a comfortable cottage like the one in the video and enjoying a relaxing tour of the popular Iwamizawa. 【Official Website】Iwamizawa City, Hokkaido City Hall Website https://www.city.iwamizawa.hokkaido.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Iwamizawa City https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1122374-Iwamizawa_Hokkaido-Vacations.html

COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is always holding photo contests. This time, we have selected winter-related works from among the many photos submitted to past COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests. From spectacular landscapes created by natural phenomena like snow and ice, to twinkling light art created by human hands, we hope you enjoy the wide variety of works introduced here. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that introduces the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Our photo contests allow you to participate and even win with photos taken via your smartphone! Stick around to learn more! ■Table of Contents - Winter in Past Photo Contests  Daikanyama Observatory  Ainokura Gassho-zukuri Village  Kamakura Igloo Village  Kurokawa Onsen's 'Yu Akari' Illumination  Nakamise Shopping Street in Asakusa  Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse  Lake Onneto, Hokkaido  Jigokudani Monkey Park  The JR Johana Line  A Snow-covered Gujo Hachiman Castle - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - Current Photo Contest - Summary of Winter in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests Winter in Past Photo Contests We have selected wonderful photos of winter in Japan from among the many wonderful entries that convey the charms of Japan. We'll also introduce some popular photo spots as well! COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 01ktk15 Location: Daikanyama Observatory (Ashigarashimo, Shinagawa) Highlights of Daikanyama, a Popular Tourist Attraction Daikanyama was named after the artist Yokoyama Taikan, who was fond of painting Mt. Fuji. It's located at the end of the Hakone Turnpike, and is an automobile-only road. The summit of the 1,011-meter-high mountain is perfect for photographing Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi. If the weather is nice, you can also see Hatsushima and Oshima, the Miura Peninsula, and the Boso Peninsula. A Video Article About Narusawa Village, Yamanashi at the foot of Mt. Fuji Video article 2:40 Introducing “Narusawa, Yamanashi,” Home to the Tallest Mountain in Japan. Behold the Jaw Droppingly Beautiful Scenery of Mt. Fuji YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: DAIGO Location: Ainokura Gassho-zukuri Village (Toyama Prefecture) Highlights of Gokayama, a Popular Tourist Attraction Gokayama in Nanto, Toyama, is registered as a World Heritage Site. To raise awareness of fire prevention for Cultural Properties, Gokayama also hosts an illumiantion event. Suganuma Gassho-zukuri Village will be open from sunset to 8:00 pm on Friday, January 26, 2024. The original Japanese landscape "Ainokura Gassho-zukuri Village" floating on a snowy field will be on view from sunset to 9:00 pm on February 23rd (Friday) and 24th (Saturday), 2024. Enjoy the spectacular view of the World Heritage Site under the falling snow. A Video Article About the World Heritage Sites Shirakawa-go and Gokayama in Gifu and Toyama Prefectures Video article 9:24 Shirakawa-Go in Gifu Prefecture and Gokayama in Toyama Prefecture: 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites Featuring Superb Views of Gassho-Zukuri Farmhouses. These Fantastic Snowy Landscapes are Some of Japan's Most Insta-Worthy Spots! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: mihyaru Location: Kamakura Igloo Village (Iiyama, Nagano) Highlights of Kamakura Igloo Village, a Popular Tourist Attraction in Nagano Prefecture Iiyama, Nagano, is home to more than 20 large Igloos on a field of pure white snow. Snow covers the area for roughly four months of the year, and photographers from all over Japan gather here eagerly in the cold winter air awaiting their chance to capture the snowy scenery of one of the heaviest snowfall areas in Japan. Every year on a weekend in early February, fireworks are set off, illuminating the fields of white snow and igloos, creating a fantastical atmosphere. A Video Article About the Yokote Snow Festival in Yokote, Akita Video article 5:52 Enjoy the Pure White Snowy Landscape at the Traditional "Yokote Snow Festival" in Yokote, Akita Prefecture! Experience Warm Rice Cakes in a Giant Igloo and a Fantastical Silver World! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 野崎 晴美 Location: Kurokawa Onsen's 'Yu Akari' Illumination (Aso, Kumamoto) Highlights of Kurokawa Onsen, a Popular Tourist Attraction in Aso, Kumamoto Kurokawa Onsen's midwinter event, Yu Akari, lights up the hot spring resort. Approximately 300 spherical lanterns called "Mari-toro," as well as 2-meter-tall "Tsutsu-toro" lanterns are arranged to blend in with the natural townscape and are lit from sunset until 10 p.m. The lanterns are truly enchanting. Be sure to bring a camera, as this magical scene is something you'll want to treasure forever! A Video Article About the Yu Akari Illumination at Kurokawa Onsen Video article 3:01 Yu Akari – Experience the Stunning Winter Illumination at Kurokawa Onsen via Video! Discover the Fantastical Atmosphere That Warmly Embraces Visitors, and the Passion of the People of Kurokawa! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Lily0321 Location: Nakamise Shopping Street in Asakusa (Taito, Tokyo) The Charms of Nakamise Shopping Street, a Popular Tourist Attraction Nakamise Shopping Street is located on the main approach to Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo. The street is approximately 250 meters long, stretching from Kaminarimon Gate to Hozomon Gate, and both sides of the shopping street are lined with approximately a variety of shops selling all sorts of traditional Japanese goods and trinkets. Being one of the oldest shopping streets in Japan, it's popular for its delicious eateries and souvenir shops selling traditional Japanese goods. Nakamise Shopping Street is always lively, especially during the year-end and New Year's holidays. It is a place where you'll encounter many smiling faces, whether they're from people expressing gratitude for the past year or excitedly looking forward to the next one. A Video Article About Sanja Matsuri in Asakusa, Tokyo Video article 17:46 Sanja Matsuri in Asakusa, Tokyo - One of the Three Main Festivals in Japan! Don’t Miss One of the Best Japanese Festivals With More Than 100 Portable Shrines and 1.5 Million Visitors in Tokyo! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Abhi Sen Location: Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse (Yokohama, Kanagawa) Highlights of the Illumination Event at Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, which has been used as a warehouse for approximately 80 years since the early 1900s, is a tourist attraction that was re-purposed as a commercial facility in 2002. The building is illuminated at night, and the clever use of shading to preserve the color and texture of the bricks makes it a great place for taking photos. The building itself is of course beautiful, but the view of the Yokohama Bay Bridge and Osanbashi Bridge from Akarenga Park (赤レンガパーク) in the back of the building is also worth seeing. Various events are held at Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, with the Christmas Market held in winter being especially popular. The 10-meter-tall Christmas tree, beautiful illuminations, tasty food, and exciting shopping opportunities, make this an enjoyable experience. A Video Article About Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse's Christmas Market Video article 8:35

■Table of Contents What Kind of Place is Rishiri Island? Recommended Tourist Attractions in Rishirifuji Otatomari Marsh, the Most Popular Tourist Attraction on Rishiri Island Hime Marsh, a Tourist Attraction Famous for Its Reflection of the Upside-Down Rishiri Fuji Shiroi Koibito no Oka, the Package Design for a Famous Hokkaido Confection 3 Popular Cycling Courses on Rishiri Island Rishiri Saikuru Road Rishirifuji Green Line Rishiri Island Blue Line Rishiri Island Fureai Cycling Tour, a Popular Event on Rishiri Island Activities to Try On Rishiri Island Family Campsite Yuni – Enjoy Island Camping Under the Stars Rishirifuji Onsen – Relax and Rejuvenate After a Long Day of Traveling Water Sports on Rishiri Island Rishiri Yu-Yu Running, a Popular Marathon Around the Island Hiking on Mt. Rishiri – A Climbing Guide for Beginners and Advanced Climbers Climbing Season: June to September Mt. Rishiri Hiking Trails Oshidomari Hiking Trail (Beginner - Intermediate Hiking Trail) Kutsugata Hiking Trail (Advanced Hiking Trail) The Best Foods on Rishiri Island The Mouthwatering Sea Urchin of Rishiri Island Rishiri Island, a Treasure Trove of Seafood Delicacies Popular Souvenirs on Rishiri Island How to Get to Rishiri Island How to Get to Rishiri Island by Airplane How to Get to Rishiri Island by Ferry An Unforgettable Travel Experience Awaits You on Rishiri Island! What Kind of Place is Rishiri Island? This video, titled "Rishiri Island, Hokkaido - Cycling PR Video (Long Version) - Summer Edition" (北海道利尻島　サイクリングPR動画　ロングver　～夏編~), was uploaded by "Rishirifuji Town Hall." The video tells the story of one woman, tired from her daily life in the city, who travels to Rishiri Island in Hokkaido in the summer in search of escape. The vast skies and expansive landscape of Rishiri Island are not something that can be conveyed simply by glancing at a travel brochure. The footage shown in the video captures the excitement that one can experience by physically visiting Rishiri Island. Be sure to check out the video for a tour of Rishiri Island by rental bicycle, and experience the culture, gastronomy, and warm interactions with the local people of Rishiri Island. Photo：Mt. Rishiri (Rishiri Fuji), Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishiri Island is a small island with a circumference of 60 km, that can be toured via car in just 1.5 hours, and is full of delectable delicacies to indulge in! This article will provide information on tourist attractions on Rishiri Island during the tourist season from early summer to autumn. Enjoy the spectacular views of the upside-down Rishiri Fuji, Shiroi Koibito no Oka, as well as outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, and cycling, and seafood delicacies made using freshly caught sea urchin from Rishiri Island. We'll also go over how to get to Rishiri Island, so if you're thinking about traveling to Rishiri Island, be sure to stay tuned for all of this useful information! Recommended Tourist Attractions in Rishirifuji Rishiri Island is located in the Sea of Japan in northern Hokkaido and has a population of around 2,200. The name "Rishiri" comes from the Ainu word "Riishiri," which means "Island with tall mountain(s)," a reference to Mt. Rishiri, located directly in the center of the island. Located approximately 52 kilometers west of the city of Wakkanai, the northernmost point of Japan, the island can be reached via ferry in roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes. During the summer months, June through August, when the island is busy as a tourist destination, the average temperature in Rishirifuji stays below 68°F. Because the temperature varies depending on the weather and time of day, it's recommended that you bring something you can easily throw on and take off, as it's cool and comfortable in the summer as well. Rishiri Island consists of two towns, Rishirifuji and Rishiri. This article will introduce selected tourist attractions and things to do in Rishirifuji. Otatomari Marsh, the Most Popular Tourist Attraction on Rishiri Island Photo：Otatomari Marsh, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Located in the southeastern part of the island, Otatomari Marsh is the largest lake on Rishiri Island. You can see Otatomari Marsh, the most popular tourist attraction on Rishiri Island, starting at 21:54 in the video. Otatomari Marsh is located on the opposite side of the island from the port of Oshidomari, and can be reached via bus in approximately 35 minutes. If you visit Otatomari Marsh, we highly recommend a walk along the promenade. On the well-maintained 1-kilometer long, 30-minute walking trail, visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of Mt. Rishiri and the seasonal vegetation in the area. Moreover, if the weather and other conditions are right, you can even see Rishiri Fuji (Mt. Rishiri) reflected upside down on the surface of the lake. The beautiful blue surface of the lake, surrounded by a forest of Sakhalin spruces, is so beautiful that it's no wonder it's called the best tourist attraction on Rishiri Island. Rishiri Island is known as the area where cherry blossoms bloom the latest in Japan. On the Otatomari Marsh boardwalk, you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing in early June. In the video, you can see Otatomari Marsh in its entirety via aerial footage, and you'll be amazed at the natural beauty stretching as far as the eye can see. Photo：Minamihama Marsh, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Around Otatomari Marsh is the largest marshland on Rishiri Island, Numaura Marsh, which has been designated as a Natural Monument by the town of Rishirifuji. The marshland is called "Mikazukinuma" (lit. "Crescent Moon Marsh"), and is said to be a phantom swamp because it can only be seen for a couple months during the winter when there is snow on the ground. At the rest house in the parking lot of Otatomari Marsh, visitors can purchase snacks made from freshly caught seafood from Rishiri, such as scallops baked in butter and grilled whelks, as well as souvenirs like Rishiri Kombu, the high-quality dried seaweed of Rishiri. Otatomari Marsh Information 【Address】Numaura Oniwaki, Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0211 【Telephone】0163-82-2201 (Tourist Information Center in Oshidomari Ferry Terminal) 【Parking】29 cars 【Access】Take the Soya Bus (宗谷バス) bound for Oniwaki (鬼脇) from Oshidomari Port and get off at Otatomari-numa (オタトマリ沼) (approx. 35 mins). Hime Marsh, a Tourist Attraction Famous for Its Reflection of the Upside-Down Rishiri Fuji Another popular tourist attraction on Rishiri Island is Hime Marsh (Himenuma Marsh), where visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of the natural scenery of the town of Rishirifuji. Hime Marsh can be seen from 18:00 in the video. Photo：Hime Marsh, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Hime Marsh is a unique marsh surrounded by nature, located approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) southeast of Oshidomari Port, the gateway to Rishiri Island. A 100-meter walk along a well-maintained promenade from the nearby parking will take you to Hime Marsh. On the way to the promenade you'll find Memory Bridge (想い出橋) (video 18:17~), a suspension bridge spanning the Omobetsu River, which is surrounded by greenery and has a wonderful atmosphere. The murmur of the river below is therapeutic. The main attraction of Hime Marsh is the reflection of the upside-down Rishiri Fuji (another name for Mt. Rishiri) on the surface of the pond. From early- to mid-morning is the best time to see the upside-down Rishiri Fuji, as the surface is of the pond is still undisturbed by the sun and there are few waves caused by the wind. Hime Marsh is also a popular photo spot on Rishiri Island for capturing fantastic photos. Photo：Rishiri Fuji at Hime Marsh, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Hime Marsh, with a circumference of approximately 800 meters (~2,600 ft) and a depth of 2 meters (6.5 ft), is said to be the remains of an explosion crater, and it looks as though the ground has been gouged out. The lakeside promenade, designated as Himenuma Park, is home to wild birds and plants that will make the 20-minute walk around it a memorable one. From the Himenuma Observatory, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Cape Peshi and Oshidomari Port, which are sure to be an unforgettable part of your trip! Hime Marsh is an artificial pond made of a small marsh and spring water, which was created about 100 years ago in 1917, and is full of trout that were released into it. Knowing facts and tidbits of information like this will make your trip to Rishiri Island even more enjoyable. There are restrooms in the parking lot and a store in front of Hime Marsh, making it a great place for cyclists to take a break during their trip to Rishiri Island. Hime Marsh Information 【Address】Wannai Oshidomari, Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0101 【Operation Period】May-October 【Telephone】0163-82-2201 (Tourist Information Center in Oshidomari Ferry Terminal) 【Parking】16 cars 【Access】Take the Soya Bus (宗谷バス) bound for Oniwaki (鬼脇) from Oshidomari Port, get off at Himenuma-guchi (姫沼口) (5 min.), and walk 30-40 minutes. Shiroi Koibito no Oka, the Package Design for a Famous Hokkaido Confection Photo：Shiroi Koibito no Oka, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Shiroi Koibito no Oka (White Lover's Hill) (video 20:40) is a new tourist attraction in Rishirifuji that was created in 2014. It's a 35-minute bus ride from Oshidomari Port, a 15-minute walk from Otatomari Marsh, and is located on the coast across Route 108 from Otatomari Marsh. The official name of Shiroi Koibito no Oka is "Numaura Observatory." From the hill, you can see Mt. Rishiri over Otatomari Marsh, the Numaura Coast on the ocean side, and mainland of Hokkaido beyond the magnificent Sea of Japan, providing a spectacular panoramic view of the island. It's a must-see view when visiting Rishiri Island. Shiroi Koibito no Oka (White Lover's Hill) is depicted on the package of "Shiroi Koibito," a delicious cookie and popular souvenir from Hokkaido. The picture on the package of the cookies is a depiction of a snow-covered Mt. Rishiri seen from this area. Shiroi Koibito is a western-style confectionery made of chocolate sandwiched between crispy cookies and sold by Ishiya, a confectionery manufacturer in Sapporo, Hokkaido, and is one of the most popular souvenirs in Hokkaido, selling approximately 200 million pieces annually since 1976. If you propose on Shiroi Koibito no Oka and bring a photo taken there to the Rishirifuji Tourism Association office at Oshidomari Ferry Terminal, you'll receive a proposal certificate officially approved by Ishiya, the manufacturer of Shiroi Koibito. It will be a treasured memory of your travels in Hokkaido and a lifetime memory for you and your partner. Shiroi Koibito no Oka Information 【Address】Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0211 【Operation Period】May-October 【Telephone】0163-82-1114 (Rishirifuji Industry, Commerce, and Tourism Promotion Division) 【Parking】10 cars 【Access】Take the Soya Bus (宗谷バス) bound for Oniwaki (鬼脇) from Oshidomari Port, get off at Otatomari-numa (オタトマリ沼) (approx. 35 mins). 3 Popular Cycling Courses on Rishiri Island The video shows a woman on a trip to Rishiri Island who tours the island while cycling from one attraction to the next. Rishiri Island is known as one of the best cycling spots in Japan. Cycling on Rishiri Island through the beautiful natural scenery of Hokkaido while feeling the pleasant breeze of northern Japan is an experience that will make you oblivious to the passing of time and help wash away your fatigue. Cyclists gather from all over Japan to enjoy the spectacular natural scenery of Hokkaido. Photo：Image of cycling, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido The following is a list of recommended cycling courses on Rishiri Island: ・Rishiri Saikuru Road (利尻・彩くるロード) ・Rishiri Fuji Green Line (利尻富士グリーンライン) ・Rishiri Island Blue Line (利尻島絶景ブルーライン) Here are the characteristics of each course. Rishiri Saikuru Road The course is enjoyable for beginners as there are relatively few major ups and downs, but it is suitable for those who are confident in their physical strength as it circles the island's approximately 60-kilometer (~37.3 miles) circumference. A 24.9 km (15.5 miles) bicycle path is provided along the course, and you can rent a bicycle in Oshidomari to start your cycling tour. If you ride clockwise, you can ride along the west coast in the evening, and you may be able to see a beautiful sunset. The course will take about 7 hours if you ride at a speed of 8 km/h (5 mph) while slowly taking in the natural scenery, so it's recommended that you leave around 9:00 a.m. to return before the sun sets. During your cycling tour, you can visit the following tourist attractions on Rishiri Island. Photo：A beautiful sunset, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishiri Saikuru Road Course Oshidomari Ferry Terminal → Rishirifuji Onsen → Wannai Ohashi Bridge (湾内大橋) → Hime Marsh → Oniwaki → Shiroi Koibito no Oka → Otatomari Marsh → Minamihama Marsh → Senhoshimisaki Park → Reiho Yusui (麗峰湧水) → Itsukushima Benten Shrine of the North (北のいつくしま弁天宮) → Neguma no Iwa/Jinmen Iwa (寝熊の岩・人面岩) → Kamui Kaigan Park → Rishiri Athletic Park (利尻町運動公園) → Rishiri Forest Park (利尻町森林公園) → Fujino Park (富士野園地) (video 7:13) → Yuhigaoka Observatory → Rishirifuji Onsen and Footbath (利尻富士温泉・足湯) → Oshidomari Ferry Terminal Photo：Rishiri Saikuru Road cycling map Rishirifuji Green Line A short course for families to enjoy the streets of Rishirifuji with a total distance of 6.5 km (4 miles) and taking approximately 1 to 2 hours to complete. You can stop at popular tourist spots in Rishirifuji in the northern part of Rishiri Island, such as the Yuhigaoka Observatory where you can see a beautiful sunset over the Sea of Japan and Rebun Island, Umi no Eki Oshidomari (video 4:45), and the Cape Peshi Observatory (Lighthouse of Love). Rishirifuji Green Line Course Oshidomari Ferry Terminal → Rishirifuji Onsen → Fujino Park (video 7:13~) → Izumi no Fukuroma → Oshidomari Ferry Terminal Photo：Rishiri Fuji Green Line cycling map Rishiri Island Blue Line A casual, easygoing cycling course that takes around 2 to 3 hours to complete and covers a total distance of 18 km (~11.2 miles), taking cyclists around popular tourist attractions in the town of Rishirifuji in the northern part of Rishiri Island. A bicycle path is maintained for bicycles only, so you can enjoy a safe cycling tour. Depending on the season, you can see people fishing from the shoreline, as well as kelp laid out in rows to dry with Rishiri Fuji in the backdrop, a view that is unique to this port town. From Wanai Ohashi Bridge (湾内大橋), you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the blue sea and Mt. Rishiri. Photo：Cape Peshi, cycling course Photo：Kelp being laid out to dry Rishiri Island Blue Line Course Oshidomari Ferry Terminal → Nozuka Observatory → Hime Marsh → Wanai Ohashi Bridge → Rishirifuji Onsen → Oshidomari Ferry Terminal Photo：Rishiri Island Blue Line Course cycling map Rishiri Island Fureai Cycling Tour, a Popular Event on Rishiri Island In late August, the Rishiri Island Fureai Cycling Tour (利尻島一周ふれあいサイクリング) is held. Rishiri Island residents and cycling enthusiasts from all over Japan participate in this event because they can enjoy the beautiful views of Rishiri Island and experience the nature of the island firsthand. This is an event where you can ride a bicycle around the island with many other participants while experiencing the island's charms to the fullest. Photo：Rishiri Island Fureai Cycling Tour Before you start cycling, be sure to pick up a cycling map. The map is a detailed guide to the entire cycling course on Rishiri Island, so it will not only help you choose the right course, but also ensure that you don't get lost along the way. Please rest assured that you can have an enjoyable cycling tour, as there are bike stands, tools, and air tanks available at various locations on Rishiri Island. If you're looking to enjoy a casual cycling experience on Rishiri Island, we recommend using the rental bicycles. Some inns rent bicycles exclusively to guests, so be sure to check with them in advance if you wish to use one. Electric bicycles are also available for rent, so those lacking confidence in their physical strength or those who have never cycled for long periods of time need not worry. Prices for rental bicycles range from approximately 1,500 yen to 3,000 yen ($10 to $20 USD) per day. When cycling on Rishiri Island, please keep in mind that the course around Rishiri Island is quite long, taking about 7 hours to complete, so it's important to pay attention to your physical condition as well as your equipment. Also, as the island coexists with nature, be sure to act in a manner that respects the natural environment. Activities to Try On Rishiri Island When visiting Hokkaido, there's plenty of things to do that allow you to enjoy the natural wonders of the island. Family Campsite Yuni – Enjoy Island Camping Under the Stars Photo：A starry sky on Rishiri Island This remote location, far from the city, offers an unparalleled view of the starry night sky as far as the eye can see. It's a bucket list experience in Hokkaido, where you can fall asleep with a smile on your face. Because there is little light pollution on Rishiri Island, you can enjoy an extraordinary time seeing the Milky Way and watching shooting stars. There are five campgrounds on Rishiri Island, and this article will introduce Family Campsite Yuni (ファミリーキャンプ場ゆ～に), located in the town of Rishirifuji. Located in Rishirifuji Amenity Park (利尻富士町アメニティパーク), a 5-minute drive from Oshidomari Port, Family Campsite Yuni is across the street from Rishirifuji Onsen (Rishirifuji Spa), the northernmost natural hot spring in Japan. This campground is popular among campers who seek the to enjoy an open-air hot spring while camping. At Family Campsite Yuni, there are bungalows and cottages available, and there are plenty of rental items, including tents and sleeping bags. You can also purchase supplies such as charcoal and barbecue equipment, so you and your friends or family can visit empty handed. From the campground, you can see the summit of Mt. Rishiri, making it a popular place to stay before or after hiking the mountain. The campground is relatively new and clean, and reservations are not required for tent sites, making it a convenient place to enjoy the outdoors. Photo：Family Campsite Yuni, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Family Campsite Yuni Information 【Address】Sakaemachi Oshidomari, Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0101 【Operation Period】May 1 - October 31 【Parking】29 cars 【Admission Fee】Adults: 520 yen, Elementary school students and younger: 310 yen ※As of June, 2023. Rishirifuji Onsen – Relax and Rejuvenate After a Long Day of Traveling Photo：Outdoor baths at Rishirifuji Onsen, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishirifuji Onsen, located across the street from Family Campsite Yuni, is a famous hot spring on Rishiri Island that attracts some 60,000 visitors a year. If you're going to the nearby Family Campsite Yuni, we highly recommend checking it out, as it's a fun experience on Rishiri Island. The open-air bath with a view of Mt. Rishiri and the ocean is a special treat for tired bodies. The sunset over the Sea of Japan and the starry night sky make the open-air bath the ultimate experience. After enjoying the open-air baths, you can sample the famous "Kanro Sensui," a famous spring water from Rishirifuji. Relaxing in open-air baths while enjoying a view of Mt. Rishiri will help wash away the fatigue from your trip. Rishirifuji Onsen Information 【Address】Sakaemachi-227-7 Oshidomari, Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0101 【Telephone】0163-82-2388 【Hours】Noon - 9:00 pm Water Sports on Rishiri Island For those looking for even more things to do on Rishiri Island, we recommend trying out marine activities, such as sea kayaking tours and SUP (Stand up paddleboarding) (video 13:20~). Photo：Sea kayaking, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Surrounded by the sea, Rishiri Island features many surfing spots that can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced surfers alike, making it a popular surfing spot in Japan. Photo：Surfing, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishiri Yu-Yu Running, a Popular Marathon Around the Island Rishiri Yu-Yu Running is a 53.67-km (33.3 mile) round-the-island marathon that can be completed in less than 10 hours. It's a popular event with a course that allows participants to enjoy views of the sea and Mt. Rishiri during their run. Around June, when the event is held, the average temperature is a comfortable 13°C to 15°C (55°F to 59°F), making it a pleasant race. After working up a sweat while enjoying nature, you'll receive a hot spring ticket useable at Rishirifuji Onsen, and transportation will be provided so that you can relax in the hot springs after the marathon. Photo：Rishiri Yu-Yu Running marathon, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Hiking on Mt. Rishiri – A Climbing Guide for Beginners and Advanced Climbers Photo：Rishiri Fuji (Mt. Rishiri), Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Mt. Rishiri, the northernmost of Japan's "100 Famous Japanese Mountains," stands at 1,721 meters (5,646 feet) above sea level in the center of Rishiri Island. Although its official name is Mt. Rishiri, it's often called Rishiri Fuji (not to be confused with the town Rishirifuji) for its beautifully conical silhouette reminiscent of Mt. Fuji. It's also known for its abundance of alpine flora, many of which are unique to this area. The Oshidomari Hiking Trail is a well-maintained trail, so beginners can hike up the mountain with relative ease. That being said, it's a 5-to-6-hour ascent and a 3-to-4-hour descent, making it an all-day affair, so it's recommended that those who are not confident in their stamina do not attempt the hike. The greatest attraction of this day-long climb up Mt. Rishiri is the view from the summit. Rishiri Island itself is a mountain, and the summit offers an amazing panoramic view of the island. The view can only be seen by those who reach the summit of Mt. Rishiri, but it's well worth the climb. Climbing Season: June to September Photo：Remaining snow on Rishiri Fuji (Mt. Rishiri) ・Early June The average temperature at the summit in early June is 6.4°C (43.5°F), and crampons may be required at the summit due to lingering snow ・Early July The average temperature at the summit in early July is 9°C to 12°C (48.2°F to 53.6°F); and crowds and congestion often occur during the peak of climbing tour season. ・Late August - Early September In late August and early September, the minimum temperature can drop below freezing, so be sure to bring cold weather gear. During the climbing season, it's warm with alpine plants in full bloom, and the carpet of flowers that spreads across the mountain has earned led to it being recognized as one of the best places to see mountain flowers in Japan. Mt. Rishiri Hiking Trails Mt. Rishiri is a popular climbing spot visited by about 10,000 climbers annually, and there are two hiking trails located on the mountain: the Oshidomari Hiking Trail and the Kutsugata Hiking Trail. It's recommended that you start with the Oshidomari Hiking Trail, which is appropriate for beginners and intermediate hikers. There was a third trail, the former Oniwaki Hiking Trail, but it has been closed due to hazards. Oshidomari Hiking Trail (Beginner - Intermediate Hiking Trail) The trailhead is about 60 minutes on foot from Oshidomari Port at Rishiri Hokuroku Campsite (利尻北麓野営場) where there is also a hiking trail for Mt. Pon (ポン山, Pon Yama). Since there are no buses running early in the morning, care must be taken when going to the trailhead. It's best to find a guest house that can provide transportation to the trailhead. At the 3rd station, you'll find Kanro Sensui (甘露泉水) (video 9:59), the only source of water on Mt. Rishiri, which has been selected as one of Japan's 100 Remarkable Waters. The water from Kanro Sensui, which is subsoil water from Mt. Rishiri, is characterized by its mild sweetness. It's an oasis for climbers of Mt. Rishiri to quench their thirst. From the 5th station, the trail continues gently uphill through the trees, but from the 6th station, the incline gradually increases. From the 9th station, the trail converges with the Kutsugata Hiking Trail, and the footholds on the way to the summit become worse, so ropes are placed at dangerous spots. Kutsugata Hiking Trail (Advanced Hiking Trail) The Kutsugata Hiking Trail is shorter than the Oshidomari Hiking Trail, but is more difficult due to its steeper incline and is therefore recommended for advanced climbers. The trailhead is located at the Mikaeridai Park, approximately 500 meters (1,640 ft) above sea level, and the trailhead is the 5th station. After the 8th station, the incline increases toward Mt. Sancho (三眺山), and the difficulty persists beyond this point. From the 9th station, the trail converges with the Oshidomari Hiking Trail. By having a veteran guide or a guide with expertise accompanying you, you can enjoy hiking with peace of mind while receiving advice on climbing etiquette and route selection, as well as an explanation of the alpine flora. Photo：Hikers on Rishiri Fuji (Mt. Rishiri) Because the weather on Mt. Rishiri can change abruptly, windproof and waterproof jackets, warm innerwear, and a hat/helmet to protect your head are a must. In addition, non-slip hiking shoes are recommended for a safe ascent. The huts on Mt. Rishiri were built as refuge huts and are not lodging facilities, so they cannot be used for overnight stays and can only be used for napping or in the case of an emergency. As the number of climbers increases year after year, the alpine flora has been damaged by ill-mannered climbers who walk outside of the designated trails, trampling the alpine flora and reducing the size of the colonies. Trails near the summit are so bare that they crumble at the touch of a finger. Because of this, rules have been established on Mt. Rishiri to ensure that each and every climber behaves in a manner that is respectful of the natural environment. Mt. Rishiri Climbing Rules 1. Use portable toilets 2. Use rubber tips on hiking poles (to prevent damage to vegetation) 3. Do not sit or step on the vegetation Please follow these rules and enjoy a safe and enjoyable climb up Mt. Rishiri. The Best Foods on Rishiri Island The Mouthwatering Sea Urchin of Rishiri Island Photo：Rishiri Island sea urchin, Hokkaido Rishiri Island is known not only for its tourist attractions and spectacular natural scenery, but also for its mouthwatering seafood. The smooth texture and unique flavor of the locally caught sea urchin is to die for! It's a treat for any foody traveling to Japan! Sea urchin caught locally in Rishirifuji is one of the most highly regarded gastronomic delicacies in all of Japan thanks to the depth of its flavor. Its sweet and rich flavor are truly unforgettable. After you've tried it, you'll be craving a second helping. What makes the sea urchin of Rishiri Island so exquisite you ask? The reason for this is that the waters around Rishiri Island are rich in nutrients caused by the collision of warm and cold currents. In addition, the sea urchins grow on high-grade Rishiri Kombu kelp, which is rich in nutrients from the undersea spring water flowing from Mt. Rishiri. Approximately 40% of all domestic sea urchins in Japan are caught in Hokkaido. Rishiri Island is home to two species of sea urchin, called "nona" and "ganze," and sea urchin fishing is regulated to maintain the population. Photo：Left: ganze sea urchin, Right: nona sea urchin The opening of the season for the sea urchins differs, with the opening of the season for ganze sea urchins being June 1 and the opening of the season for nona sea urchins being on June 10. Both are in season until the end of August and have a mellow flavor. Nona sea urchins have short spines on the outside and are dark orange inside. They are much rarer and more valuable than ganze sea urchins because of their rich and delicious flavor and sweetness. On the other hand, the ganze sea urchin has long, purplish spines, is larger than the nona sea urchin, and is characterized by its elegant sweetness. Photo：Ganze and nona sea urchin bowl In Rishirifuji, you can enjoy sea urchin bowls with either one of the two types of sea urchin, or a combined seafood bowl where you can compare their flavor. Sea urchin is made with the food additive "alum" (ミョウバン, "myouban" in Japanese) to keep it clean longer, but it causes bitterness and spoils the original taste of the sea urchin. Therefore, please try to find sea urchin that does not contain alum. From 26:51 in the video, you can see the woman traveling to Rishiri Island eating two kinds of fresh sea urchin. Photo：Rishirifuji Sea Urchin Festival, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishirifuji also hosts an annual event in which the sea urchin plays a leading role. The Rishirifuji Sea Urchin Festival (うにうにフェスティバル) is held every year on August 11 at the Rishirifuji Community Center parking lot. Photo：Grilled nona sea urchin, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido At the food and beverage corner, you can find grilled sea urchin, sea urchin bowls, sea urchin soup, and fresh scallops and octopus caught in Rishiri. The Sea Urchin Cracking Contest (ウニむき大会) for elementary school students and the Sea Urchin Speed-eating Contest (ウニの早食い大会) are just a few of the local events that make for a day full of sea urchin fun. Kamui Kaigan Park also organizes a sea urchin fishing experience (video 24:30). You can crack open the sea urchin you've caught yourself and enjoy them as fresh as they come! For those residing in Japan, Rishiri Island's sea urchin is also a Furusato Nozei (Hometown Tax) tax return gift, so you can enjoy fresh sea urchin from Rishiri Island anywhere in Japan by utilizing this system. Rishiri Island, a Treasure Trove of Seafood Delicacies In addition to sea urchin, Rishiri Island also offers a variety of must-try seafood delicacies that you don't want to miss! If you're a seafood lover, be sure to try scallops, mackerel, Hokkai Shrimp, Rishiri Kombu kelp, and more. Photo：Butter baked scallops From 37:37 in the video, you can see some of the delicious seafood dishes at an izakaya. Popular Souvenirs on Rishiri Island If you're looking to commemorate your trip to Rishiri Island, there are a number of souvenirs you can purchase to do so. You can find various souvenirs made from Rishiri Kombu, a famous, dried kelp made locally on Rishiri Island. Here, we'll introduce some popular souvenirs made using Rishiri Kombu. Rishiri Kombu Soy Sauce This soy sauce is made using the famous Rishiri Kombu. It has a deep flavor and brings out the best in the ingredients it's paired with. Rishiri Kombu Ramen This popular ramen, which has even been featured on tv, has noodles kneaded with Rishiri Kombu and an exquisite, flavorful broth. In addition, there are many other souvenirs, such as cup soup, kombu sake, and authentic shochu (a distilled Japanese liquor) with which you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Rishiri. Souvenirs can be purchased at the stores in the ferry terminal of Oshidomari Port. Be sure to keep an eye out for them! Photo：Various souvenirs using Rishiri Kombu, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido How to Get to Rishiri Island Rishiri Island can be accessed by air or ferry. Here is how you can get to Rishiri Island. How to Get to Rishiri Island by Airplane There are two routes to Rishiri Island by plane. Both flights are once-a-day, round trip flights and are approximately 50 minutes long. ◎ New Chitose Airport → Rishiri Airport: Approximately 50 min. ◎ Sapporo Okadama Airport → Rishiri Airport: Approximately 50 min. Please note that flights from New Chitose Airport are only available during the summer season (June to September). Photo：Rishiri Airport, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido How to Get to Rishiri Island by Ferry To get to Rishiri Island via ferry, it's a 1 hour and 40-to-50-minute ride from Wakkanai (Wakkanai Ferry Terminal) to Oshidomari Ferry Terminal on Rishiri Island. Fares vary by seat when using the ferry. [2nd Class Cabin] 2,770 yen - Carpeted open space [1st Class Island View Seat] 5,400 yen - All windows have a view of the ocean and you can enjoy views of both Mt. Rishiri and Rebun Island. [Special Rooms] 20,000 yen - Small private rooms for families and groups. In addition, there are kids' rooms and a baby room collaborating with Pokémon, the first of its kind in the ferry industry, equipped with diaper changing sheets, so that passengers with small children can enjoy the cruise with peace of mind. ※Fees current as of June 2023. Since this is a ferry, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, etc. can be transported as well, so you can visit Rishiri Island and travel around as you please. Please check the Heart Land Ferry official website for information regarding fares, rates, timetables, etc. Inside Oshidomari Ferry Terminal, there is a tourist information center, souvenir shops, and restaurants open for lunch where you can enjoy the flavors of Rishiri Island, including fresh sea urchin bowls and Rishiri ramen, so be sure to drop in and grab a bite to eat here. Photo：Wakkanai Ferry Terminal - Oshidomari Ferry Terminal, Heartland Ferry An Unforgettable Travel Experience Awaits You on Rishiri Island! When traveling to Rishiri Island, a place full of attractions, we recommend a course that will take you around the entire island. In addition to renting a bicycle, you can also rent mopeds and cars, or utilize buses and taxis. Rishirifuji also offers a variety of lodging facilities, including hotels, minshuku (Japanese-style bed and breakfasts), and campgrounds, so you can choose the one that best fits your travel style and budget. Don't forget to utilize the hot springs to relax after a long day of traveling as well! A trip to Rishiri Island guarantees an unforgettable adventure with delicious seafood and beautiful natural scenery. At the end of the video at 43:19, we can see the words of the woman, and the captions read: I'll come visit you again... My favorite place... Rishiri Island A trip to Rishiri Island will no doubt leave you feeling the same. The spectacular natural scenery, fresh seafood, and the hospitality of the local people make each and every encounter on Rishiri Island a deep and irreplaceable experience. We invite you to leave behind the hustle and bustle of the city and travel to northern Japan for a chance to experience the wealth that is Rishiri Island. Photo：A ferry send off at Oshidomari Ferry Terminal We hope you enjoyed this Rishiri Island Travel guide! 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Hokkaido Noboribetsu City Tourism PR Video Introduction This video, titled "Noboribetsu City Sightseeing PR Video" (登別市観光PR動画), was uploaded by "[Official] General Incorporated Association｜Noboribetsu International Tourism and Convention Association" (【公式】一般社団法人 登別国際観光コンベンション協会). This video introduces things to do in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido. You can see the magnificent nature of Noboribetsu, popular tourist attractions in Noboribetsu, and events in which many people participate. Enjoy the beautiful, 10-minute video of Noboribetsu! An Introduction to Noboribetsu and Its Connection to Oni Photo：Oni Hanabi fireworks at Jigokudani (Hell Valley), Noboribetsu, Hokkaido Noboribetsu is located in the Iburi subprefecture of southwestern Hokkaido and is known for its natural hot springs. Facing the Pacific Ocean to the south, it's a tourist city with rich natural surroundings that sits at the heart of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, a mountainous area with continuous volcanic activity. Noboribetsu is located approximately 1hr 30m from Sapporo by train. Statues of oni (Japanese ogre demons) and spiked clubs are scattered throughout Noboribetsu. Since it's said that oni protect the medicinal hot springs in Jigokudani, oni have become the symbol of Noboribetsu. During the "Oni Hanabi" (鬼花火, 'Demon Fireworks') event held in Jigokudani (Hell Valley), oni beat drums and shoot handheld fireworks to drive away people's misfortune! At Noboribetsu Jigoku Matsuri, red and blue oni accompanied by the Great Demon King Enma perform the "Oni Odori" dance to liven up the festival. [Video] 6:00 - Oni Hanabi Fireworks, Noboribetsu Jigoku Matsuri Recommended Things to Do in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido Photo：Noboribetsu Onsen, Hokkaido Here are some popular tourist spots and recommended things to do when sightseeing in Noboribetsu. Noboribetsu Onsen Noboribetsu Onsen is one of the most famous hot springs in Japan, with nine different types of spring water, making it one of the most unique hot springs in the world. Jigokudani (Hell Valley) Noboribetsu Onsen is the largest hot springs in Japan. The steam spewing from the crater created by the eruptive activity of Mt. Hiyori and the boiling spring water are reminiscent of a "hell where demons dwell." Jigokudani can be reached in about 15 minutes by bus from Noboribetsu Station. [Video] 0:43 - Hell Valley Karurusu Onsen A small hot spring village located 8 km from Noboribetsu Onsen. It has been used as a medicinal hot spring since ancient times, and is designated as a National Health Onsen Resort. Oyunuma River Natural Footbath The Oyunuma River, a river of hot spring water flowing out of Oyunuma Pond, spews out 130°C sulfur spring water, and visitors can enjoy a natural footbath here. [Video] 2:03 - Natural Footbath Photo：Lake Kuttara, Hokkaido Lake Kuttara Lake Kuttara is a caldera lake measuring approximately 2.5 kilometers in diameter. There is no river leading to the lake, and its beauty is something of mystery. Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe The aquarium "Nixe Castle" inside the park has a fantastic display of some 400 species of sea creatures. There are also penguin parades and dolphin and sea lion shows that are popular with guests. [Video] 4:28 - Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura A cultural park that recreates the streets of Edo-period Japan (1603-1868 A.D.). Visitors can experience the culture of the Edo period with ninja shows and oiran (traditional Japanese courtesan) shows, and also enjoy dressing up in historical costumes. [Video] 5:00 - Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura Photo：Noboribetsu Bear Park, Hokkaido Noboribetsu Bear Park Noboribetsu Bear Park is a zoo where approximately 140 bears are kept. Visitors can observe the bears from up close. The feeding experience and cute bear shows are also popular amongst guests. Enmado Karakuri is performed six times a day at Enmado, a shrine dedicated to the Great Demon King Enma located on the Gokuraku-dori shopping street. During the "Hell Sentence," in which Enma passes judgment on people, the gentle face of Enma turns angry and his complexion turns red. Sengen Park Geyser At Sengen Park, located in the center of Noboribetsu Onsen, you can see a geyser that shoots up eight meters into the air every three hours or so. Noboribetsu has a ton of things to see and do. The Noboribetsu International Tourism and Convention Association recommends model courses for visitors who want to explore the area efficiently based on the length of their stay, with 30, 60, 120, and 180-minute courses, etc. Enjoy Canyoning in Summer + Skiing & Other Activities in Winter in Noboribetsu! Photo：Canyoning Noboribetsu is home to deep green forests, majestic mountains, and beautiful clear streams. Because of this, there are a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy in Noboribetsu. In the summer, river trekking and canyoning allow visitors to physically enjoy the great outdoors while immersing themselves in nature! You can also observe endangered plants and wild birds in the Kiushito Wetlands. [Video] 2:33 - Canyoning Winter in Noboribetsu brings a world of silvery white snow. Throw on some snowshoes and go out for a walk in the snow, see the unique ice trees, or enjoy skiing at the ski resort! Where to Eat & Where to Buy Souvenirs in Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido Photo：Seafood being grilled If you visit Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, we recommend trying the fresh seafood from Noboribetsu Fishing Port. At Onsen Ichiba (温泉市場), you can enjoy the seasonal seafood flavors, including sashimi and charbroiled fish. Be sure to check out the rich soft-serve ice cream made from Noboribetsu milk at the Noboribetsu Dairy Farm or at one of the cafes in town. If you're wondering where to buy souvenirs in Noboribetsu, we recommend cheese and pudding made with Noboribetsu milk from Noboribetsu Dairy Farm, "Wakasaimo" (わかさいも), a famous confectionery from the Iburi subprefecture of Hokkaido, and "Oni Densetsu," a beer brewed locally in Noboribetsu. Hotels and Ryokan in Noboribetsu Photo：Noboribetsu Onsen, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido There's no shortage of hotels and hot spring inns in Noboribetsu. Unfortunately, the onsen ryokan (hot spring inns) can end up costing a decent chunk of change to stay at. If you're simply looking to enjoy the area and aren't interested in spending extra for the hot spring inn experience, we recommend staying at a hotel. That being said, if you don't mind spending a bit more to get the full experience, we highly recommend staying at a hot spring inn. Here are our 3 recommendations for lodging in Noboribetsu: Takimotokan A large inn with both Japanese- and Western-style rooms. The history of the inn dates back nearly 150 years, and it's equipped with a wide range of facilities, including swimming pools, hot springs, shops, bars, karaoke, and more. Oyado Kiyomizuya A hot spring inn that serves traditional Japanese cuisine and features Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring. The public baths are open 24-hours a day, split into two time slots for men and women. Noboribetsu Grand Hotel This hotel in Noboribetsu features Japanese-style room with tatami floors, standard Western-style rooms, and semi-western-style rooms with both Japanese and western influences. The hotel offers buffet-style dining, but visitors can also enjoy full-course meals from the comfort of their own rooms. All of these inns and hotels are within walking distance to popular attractions like Jigokudani as well, making them great choices for places to stay. Noboribetsu, Hokkaido Sightseeing Summary Noboribetsu offers a host of things to do if you're planning on sightseeing in the area. You can enjoy the spectacular seasonal scenery and appreciate the magnificent nature unique to the area. Enjoy the magnificent nature and delicious local flavors by staying at Noboribetsu Onsen, and enjoy sightseeing in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido to your heart's content! 【Official Website】Noboribetsu, Hokkaido｜City Hall Website 【TripAdvisor】Noboribetsu, Hokkaido

日本で人気の観光地「北海道洞爺湖」の動画について 「洞爺湖町公式」が公開した「洞爺湖町観光PR映像（8分篇）」は、北海道のおすすめの観光地の洞爺湖を紹介している動画です。 アクティビティ、イベント、自然の景観など、洞爺湖町にはさまざまな魅力が多く紹介されています。 こちらの動画で北海道洞爺湖町の魅力を知れば、実際に旅行したいと思うはずですよ。 こちらの記事では、日本の観光地である北海道洞爺湖町の魅力を動画と共に紹介いたします。 日本で人気の観光地「北海道洞爺湖」の情報紹介 日本で人気の観光地である北海道洞爺湖町は、各国の首脳が集まって開催された洞爺湖サミットの場所として有名です。 さまざまなアクティビティを体験できる観光エリアとしてとても人気があります。 湖畔の雄大な景色のすぐそばにあるキャンプ場や、洞爺湖湖上クルーズの遊覧船は洞爺湖の自然を満喫できるのでおすすめ。 洞爺湖を美しさを堪能できるカヌー、絶景を眺めながら北海道の大地を歩く乗馬なども人気です。 ほかにも、ハイキング、サイクリング、登山やスノーモービル、スキー、スノーボード、スノーモービルなどのウィンタースポーツも洞爺湖町で楽しめます。 また、北海道洞爺湖町は魅力のあるホテルも充実しています。 「洞爺湖畔亭」「洞爺サンパレス」「ウィンザーホテル」は、温泉・グルメを楽しめるおすすめのホテルです。 宿泊プランもたくさん用意されているので、あなた好みをお探しください。 日本の観光地「北海道洞爺湖」のおすすめスポット 日本の観光地である北海道洞爺湖町では、観光スポットがたくさんあります。 日本有数のカルデラ湖をご覧になれる「洞爺カルデラ」、足湯につかりながら洞爺湖の四季を眺められる「洞龍（とうろん）の湯」、洞爺湖と島々を一望できる「サイロ展望台」などが人気のスポットです。 ほかにも、「洞爺湖町立火山科学館」「ツボ足健康通り」「有珠山噴火記念公園」「とうや・水の駅」「西山山麓火口散策路」「洞爺湖温泉の桜」もおすすめ観光スポット。 日本の観光地「北海道洞爺湖」の人気のイベント 日本の観光地である北海道洞爺湖町には、人気のイベントもたくさんあります。 北海道内で最大規模の花火大会の「洞爺湖ロングラン花火大会」は、450発もの花火が打ち上げられ夜の洞爺湖を鮮やかに彩ります。 洞爺湖温泉街のにぎわい広場に電飾が輝く「イルミネーショントンネル」も美しい景色を眺められるのでおすすめ。 インスタ映えする景色を撮影できますよ。 「洞爺湖温泉イルミネーションストリート」「洞爺湖マラソン」「水中花火108連発」「爺湖温泉夏祭り」「洞爺夏まつり」「洞爺湖温泉冬まつり」といった洞爺湖で開催されているイベントも注目です。 日本で人気の観光地「北海道洞爺湖」紹介記事のまとめ 北海道洞爺湖は自然の景色を楽しめる名所。 洞爺湖の観光スポットを巡れば充実した旅行になりますよ！

Introducing Susukino Oiran Dochu at the Susukino Festival in Sapporo, Hokkaido This video, titled "Sapporo, Susukino Festival 2018 – Oiran Dochu" (札幌 すすきの祭り2018「すすきの花魁道中」 susukino oiran douchu), was uploaded by "Kita no Kuni Kamo" (北の国かも). It introduces Susukino Oiran Dochu, a popular sightseeing attraction and event in Hokkaido. Susukino Oiran Dochu is an annual event that takes place during the Susukino Festival held for three days in early August in Sapporo, Hokkaido. The history of the Susukino Festival dates back more than 55 years, to August 1965, when the first Susukino Festival was held. It is said to have originated from the Susukino Festival held in 1951. More About Susukino Oiran Dochu Photo：An oiran One of the historical events of the Susukino Festival in Sapporo, Hokkaido, is Susukino Oiran Dochu, a procession of courtesans that can be seen in the video. Susukino Oiran Dochu began in 1984 when nine courtesans from Asakusa, Tokyo were invited to perform in a commemorative event, and has since become a regular part of the Susukino Festival. The roles of the courtesans in the procession are chosen by the public, with each role having its own name. In addition to the servants and the proprietress, new courtesans also appear in the procession, recreating the red-light districts of the past. The child in the kimono walking behind the new courtesan is called a Kamuro. The courtesan procession can be seen from 0:57 in the video. The participants in the procession wear special costumes and geta to recreate the way people walked in the past. The Oiran of Susukino Oiran Dochu An oiran is a member of the upper class of courtesans in a red-light district. During the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.), there were more than 2,000 courtesans, including those who served as sancha-joro (fairly high-ranking courtesans), zashiki-mochi, or yobidashi. Oiran Dochu is a procession of courtesans between the hikite-jaya (a guide to brothels) and the brothels themselves, and has been attracting attention since that time. During the courtesan procession, the courtesans slowly parade down the middle of the street in a very specific style, creating a captivating atmosphere. 70 Years of the Susukino Festival Photo：The Yosakoi Soran Festival in front of the Hokkaido Government Office, Sapporo The Susukino Festival started around 1965, when the Sapporo Tourist Association proposed a large-scale summer festival combining the Kappa Festival and the Susukino Festival in Jozankei, because they felt that a normal summer festival wasn't interesting enough. The Susukino Festival is a lively festival where many events have been held, such as the Miss Susukino contest, singing contests, and even beer drinking competitions. In addition, "Susukino Kota" (すすきの小唄) and "Susukino Ondo" (すすきの音頭) were performed, and the participants enjoyed singing and dancing at the festival. During the Susukino Festival, the central part of Susukino is turned into a pedestrian paradise. There are more than 100 food stalls and other vendors, and visitors you can enjoy eating and drinking local specialties from Hokkaido. In 1985, the Hokkai Festival Taiko Session was held, and taiko teams from all over Hokkaido performed a combined taiko drum performance. In addition, many other events are held, such as the Susukino Music Festival, a mikoshi (portable shrine) procession, Susukino Night Fever, Susukino Samba Carnival, women's mikoshi, hayashi performances, lion dances, Yosakoi Soran Festival, and even live concerts. [Susukino Festival Venue Information] Place: Sapporo Ekimae-dori Date: Three days in early August every year Main event: Oiran Dochu (courtesan procession) Organizer: Susukino Tourist Association Other Festivals in Sapporo, Hokkaido Photo：Mikoshi at the Hokkaido Shrine Festival In addition to the Susukino Festival, Sapporo City also holds the Hokkaido Shrine Festival (Sapporo Festival). The Hokkaido Shrine Festival (Sapporo Festival) has a history of more than 100 years and is held around Hokkaido Shrine and Nakajima Park. In addition, the Sapporo Summer Festival is lit up at night and attracts many visitors. There are also other festivals such as the Odori Fireworks Festival, making it a place where you can enjoy many festivals. The Sapporo Snow Festival, held in early February every year, is a festival of snow and ice, with several snow sculptures displayed in Odori Park and other venues, and is the largest festival in Hokkaido, attracting approximately 2 million visitors from all over Japan and overseas. Summary of Susukino's Oiran Dochu Oiran Dochu (courtesan procession) is the main event of the Susukino Festival held every summer in Sapporo, Hokkaido. As you can see in the video, the courtesans dressed in beautiful kimono walk through the streets of Sapporo with a variety of different assistants. The spectacle of the courtesan parading through the streets creates a fascinating atmosphere and is reminiscent of Japan's Edo Period. Be sure to check out the four-and-a-half-minute video to get an idea of what Oiran Dochu, the main event of Sapporo, Hokkaido's Susukino Festival, is all about.