■Contents Introduction What Makes Kushiro Special: Port-Town Sunsets and Vast Nature in a Single Trip How Kushiro Lets You Enjoy Port-Town Sunsets and the Wild Nature of Kushiro Shitsugen National Park at Once Why the Kushiro Prince Hotel Is a Convenient Base for Both City Strolls and Out-of-Town Sightseeing Watching Kushiro's Sunset from Your Room: Why Stay at the Kushiro Prince Hotel What Sunset Views Can You Enjoy from the High-Floor Twin and Double Rooms? Kushiro's Sunset from Nusamai Bridge: A Scenic Spot Within Walking Distance of the Hotel When Is Kushiro's Sunset at Its Best? The Autumn Equinox (Around September 23) and Fall Highlights City Spots to Enjoy Around the Kushiro Prince Hotel: A Guide to Strolling the Port Town What Can You Enjoy at Fisherman's Wharf MOO? The Charms of a Waterfront Stroll What Is Washo Market's Katte-don? A Kushiro Classic Worth a Stop During Your Stay Robatayaki, Zangi and Spakatsu: How to Enjoy Kushiro-Born Dishes on an Evening Stroll How to Enjoy the Wild Nature of Kushiro Wetland: Expanding Your Sightseeing from the Kushiro Prince Hotel What Does Car Sharing from the Hotel Change? A Handy Way to Explore the Kushiro Area Freely What Can You See from the Kushiro City Wetland Observatory? A Place to Sense the Scale of Japan's Largest Wetland What Can You Do at Hosooka Observatory and the Onnenai Boardwalk? Enjoying the Wetland by View and on Foot What Kind of Journey Are the Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train and Canoeing? Deeper Ways to Enjoy the Wetland What Is a Stay at the Kushiro Prince Hotel Like? Special Time in the Rooms, Dining and Facilities What Guest Rooms Does the Kushiro Prince Hotel Have? The Difference Between the Standard Floors and the High Floors What Kind of Restaurant Is Top of Kushiro? Dining with Views of the City and the Pacific Can Breakfast Change the Mood of Your Day? Why Mornings at the Kushiro Prince Hotel Enrich Your Trip How to Make the Most of Hotel Life with the Fitness Room, Rental Bikes and On-Site Facilities From Sunset to the Morning Sea: Can You Enjoy Scenery That Changes by the Hour? The Value of a Stay at the Kushiro Prince Hotel Does the Way You Enjoy the Kushiro Prince Hotel Change by Season? Sightseeing and Hotel Appeal Through the Year Is Spring in Kushiro Low in Cedar and Cypress Pollen? Why It's Chosen as a Getaway During Pollen Season Why Is Summer Kushiro Popular as a Cool-Weather Retreat? Why the Hotel's Appeal Comes Alive on Longer Stays How to See Red-Crowned Cranes in Winter Kushiro: Enjoying a Trip Centered on Crane Watching and Photography Adding One More Day to Your Kushiro Trip? Side Trips That Expand Your Eastern Hokkaido Journey Akkeshi Oysters and Winter Jewelry Ice: Scenery and Flavors Within a Day Trip from Kushiro Conclusion: How to Make the Most of Kushiro Sightseeing and a Hotel Stay: Why Choose the Kushiro Prince Hotel as Your Base Kushiro Prince Hotel: Essential Information Read more Of Japan's four main islands, Hokkaido lies farthest north. Its eastern reaches, known for tourism purposes as "Higashi Hokkaido" (Eastern Hokkaido), include Kushiro, Nemuro, Akan, Mashu, and Shiretoko. The port town of Kushiro is a place you can enjoy in many ways depending on the season and the purpose of your trip: the wild nature of the Kushiro Wetland, known as Japan's largest wetland; the sunset viewed from Nusamai Bridge, counted among the world's three great sunsets; the seafood of Washo Market; and winter red-crowned crane watching. Photo: The maiden statue on Nusamai Bridge at the mouth of the Kushiro River, with the sunset dyeing the port crimson. A spectacular Kushiro view counted among the world's three great sunsets. In Kushiro, where the attractions are split between the city center and the outskirts, where you stay makes a real difference to how easily you can get around. If you want to comfortably enjoy strolling the city, driving out toward the wetland, and dining in the evening, it pays to book a place that's a convenient base for getting around. With that in mind, this article introduces tips for enjoying Kushiro sightseeing using the Kushiro Prince Hotel as your base. The hotel is located about a 10-minute walk from Kushiro Station on JR (Japan Railways, Japan's main railway group) and stands close to Nusamai Bridge, which spans the Kushiro River. As the tallest hotel in Kushiro, it offers sunset views you won't find elsewhere, Eastern Hokkaido cuisine served at its top-floor restaurant, and car sharing you can pick up and drop off right at the hotel. These thoughtful touches throughout make the stay itself part of the trip. (0:03) Photo: The exterior of the Kushiro Prince Hotel, the tallest hotel in Kushiro, standing near Nusamai Bridge about a 10-minute walk from JR Kushiro Station. For this article, we spoke with the Kushiro Prince Hotel staff who welcome guests there every day, weaving in ways to enjoy the area that only people working on the ground would know. Whether it's your first visit to Kushiro or you've already been several times, you're sure to find travel ideas built around the Kushiro Prince Hotel. What Makes Kushiro Special: Port-Town Sunsets and Vast Nature in a Single Trip The appeal of Kushiro sightseeing is that very different kinds of attractions are gathered within about a 30-minute to one-hour drive of one another. There's the port-town city center facing the Pacific, Japan's largest wetland, the spectacular sunset ranked among the world's three great sunsets, and Washo Market, counted as one of Hokkaido's three great markets. Even if you come with just one of these in mind, you'll naturally end up encountering the others during your stay; that's what defines Kushiro. And precisely because of this, the location of your base, your starting point for getting around, greatly shapes the quality of your trip. How Kushiro Lets You Enjoy Port-Town Sunsets and the Wild Nature of Kushiro Shitsugen National Park at Once Kushiro is a port town facing the Pacific and, at the same time, the gateway to the inland Kushiro Shitsugen National Park that spreads out around it. A national park is a natural area that the Japanese government designates for the protection of nature. Drive north from the city center and you'll reach the Kushiro Wetland, known as Japan's largest wetland. The Kushiro Wetland is a vast expanse of sweeping reed beds, meandering rivers, and rich birdlife. Photo: The Kushiro Wetland enjoyed on foot along a boardwalk surrounded by greenery. Beyond the views, you can feel nature up close on a walk. This wetland was also the first in Japan to be registered under the Ramsar Convention, back in the 1980s. The Ramsar Convention is an international agreement aimed at protecting wetlands of global importance. In other words, the Kushiro Wetland is both a tourist destination and an environment recognized internationally for its conservation value. Because the wetland's main observatories and walking spots are also scattered within about an hour's reach, you can easily plan an itinerary that goes from a walk around town out into the wilderness, then back into town to enjoy the port-town evening. Why the Kushiro Prince Hotel Is a Convenient Base for Both City Strolls and Out-of-Town Sightseeing The Kushiro Prince Hotel stands in the heart of the city center, about a 10-minute walk from JR Kushiro Station and close to Nusamai Bridge, which spans the Kushiro River. If you have a lot of luggage, it's just a few minutes by taxi from the station. Port-town spots such as Washo Market and Fisherman's Wharf MOO are within walking distance, and because it's easy to get out onto the main roads, the location offers relatively easy access for a drive out toward the Kushiro Wetland as well.It's an easy base to get around from whether you arrive by rail, by airport shuttle bus, or by car, so even on a first visit to Kushiro you can tour the sights efficiently.As for the gateway by air, Tancho Kushiro Airport is about 1 hour 40 minutes by plane from Tokyo (Haneda). Visitors coming from overseas commonly connect to a domestic flight at Tokyo or Sapporo (New Chitose Airport). From the airport to central Kushiro, you can travel by airport shuttle bus or taxi. If you're heading to the hotel, it helps to check the bus stop and travel time in advance. Watching Kushiro's Sunset from Your Room: Why Stay at the Kushiro Prince Hotel On a trip to Kushiro, the scene many people name as "unforgettable" is the sky at dusk. Ranked alongside Bali (Indonesia) and Manila (the Philippines) among the world's three great sunsets, Kushiro's evening view is a sight unique to the town, where the Pacific, the Kushiro River, and the lights of the port town merge into a single panorama. Since you've come all this way, you'll want to do more than just glance at it: You’ll want to make it a highlight of your stay. What Sunset Views Can You Enjoy from the High-Floor Twin and Double Rooms? For those who want to make the most of the sunset, the high floors on levels 15–16 are recommended.From a high-floor twin room, on clear days you can enjoy Kushiro's sunset, said to be one of the world's three great sunsets, right from your room. (0:17) Photo: A high-floor twin room. The sunset spreads out beyond the window, and on clear days you can enjoy one of the "world's three great sunsets" from your room. Likewise, the high-floor double bedroom is fitted with a king-size bed, so you can lie back near a window overlooking the Pacific and savor the sky as it shifts from orange to crimson and then to a purplish indigo as the sun sinks. Photo: A high-floor double bedroom with sweeping views of the Pacific. Savor the changing sky from the window beside the king-size bed. Being able to spend time in "a room made for taking in the view" is something only the tallest hotel in Kushiro can offer. Sitting by the window with a cup of coffee and gazing at the sky makes for a quintessentially Kushiro way to pass the time. Kushiro's Sunset from Nusamai Bridge: A Scenic Spot Within Walking Distance of the Hotel Nusamai Bridge, which crosses the mouth of the Kushiro River, is a symbol of Kushiro and an especially popular spot for photographing the sunset. Ranked alongside Sapporo's Toyohira Bridge and Asahikawa's Asahibashi Bridge as one of "Hokkaido's three great bridges," it's a historic bridge representative of Hokkaido, and the bronze statues of women at its four corners symbolizing spring, summer, autumn, and winter were each created by a different sculptor. At dusk, the silhouettes of these statues at the bridge's four corners rise against a sky tinged red, and the bridge is beloved as one of Kushiro's signature photo spots. (0:49) Photo: The retro bridge lamp of Nusamai Bridge rises as a silhouette against the sun setting on the horizon. Since it's within walking distance of the Kushiro Prince Hotel, a classic way to enjoy it is to stroll to the bridge with your camera once evening comes and watch the sunset up close. After the sun sets, you can head back to the hotel and spend time watching the town fade into darkness from your guest-room window, or savor the view from the top-floor restaurant on the 17th floor. Being able to enjoy the same sunset from two perspectives, outdoors and indoors, is a benefit unique to staying in the heart of the city center. When Is Kushiro's Sunset at Its Best? The Autumn Equinox (Around September 23) and Fall Highlights Kushiro's sunset can be enjoyed year-round, but it's especially striking in the period from around the autumnal equinox in late September into the fall. During this time the sun tends to set in line with the Kushiro River, so when you look out from around Nusamai Bridge, it becomes easier to photograph the sun appearing to drop toward the center of the river.In autumn in particular, the air is clear and you can see far into the distance, so the outline of the setting sun stands out sharply. In the 30 minutes or so after sunset, the sky shifts one after another to red, orange, purple, and indigo. If you're aiming for the kind of striking Kushiro sunset you see on social media, a clear day in September or October is when it photographs in the most vivid colors.Autumn in Kushiro runs from around September to October, with temperatures of roughly 6°C to 18°C. Since mornings and evenings get chilly, you'll be comfortable with layers you can add to, plus a light outer layer. Photo: Kushiro's townscape and port seen from high up. As the sun sets, the sky turns red and orange. City Spots to Enjoy Around the Kushiro Prince Hotel: A Guide to Strolling the Port Town The area around the Kushiro Prince Hotel is one where the representative spots of the port town of Kushiro are gathered within walking distance. Just by walking with a map in hand, you can efficiently visit quintessential Kushiro places: the sea, the market, the bridge, and the shopping street. Even on a day with limited time, such as your arrival or departure day, it's a convenient location for taking in the atmosphere of the town. What Can You Enjoy at Fisherman's Wharf MOO? The Charms of a Waterfront Stroll About an 8-minute walk from the hotel. Right by Nusamai Bridge, on the bank at the mouth of the Kushiro River, stands Fisherman's Wharf MOO, a complex commercial facility representing Kushiro's waterfront. Here you can enjoy Kushiro's cuisine and the atmosphere of the port town all in one place: shops selling local sake and seafood souvenirs, the "Minato no Yatai" food stalls where you can dine, and the outdoor "Ganpeki Robata," open typically from the third Friday of May to the end of October, where you can grill seafood and other ingredients yourself on the quayside. Photo: Fisherman's Wharf MOO on the bank at the mouth of the Kushiro River. A complex commercial facility representing the port town's waterfront. If you walk along the riverside deck after shopping, fishing boats and the bridge come into view, and you can enjoy the scenery along the river. Since it's an easy distance to drop by between sightseeing stops, it's a place that fits naturally into a first-day stroll around town as well as last-day souvenir shopping. What Is Washo Market's Katte-don? A Kushiro Classic Worth a Stop During Your Stay A few minutes' walk from JR Kushiro Station and reachable on foot from the Kushiro Prince Hotel as well, Kushiro's Washo Market is a long-established market counted alongside Hakodate Morning Market and Sapporo Nijo Market as one of "Hokkaido's three great markets." (0:30) Photo: Kushiro's Washo Market, one of Hokkaido's three great markets. Enjoy strolling the market while peering into the fresh-fish cases. Here, the one experience you'll want to try is Kushiro's specialty, the "Katte-don." First you buy a bowl of plain white rice, then go around the shops in the market buying small portions of your favorite seafood toppings and placing them on your own bowl. You pay separately for the rice and for each topping. Since some shops mainly take cash, it's reassuring to have a little cash on hand. The process of choosing and piling on your favorite ingredients from among sea urchin, salmon roe, salmon, scallops and crab to build your own seafood rice bowl becomes a memory of the trip. If you're not fond of raw fish, you can also choose grilled fish, crab, egg, and the like. Photo: Katte-don toppings lined up at Washo Market. Choose your favorite ingredients, such as sea urchin and octopus, to build your own seafood rice bowl. The experience of getting in touch with local flavors amid the market's bustle is highly popular with international travelers, too, and it's beloved as a go-to spot where visitors from overseas can feel Japan's market culture firsthand. Robatayaki, Zangi and Spakatsu: How to Enjoy Kushiro-Born Dishes on an Evening Stroll Kushiro has a strong image of fresh seafood, but the evening pleasures don't stop there. "Robatayaki," now spread nationwide, is a food culture of grilling seafood and vegetables near a charcoal fire and savoring them. Kushiro is said to be its birthplace, with a history dating back to the 1950s. Sitting around the charcoal fire and enjoying atka mackerel (hokke), Pacific saury, scallops, and "tsubu-yaki", whelks grilled boldly in their shells, is an evening pleasure unique to a port town. (0:24) Photo: Robatayaki, said to have originated in Kushiro. A port-town evening savoring grilled fish and local sake around a charcoal fire. "Zangi" is fried chicken (Japanese fried chicken) that originated in Hokkaido, distinguished by a soy-sauce-based marinade thoroughly soaked in before frying. Compared with ordinary fried chicken, the flavor is richer and the coating thicker, for a quintessential Hokkaido style. Crisp and fragrant on the outside, juicy inside, with a robust soy-sauce flavor. Kushiro is said to be its birthplace, and it pairs well with both rice and drinks. What's more, "Spakatsu", spaghetti topped with a pork cutlet and smothered in piping-hot meat sauce, is a soul food of Kushiro locals that originated at the long-established Western-style restaurant "Izumiya." Served on a sizzling iron plate and generously portioned, it's a local Kushiro take on Western food. The dish’s combination of noodles, meat and sauce has been loved by locals across generations. In the lively district around the Kushiro Prince Hotel, there are restaurants serving these local Kushiro dishes within walking distance. Try them as part of your evening stroll. How to Enjoy the Wild Nature of Kushiro Wetland: Expanding Your Sightseeing from the Kushiro Prince Hotel After enjoying a stroll around the port town, use the Kushiro Prince Hotel as your base and head out to the kind of vast nature that only Kushiro can offer. In Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, known as Japan's largest wetland, the main spots are scattered around 30 minutes by car from the hotel. Even as a day trip from the hotel, leaving the hotel in the morning and returning by evening to enjoy the sunset, there's plenty to savor. What Does Car Sharing from the Hotel Change? A Handy Way to Explore the Kushiro Area Freely One reason the Kushiro Prince Hotel is so convenient as a base for wetland sightseeing is the "TOYOTA SHARE" car-sharing service available right at the hotel. If you complete the app registration in advance, you can set off directly from the hotel without having to travel to a rental-car outlet by the station. If you live overseas and want to use it, please check the conditions for app registration, accepted credit cards, and an international driving permit in advance.Car Share is a short-term rental service that lets you borrow a registered car only for the time you need. Because you can rent in 15-minute units, you can use it in a flexible way that suits your preferences, such as only using a car only on the day you go to the wetland, and going car-free on the days you walk around town. Since you can naturally combine strolling the city center on foot with sightseeing in the outskirts by car, it broadens the range of model courses for Kushiro sightseeing.If you're visiting from overseas and plan to drive in Japan, the required documents differ depending on your nationality and the country that issued your license. Before departure, be sure to check the documents needed to drive in Japan, such as an International Driving Permit (IDP). Japan, like the UK and Australia, drives on the left, so visitors from countries that drive on the right should take care. In rural areas there are roads with few streetlights and roads where wild animals may dart out, so caution is needed when driving at night. In the winter period from around November to March, snow and icy road surfaces can make for snowy roads. Even on days with little snow, the road surface may be frozen, so caution is especially needed in the early morning and evening. To be safe, choose a vehicle fitted with winter studless tires (tires made for snowy and icy roads) or check with each rental-car company in advance. What Can You See from the Kushiro City Wetland Observatory? A Place to Sense the Scale of Japan's Largest Wetland If you're encountering the wetland for the first time, the first place to visit is the Kushiro City Wetland Observatory. If you go by public transport, services are limited, so check the timetable in advance or consider using a taxi or rental car. From the rooftop viewing area of the building, you can take in the wetland stretching all the way to the horizon. Kushiro Shitsugen National Park covers about 28,000 hectares, roughly 280 square kilometers. That's close to half the area of Tokyo's 23 wards, and only when you stand and look out over it do you truly grasp its size. Photo: The viewing deck of the Kushiro City Wetland Observatory. Take in Japan's largest wetland stretching to the horizon in a single sweep. Inside the facility there are also exhibits that make it easy to learn about the wetland's ecosystem, which changes how you'll view the wetland you're about to walk. For anyone who thinks, "First I want to get a sense of the whole picture," it's an ideal point of entry. What Can You Do at Hosooka Observatory and the Onnenai Boardwalk? Enjoying the Wetland by View and on Foot Once you've grasped the overall picture at the wetland observatory, head next to the sightseeing points scattered around the wetland. Highlights include Hosooka Observatory, where you can take in the meandering Kushiro River and the vast wetland in one sweep; Kottaro Wetland Observatory, a peaceful viewpoint that sees relatively few visitors; and the Onnenai Boardwalk, where wooden walkways let you observe wetland plants and birds up close. If you want to enjoy the view in a short time, Hosooka Observatory is recommended; if you want to walk and observe nature, the Onnenai Boardwalk is the choice. Visit in comfortable walking shoes, and to be safe bring insect repellent in summer and warm clothing in spring and autumn.Whether you prefer panoramic views or walking through the wetland itself, Kushiro Wetland lets you choose the experience that best matches your mood and energy level. Combine viewpoints and walking, and even within the same wetland the scenery you see and the sounds you hear will change. The appeal is that with Car Share, you can tour multiple spots efficiently in a single day. What Kind of Journey Are the Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train and Canoeing? Deeper Ways to Enjoy the Wetland The "Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train," which you can board at JR Kushiro Station about a 10-minute walk from the Kushiro Prince Hotel, is recommended for those who want to experience the wetland in greater depth. It's a sightseeing train with a trolley-car feel, a seasonal service connecting Kushiro Station and Toro Station from spring to autumn. Since operating days are limited, check the running days and the availability of reserved seats on the official JR Hokkaido website. As the train slowly moves through the landscape you can enjoy the wetland scenery up close. Photo: The trolley-style sightseeing train "Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train" running through the green wetland (the second-generation train is scheduled to retire in 2026). Note that the current second-generation Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train is scheduled to retire after the 2026 season due to the age of its carriages, so 2026 is the last year you can experience the second-generation train in operation. If you're planning to ride, we recommend booking early during the operating period from late April to early October.* In 2026 it is scheduled to run on set days from April 25 to October 4, and as all seats are reserved, it's reassuring to confirm the running days and seat availability before boarding. Operating information may change, so please check JR Hokkaido's latest official announcements. Canoeing down the Kushiro River is also popular. There are guided tours for beginners, and it's reassuring to confirm whether English support is available when you book. From a low vantage point right at the water's surface, you can enjoy up close, by canoe, the sights and sounds you can't encounter on foot or by car: the sky you look up at, the red-crowned cranes and Ezo sika deer on the riverbanks, and the sound of the wind crossing the reed beds. Drifting quietly with the current is one of the experiences unique to Kushiro Wetland. What Is a Stay at the Kushiro Prince Hotel Like? Special Time in the Rooms, Dining and Facilities The appeal of the Kushiro Prince Hotel doesn't stop at its convenience as a sightseeing base. Even the time after you return from sightseeing is full of thoughtful touches that let you feel Kushiro's character. What Guest Rooms Does the Kushiro Prince Hotel Have? The Difference Between the Standard Floors and the High Floors The Kushiro Prince Hotel's guest rooms are divided into two groups: the "Standard Floors" on levels 6–14, and the "High Floors" on levels 15–16. What's distinctive about this hotel is that how you choose changes depending on the purpose of your trip and who you're traveling with. The Standard Floors have three types: Single, Twin, and a Family room, which accommodates up to four guests. The Single room is a calm space for business trips and solo travel, the Twin is a versatile, standard room, and the Family room can accommodate up to four guests, making it well suited to family and group travel. They're often chosen by those who want to enjoy their stay at a more modest price while taking in Kushiro's townscape and the views of the port. Photo: A Standard Floor guest room on levels 6–14. Stay at a reasonable price while taking in Kushiro's townscape and port. The High Floors on levels 15–16 are the rooms chosen by those seeking the view. The high-floor twin room is a popular type from which you can gaze at Kushiro's sunset, called one of the "world's three great sunsets", from your room on clear days. The single room faces the Kushiro city center, where you can take in the morning sun and the night view. The double bedroom is fitted with a king-size bed, a spacious room with sweeping views of the Pacific. For those wishing for something still more luxurious, there is the 48.43 m² Suite room, which offers an especially open view. For those who want to savor the sunset from their room, the high-floor Twin or Double bedroom; for families who want to spread out, the Family room on the Standard Floors, or the suite overlooking the Pacific for special occasions. When booking, it's reassuring to check conditions such as "high floor" or "view specified." The flexibility to choose to match the purpose of your trip is one reason there are so many repeat guests. What Kind of Restaurant Is Top of Kushiro? Dining with Views of the City and the Pacific The observation restaurant "Top of Kushiro" on the 17th floor is an observation restaurant where you can dine while taking in the scenery from the highest point in Kushiro. From its fully glass-walled space, you can see far into the distance: the Kushiro River, the port-town streets, and further out to the Pacific, and the view you enjoy changes depending on where you sit. Photo: The 17th-floor observation restaurant "Top of Kushiro." Take in Kushiro's townscape bathed in sunset through the fully glass-walled windows. Lunchtime offers bright hours against the backdrop of the port view, while dinnertime is a meal with the town lights after sunset. The dynamic atmosphere changes greatly with the hour you visit, which is another of its hallmarks. As a place to spend an anniversary dinner or the meal that rounds off a trip, it's chosen by many travelers, couples, and families. Photo: A Western-style course savored at "Top of Kushiro." Enjoy colorful appetizers and main dishes along with a magnificent view. There is also a private room called "SKYROOM" within the restaurant, which can be reserved exclusively for family celebrations and small gatherings. Advance reservation may be required to use it. In a space where you can have the 17th-floor view all to yourself, it's also recommended for those who want to make a special day memorable. Can Breakfast Change the Mood of Your Day? Why Mornings at the Kushiro Prince Hotel Enrich Your Trip Breakfast on a trip is an important time that sets the rhythm of the day ahead. Breakfast at the Kushiro Prince Hotel is normally served as a buffet on the top floor at "Top of Kushiro." A menu unique to a port town is laid out, generously incorporating ingredients from Hokkaido and Kushiro. (0:40) Photo: A morning moment at "Top of Kushiro" overlooking the Pacific. Start your day with a view of the sea. One especially popular item is the "Umi no Sachi Don," a seafood rice bowl where you pile as much of the sea's bounty as you like onto your rice. It's a welcome dish that lets you savor the Katte-don style familiar from Washo Market right at the hotel, first thing in the morning. There's also a rich lineup of distinctive dishes that make the most of Eastern Hokkaido ingredients: the "Nemuro Strait Kelp Soy Sauce Ramen," made with broth from Nemuro Strait kelp; penne with a meat sauce made from Ezo deer, a Japanese game meat; and seafood soup curry. And the classic breakfast dishes are all there too, with grilled fish such as sockeye salmon and atka mackerel (hokke), scrambled eggs finished with Hokkaido eggs and milk, rice made with Hokkaido-grown "Nanatsuboshi" (one of Hokkaido's flagship brand-rice varieties), and miso soup made with Hokkaido miso, a lineup that caters to fans of both Japanese and Western breakfasts. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, please check with the hotel in advance. Photo: A breakfast buffet making the most of Hokkaido and Kushiro ingredients. A wide variety of dishes, starting with the Umi no Sachi Don seafood bowl. To finish, what you'll want to enjoy is a lineup of dairy products befitting Hokkaido, acclaimed as Japan’s most renowned center of dairy production. You can savor local ingredients to the full from morning. You can enjoy a tasting comparison of "Toyotomi Milk" and "Tokachi Karoyaka Shibori," Hokkaido milk pudding, yogurt, and more. After your meal, coffee in hand, it's also nice to use the time to plan your day, deciding whether to head out to the wetland or go for a walk through the market.* Breakfast is basically a buffet, but depending on reservation conditions it may be served as a set meal. The menu may change depending on procurement. How to Make the Most of Hotel Life with the Fitness Room, Rental Bikes and On-Site Facilities The Kushiro Prince Hotel has on-site facilities that make it easy to spend even the hours when you're not out sightseeing.Worth noting is the fitness room that opened in May 2026. Equipped with cardio machines, strength-training equipment, and free weights, it's well suited for keeping up your exercise routine during a business trip or refreshing yourself while traveling. Newly built under the concept of "a space where the stay itself contributes to your health," it's a welcome point for those on long stays, too. Photo: The fitness room that opened in May 2026. Cardio machines and strength-training equipment are set up by the windows. For those who want to enjoy strolling the town more actively, rental bikes (eBike mini-velo type) are also available. In Japan, bicycles also keep to the left as a rule. Turn on your lights at night and ride with care for pedestrians. As compact electric-assist bicycles, they make even uphill stretches easier to climb, letting you tour Kushiro's townscape and seaside over a wider range than on foot. Rental bikes are available only during the period from April to November. Photo: A rental bike (eBike mini-velo type) riding along the seaside. With electric assist, you can tour a wide area of Kushiro's town. In addition, the convenience shop on the 1st floor comes in handy when you need a drink, a snack, or something you forgot; and because there's a coin laundry, you can travel with minimal luggage even on a stay spanning several days. A business corner is also provided, making it an environment well suited to a workation or business trip. A strength of the Kushiro Prince Hotel is that it has a full set of facilities to handle not only use as a sightseeing base but also long stays. Even when you're taking a break from sightseeing, the hotel provides a comfortable place to relax. From Sunset to the Morning Sea: Can You Enjoy Scenery That Changes by the Hour? The Value of a Stay at the Kushiro Prince Hotel The Kushiro Prince Hotel is plenty enjoyable even for a single night, but it's also a hotel whose appeal grows all the more with two or more consecutive nights. The reason is that Kushiro's scenery changes its expression depending on the time of day and the weather. Even the view from the same high-floor window brings one scene after another that you can't take in over a single night's stay: the calm sea in the morning, the deep-blue Pacific at midday, the sunset known as one of the world's three great sunsets in the evening, the town lights at night, and the misty port the next morning. In winter especially, the town and the sea turn into a snowy landscape, so you can enjoy an expression completely different from summer or autumn. Since you're staying at the Kushiro Prince Hotel, do take your time over Kushiro's scenery with a stay of two or more nights. Does the Way You Enjoy the Kushiro Prince Hotel Change by Season? Sightseeing and Hotel Appeal Through the Year Each of Kushiro's four seasons has a different pleasure. Spring brings refreshing air free from the woes of pollen; summer brings the crisp, cool climate of a true summer escape; autumn brings sunsets that stand out under clear skies; and winter brings an encounter with red-crowned cranes, seen in only a limited number of places even in Japan. No matter how many times you visit, there's different scenery and a different experience. That's the fun of a stay in Kushiro. Photo: Two red-crowned cranes standing by the water. An encounter unique to Kushiro, which changes its expression with the seasons. Is Spring in Kushiro Low in Cedar and Cypress Pollen? Why It's Chosen as a Getaway During Pollen Season Spring in Japan is a season when many people suffer from hay fever, but Kushiro is known as an area with extremely little airborne cedar (Japanese cedar) and cypress (Japanese cypress) pollen. This is because there is hardly any of the planted cedar and cypress that drive pollen dispersal in Honshu, so the situation differs from Honshu, Japan's main island. Even across Hokkaido as a whole, the planted area of cedar is on a vastly smaller scale than in Honshu's major prefectures, and Kushiro is one of the areas there that is especially little affected by pollen dispersal.This characteristic has been taken up repeatedly in various media in recent years, and "spring Kushiro is comfortable for people with hay fever" has rapidly drawn attention as a theme. The number of people who choose Kushiro as a destination for "hifun", or pollen escape, spending the few weeks of pollen season in Hokkaido, has been steadily increasing in recent years.Freed from sneezing and itchy eyes, you can enjoy strolling the town and wetland sightseeing under clear air. A spring trip where you can take off your mask and breathe in deeply can be a welcome relief for those who suffer from pollen. The Kushiro Prince Hotel, which combines the convenience of the city center with rooms where you can relax, can flexibly accommodate everything from a short trip of a few days to a slightly longer, workation-style stay.Spring in Kushiro runs from around April to May, with temperatures of roughly 5°C to 13°C. Since mornings and evenings get chilly, you'll be comfortable pairing layers you can add to with a light outer layer. Why Is Summer Kushiro Popular as a Cool-Weather Retreat? Why the Hotel's Appeal Comes Alive on Longer Stays Summer in Kushiro often sees average midsummer temperatures of around 20°C even when Honshu is gripped by intense heat, making it an especially comfortable area within Hokkaido. From June to August, it's a climate cooler than Honshu, where you'll be glad to have long sleeves or a light layer during the day. Seeking out such an environment, in recent years not only short sightseeing trips but also a travel style of staying for one to two weeks while leisurely enjoying the town and nature has been increasing. The hotel has a coin laundry and a business corner, too, making it an environment well suited to longer stays.At the Kushiro Prince Hotel, long-stay plans are sometimes offered for summer cool-weather stays, such as a consecutive-night ECO plan limited to two or three nights, and a three-consecutive-night plan with "Minato-machi Coupons" usable at affiliated shops in the city. Greet a cool morning in a high-floor room overlooking the Pacific, tour the wetland and outskirts by Car Share during the day, and stroll the town on foot in the evening. In Kushiro, you can comfortably plan an itinerary built around the refreshingly cool climate. How to See Red-Crowned Cranes in Winter Kushiro: Enjoying a Trip Centered on Crane Watching and Photography Not to be missed in winter Kushiro is watching red-crowned cranes dance over the snowy fields. When observing, don't make loud noises, don't feed them, and watch over them while keeping your distance from designated spots. Observation points known to photography enthusiasts at home and abroad, such as Tsurumidai in Tsurui Village, the Akan International Crane Center, and the Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary, are scattered within day-trip range of the city center. Photo: Red-crowned cranes dancing with wings spread over a snowy field. A signature scene of winter in Eastern Hokkaido, popular with photography enthusiasts too. The red-crowned crane was at one point so reduced in number that it was thought to be extinct, but in 1924 it was rediscovered in the Kushiro Wetland. Thanks to subsequent local conservation efforts, the population has now recovered. In the early morning, the sight of red-crowned cranes, with their pure white bodies marked with black and red, descending onto a snowy field where steam rises is a signature highlight of winter in Eastern Hokkaido, drawing many who come not just to observe but to take serious photographs. On a winter early morning, crane watching centers on outdoor photography where it can drop below freezing, so having a comfortable place nearby to warm up can make all the difference. Winter in Kushiro runs from around November to March, when temperatures drop below freezing to roughly minus 8°C to minus 2°C. Head out with solid winter gear, such as warm clothing, gloves, and non-slip winter boots. For early-morning photography in particular, you may wait outdoors for long stretches, so it's reassuring to also have hand warmers and thermal innerwear. At the Kushiro Prince Hotel, after returning from photography you can rest in a high-floor room or enjoy the magnificent view at the top-floor restaurant, so even on a cold-season trip you can spend your time at ease. Depending on the period, winter-only plans and special services may also be arranged, so checking the latest accommodation plans before you visit will help you plan a more satisfying winter trip. Adding One More Day to Your Kushiro Trip? Side Trips That Expand Your Eastern Hokkaido Journey After enjoying sightseeing within Kushiro and your stay at the Kushiro Prince Hotel, if you have one more day to spare in your itinerary, there's also the option of venturing a little farther afield from the hotel. Because the Kushiro Prince Hotel lets you use Car Share with pickup and drop-off at the hotel, it's an easy base for a day-trip drive: leave in the morning, return by evening, and have dinner at the top-floor restaurant. Akkeshi Oysters and Winter Jewelry Ice: Scenery and Flavors Within a Day Trip from Kushiro About an hour's drive east of Kushiro, Akkeshi Town, facing the Pacific, is known as a renowned production area where you can enjoy oysters year-round. You can compare brands with distinct characters, such as "Kaki-emon" and "Maru-emon." Beyond raw oysters, you can enjoy them grilled or steamed, and at the roadside station "Akkeshi Gourmet Terminal Conchiglie" the appeal is being able to savor them charcoal-grilled. A roadside station (Michi-no-Eki / roadside station) is a rest facility you can casually drop by on a journey, where you can also enjoy local ingredients, souvenirs, and light meals. Photo: Akkeshi Town's brand oysters "Kaki-emon" and "Maru-emon." Large oysters in the shell that can be enjoyed year-round. Worth visiting only in the winter season is the "Jewelry Ice (Jewelry Ice)" that washes up on Otsu Beach in Toyokoro Town. It's a phenomenon in which blocks of ice that flow out from the Tokachi River are polished by the waves of the Pacific and wash up on the shore, transparent like jewels; the hours when the morning or evening sun shines through the ice are especially popular subjects for photography. As it's a natural phenomenon, the amount and condition you can see vary by the day you visit. It's a little distant, about two hours by car from Kushiro, but it's known as a spectacular sight unique to winter in Eastern Hokkaido. Photo: The winter-only "Jewelry Ice" on Otsu Beach in Toyokoro Town. Blocks of ice that glow like jewels as the morning sun shines through them. Both are within a round-trip day's reach using the Kushiro Prince Hotel as your base. By staying multiple nights and combining them with city sightseeing, you can enjoy your Kushiro trip even more deeply. Conclusion: How to Make the Most of Kushiro Sightseeing and a Hotel Stay: Why Choose the Kushiro Prince Hotel as Your Base A sunset that ranks among the world's three great sunsets, the vast Kushiro Wetland just a short drive away, Washo Market's Katte-don, and winter's red-crowned cranes. A great feature of a Kushiro trip is that you can savor each of these different charms in a single stay. As a base that lets you spend less time worrying about transportation and more time enjoying Kushiro, the Kushiro Prince Hotel has solid strengths. A central city-center location with easy access to Tancho Kushiro Airport, JR Kushiro Station, Nusamai Bridge, and Washo Market. High-floor twin rooms where you can enjoy one of the world's three great sunsets on clear days, and the views of the high floors overlooking the Pacific. Photo: The exterior of the Kushiro Prince Hotel standing out against the night town. A hotel where the stay itself becomes the purpose of the trip. The "Umi no Sachi Don" and a breakfast buffet that makes the most of Eastern Hokkaido ingredients. A fitness room, rental bikes, and a top-floor restaurant for the days you don't head out sightseeing. And Car Share that lets you venture out to the outskirts with pickup and drop-off at the hotel. Not a hotel for sightseeing, but a hotel where the stay itself can become the purpose of the trip. That is the Kushiro Prince Hotel. Supporting this kind of Kushiro stay are the hotel's staff. The Kushiro Prince Hotel staff who face guests every day say this: "In Kushiro, a summer retreat that stays cool even in summer, please spend some time enjoying the gentle breeze. The beautiful sunset viewed from your room will make your journey even more memorable. In this place, where in spring you can also spend your time comfortably as a pollen-escape destination, please do come and experience a stay that lets your heart unwind." On your next trip to Kushiro, why not see the unforgettable Kushiro sunset, viewed from your guest-room window, with your own eyes? Kushiro Prince Hotel: Essential Information Facility name Kushiro Prince Hotel Address 〒085-8581 北海道釧路市幸町7-1 Phone 0154-31-1111 Check-in 14:00 Check-out 11:00 Guest room floors 6–14F Standard Floors 15–16F High Floors Room types Single / Twin / Double / Suite / Forth On-site facilities 17F restaurant "Top of Kushiro" (with adjoining SKYROOM) Fitness room Convenience shop Coin laundry Business corner Rental bikes Car Share "TOYOTA SHARE" Access (Train) About a 10-minute walk from Kushiro Station on JR (Japan Railways), Japan's main railway Access (Car) About 30 minutes from Tancho Kushiro Airport under normal conditions Access (Bus) Take the Kushiro Airport Connection Bus and get off at "Kushiro Shiyakusho-mae (in front of the hotel)"; 1-minute walk (about 55 minutes) Parking Available (paid ) Official website https://www.princehotels.co.jp/kushiro Digital brochure https://ehsc.jp/pdf/2023kushirok7.pdf Accommodation plans https://www.princehotels.co.jp/kushiro/plan/all/ ※ Information is subject to change. Please check the official website for the latest details. ※ This article was written based on information as of June 2026, under the supervision of the Kushiro Prince Hotel staff. For the latest information on Kushiro Prince Hotel, please check COOL JAPAN VIDEOS' SNS. 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Table of Contents Introduction Why Does Staying Inside a National Park Make a Trip to Kussharo So Special? What Makes Its Location Beside Lake Kussharo and Akan-Mashu National Park So Special? Why Does a Stay That Lets You Savor "the Luxury of Nothing" Leave Such an Impression in Kussharo? All Rooms Face the Lake—What Kind of Time Can You Share with Lake Kussharo? What Makes Rooms Overlooking Lake Kussharo, Japan's Largest Caldera Lake, So Special? Why Do Guests Want to Stay Longer, Gazing at Lake Kussharo? Around Lake Kussharo, What Differences in Scenery Await from Place to Place? Sunayu: How Can You Enjoy a Hot-Spring Experience Unique to Lake Kussharo and the Sight of Whooper Swans? Wakoto Peninsula: How Can You Savor the Quiet Time Created by Forest and Lake Kussharo? Walking the Wakoto Peninsula Nature Trail: How Do You Feel the Charm of Old-Growth Forest and Lakeshore? Why Is the Panorama of Lake Kussharo Seen from Bihoro Pass So Special? Kussharo Kotan Ainu Folklore Museum: How Can You Learn About the Culture Passed Down Alongside Lake Kussharo? A Location That Lets You Get Moving from Early Morning: How Can You Make the Most of Kussharo's Nature Experiences? The Kushiro River Headwaters and the Lake Kussharo Morning Canoe: What Waterscapes Await? Sea of Clouds and Birdwatching: What Can You Meet That Only an East Hokkaido Morning Offers? Cycling and Glamping: What Stay-and-Play Time Can You Enjoy in Kussharo? After a Day Spent in Nature, What Awaits at Kussharo Onsen? What Are the Characteristics of the Kussharo Onsen Spring Water? The Open-Air Bath: How Can You Savor the Forest Air and the Quiet? With a Barrel Sauna, How Does Lakeside Rest Change? What Hokkaido Flavors Can You Enjoy at the Kussharo Prince Hotel? Restaurant "Loupeigne": What Hokkaido Flavors Can You Discover? Including the Surrounding Food Scene, How Far Do Hokkaido Flavors Reach? How Does Good Access Connect to How Easily You Can Plan Your Kussharo Sightseeing? Broaden Your View to All of East Hokkaido and Kussharo Sightseeing Gets Even More Interesting How Do You Put Together a Manageable Model Course for Kussharo Sightseeing? In Summary: To Travel Kussharo Is to Enjoy the Time You Spend at the Kussharo Prince Hotel, Too What Are the Facility Details and Access for the Kussharo Prince Hotel? Read More Introduction Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost island. Spread across its eastern side, East Hokkaido holds quiet, spectacular scenery that many travelers have yet to discover. At its heart lies the town of Teshikaga. Cradled by the magnificent nature of Akan-Mashu National Park(one of the national parks designated by the Japanese government to protect the natural environment), this town is dotted with Lake Kussharo, Japan's largest caldera lake (0:00); Lake Mashu, famed for its mysterious scenery; Mt. Io, where volcanic steam rises; and steam-wreathed Kawayu Onsen. Here, lakes, volcanoes, and hot springs come together in a single journey. Standing on the shore of Lake Kussharo in Teshikaga is the Kussharo Prince Hotel. (0:20) Photo: The full view of the Kussharo Prince Hotel standing on the shore of Lake Kussharo, an all-lake-view resort hotel Every Western-style room faces the lake, and the hotel offers Kussharo Onsen hot-spring water welling up from 1,000 m underground, a buffet showcasing Hokkaido ingredients, and experiences unique to the area, such as morning canoe tours and sea-of-clouds tours.For this article, we spoke with Kitazawa-san, who welcomes guests at the hotel every day, to share ways of enjoying the area that only someone working on-site would know. By the time you finish reading, you'll have a clear picture of a stay that may well make you want to choose the Kussharo Prince Hotel as your base for exploring East Hokkaido. Why Does Staying Inside a National Park Make a Trip to Kussharo So Special? Lake Kussharo is Japan's largest caldera lake, roughly 57 km in circumference and about 79.5 square kilometers in area. A caldera lake forms when rainwater and groundwater collect in the basin left after a major volcanic eruption causes the area around a summit to collapse. Scattered around the lake are sightseeing spots such as "Sunayu," where you can dig a little into the sand to enjoy a natural foot bath; the "Wakoto Peninsula," cloaked in old-growth forest; and "Tsubetsu Pass," known for its sea of clouds. There are also plenty of experiences whose appeal shifts with the time of day, from canoeing at the headwaters of the Kushiro River to sea-of-clouds tours. Photo: Lake Kussharo, Japan's largest caldera lake, boasting a circumference of about 57 km When enjoying Kussharo this way, your choice of lodging has a big impact on how satisfying the trip feels. As the only hotel on the lake shore within the caldera, the Kussharo Prince Hotel draws the quiet of Akan-Mashu National Park right into its rooms. Kussharo Prince Hotel is a resort hotel that serves both as a base for sightseeing and as a place where the stay itself becomes the point. What Makes Its Location Beside Lake Kussharo and Akan-Mashu National Park So Special? The Kussharo Prince Hotel stands right on the lakeshore. A Lakeside Garden spreads across the grounds, with the surface of Lake Kussharo visible just beyond it and a range of mountains lining the far shore. Photo: The Lakeside Garden on the grounds of the Kussharo Prince Hotel Set between lake and forest, with no major shopping areas nearby, the sky fills with glittering stars after dark. Sleeping inside a national park, waking, and heading out to the lake again in a setting where hardly a man-made structure intrudes on the view is something few places in Japan can offer. Teshikaga sits within easy reach of three national parks: Akan-Mashu, Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, and Shiretoko National Park, making it a convenient base for touring East Hokkaido. Repeat visitors from around Hokkaido often say things like, "The scenery never gets old no matter how many times I come," and "It makes me want to visit in a different season and a different time of day each time." Why Does a Stay That Lets You Savor "the Luxury of Nothing" Leave Such an Impression in Kussharo? Many long-stay guests at the Kussharo Prince Hotel talk about "the comfort of doing nothing." Even without packing your schedule with sightseeing spots, you can gaze at the lake, soak in the hot spring, stroll through the garden, then return to your room to read. The setting is built for exactly this kind of stay.In fact, thanks to the comfort of the rooms, the quality of the hot spring, and above all the view of Lake Kussharo, which never grows tiresome even over a long stay, many guests from outside Hokkaido enjoy long stays of around ten nights. Guests describe it less as ‘travel’ and more as ‘living in Kussharo for a while.’ Rather than racing from one attraction to the next, you settle into one place at a relaxed pace and take in the air of the region. For anyone seeking that kind of unhurried travel, the Kussharo Prince Hotel makes an ideal base.Because it lies within a national park, development is restricted, so there are no flashy tourist facilities around. That very "nothingness" turns out to be the greatest luxury of all. All Rooms Face the Lake—What Kind of Time Can You Share with Lake Kussharo? Its expression changes with the season and the weather, but morning on Lake Kussharo shifts color little by little from the hours when the light is still soft. Open the curtains, and on some mornings mist drifts across the water; as the sky brightens, the mountains on the far shore and the look of the lake's surface slowly transform. Being able to watch that change from inside your room is a pleasure unique to a room facing Lake Kussharo. (0:26) Photo: Lake Kussharo surrounded by nature and the exterior of the Kussharo Prince Hotel on its shore When you return from sightseeing during the day, a completely different scene awaits. Around midday, Lake Kussharo catches the sun from directly overhead and its surface glitters blue. After 4 p.m., the lowering western sun begins to dye the water gold, and between 5 and 6 p.m. the lake's color drifts from gold to deep indigo.After 8 p.m., once the sun has fully set, it's the stars' turn. Switch off the room lights and open the curtains, and a sky brimming with stars spreads out before you. With so few artificial lights nearby, even the Milky Way is clearly visible.What sets the Kussharo Prince Hotel's rooms apart is that they face Lake Kussharo, letting you feel the lakeside nature up close throughout your stay. Whichever room you choose, open the curtains in the morning and there is Lake Kussharo; come back at midday and there is Lake Kussharo; and there it is again before you climb into bed at night. Because the lake is visible from every room, the sense of being connected to it lasts your entire stay. What Makes Rooms Overlooking Lake Kussharo, Japan's Largest Caldera Lake, So Special? The guest rooms are Western-style and fitted with large windows. Below the windows are wooden louvers (slatted vents), so on fine days you can open up and let the lakeside air into the room.From May into June, the breeze off the lake is pleasantly cool; in July and August a refreshing wind passes through the room. By September, a touch of cooler air mixes in, and you can feel the change of seasons on your skin. As a rough guide, temperatures in the East Hokkaido area run about 5–13°C in spring (April–May), about 15–21°C in summer (June–August), and about 6–18°C in autumn (September–October). Even in summer it is cooler than Honshu, Japan's main island, so it's wise to bring long sleeves or a light layer.Room types are wide-ranging: Twin Rooms, Lake View rooms, Family Rooms, Superior Double Rooms with a jet bath, Corner Triple Rooms, and Heartful Rooms designed with wheelchair users in mind. Photo: A Western-style twin room with a large window overlooking Lake Kussharo The top-floor Lake View rooms in particular are designed so that nothing blocks the view, letting you take in the lake to the fullest. The lineup suits all kinds of trips, from solo travel to family and group journeys.Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and the lobby, so international travelers can stay with peace of mind. Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out at 11:00, letting you savor Lake Kussharo in the morning before you set off. Why Do Guests Want to Stay Longer, Gazing at Lake Kussharo? There's a reason so many guests stay multiple nights: the appeal of an extended stay gradually becomes apparent. On your first day, you’re struck by the sheer scale of Lake Kussharo. Photo: The view of Lake Kussharo and the Kussharo Prince Hotel that never grows tiresome even over consecutive nights On the second, you begin to settle into its quiet rhythms, with its fresh morning and shifting breeze. By the third, you notice details you might otherwise have missed, such as the changing angle of the light, the shifting of the clouds, and even the changing patterns of the stars overhead. It looks like the same view, yet it differs a little each day. Enjoying these subtle changes is the real reward of an extended visit. One repeat long-stay guest told us, "The lake wears a different face every morning, so I never tire of it. Some mornings are misty, others perfectly clear. And on rainy days, just watching the ripples spread across the water is enough to make the hours slip by."Simply having Lake Kussharo spread out before you the moment you rise from bed changes how the day begins. Rooms where doing nothing never feels tedious are surprisingly rare. The guest rooms at the Kussharo Prince Hotel are spaces made for long stays and unhurried travel. Around Lake Kussharo, What Differences in Scenery Await from Place to Place? Lake Kussharo isn't a lake you take in from a single spot and call it done. Its north, south, east, and west shores each have spots with a different character, and just a short drive from the hotel brings you to an entirely different Kussharo.Whether you come to take photographs or simply to relax while taking in the views, there's a way to enjoy it that suits you. This flexibility is part of the charm of this area. Sunayu: How Can You Enjoy a Hot-Spring Experience Unique to Lake Kussharo and the Sight of Whooper Swans? About a 30-minute drive from the hotel, Sunayu is one of Lake Kussharo's signature sightseeing spots. True to its name (literally "sand hot water"), dig a little into the lakeside sand and hot-spring water wells up. Scoop down about 20 cm and warm water gently seeps in, an experience that delights children and adults alike.You can dig out your own foot bath and warm your feet while gazing at the lake. Even on a cold winter's day, soaking your feet while watching the swans makes for a lasting travel memory. Photo: "Sunayu" on the shore of Lake Kussharo, where hot-spring water wells up when you dig into the sand In winter (November to March), Whooper Swans can be seen arriving around Lake Kussharo to overwinter. Note, however, that the Kussharo Prince Hotel sets winter closure periods or limited-operation periods that vary by year, so if you plan to stay in winter, you'll need to check the operating status on the official website in advance. In winter, East Hokkaido often drops below freezing from November to March, to roughly −8°C to −2°C, so it's reassuring to pack proper winter gear such as warm clothing, gloves, and insulated boots. The sight of the swans that have traveled several thousand kilometers from Russia floating on the water is breathtaking. Between 6 and 7 in the early morning, with mist rising off the lake, swans glide gracefully across it: a scene known as one of the defining winter landscapes of East Hokkaido.Swans are wary, so take care not to get too close, but even from about 20 m away their graceful form is easy to enjoy. In the early-morning stillness, listening to the beat of the swans' wings and the sound of them pushing across the water is a luxury unique to Kussharo. Photo: Whooper swans arriving to overwinter on Lake Kussharo in winter The pairing of lake and swans makes an appealing subject for photography lovers and is popular with international travelers as well. Walking the shore while slowly following the swans is a far cry from rushing around famous sights, and a quintessentially Kussharo way to spend your time. Wakoto Peninsula: How Can You Savor the Quiet Time Created by Forest and Lake Kussharo? About a three-minute drive from the hotel, the Wakoto Peninsula is a small peninsula jutting into Lake Kussharo. The whole peninsula is covered in old-growth forest, and the Wakoto Peninsula Nature Trail, a loop of about 2.5 km that takes around an hour to walk, is well maintained.Walk out to the tip of the peninsula and you reach an open spot with a 360-degree view of Lake Kussharo. From here the lake looks less like a lake and more like a calm inland sea. On days with almost no waves, when the surface is as still as a mirror, the boundary between sky and lake blurs and you feel as if you're floating in the sky. Photo: The Wakoto Peninsula, covered in old-growth forest and jutting into Lake Kussharo There's something to enjoy in every season: autumn foliage in fall, appealing white blooms of Asian skunk cabbage and rows of cherry trees from spring into summer. From late May to early June, Sargent's cherry (ezoyamazakura) blooms in profusion, tinting the lakeshore pink. Walking the Wakoto Peninsula Nature Trail: How Do You Feel the Charm of Old-Growth Forest and Lakeshore? If you'd like to take in the Wakoto Peninsula a little more deeply, we recommend walking the nature trail at a leisurely pace. Along the way you're greeted by forests of Yezo spruce and Sakhalin fir, lakeside wildflowers, and the soothing chirps and warbles of birdsong. Partway along is the open-air bath of Wakoto Onsen, an outdoor hot-spring bath (free, mixed bathing, swimwear permitted), where you can enjoy the luxury of soaking in a hot spring within the forest. Photo: The open-air bath of Wakoto Onsen along the Wakoto Peninsula Nature Trail Reading the interpretive signs as you walk through a forest of delicate wildflowers and trees, home to a variety of wildlife, feels less like sightseeing and more like melting into nature itself.Along the trail, a sign explains how the Wakoto Peninsula came to be. It is a lava dome formed by volcanic activity around 6,000 years ago and is considered a geologically valuable site within Lake Kussharo. Knowing this background adds a new layer of enjoyment: not just walking, but walking while feeling the history of the land.As you walk through the forest, you may spot a Hokkaido squirrel leaping from tree to tree or a wild bird perched on a branch. Stop for a moment and listen to the sounds of the forest: the wind stirring the trees, birdsong, waves lapping at the lakeshore. These small sounds layer together to make up the forests around Lake Kussharo. Photo: A Hokkaido squirrel you can encounter in the old-growth forest of the Wakoto Peninsula It's a place for sitting quietly with nature, and letting time pass you by without hurry. Why Is the Panorama of Lake Kussharo Seen from Bihoro Pass So Special? Bihoro Pass, about a 15-minute drive from the hotel, is a lookout with a sweeping view of Lake Kussharo. Seen from the pass at roughly 525 m above sea level, the lake is a spectacle that looks almost like looking down at a map. Photo: Bihoro Pass, with a sweeping view of Lake Kussharo from about 525 m above sea level It's also known as a place where, with a bit of luck, you can encounter a sea of clouds in the early morning. A sea of clouds is a natural phenomenon in which mist or low-lying clouds, viewed from a high vantage point, look like an ocean of cloud. In the early mornings from June to October (especially the morning after a clear day), a sea of clouds can spread over Lake Kussharo. Nakajima Island floating above the clouds with the blue of the lake glimpsed through their gaps makes for a scene you carry with you for a lifetime.At the pass is the "Michi-no-Eki Gurutto Panorama Bihoro-toge" roadside station, with an observation deck, a restaurant, and a shop. A michi-no-eki, or roadside station, is a rest facility set along major roads throughout Japan, where you can also enjoy local ingredients, souvenirs, and light meals. The restaurant serves ageimo, a Bihoro Pass specialty. It's a simple dish of deep-fried Hokkaido potatoes, crispy on the outside and fluffy within, that warms you after standing in the cold mountain wind. Photo: The "Michi-no-Eki Gurutto Panorama Bihoro-toge" roadside station overlooking Lake Kussharo It's a place to feel the sheer scale of the sky spreading above the lake, and a spot worth visiting if you'd like to take some striking photos. Kussharo Kotan Ainu Folklore Museum: How Can You Learn About the Culture Passed Down Alongside Lake Kussharo? On the south side of Lake Kussharo, about a 10-minute drive from the hotel, is the Kussharo Kotan Ainu Folklore Museum. Kotan is an Ainu word meaning a settlement or village. The Ainu are an Indigenous people who have lived in Hokkaido and northern Japan since ancient times. The name "Kussharo" itself derives from the Ainu word "kutcharo" (the throat or outlet of a marsh), which shows how deeply this lake has been tied to Ainu life since long ago.The museum displays traditional Ainu household tools, clothing, and crafts. The dugout canoes and fishing implements are especially interesting. On Lake Kussharo, the Ainu used dugout canoes to catch kokanee (landlocked sockeye salmon) and carp, living on the bounty of the lake.The beauty of the garments and embroidery bearing Ainu patterns is another highlight. Traditional motifs such as the spiral "moreu" and the thorn-like "aiushi" each carry meanings, from warding off evil to praying for a bountiful catch.Outside, a traditional dwelling called a "chise" (the Ainu word for "house") has been reconstructed, and you can tour its interior. With its thatched roof, an irori (a traditional sunken hearth set in the floor that serves as both fireplace and cooking spot), and an altar shelf, it lets you experience how the Ainu people lived.Touching not only the scenery but also the history and culture of the land changes the depth of a trip entirely. Once you know that Lake Kussharo is not merely a "big lake" but "Kutcharo," deeply bound up with people's lives, the way you look at it changes too.For fiscal 2026, the museum is open from April 10 to November 30. It's open every day during that period, but it's reassuring to check the latest opening status before you head out. A Location That Lets You Get Moving from Early Morning: How Can You Make the Most of Kussharo's Nature Experiences? Kussharo's appeal can't be captured by its daytime scenery alone. The early-morning lake, misty dawns, starlit nights: each part of the day offers scenery you can meet only then.One of the great advantages of staying at the Kussharo Prince Hotel lies in this location that lets you get moving from early in the morning. The Kushiro River Headwaters and the Lake Kussharo Morning Canoe: What Waterscapes Await? The Headwaters of the Kushiro River The Kushiro River's headwaters begin at the southern end of Lake Kussharo. The lake is also the source of the Kushiro River, which runs about 154 km before emptying into the Pacific Ocean. With no large dam on its main stream, the Kushiro is a rare river you can paddle by canoe all the way from source to mouth. Photo: The Kushiro River, about 154 km long, originating at Lake Kussharo and flowing into the Pacific Ocean The headwaters canoe tour, descending the roughly 3 km from Lake Kussharo to Midori Bridge, lets you feel how the lake, the forest, and the river connect, and it's popular with international travelers too. As your canoe leaves the lake, the river quickly narrows and the trees press in from both banks.The current is gentle, so even first-time canoeists can relax and enjoy it. Drifting slowly down a quiet river ringed by forests of Yezo spruce and Sakhalin fir, you feel completely cut off from the bustle of everyday life.With a little luck, you may encounter wildlife such as Hokkaido sika deer, Ezo red fox, and white-tailed eagles. On guided tours, you'll also learn about the plants and animals and the history of the Kushiro River. The Lake Kussharo Morning Canoe Tour The Lake Kussharo Morning Canoe Tour is an experience we especially recommend. You leave the hotel before dawn, while it's still dim, and head to the lakeside canoe station. Photo: An image of Lake Kussharo and a canoe Between 5 and 6 a.m., as the sky gradually begins to lighten, you paddle out onto the lake.With morning mist hanging over the water, you ease the canoe forward until the world narrows to just you and the sound of your paddle. From beyond the mist, the mountains of the far shore slowly emerge, and the eastern sky begins to glow orange.Before long, the sun peeks over the ridgeline and the lake's surface bursts into gold all at once. Witnessing that moment from out on the water evokes emotions that can’t quite be conveyed by words.For travelers who want a trip where they take the photos themselves rather than just look at them, it's an unbeatable spot for photography. On the morning lake, the angle of the light shifts moment by moment, showing a different face each time you press the shutter.The morning canoe takes about 30 minutes, so you can build a day around returning to the hotel for breakfast and then heading out sightseeing again. Sea of Clouds and Birdwatching: What Can You Meet That Only an East Hokkaido Morning Offers? Lake Kussharo Sea-of-Clouds Guided Tour at Tsubetsu Pass About a 90-minute drive from the hotel, Tsubetsu Pass is known as a spectacular sea-of-clouds spot with a sweeping view of Lake Kussharo. When the lake, seen from the pass at roughly 947 m above sea level, is blanketed in a sea of clouds, it looks like an island floating on an ocean of cloud. (0:22) Photo: The sea of clouds covering Lake Kussharo, seen from Tsubetsu Pass at about 947 m above sea level Created by the unique combination of the distinctive weather conditions and caldera terrain around Lake Kussharo, the early-morning sea of clouds is a scene you'll remember for a lifetime. It's most likely to form in the early mornings from June to October, especially the morning after a clear day when radiative cooling has occurred.On the Lake Kussharo sea-of-clouds tour, an expert guide judges the likelihood of the phenomenon and leads you up to the pass at the best timing. The first thing that meets your eyes on arrival is an ocean of cloud stretching as far as you can see. Through gaps in the clouds, the blue surface of Lake Kussharo peeks out, with Nakajima Island floating above the clouds.Your guide brews morning coffee, so you can savor the golden, glowing sea of clouds with a warm cup in hand. The clouds change shape moment by moment, swirling or parting as the wind moves them. Just watching that transformation, you lose track of time. Lake Kussharo Stargazing Guided Tour at Tsubetsu Pass At night, there's also the Lake Kussharo Stargazing Guided Tour at Tsubetsu Pass, where an expert guide introduces a sky full of stars. With almost no artificial light around, Tsubetsu Pass is ideal for stargazing. Photo: A stargazing guided tour enjoying a sky full of stars at Tsubetsu Pass, where artificial light is scarce Pointing out constellations with a laser pointer, the guide shares the myths behind them. You can enjoy a different night sky each season: the Milky Way in summer, Orion in winter, the Big Dipper in spring. And the wonder of catching a shooting star is like nothing else. Wildlife to Find Around Lake Kussharo In winter, following animal tracks left across the snowfields is a popular experience. From prints in the snow left by Hokkaido sika deer, Ezo red fox, mountain hare, and others, you read which animal headed in which direction. Walking while listening to the guide's explanations, the snowy forest comes to look like a completely different world.Watching a small wild bird called the shima-enaga (long-tailed tit) is another winter pleasure. About 13 cm long, these tiny birds move in flocks in winter. Watching them peck at berries and flit from branch to branch never gets old. Photo: The shima-enaga (long-tailed tit), a small wild bird seen around Lake Kussharo in winter Birdwatching is at its most rewarding in the stillness of early morning. Birdsong, the beat of wings, the crunch of snow underfoot: time spent listening closely to such small sounds lingers as a memory of the trip. Cycling and Glamping: What Stay-and-Play Time Can You Enjoy in Kussharo? Lake Kussharo Cycling Tour Around the hotel are cycling courses for both beginners and the more athletic, including a Kussharo cycling tour that takes in Lake Kussharo and Mt. Mokoto on an electric-assist E-bike. (0:43)Choose a flat lakeside route and you can ride at a relaxed pace, enjoying the scenery. Between the exhilaration of cutting through the wind, the flowers blooming along the shore, and the mountains across the water, there's a side of Kussharo you can only experience by bicycle.There's also a course that stops at the Kussharo Kotan Ainu Folklore Museum along the way and returns by motorboat, so you enjoy different scenery on the way out and back. Lake Kussharo seen from a motorboat has a force all its own, quite different from viewing it from land. In Summer, Enjoy Glamping on the Kussharo Prince Hotel Grounds In summer (June–September), a glamping facility called Hokkaido Nature Village in Kussharo appears within the Lakeside Garden, where you can enjoy a tent sauna and a barbecue dinner in the garden on the shore of Lake Kussharo. (0:39) Photo: The glamping facility that appears in the Lakeside Garden for the summer season only Each glamping site comes with a tent, table, chairs, and a fire pit, so you can enjoy it with no equipment needed. At the barbecue dinner, you grill Hokkaido meat and vegetables over charcoal while gazing at the lake. A meal eaten while watching the sun go down is incomparable.After working up a sweat in the tent sauna, cool down in the lake in place of a cold plunge. Whether you want to sway in a hammock on the terrace, or take in the seasonal flowers in the Lakeside Garden, there's everything you need for a fulfilling day even without venturing far.*The availability of the glamping facility and activities may change depending on the season. Please check the official website for the latest information. After a Day Spent in Nature, What Awaits at Kussharo Onsen? From morning onward, you’ll be out exploring, gazing at the lake, walking the forest, paddling a canoe, taking photos, riding a bike, and more. A day in Kussharo uses your body more than you'd expect. What rounds off such a day is Kussharo Onsen, welling up from underground. An onsen is a uniquely Japanese bathing culture in which you soak in natural water warmed by the earth's heat.Sinking a body tired from a day of sightseeing quietly into the bath, and letting it restore itself, makes your stay even more rewarding. It's precisely because you have both time to take in the scenery and time to rest your body that a trip to Kussharo gains real depth. What Are the Characteristics of the Kussharo Onsen Spring Water? The Kussharo Prince Hotel has a spacious communal bath where many people can bathe at once. At Japanese onsen hotels, some properties provide a large public bath, separate from the bathroom in your room, that can accommodate many guests. No swimwear is needed; you use a towel. The Kussharo Onsen water here is a sodium–calcium sulfate/chloride spring (a neutral, hypotonic, high-temperature spring), welling up from 1,000 m underground at a spring temperature of 45.0°C and a flow of as much as 280 liters per minute. Photo: The open-air bath of Kussharo Onsen, welling up from 1,000 m underground Rich in salts and carbon dioxide gas, it's expected to help retain moisture, support the skin's metabolism, and stimulate the work of the capillaries.As general onsen benefits, it's reputed to be effective for promoting health, as well as help relieve a wide range of conditions, including neuralgia, joint pain, fatigue, poor circulation, and muscle stiffness, among others. It's a welcome kind of water for warming the body after sightseeing.The large bath is open from 14:00 to 24:00, and again from 5:00 to 10:00 the next morning. Once in the afternoon when you return from sightseeing, once more after dinner, and once again after you wake: At Kussharo Prince Hotel, the luxury of bathing in the hot spring several times a day is yours.Please note that many onsen facilities may decline entry to guests with tattoos. Be sure to check with each facility.Bathe at 5 in the early morning and you can watch the sky begin to brighten through the rising steam. Greeting the start of the day amid the stillness unique to Kussharo is something truly special. The Open-Air Bath: How Can You Savor the Forest Air and the Quiet? The open-air bath has a roof and is designed so you can ease your travel fatigue while looking out over the garden. A dedicated elevator lets you come straight from your room in your yukata and sandals, so after your bath you can head right back to relax in your room.In the open-air bath, you can rest your body at leisure while feeling the forest air on your skin. At the end of a day spent on the move, sinking into a quiet bath gently wraps the afterglow of your travels.Soak in the open-air bath at night and look up, and you'll see the stars. Bathing while gazing at a starry sky spread out beyond the steam is a luxury unique to Kussharo. Taking a moment to relax while looking over the garden after your bath is a luxury too. With a Barrel Sauna, How Does Lakeside Rest Change? Don't overlook the guests-only private barrel sauna, either. In a reserved barrel sauna set within the Lakeside Garden on the shore of Lake Kussharo, with the lake right before you, you can reach the deeply relaxed state attained by repeating sauna, cold plunge, and open-air cooling (in Japan, this is expressed as "totonou," getting into balance). Photo: The private barrel sauna set within the Lakeside Garden on the shore of Lake Kussharo It's available for private use, one unit at a time, from May 7 to October 31. Operating hours are split into two sessions: a morning session from 8:00 to 10:00 and an afternoon session from 15:00 to 17:00.A barrel sauna is a small sauna shaped like a wooden barrel, suitable for about two to four people. Warmed by a wood stove, the sauna room gradually heats your body from its core. Photo: The interior of the barrel sauna, which warms your body from its core with a wood stove After you've worked up a sweat, step straight into Lake Kussharo right in front of you. The lake water is cold and cools your sauna-flushed body all at once. Once you're out, settle into a deck chair for the open-air cool-down. Gazing at the lake, you slowly steady your breathing.Repeat this "sauna → lake → open-air cooling" for about three rounds and you'll loosen up from the core, wrapped in a pleasant tiredness. For sauna lovers, time spent feeling completely refreshed while gazing at the lake will surely make for an unforgettable night.Combined with the hot spring in the large bath, it makes for a stay that tunes your body from the core.*Sauna availability may change depending on the season. Please check the official website for the latest information. What Hokkaido Flavors Can You Enjoy at the Kussharo Prince Hotel? Once the hot spring has set your body right, it's time to eat. One of the joys of travel is, after all, the food. At the Kussharo Prince Hotel, the restaurants let you enjoy both the scenery and the cuisine. Restaurant "Loupeigne": What Hokkaido Flavors Can You Discover? Restaurant "Loupeigne" is a glass-walled space surrounded by a large pond and greenery, with star-inspired lighting glittering across a soaring ceiling ten meters high, a restaurant with a dreamlike atmosphere. (0:31) Photo: The glass-walled, open and airy restaurant "Loupeigne" Hours are 7:00–9:30 for breakfast (last order 9:00) and 18:00–21:00 for dinner (last order 20:30). Certified as the very first "Kita no Megumi Aishoku Restaurant" (a Hokkaido program promoting locally sourced dining), it serves dishes that make a point of using Hokkaido ingredients.Dining while looking out through the glass at the forest and pond, you really feel that you're at a table inside a national park. In this open, airy space, a meal taken while sensing the nature of Kussharo broadens the pleasures of your stay even further. A Japanese–Western–Chinese Buffet to Suit Every Appetite What you'll enjoy at Loupeigne is a varied buffet of Japanese, Western, and Chinese dishes. A lineup of dishes prepared in the chef’s own style lets you choose to match your mood that day. Photo: A Japanese-Western-Chinese buffet showcasing Hokkaido ingredients Photo: [Top left] fragrant, flavorful hanasaki crab; [Top right] the No.1 most-repeated ramen — Japanese-style soy sauce ramen, miso ramen, salt ramen; [Bottom left] Gouda cheese melted at high heat; [Bottom right] perfectly cooked roast beef Being free to decide your own pace and combinations is the beauty of a buffet. On a day you've been active since morning, lean toward the meat dishes; on a quieter day, center your meal on fish and vegetables. You can choose to suit how you feel.For those who prefer a set menu, there are Western-style courses: YAMANAMI (¥11,000), SORA (¥13,000), and CALDERA (¥16,000). If you stay multiple nights, you can alternate between the buffet and a course from day to day. "Lakeside Breakfast" on the Shore of Lake Kussharo The Lakeside Breakfast, where you enjoy a lakeside morning meal in a picnic mood, is a popular breakfast offering; in 2026 it runs as a seasonal, reservation-only plan from June 1 to September 30. A morning spent opening a basket while gazing at Lake Kussharo stays with you as a special memory. Photo: The Lakeside Breakfast, savoring a picnic mood on the shore of Lake Kussharo At Night, Savor the Afterglow of Your Travels at the Modern Bar-Lounge "La Gloriette" On the first floor is the lounge "La Gloriette." (0:46) It's open from 20:00 to 22:00 (last order 21:45). With the atmosphere of a modern bar floating on the pond, you can enjoy fine spirits from around the world and original cocktails.Enjoying a quiet drink at the end of the evening is the perfect way to linger over the lakeside atmosphere. Including the Surrounding Food Scene, How Far Do Hokkaido Flavors Reach? After getting a taste of Hokkaido ingredients through the hotel's meals, you'll want to venture out to the local food scene nearby. A short drive opens up a treasure trove of regional cuisine: oysters from Akkeshi, cheese from the Konsen region, and fresh dairy delivered from neighboring farms.Being able to enjoy both the meals at the hotel and the local restaurants and specialties nearby is one of the real pleasures of a stay in Kussharo. Akkeshi oysters are known as a high-quality brand shipped year-round thanks to proprietary techniques. There are three major brands: "Kaki-emon," marked by a rich sweetness; the large, milky "Maru-emon"; and the rare premium oyster "Benten-kaki". Because they grow slowly in the cold waters off Akkeshi, their flavor is exceptionally rich and concentrated. Photo: Akkeshi oysters, an East Hokkaido brand marked by a rich sweetness About an hour and a half by car from the hotel, it is close enough to combine sightseeing toward the Kushiro Wetlands or Nemuro with great food. Eaten raw or grilled, Akkeshi oysters are one of the pleasures of an East Hokkaido drive. How Does Good Access Connect to How Easily You Can Plan Your Kussharo Sightseeing? The Kussharo Prince Hotel sits in a convenient location as a base for touring East Hokkaido. Looking at access not as mere directions but together with how easily you can build an itinerary, you start to see why this hotel gets chosen. Easy to Get Around Lake Kussharo, So Trip Planning Is Simple The hotel sits right on the shore of Lake Kussharo, with good access to major spots such as Sunayu, the Wakoto Peninsula, and Bihoro Pass. Sunayu is about 30 minutes away by car, the Wakoto Peninsula about 3 minutes, and Bihoro Pass about 15 minutes, each being within easy reach for a casual visit.A free shuttle bus runs between JR Mashu Station and the hotel, making the trip between the hotel and the station smooth. You can check the schedule on the hotel's official website. Photo: JR Mashu Station, where the Kussharo Prince Hotel's free shuttle bus arrives and departs From Memanbetsu Airport it's about an hour by car under normal conditions, and from Kushiro Airport about an hour and 45 minutes. If you rent a car, you can go straight from the airport to the hotel and head out to explore the surroundings from there. From Tokyo (Haneda Airport), it's about an hour and 45 minutes by air to Memanbetsu Airport and about an hour and 40 minutes to Kushiro Airport. Visitors from overseas typically connect to a domestic flight in Tokyo or Sapporo. To rent a car you'll need an International Driving Permit, and remember that Japan drives on the left. From around November to March in winter, roads can become snowy due to snowfall and ice, so choose a car fitted with studless (winter) tires or check with each car-rental company.Even on a short two-day, one-night stay, it's entirely possible to cover the main spots around Lake Kussharo. With three days and two nights, you can also work in hands-on programs such as the morning canoe, a sea-of-clouds tour, and cycling.Stay several nights and you can even set aside a day without venturing far, to spend leisurely at the hotel. An East Hokkaido Base That's Easy to Extend Toward Lake Mashu, Abashiri, and Shiretoko The Kussharo Prince Hotel is convenient not only for the area around Lake Kussharo but as a base for sightseeing across all of East Hokkaido. Lake Mashu is about 30 minutes away by car and Mt. Io about 30 minutes, putting the main spots of Akan-Mashu National Park close at hand.It's about an hour and 20 minutes by car toward Abashiri and about two hours and 10 minutes toward Shiretoko, close enough for day trips. You could build an itinerary like the first night around Lake Kussharo, the second around Lake Mashu and Mt. Io, and the third venturing out toward Shiretoko.Precisely because there's the reassurance of returning to the hotel to rest, it becomes easier to widen the range of your sightseeing.The Kushiro Wetlands are also within day-trip range at about an hour and 20 minutes by car. Using the Kussharo Prince Hotel as your base, you can put together a trip that efficiently takes in all three national parks. Broaden Your View to All of East Hokkaido and Kussharo Sightseeing Gets Even More Interesting Rather than wrapping things up around Lake Kussharo alone, use the Kussharo Prince Hotel as a base for wider-area sightseeing that also takes in the Kushiro Wetlands and the Nemuro direction, and the scope of your trip expands dramatically.By planning your itinerary around the hotel, you can fully savor the charms of East Hokkaido for a trip that doesn't end with Kussharo alone. An East Hokkaido Drive That Extends to the Kushiro Wetlands, Notsuke Peninsula, and Shari Kushiro Shitsugen National Park is about an hour and 20 minutes from the hotel by car. As Japan's largest wetland, it's known as a habitat for red-crowned cranes and other wildlife. From the Kushiro Marsh Observatory and the Hosooka Observatory, you can take in the vast wetland at a glance. Photo: Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, about an hour and 20 minutes by car from the hotel Venture toward Nemuro and you'll find the Notsuke Peninsula. At about 26 km long, it's one of Japan's largest sand spits (a peninsula of sand), with a distinctive landscape that feels almost otherworldly. The scenery of standing dead Sakhalin firs known as "Todowara" is popular as a photogenic spot. It's a bit of a distance at about two hours by car from the hotel, but it's well worth working in as a destination on an East Hokkaido drive.Go further to Shari Town and there's a straight road called the "Road to Heaven." Running dead straight for about 28 km, it's a spectacular spot that creates the illusion of being drawn up into the sky. Photo: The "Road to Heaven," a spectacular straight road in Shari Town Widely shared on social media, it’s a destination no photography-minded traveler should pass up. How Do You Put Together a Manageable Model Course for Kussharo Sightseeing? A Two-Day, One-Night Model Course On day one, tour the area around Lake Kussharo (Sunayu, the Wakoto Peninsula, Bihoro Pass); on day two, try the morning canoe and then visit Lake Mashu and Mt. Io for a leisurely route you can cover without rushing. A Three-Day, Two-Night Model Course An itinerary like the area around Lake Kussharo on day one, the Kushiro Wetlands on day two, and the morning canoe plus a sea-of-clouds tour on day three is doable. If you spend the morning of day three relaxing at the hotel and check out in the afternoon, you can finish your trip on a relaxed note. A Four-Day, Three-Night Model Course For a longer stay of four days and three nights or more, you can split the days by area: around Lake Kussharo, Lake Mashu, the Kushiro Wetlands, the Shiretoko area, and the Nemuro area, allowing you to keep each day's travel distance short.We also recommend setting aside one day without venturing far, to spend relaxing at the hotel. Whether you are reading in the Lakeside Garden, or simply bathing in the hot spring again and again, a slow day at the hotel often turns out to be one of the most memorable parts of the trip. In Summary: To Travel Kussharo Is to Enjoy the Time You Spend at the Kussharo Prince Hotel, Too Sightseeing in Kussharo isn't only about visiting famous spots; where you stay and how you spend your time greatly change the impression a trip leaves. The Kussharo Prince Hotel is both a base for exploring the area around Lake Kussharo and a hotel where the stay itself becomes the purpose of the journey. Photo: The exterior of the Kussharo Prince Hotel, where the stay itself becomes the purpose of the journey All guest rooms are Western-style and face the lake, Kussharo Onsen springs from 1,000 meters underground, a buffet features Hokkaido-grown ingredients, experiences like morning canoeing and cloud sea tours, and the tranquility of spending time within a national park. All of these make a trip to Kussharo truly special. It is the staff of Kussharo Prince Hotel who make these lakeside moments possible. Sales Manager Yasuaki Kitazawa, who meets guests every day, shares his thoughts: Photo: Mr. Yasuaki Kitazawa, Sales Manager, Kussharo Prince Hotel "Standing on the shores of Lake Kussharo, Japan's largest caldera lake, our hotel is a tranquil retreat enveloped in majestic nature and serene stillness. With scenery that transforms through the four seasons, natural hot springs, and cuisine made with local ingredients, we offer moments that gently ease the heart. Step away from your everyday life and enjoy time that flows at its own unhurried pace." Not just going to see the scenery, but sleeping beside it, waking, and heading out again. If that sounds like your kind of journey, why not make the Kussharo Prince Hotel your base for your next trip to East Hokkaido? What Are the Facility Details and Access for the Kussharo Prince Hotel? Facility Name Kussharo Prince Hotel Address 〒088-3395 北海道川上郡弟子屈町屈斜路温泉 Phone Number 015-484-2111 FAX 015-484-2580 Check-in 15:00 Check-out 11:00 Access (Train / Shuttle Bus) Free shuttle bus available from JR Mashu Station (reservation required) Access (Car) Approximately 1 hour from Memanbetsu Airport Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes from Kushiro Airport Operating Period November 24, 2025 (Mon) – January 16, 2026 (Fri) March 8, 2026 (Sun) – April 24, 2026 (Fri) (Due to peak winter tourist demand, the hotel will also be open from January 17 (Sat) through March 7, 2026 (Sat).) Please check the official website for the latest information on the 2026 winter closure period. *This information is current as of the time of publication. Please check the official website for the latest operating status. Official Website https://www.princehotels.co.jp/kussharo/ Digital Brochure https://www.princehotels.co.jp/file.jsp?id=484857 Reservations Online reservations are available through the official website. Before booking, please be sure to check the official website for the latest rates, plans, and operating status. ※This article is based on information from an interview conducted with Kussharo Prince Hotel as of July 2026. For the latest updates on Kussharo Prince Hotel, please check COOL JAPAN VIDEOS' social media. 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■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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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

■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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Hokkaido Yuni Town "Yuni Garden" Video Introduction Photo：Kochia at Yuni Garden, Yuni, Yubari, Hokkaido This video, titled "Yuni Garden 'Kochia' 2021" (2021 ゆにガーデン「コキア」), was uploaded by "Yuni Garden Official Channel" (ゆにガーデン公式チャンネル). In the video, you can see approximately 32,000 kochia (summer cypress) plants dyed in their autumn colors at Yuni Garden, an English-style garden in Yuni, Hokkaido, in Northern Japan. Enjoy the aerial video showing the neat fields of kochia, and other gardens in the area. Yuni Garden Facility Information Photo：Kochia at Yuni Garden, Yuni, Yubari, Hokkaido Yuni Garden, located in Yuni, Hokkaido, is an English-style garden with a vast area of approximately 34.5 acres. The garden is home to a rose garden, fragrance garden, and other themed gardens, and the 32,000 kochia plants make it one of the most numerous kochia spots in Hokkaido! It takes about one hour to walk around the park, and visitors can enjoy the scenery in every season! [Video] 0:58 - The English-style Yuni Garden The Best Season to Visit Yuni Garden Photo：Kochia at Yuni Garden, Yuni, Yubari, Hokkaido At Yuni Garden, visitors can enjoy many types of flowers, but the main attraction is the kochia (summer cypress). The Kochia Hill is home to 32,000 kochia plants. Kochia is an annual plant with a lovely, fluffy appearance. What makes kochia such a nice plant is that it changes with the seasons. The best time to see the kochia at Yuni Garden is from August to October: from early August to early September, the kochia is fresh and green, and from mid-September, the leaves begin to turn from green to a vivid red. Both the green and red kochia are very photogenic, and are sure to be a hit on Instagram! [Video] 2:05 - The Colorful Kochia at Yuni Garden Chery Blossoms and Other Seasonal Flowers at Yuni Garden Photo：Roses at Yuni Garden, Yuni, Yubari, Hokkaido In addition to kochia, a variety of other flowers can be enjoyed at Yuni Garden. Here are some of the flowers that can be enjoyed during the different seasons at Yuni Garden. ● Spring (late April to May) In late April, the glory of the snow flowers, which herald the arrival of spring, begin to bloom, followed by a variety of cherry blossoms in early May. In the White Garden, visitors can enjoy cherry blossoms and wood anemone. Additionally, guests can enjoy peach blossoms, crab apples, rape blossoms, and tulips decorating the flower beds. ● Summer (June to August) From June, Moroccan toadflax spreads over the hills, and lupinu, peonies, and other early summer flowers brightly decorate the garden. In the Rose Garden, roses are in full bloom and the air is filled with their sweet fragrance. In early July, approximately 400 hydrangeas begin to bloom in "Hydrangea Alley," and in late July, scarlet sage and lilies are in full bloom. ● Autumn (September to October) In September, autumn roses, cosmos, Japanese anemone, Thunberg's bushclover, meadow saffron, and rose of Sharon can be seen. The leaves on the maple trees also change to brilliant colors during this time. The blooming conditions can vary from year to year due to climatic conditions and other factors. The official website is constantly updated with the blooming conditions, so be sure to check out the current blooming conditions before visiting! Enjoy Lunch at a Restaurant or Café at Yuni Garden Photo：Yuni Garden, Yuni, Yubari, Hokkaido Yuni Garden is also home to restaurants and cafes with which you can enjoy the local flavors of Yuni and its gardens. The restaurant "Chive" is a buffet restaurant where you can enjoy a healthy buffet. It has approximately 40 dishes using plenty of colorful vegetables, and has good reviews. Enjoy tea time on the open terrace of the cafeteria "Basil" while taking in the natural surroundings! The ice cream here is especially popular. "Jingisukan House" is a hands-on farm where you can enjoy fresh lamb Jingisukan. Keep in mind that it requires a reservation of at least 10 people. Enjoy a lunch of fresh vegetables in the nature-filled Yuni Garden! Things to Do Near Yuni Garden Photo：Yuni, Hokkaido Yuni, the town where Yuni Garden is located, is a relatively small town with not a lot to do, but there are definitely some things to check out if you're looking to get off the beaten path and explore some lesser-known areas of Japan. Kitanaganuma Ski Area During the winter months, Kitanaganuma Ski Area is a small ski resort that opens where locals gather to enjoy some light skiing together with friends and family. The ski resort has 3 lifts: the first lift being an alpine course, the second being the main skiing hill, and the third lift being a family course. There is also a sledding area for kids. At the lodge, you can take a break and enjoy some curry, beef bowls, or some noodle dishes like ramen, udon, and soba. Hours: 9:00 am - 8:30 pm (winter only) ※Ski season starts around the end of December. Pricing (1-day Pass): Adults: 1,800 yen, Children: 900 yen Laugh Tale Campground (由仁町見立の沢キャンプ場 LAUGH TALE) Laugh Tale is a new campground that opened in 2022. It's not the largest campground, but if you're just looking to get out and enjoy some time outdoors during the summer months, it's definitely not a bad option. You can throw up a tent and enjoy camping with friends, family, or even solo, and the campground also has firewood available for campfires. There is also a barbecue corner that can be rented out for 3 hours, and a dog run available for those coming with dogs. Hours: The campground opens around early May and ends in late October. Pricing: [Campground] Junior high school students and older: 500 yen, Elementary school students and younger: Free [Barbecue Area] 450 yen per person. Comes with a barbecue and chairs ※Charcoal sold separately (350 yen/1 kg) Yuni Garden is approximately 50 minutes east of Sapporo by car and 1.5 hours by train, making it a nice place for a day trip if you're in or around Sapporo. Summary of Yuni Garden, Hokkaido Photo：Kochia at Yuni Garden, Yuni, Yubari, Hokkaido Kochia changes with the seasons, with green and red kochia able to be seen in various seasons. Elaborate events such as live music, painting exhibitions, and orienteering are also held at Yuni Garden from time to time. In addition, the 1st and 11th are "Doggy Day," and guests can enjoy a walk through the gardens with their dogs. Yuni Garden is approximately 50 minutes from Sapporo by car, and 35 minutes from New Chitose Airport by car! Please visit Yuni Garden, where you can enjoy a different floral landscape each time you visit. 【Official Website】Yuni Garden, Yuni, Hokkaido 【TripAdvisor】Yuni Garden

Goryokaku in Hakodate! This video, titled "Goryokaku, Hakodate" (函館　「五稜郭」 Goryokaku, Hakodate), introduces the historical location, Goryokaku in Hakodate. Shown at the beginning of the video, Goryokaku in Hakodate is a fortress characterized by its beautiful star-shape. If you go up to the observation deck of Goryokaku Tower, as shown at 1:34 in the video, you can see the beautiful star-shaped moat that surrounds Goryokaku Park. Don't forget to bring your camera, it'll look great on Instagram! About Goryokaku Photo：Goryokaku Goryokaku was built by the Tokugawa Shogunate to protect the Hakodate magistrates office, at the end of the Edo period. (1853 – 1868) The star-shaped Goryokaku is also called Ryohoshiki and it was designed by Takeda Ayasaburo. This is shown at 1:54 in the video. Goryokaku was called Kameda yakushodorui and Hakodate Onyakusho during its construction. It is also known as Yanagino Castle (柳野城, Yanagino-jyo) since there were a lot of willow trees in the area (柳, "yanagi," means willow in Japanese). The History of Goryokaku Photo：Goryokaku's stone walls Completed around the time of the Meiji Restoration, Goryokaku was occupied by the former shogunate's forces during the Battle of Hakodate, the final battle of the Boshin War, and became its headquarters. As you can see from 1:22 in the video, the earthwork, stone walls, and stone monuments still remain. Goryokaku was also used as parade ground for the army during the Meiji period (1868 to 1912). Highlights of Goryokaku Photo：Goryokaku, Winter Illumination Goryokaku has been the setting for many historical events since the end of the Edo period. In 1988, a TV drama titled "Goryokaku" was also produced. Goryokaku is a special national historic site, and has been designated a Hokkaido Heritage Site as the "Remains of Goryokaku and the Battle of Hakodate." It is currently managed by the city of Hakodate as a government-owned property. The magistrate’s office, which can be seen at 1:47 in the video, was reconstructed in 2010. You can see the inside, including the main hall, courtyard, and historical records, at 2:33 in the video. Goryokaku park also hosts a limited time illumination event, so we recommend lining up your visit with it if possible. Summary of Goryokaku ©Goryokaku-Tower Modifying Goryokaku, shown in the video, is a great place to enjoy seasonal scenery, including cherry blossoms in the spring, autumn colors in the fall, and snowy scenery in winter. In addition to Goryokaku, Hakodate also offers other pleasures such as the night view from Mt. Hakodate and eating Hakodate ramen, a specialty of the city. Incidentally, Tsuruoka Castle (龍岡城) in Saku City, Nagano is also designed in the shape of a star, so be sure to check it out as well! ◆Goryokaku Information◆ 【Address】44-2 Goryokakucho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0001 【Access】15 minutes by a car, taxi, and bus from JR Hakodate Station 【Parking】None 【Tripadvisor】Goryokaku Park https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g298151-d1439713-r68353674-Goryokaku_Park-Hakodate_Hokkaido.html

Otsu Beach, Toyokoro, Hokkaido: Video Introduction This video, titled "[Jewelry Ice] Toyokoro, Otsu Beach, Near the Mouth of the Tokachi River｜Mavic Pro 4K｜Aerial Photography" ([ジュエリーアイス] 豊頃町 大津海岸 十勝川河口付近 Mavic Pro 4K 空撮), was uploaded by "Koichi Katayama" (片山昇一). Otsu Beach is located in Toyokoro, on Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island and is a vast expanse of land overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It's known as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hokkaido in recent years for its "Jewelry Ice," natural artwork created by nature. Among Hokkaido's many exciting tourist destinations, people are especially interested in seeing the jewelry ice. Enjoy the beautiful views of winter in Japan along with some relaxing music. [Video] 0:16 - A Fantastic Sunrise Over the Foggy Sea Where to See the Jewelry Ice – Otsu Beach in Toyokoro, Hokkaido Photo：Harunire Tree, Toyokoro, Hokkaido Toyokoro is located in Tokachi, Hokkaido. It takes about 40 minutes to reach from Obihiro by car. This city is near the mouth of the Tokachi River. It's called "The Birthplace of Tokachi" due to its history as the starting place where the Tokachi region expanded upstream from the mouth of the Tokachi River. This city's name came from the word "Toekoro." The name, meaning "The place where giant butterburs grow," comes from the Ainu language. From oceans and mountains to vast plains… Toyokoro is full of natural beauty. In addition to the sightseeing spots with beautiful waterside scenery such as Lake Choboshi (長節湖, Choboshiko) and Lake Yudo (湧洞湖, Yudoko), the town's symbol, the "Harunire Tree," is estimated to be 150 years old and is a popular photo spot where visitors can enjoy different expressions in each of Japan's four seasons. A short car ride will take you to the rich ocean, Otsu Beach, and Otsu Fishing Port (大津漁港, Otsugyoko), where you can see "jewelry ice." It's a relatively new, but popular, tourist attraction thanks to its beautiful scenery. Of course, the seafood here is delicious as well, so be sure to try some after sightseeing in the area. [Video] 0:59 - Mist Over the Tokachi River How Does the Jewelry Ice Form? When Can I see the Jewelry Ice? Photo：Jewlery ice, Toyokoro, Hokkaido "Jewelry ice" is a group of ice blocks that have washed up on the shore. This ice comes from the Tokachi River and flows to the Pacific Ocean. As the ice is battered by waves, the edges are removed and the ice becomes smooth, clear and crystal-like. The resulting product of this natural phenomenon is the beautiful jewelry ice. Jewelry ice, created by the severe cold of Tokachi and the Tokachi River, shines like a beautiful jewel in the sunlight. The jewelry ice changes its color beautifully from yellow, gold, orange, red, purple, and blue depending on the time of day, making it a popular destination for tourists and photographers alike. The best time to see the jewelry ice is usually from mid-January to late February on the sandy beach near the mouth of the Tokachi River in Otsu, Toyokoro. Photographing the Jewelry Ice at Sunset: Tips for Photographers Photo：Jewelry ice shining brightly at sunrise It's recommended that you take photos when the sun rises. By doing so, you can really capture the beauty of the natural phenomenon. Sunrise is from 6:40 - 7:00 a.m. in January and February. You should visit there around 30 to 60 minutes before the sunrise to take photos and prepare. Look for jewel-like clear ice or ice with mysterious holes created by nature, and take pictures by arranging the ice in a composition that takes into account the direction of the morning sunrise and the waves. It'll make for some amazing Instagram photos as well! Suffice it to say, you can easily take some amazing photos here. There's even a special page on Toyokoro's official website where information about the "jewelry ice" is updated daily. Be sure to check it out if you're visiting! Things to Be Careful of When Viewing the Jewelry Ice – Respect the Local Residents Please remember to be considerate of local residents around the area where jewelry ice can be seen, as there are residential areas in close proximity. If you're coming by car, please use the free parking lots, as cars are not allowed on the beach. Parking on the street is strictly prohibited, as it can inconvenience the local residents and obstruct access for emergency vehicles. Please remember to observe good manners, especially when visiting the site at night or early in the morning, particularly with regards to parking, noise, and disposing of trash. Summary of Jewelry Ice at Otsu Beach Photo：Jewelry ice and stars at Otsu Beach, Hokkaido Temperatures during this time of year, when thew jewelry ice can be seen, can drop below -20°C! The lowest temperatures are often recorded early in the morning, between 6:30 and 7:30 a.m., and taking into account windchill, etc., it can feel like it's -25°C to -30°C outside. Therefore, it's important to dress warm to protect yourself from the cold. Body temperature varies greatly depending on the strength of the wind and humidity, so please check the weather forecast and temperature in advance to be well prepared for your trip. It's also said that electronic devices (cell phones, cameras, etc.) should be kept warm with body warmers, as extremely low temperatures may temporarily cause batteries to drain faster. Be sure to fill a water bottle with a hot drink and drink it to stay warm while you admire the clear sparkling ice. If you end up visiting and taking some photos, we'd love to see them in our photo contests as well! [TripAdvisor] Otsu Beach

Kutchan, Hokkaido's "Zaborin" The video this time is a promotional video for the Hotel/Hot Springs ryokan "Zaborin," created by "Teiku Hiko HIGH RESOLUTION TOUR" (北海道 倶知安町 坐忘林 | Hokkaido Kutchan ZABORIN). In this article, we'll introduce you to the 100% pure hot springs in the great outdoors of Hokkaido, and the attracting "Zaborin" where you can spend a most relaxing and quiet time. "Zaborin" has many good reviews on different websites, such as hotel/ryokan websites and price comparison sites. In the video, it briefly explains the facilities of the ryokan as well as the rooms and hot springs. Enjoy the quaint space of the hot springs in Kutchan, a popular tourist spot with bountiful nature. The Zaborin Hot Springs in Kutchan, Hokkaido Source :YouTube screenshot Zaborin is a luxury ryokan located in the popular tourist spot, Kutchan, Hokkaido. It takes about 2 hours by car from New Chitose Airport. It was designed by a British couple who loved Japan and were fascinated by the nature of Niseko. It is a must-see ryokan if you're interested in Japanese modernity. Enjoy the view of Mt. Yoteizan, the outstanding nature of Hokkaido, and its native Japanese white birch trees. All 15 rooms contain a private 100% pure hot spring, with both inside and open-air baths. Please refer to the video at 0:35. This pure hot spring gushes out into the property of Zaborin. The hot springs contains sodium, hydrogen carbonate, and chloride which helps to maintain beautiful skin and health. Other ailments these hot springs treat are neuralgia, soreness, joint pain, stiff shoulders, motor paralysis, stiff joints, bruises, sprains, fatigue, chronic digestive diseases, hemorrhoids, cold sensitivity, cuts, burns, chronic skin disease, and more. Please note that Zaborin does not have a large community bath. Amenities are provided in the room, so there's no need to bring your own. Wouldn't you like to wake up early in the morning, take a fresh bath in the hot springs, and see the sun rise from Mt. Muine? Rooms at Kutchan, Hokkaido's Zaborin Source :Zaborin Official Website Hotel Zaborin offers western-style rooms, Japanese-style rooms, and suite rooms as well. All of the rooms are very spacious as well, and come with a living room attached to them. During the winter, time seems to freeze, as the outside world is covered with snow. You can try some winter sports at "Niseko Mountain Resort Grand HIRAFU," "Niseko HANAZONO Resort," "White Isle Niseko," and "Asahigaoka Ski Resort. Or you could stay in your room all day and enjoy the view in the hot springs. We're not here to judge you... Gourmet Dining at Zaborin Source : Zaborin Official Website Try a Japanese traditional course-meal with plenty of Hokkaido seasonal grace at Zaborin. You can also try the different kinds of fresh local food at the restaurant inside the ryokan. You can also enjoy duck and deer game dishes depending on the season. In the morning, they serve creative cuisine using fresh Hokkaidan ingredients. They have a counter bar where you can enjoy the view of Mt. Yoteizan while warming up with some spirits as well. Tourist Spots Around Zaborin Photo：Shirogane Blue Pond There are several tourist spots near Zaborin Kutchan, Hokkaido. Other tourist spots you can try when you visit Zaborin are, - The private garden "Mishima’s Shibazakura Garden" with Mt. Yoteizan in the backdrop - "Hangetsuko Nature Park," a quiet lake at the base of Mt. Yoteizan - "Kagaminuma," where you can enjoy trekking - "The Shu Ogawara Museum of art " containing art from the local artist Shu Ogawara - "Kuchan Hudokan" which displays unique exhibits - "NOASC" where you can experience rafting Summary of Kutchan, Hokkaido's Zaborin Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see in the video, Zaborin offers a relaxing atmosphere with luxurious private hot springs. At Zaborin, there are Irori fireplaces, "Cha no Za," where you can have tea, a library, a smoking area, a massage room, foot bath, a boutique store where they sell popular butter cases, and lockers for skiing and golfing. If you're thinking about going to Japan to enjoy its hidden gems and secret getaways in its beautiful outdoors, don't overlook Zaborin. Be sure to watch the video and see just how fascinating it is. Be sure to check the official homepage and travel websites for tour pricing, plans, and rooms. Prices often vary by season. ◆Zaborin◆ 【Address】76-4 Hanazono, Kutchan, Abuta district, Hokkaido 044-0084 【Access】2 hours by car from Shin Chitose Airport 【Parking】Available 【Telephone No】0136-23-0003 【Official Website】Ryokan Zaborin | Hokkaido https://zaborin.com/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Zaborin https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g1025639-d7745400-Reviews-Zaborin-Kutchan_cho_Abuta_gun_Hokkaido.html

Tourist Information for the Winter Months in Tsubetsu, Hokkaido The tourism promotional video produced by the Tsubetsu's tourism board, "Welcome to Winter in Tsubetsu!"（いらっしゃい津別！冬（津別町観光ＰＲビデオ)), captures the beauty of the wild winter wonderland at its best. Tsubetsu is adjacent to Akan Mashu National Park located in the east inland of Hokkaido prefecture. Tsubetsu Outlook is a popular viewpoint overlooking Kussharo Lake during the summer months, but the road leading to the outlook is closed in winter. However, there are some unique attractions in Tsubetsu during the winter. Displayed in the video is a fantastic snow-covered world of minus 20 degree weather with frost-covered trees and wild animals - The harsh beauty of the Wild North. How to Enjoy Tsubetsu's Magnificent Winter Wonderland Source :YouTube screenshot Tsubetsu is an hour drive from Memanbetsu Airport in Abashiri, and the city has no local train. About 80% of its total municipal area is covered by forest, surrounding tourists with the vast landscape as soon as they arrive. You may be wondering if there's anything to see there other than the silvery white plains during the bitter winter, but that same landscape is what makes the visit so worth your time! The trees in the forest are covered with ice, and when the weather is nice they sparkle, creating a fantastic scene of glittering lights. Popular winter activities in Tsubetsu include ice skating at the Tsubetsu Elementary School grounds or smelt fishing at Chimikeppu Lake. You can see smelt fishing at 1:30 in the video. Catching and cooking your very own smelt is a great way to enjoy the cold weather. The subtitle that appears at 1:42 says how "The mountain has become an amusement park," and that's exactly what we see! This amusement park offers a wide range of enjoyable experiences, such as eating fresh snow with condensed milk poured on it. Dining in Tsubetsu Source :YouTube screenshot After spending some time in the magnificent snowscape, viewers are taken to Michi no Eki Aioi (Roadside Station Aioi) that sells healthy snacks using local vegetables. This can be seen at 2:02 in the video. We recommend Kumayaki; it's a snack you can't find anywhere else. Kumayaki is a type of Japanese confection with bear-shaped patties (Kuma means bear in Japanese) and a sweet red bean filling using local flour and locally grown adzuki beans. There are four types of bear-shaped dorayaki (similar to Kumayaki) made of Hokkaido wheat and azuki beans, which are popular in Japan. Local gourmet delicacies such as Tsubetsu Wagyu steak, a brand of beef from Tsubetsu, Hokkaido, which is said to be a rare Japanese wagyu beef, and extra-large kakiage soba noodles made with local vegetables are also worth trying. And there is of course the renowned local dish of Hokkaido, Genghis Khan (a Japanese BBQ mutton dish), which is served at some restaurants in Tsubetsu. Tourist Information for Tsubetsu Source :YouTube screenshot Lamp no Yado Mori Tsubetsu Hotel is a hotel that features an outdoor hot spring bath where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the snow. In summer, tourists come from all over Japan to tour the spectacular sea of clouds from Tsubetsu Pass to Lake Kussharo. "Non-no no Mori Nature Center" is a rare park in Japan that has been scientifically recognized as a "forest therapy base" for its healing properties. The forest therapy guided tour or a walk on the hiking trail through the snow-covered forest will help you get reacquainted with nature. Summary of Tsubetsu, Hokkaido The natural beauty of Tsubetsu instills wanderlust in those who see it. You get a sense that even in this harsh winter wonderland you can enjoy a fantastic experience in the great outdoors. The harshness is exactly what makes it so beautiful. Many festivals and events are lined up in Tsubetsu all throughout the year, such as the ceremony to open the Tsubetsu pass, the "Primrose Festival," "Tsubetsu Summer Festival," the "Tsubetsu Tanabata Festival" in July, the "Bon Dance Festival" in mid-August, and the "Tsubetsu Local Festival." We recommended visiting Tsubetsu to see the events. The detailed information of events and festivals is published on the city's official website. The specialties of Tsubetsu include the traditional wooden crafts and Japanese black beef "Ryu-sui Gyu," which make great souvenirs. I bet this video already has you packing your bags, doesn't it? 【Official Website】Tsubetsu Tourism Association http://www.tsubetsu.net/english/index.html

Video introduction of "Shiroi Koibito Park" in Sapporo, Hokkaido This video, titled "Shiroi Koibito Park 4K/A Must-See in Hokkaido [BESTHOKKAIDO_VOL.97]" (『白い恋人パーク4K／北海道の絶景景色』【BESTHOKKAIDO_VOL.97】), was uploaded by "BESTHOKKAIDO." Shiroi Koibito Park is operated by Ishiya Seika, the maker of Hokkaido's famous "Shiroi Koibito" biscuits. Shiroi Koibito biscuits are one of the most well-known and popular souvenirs of Hokkaido. They're popular both in Japan and also among overseas tourists. Shiroi Koibito biscuits are cat tongue cookies (a long and flat cookie said to resemble a cat's tongue) with white chocolate sandwiched inside them. The exterior of this sweets theme park is inspired by the appearance of a Western castle. Take your time to watch the video through which you can practically smell the sweet aroma of roses and chocolate. What is Shiroi Koibito Park? Admission Fees + Average Time Spent at the Park Photo：Shiroi Koibito Park, Sapporo, Hokkaido Shiroi Koibito Park is a factory and sweets theme park of Ishiya Seika located in Sapporo, Hokkaido. It's a wonderland-like facility with experiences that stimulate all five senses, and where both adults and children can enjoy an exciting time. Shiroi Koibito have become a popular souvenir among travelers to Hokkaido. The park is a popular tourist spot in Sapporo where visitors can learn about the history of chocolate by seeing how it's made and trying a hands-on sweets making workshop. It's approximately 7-minutes from Miyanosawa Station (Sapporo City Subway-Tozai Line) on foot, and approximately 25-minutes from the center of Sapporo via car. A parking lot is available that can accommodate 130 vehicles. The following information includes admission fees, hours of operation, and travel time. Please refer to it when planning your Sapporo travel itinerary. Admission Fees Adults (high school students and older): General admission / 800 yen, Sapporo residents / 500 yen, Groups / 500 yen Children (4 years old to junior high school students): Adults/400 yen, Sapporo residents / 300 yen, Groups / 300 yen Ages 3 and under: General admission / Free of charge, Sapporo citizens / Free of charge, Groups / Free of charge All prices include tax. Business hours 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Average Time Spent at Shiroi Koibito Park Museum facilities only: approx. 1 hour If you wish to explore the outdoors: approx. 2 to 3 hours If using the Premium Factory Course in the paid area: approximately 1 to 2 hours in addition to the above. Free Areas at Shiroi Koibito Park! Photo：The rose garden at Shiroi Koibito Park, Sapporo, Hokkaido Besides the paid area, Shiroi Koibito Park also has a free area. It's popular among both tourists and families with children. Here are some spots we recommend checking out in the free area. Mechanical Clock Tower The Chocolate Carnival Parade with automatons is held every hour from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. [Video] 0:33 - Mechanical Dolls Moving to the Music Chocolate Pump A dreamlike pump that gushes out chocolate. Try pumping the lever and let your inner child out! Rose Garden The English-style garden, which includes a rose arch, is a popular photo spot. Around 200 roses can be seen blooming in the garden, making it a spectacular sight! Enjoy the fragrance of English roses, classic roses, and all of the other 120 varieties of roses in the garden. Attractions in the Paid Area of Shiroi Koibito Park Photo：Shiroi Koibito being made, Shiroi Koibito Park Shiroi Koibito Park offers a wide variety of ways to enjoy the park. In the paid area, you can see, learn, taste, and experience a wide variety of attractions. CHOCOTOPIA FACTORY Visitors can see how Shiroi Koibito and Baumkuchen are made. Sweets Workshop DREAM KITCHEN Visitors can experience making sweets while having fun. Enjoy making it with your children or friends and take it with you as a souvenir to commemorate your trip? The following section introduces the different experiences available at Shiroi Koibito Park. Gulliver Town POKKE In this children's town lined with small stores and houses, you can feel as if you're Gulliver, from Gulliver's Travels. ※Please take note of the business hours ※Closed for the winter, reopening on April 15th, 2023. [Video] 0:53 - Gulliver Town Pokke Study Base CACAO POD Visitors can enjoy learning about tasting methods using chocolate developed by Dr. Chocolate. CHOCOTOPIA HOUSE (projection mapping) Visitors can enjoy learning about chocolate while watching a projection mapping video. Hands-on Experiences at Shiroi Koibito Park! Here is the menu of sweets that you can experience in the park. [Sweets Workshop Dream Kitchen] ●Experience menu● ・Chocolate Pie Sandwich - Using mille-feuille 　　Pie sandwiches made with mille-feuille ・Making colorful cupcakes with bunnies 　　Cupcakes full of spring colors Unfortunately, as of March 2023, the "My Shiroi Koibito Baking Course," "My Shiroi Koibito Painting Course," and "Hokkaido Cookie Painting Course" have been suspended due to a shortage of raw materials. Please check the latest information on the official website when applying for the experiences. Roses in Early Summer, Illuminations in Winter, and Popular Sweets Year-Round. Enjoy Shiroi Koibito Park in Every Season! Photo：An illumination at Shiroi Koibito Park, Sapporo, Hokkaido The brick-lined courtyard's rose garden is a must-see! The best time to see the roses in the English-style garden is from mid-June to early July. The heart-shaped arch in the Rose Garden is especially popular as a good place to take photos. ※Pets are allowed in the rose garden, which is a free area. During the winter season (November to the end of March), illuminations add color to the cool, clear air. A 10-meter tree, lovely objects twinkling in the windows of the English-style building, and the magical scenery warmly welcomes visitors to the park. We definitely recommend visiting during the winter season as well! Chocolate Lounge Oxford is the perfect place to go if you've got a sweet tooth. There are parfaits, and other sweets, as well as a wide selection of chocolate fondue. The "ISHIYA Mankitsu Set" allows you to taste white sweet potatoes, Swiss rolls, and soft-serve ice cream all at once. The three-tiered plate and the clock tower in the background makes for a great photo. During the Christmas season, a limited Christmas menu will also be available. Be sure to stop by! Things to Do Near Shiroi Koibito Park While there aren't many things to do in the immediate area near Shiroi Koibito Park, there are plenty of attractions waiting for you a train's ride away. Here are 3 places we recommend visiting near Shiroi Koibito Park: Hokkaido Jingu (Hokkaido Shrine) Hokkaido Shrine was built in 1869, after the Meiji Restoration. The shrine has 4 torii gates which are said to bring various types of luck to those who pass through them, and the shrine is also known for its cherry blossoms in the spring and beautiful autumn leaves in the fall. Hours: February: 7:00 am - 4:00 pm, March: 7:00 am - 5:00 pm, April - October: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm, November - December: 7:00 am - 4:00 pm ※Special hours during the New Years Holiday Admission Fee: Free Sapporo Beer Museum A brick museum in Hokkaido where visitors can learn about the history of beer in Hokkaido. Visitors can tour the museum for free, but there are also premium tours that are 50 minutes long. The tour is held in Japanese, but after the tour visitors can enjoy sampling Sapporo Beer Kuro Label, a recreation of one of the original beers from when the firm was founded. Hours: 11:00 am - 6:00 pm (Last entry 5:30 pm) Admission Fee: Free ※Paid premium tours available at 11:30 am, 3:30 pm, and 4:30 pm. Please check the official website for more information. Tanukikoji Shopping Street Tanukikoji Shopping Street is one of the oldest shopping arcades in Hokkaido. Established in 1873, it's made up of 7 districts home to more than 200 stores. The shopping street stretches multiple blocks and has a variety of restaurants, places to go shopping, and even maid cafes. There are a number of attractions between Tanukikoji Shopping Street and the Sapporo Beer Museum, such as the Sapporo Clock Tower and Sapporo TV Tower, so we recommend checking out Tanukikoji Shopping Street and then sightseeing while making your way over to the Sapporo Beer Museum. This is a great way to fit in more tourist attractions on your Sapporo travel itinerary. Summary of Shiroi Koibito Park in Hokkaido Shiroi Koibito Park, with its many attractions, also offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and snack houses, all with different styles of food. From original confections and sweets to lunch at a secluded restaurant, you're going to be spoiled for choice. The elaborate seasonal events, attractions that will bring smiles to children's faces, and affordable prices are all great features for those traveling with family. Sapporo is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan and offers a wide variety of hotels. If you visit Sapporo during your summer trip to Hokkaido, consider visiting Shiroi Koibito Park! 【Official Website】Shiroi Koibito Park 【TripAdvisor】Shiroi Koibito Park

Biei-cho, Hokkaido "Shirohige-no-taki Waterfall" Light-up Video Introduction This video, titled "Illuminated Shirahige Falls in Biei," was uploaded by "Nao Akimoto." Shirahige Falls is a popular tourist attraction in Biei, Hokkaido. The sight of the illuminated waterfall is truly breathtaking. The waterfall's serene appearance, flowing amidst the snowy landscape, is definitely worth a trip to see. Check out the video to see the unforgettable appearance of Shirahige Falls illuminated in the darkness on a cold winter night. Shirahige Falls, Biei, Hokkaido Photo：Shirahige Falls on the Biei River, Hokkaido With a drop of 30 meters, underground water seeping out from between natural rocks falls into the Biei River with great force. A waterfall of this kind is called a subterranean waterfall, and it's one of the rarest waterfalls in Japan. Shirahige Falls is just a 5-minute walk from the Shirogane Onsen hot spring resort in Biei, Hokkaido. Shirahige Falls (白, Shira "White"; 髭, Hige 'Beard') gets its name from the white beard-like appearance of the water flowing out of the cracks in the rocks. The mixture of the Biei River and the waterfall creates a cobalt blue appearance, which is a mysterious and beautiful sight. Like in the video, the winter lighting of Shirahige Falls is also popular, which makes it ideal for taking beautiful photos throughout the seasons. In summer, the contrast of new green and blue is wonderful, and in autumn, the changing leaves add color. Regardless of the season, travelers will be delighted by the appearance of the waterfall that flows without freezing. How to Get To Shirahige Falls' to See the Illumination: Parking, Lighting Hours, Etc. Photo：An illuminated Shirahige Falls, Hokkaido Shirahige Falls has been lit up since December 2015. This initiative was launched as a follow-up to Shirogane Blue Pond, which was lit up the previous year. It is now a popular tourist attraction among both foreign and domestic tourists for its fantastical appearance. The waterfall is lit up all year-round and the lighting hours are as follows: Shirahige Falls Illumination November - April: 4:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. ※Starting times vary by month. May - October: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. For more information, please check the Biei Town official website. Shirahige Falls can be reached by a single road from central Biei. It can be accessed by bus or car, and is a 20-to-30-minute drive full of beautiful scenery from Biei Station. There are two free parking lots nearby for those driving as well, so be sure to make use of them if you're coming by car. Other Attractions Near Shirahige Falls Photo：Shirogane Blue Pond, Biei, Hokkaido Shirahige Falls is also a power spot, known for its natural energy as underground water flows out from the Tokachi mountain range. Shirogane Blue Pond can be found about 3km downstream from Shirahige Falls. Mineral components such as aluminum contained in Shirahige Falls mix with the Biei River, creating particles called colloids. When the sunlight hits these colloids just right, they appear cobalt blue. Shirogane Blue Pond has become famous for its beautiful blue color, which is said to cleanse the mind and give one power. Biei Shrine is another popular power spot, known as one of the three major power spots in Hokkaido, alongside Hokkaido Shrine and Lake Toya. The shrine is dedicated to 5 deities, including Amaterasu, the sun god in Japanese mythology. The shrine has become popular as a power spot because it is believed to have the best chi flow in Biei. The shrine also contains many hidden heart-shaped patterns scattered about the shrine grounds, which are popular among young women as it's said the more you find them, the more likely you are to find love. Summary of the Shirahige Falls Illumination in Biei, Hokkaido Did you make sure to check out the video? The Shirahige Falls Illumination, along with the Shirogane Blue Pond Illumination, has become a popular tourist attraction in Biei, Hokkaido. Known as a power spot, it attracts many visitors each year who are captivated by its beauty. There is also the Shirogane Onsen hot spring resort area nearby, providing a variety of accommodation options, such as hotels and traditional Japanese-style inns. It's also a great base for exploring the surrounding area, including places like Furano. After viewing the beautiful snow-covered landscape and the popular tourist spot, Shirahige Falls, visitors can relax at the hot springs of Biei, Hokkaido. Come for a visit and recharge your batteries while enjoying the incredible scenery! 【TripAdvisor】Shirahige Falls

HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, Niseko, Hokkaido: Video Introduction Photo：Mt. Yotei from the summit of Niseko Annupuri, Niseko, Hokkaido This video, titled "Hanazono Zip World Experience - Climax! Japan's longest Mega-zipline, Zip3 Black Diamond Superfly Ver." (Hanazono Zip Worldを体験 ~クライマックス！ 日本最長のメガジップライン、Zip3 Black Diamond Superfly編 ~), was uploaded by "Niseko Hanazono Resort" (Hanazono Niseko Resort ニセコ HANAZONOリゾート). At HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT at the Niseko Hanazono Resort in Hokkaido, visitors can experience one of the longest ziplines in the world. Ziplining is an outdoor activity in which a belt or harness is attached to a cable that is suspended in the mountains, forests, or other natural areas, and a pulley is used to glide down the rope/cable. This video shows a thrilling zipline in Niseko, the 1,700-meter-long Black Diamond Superfly that runs from the heights of the mountain to the finish line on the ground with a top speed of 110 km/h. The zipline is one of the many exciting things to do in Niseko. While soaring through the skies, visitors can enjoy the spectacular views of Mt. Yotei. Summer & Winter at Niseko Hanazono Resort Photo：Snowshoes Located in the western part of central Hokkaido, approximately two hours by car from Sapporo and New Chitose Airport, Niseko is a resort area surrounded by Mt. Yotei, Niseko Annupuri, and other mountains. Known as a world-famous ski resort, it attracts many tourists and sports enthusiasts during ski season. Niseko Hanazono Resort boasts a wide range of winter activities that allow guests to enjoy the powdery snow of Niseko. ● Snow rafting tours ● Snowshoeing tours ● Horseback riding tours in the snow ● Tubing Park ● Indoor Kids Adventure Area - Galaxy of Kidz But winter season is not the only time to enjoy activities in Niseko. There are a variety of things to do at Niseko Hanazono Resort during the summer months. One of the most popular activities is HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, the popular Niseko Zipline. The following is an introduction to the features and attractions of the famous Niseko Zipline, HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT. HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT – Experience 3 Different Ziplines at the Largest Zipline in Japan Source :YouTube screenshot HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, widely known as the Niseko Zipline, is most notable for its length: HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT is the longest zipline in Japan at 2,591 meters long. Not only is it the longest zipline in Japan, but it's also the longest zipline in Asia and one of the largest ziplines in the world. HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, widely known as the Niseko Zipline, has three ziplines: MACH1, MACH2, and MACH3, all of which have different a different level of intensity. It's recommended that you start with MACH1, which is less intense and has a gentle gradient, and then aim for MACH3, which is the most intense of the three. MACH1, the least intense, reaches speeds of 50 km/h, while MACH2 reaches speeds of about 70 km/h. MACH3, known as the "Black Diamond Superfly," reaches speeds of up to 110 km/h over a 1,700-meter-long course. Flying through the mountains and trees of Niseko, suspended 50 meters in the air, is a truly exciting experience. One of the things that makes the zipline so fun is that two ziplines are strung side by side, allowing visitors to experience it together with their family or friends. HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT – Prices, Discounts, and Reservations Source :YouTube screenshot HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, also known as the Niseko Zipline, offers the following prices, reservation methods, and various discounts (current as of June 2023). Online reservations are given priority, and a 10% discount is also applied, so it's recommended that you book online in advance to apply for the zip line. Admission Fee: From June 10 - Adults: 15,000 yen, Children: 12,000 yen (Adults: Junior high school students and older / weighing 105 kg or less, Children: Elementary school students / weighing 30-105 kg) April 29 - May 28 - Adults and Children: 9,800 yen Reservations: Online reservations have priority Discounts: ● Web Discount - Online reservations receive 10% off the regular price ● Repeater Discount - 20% off on any of your following visits during summer 2023. ● HOKKAIDO LOVE! Discount: 2000 yen off on weekdays and 1000 yen off on holidays with Hokkaido Support Coupon (ほっかいどう応援クーポン). Niseko Ziplines – What to Wear Photo：A woman wearing a rain coat The Niseko Zipline can be enjoyed in comfortable, everyday clothing, but skirts are not permitted. We recommend wearing clothes that are easy to move in and that you do not mind getting dirty. Since you will be walking on unpaved terrain, heels and sandals are not permitted, and sneakers or other comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Helmets are required on the Niseko Zipline, so if you have long hair, tie it up with a hair band in advance. If you're thinking about riding the Niseko Zipline on a rainy day, we recommend wearing a waterproof windbreaker or rain jacket. This will protect you from rainwater and provide a comfortable aerial experience. That being said, in the event of inclement weather, some activities may not take place or the number of active ziplines may change. Please check the weather forecast in advance. A Luxury Hotel in Hanazono Photo：Sunrise from Mt. Yotei, Hokkaido After a day of physical activities in the comfortable nature of Hokkaido and enjoying the Niseko Zipline, a hotel with a spa is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, located within Niseko Hanazono Resort, offers a superb view of Mt. Yotei, as well as exquisite cuisine, and a spacious, luxurious environment to relax after a long day of travel. With outstanding reviews Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono is a recommended hotel for those looking for a luxurious resort for adults. Other Things to Do in Niseko Photo：Oyunuma Pond, Niseko, Hokkaido Niseko is a popular destination in Hokkaido full of exciting outdoor activities to enjoy. Onsen Niseko is quite popular for its onsen (hot springs), and there are a number of locations in the Niseko area where you can enjoy relaxing in onsen all year round. Cycling Thanks to the beautiful scenery of Hokkaido, cycling is another popular activity in Niseko. The area boasts an endless number of breathtaking views with which to cycle to, and there are even cycling events, such as the Niseko Classic, held in the area each year. Camping Another exciting outdoor activity to enjoy in Niseko is camping. Again, making great use of the natural beauty of Hokkaido, there are a countless campgrounds available to choose from. You can choose a campground where you bring your own tent, or even one where the accommodations are provided. There are also free campsites as well, if you're looking to go camping on a budget. How to Get to Niseko Photo：Niseko Station, Hokkaido Access to Niseko will depend on where in Japan you're coming from. With that said, assuming you're already in Hokkaido, here are 3 ways to get to Niseko. Sapporo to Niseko From Sapporo Station, you can either take a bus to Otaru and then transfer to a bus which will take you to Niseko, or take a bus straight to Niseko (~3 hours). Hakodate to Niseko From Hakodate you can take a limited express train to Oshamambe Station, and from there transfer to a local line to Niseko Station (~4 hours). New Chitose Airport to Niseko From New Chitose Airport you can take the train to Sapporo Station, and from there to Otaru Station. From Otaru Station you can then take a bus to Niseko Station (~3.5 hours). Alternatively, you could take a bus from Sapporo Station to Niseko Station. Keep in mind that, if you're coming by car, you can significantly cut your travel time. Additionally, because the Niseko area is so vast, there are two main stations in the area: Niseko Station and Kutchan Station. Depending on where in Niseko you'll be sightseeing, the station you travel to can vary as well. Be sure to keep this in mind, as you can end up saving a lot of time by going to the station closest to your destination. Summary of HANAZONO ZIP WORLD, Home to the Largest Zipline in Japan Source :YouTube screenshot HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, one of the world's largest mega-ziplines, is a must-try activity when visiting Hokkaido. The thrill and excitement conveyed in the video, as well as the beautiful scenery, is sure to make for an unforgettable experience. We hope you get a chance to enjoy this aerial adventure in Niseko. 【Official Website】HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT 【TripAdvisor】Niseko Hanazono Resort

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

■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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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.

Otaru Art Base and its Stained Glass Museum in Otaru, Hokkaido: Video introduction This video, titled "OTARU – Otaru Art Base and its Stained Glass Museum" (【小樽】小樽芸術村 ステンドグラス美術館), was uploaded by "Nichimen Auto System" (日免オートシステム). The Otaru Canal, one of the best tourist destinations in Hokkaido, has a nostalgic atmosphere. Otaru Art Base, composed of retro buildings on the banks of the canal, exhibits various arts and crafts from around the world. The Stained Glass Museum, formerly the Takahashi Warehouse, is one of the retro buildings along the canal. The video clip shows the priceless stained glass art that was actually used in old chapels in England from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. Enjoy the beautiful and solemn space of lights in the video, while pondering these historical artworks. Otaru Art Base – Utilizing Historical Buildings Photo：The Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch, Otaru Art Base, Otaru, Hokkaido Otaru, Hokkaido has been prospering as a gateway to Hokkaido thanks to its surrounding waters. Many financial and trading companies have been stationed here since around 1930, and developed the area as an economic center. Otaru Art Base was established in July 2016 in Otaru, Hokkaido by Nitori Group, a popular Japanese furniture retail company that originated in Hokkaido. Its operation has been managed by the Nitori Cultural Foundation since October 2020. Otaru Art Base has five historic buildings that were built in the early 20th century that include the former Arata Firm, the former Takahashi Warehouse, the former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch, the former Hokkaido Takushoku Bank Otaru Branch, and the former Naniwa Warehouse. They display excellent pieces of art from both Japan and around the world. Because it utilizes historically valuable buildings in Otaru, both the exhibits and the architecture have outstanding value as a cultural heritages from the past. Highlights of Stained Glass Museum in Otaru Art Base Source :Yuzuki Mio's post: Image of God and the Glory of Great Britain The Stained Glass Museum is in the former Takahashi Warehouse, one of the buildings of the Otaru Art Base, displays stained glass that actually used to decorate chapel windows. The stained glass was crafted in England in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Unfortunately, many chapels in England have been demolished in recent years, but these works managed to survive and ended up in Japan by chance. Among many valuable works, it exhibits the stained-glass version of the famous artwork "The Last Supper" and "God and the Glory of Great Britain," which was produced to commemorate the victory and victims of World War I. [Video] 1:38 - God and the Glory of Great Britain [Video] 6:06 - The Last Supper The museum is full of the history of England. You can feel the flow of time up close through the figures and lettering on the stained glass artworks. [Video] 5:33 - God and the Glory of Great Britain Viewed From the 2nd Floor [Video] 6:00 - The Sower Highlights of the House of Western Art, Nitori Museum, and Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch in Otaru Art Base Photo：Nitori Museum, Otaru, Hokkaido In addition to the Stained Glass Museum, the Otaru Art Base also has House of Western Art, Nitori Museum, and the former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch. Be careful as photography is prohibited is some of these buildings. Here, we'll introduce the highlights of each facility at Otaru Art Base and specific locations where photography is prohibited. ● House of Western Art The House of Western Art, which is the fourth museum in the Otaru Art Base, was just recently opened on April 28, 2022. The highlights are the stained glass produced in Europe and the United States from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, as well as Art Nouveau and Art Deco glass crafts. Photography is permitted here, but the flash photography, selfie sticks, and video recording are prohibited. ● Nitori Museum The Nitori Museum is in an old bank building. It has become a popular tourist spot with a large number of outstanding works, such as modern Japanese paintings and Western paintings. A must-see is the powerful stained glass by stained glass artist Louis C. Tiffany. You can take pictures of the stained glass exhibited at the entrance, but no other photography is permitted inside the building due to the presence of copyrighted works. ● Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch From the end of the Meiji Period to the beginning of the Showa Period, Otaru was called Northern Wall Street because it was extremely prosperous as an economic center. The building that symbolizes this prosperity is the Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch. This building has been designated as an Important Cultural Property. Highlights include the Renaissance-style masonry exterior, a beautiful plaster ceiling, and a safety deposit box and drawing room that give you a sense of the atmosphere of a bank at the time. Furthermore, be sure to check out the projection mapping that takes place every hour on the 1st floor. Photography is allowed in this building, but video recordings are prohibited. Admission Fees, Required Time for Otaru Art Base, and Reviews Photo：A woman looking at her phone Next, we'll go over admission fees, the time required to visit Otaru Art Base, and reviews. First, the Admission fee. We recommend the discount "Four Combined Museum Pass" ticket when visiting Otaru Art Base: 2,900 yen for adults, 2,000 yen for university students, 1,500 yen for high school students, 1,000 yen for junior high school students, and 500 yen for elementary school students. This ticket is cheaper than buying individual tickets for two museums. It's a great deal! Individual fees for the Stained Glass Museum are 1,000 yen for adults, 800 yen for university students, 600 yen for high school students, 500 yen for junior high school students, and 300 yen for elementary school students. Individual fees for the former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch are 700 yen for adults, 500 yen for university students, 400 yen for high school students, 300 yen for junior high school students, and 200 yen for elementary school students. Individual fees for either the Nitori Museum or the House of Western Art are 1,500 yen for adults, 1,000 yen for university students, 700 yen for high school students, 500 yen for junior high school students, and 300 yen for elementary school students. University/high school/junior high school students are required to present their student ID at the reception. Elementary and junior high school students in Otaru can get in free with the Otaru Resident Special Discount. Those with documentation of a physical disability, rehabilitation, or mental disability can receive free admission, plus one designated caregiver. Please check the official website for more details. The estimated time required for Otaru Art Base is about 3 hours in total if the museum is not crowded. The estimated time required for each museum is as follows: ● Stained Glass Museum: Approximately 30 minutes ● Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch: Approximately 30 minutes ● Nitori Museum: Approximately 60 minutes ● House of Western Art: Approximately 60 minutes Many reviews for Otaru Art Base talk about the beauty of the exhibits and praise their harmony with the historical buildings. People also praise the number of exhibits, and are often surprised at the quality, saying that it's worth more than what you pay! Other Things to Do in Otaru Below is a short list of other things to do in Otaru, Hokkaido. Otaru Museum Otaru Museum is a museum that displays exhibits related to the history, nature, transportation, and science of Hokkaido. The museum is actually made up of 2 separate buildings: the main building, and the canal pavilion. They are a 20-minute walk from one another but you can purchase a ticket to visit both. 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 Music Box Museum The Otaru Music Box Museum is located in a historical building that was built in 1915. It's home to 80,000 music boxes of 5,000 different varieties, making it one of the largest music box stores in Japan. It's a great place to go if you like music boxes, art, or are looking for souvenirs. The museum is a 15-minute walk from Otaru Art Base. Hours: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Admission Fee: Free Sankaku Market Otaru Market began around 1948 when a group of street vendors opened near Otaru Station. Eventually it developed into a morning market, attracting people from various regions in Japan. It's a great place to eat some delicious seafood and buy some local specialties to commemorate your trip to Otaru. Sankaku Market is located right next to Otaru Station and is a 12-minute walk from Otaru Art Base. Hours: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm (restaurants 7:00 am - 5:00 pm) All of these locations are within close proximity to one another, so if you're visiting Otaru, you can easily visit a number of different places in a single day, making for a really efficient trip. Summary of Otaru Art Base, in Otaru, Hokkaido Otaru is a port town with a beautiful retro townscape that evokes a sense of history. It's a popular tourist spot where you can enjoy nature, shopping, and delicious food, but also breathtaking works of art. Otaru Art Base is also home to buildings that themselves are works of art, and you can appreciate precious art pieces inside them while exploring their history. If you're in Otaru, Hokkaido, or are planning on visiting, be sure to stop by Otaru Art Base! 【Official Website】Stained Glass Museum (Former Takahashi Warehouse) | Otaru Art Base 【TripAdvisor】Otaru Art Base, Stained Glass Museum

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

Video introduction of herring spawning "Gunrai" in Rumoi County, Hokkaido This video, titled "The Sea Turned White?! Drone Footage of a Pacific Herring Swarm!" (海が白くなる!? ニシン群来のドローン撮影に成功！), was uploaded by "Hidemi Imai" (今井秀美). In Obira, Hokkaido, the blue sea is dyed white as if milk has been spilled in it. This phenomenon is caused by herring swarms, which occurs when herring (in this case pacific herring), a fish heralding the arrival of spring in Hokkaido, spawn and fertilize eggs. A video shot from the sky captures the phenomenon that looks like a white sash on the blue sea. Large schools of pacific herring come to Obira to spawn, and you can see the beauty of life as they flop about the surface of the water. Check out the video to see the pacific herring swarm up close! What Kind of Place is Obira? Obira is a small town in western Hokkaido with a population of just a few thousand. It's located a few hours north of Sapporo via train, making it a bit of an out-of-the-way destination, but it's home to many tourist attractions. There are golf courses and surf spots, as well as facilities for learning about the local culture. In addition, there are ski resorts that can be enjoyed during the winter months, and campsites that can be visited during the summer. Obira is a nice destination to check out if you're looking for things to do in Hokkaido that are a bit more off the beaten path. Information about the Pacific Herring and the Causes and Conditions for Swarms in Hokkaido, Japan Photo：Pacific herring spawning The pacific herring (scientific name: clupea pallasii) is a silvery-white fish found mostly in the Pacific Ocean. Pacific herring are generally 30-35 cm (12-13 inches) long but can grow as large as 45 cm (~17.5 inches). Pacific herring feed on phytoplankton and zooplankton, and their natural predators are salmon, whales, seabirds, etc. Every year from February to March, the coast of the Sea of Japan in Hokkaido turns a milky white color. The pacific herring come to the coast in large numbers during spring, so much so, that they are said to herald the arrival of spring in Hokkaido. In the world of haiku, a type of Japanese poetry, the word "Nishin Kuki" (鰊群来, herring coming in large schools) is a seasonal word to symbolize spring. Herring swarms occur when herring come to the coast to spawn and fertilize eggs. The white colors are a phenomenon that occurs when males simultaneously fertilize eggs that have been laid on seaweed. In 1954, after being observed along the coast from Yoichi to Oshoro, a 20km stretch on the peninsula northwest of Sapporo, the pacific herring swarms were not observed again for many years. It wasn't until 1999 that the pacific herring swarms were observed in the area, for the first time in 45 years. In order for the herring swarms to occur, two conditions must be met: the sea must be calm during the herring spawning season, and the water temperature must be relatively high, around 5 degrees Celsius. In addition, the herring swarms seem more likely to occur on cloudy days from February to April. When and Where to See the Pacific Herring Swarms Source :YouTube screenshot The herring swarms are a phenomenon seen during the spawning season, which, for the pacific herring in Japan, is from late January to early May, and February to March is said to be the most active season. In addition, since spawning often takes place at night, the ocean can be seen turning milky white around dawn, disappearing around noon. This means that you have a higher chance of seeing the phenomenon during the morning. The places where herring swarms can be seen are the coasts of Hokkaido along the Sea of Japan and within Ishikari Bay. In Otaru, herring is synonymous with spring. If you want to see the herring swarms, we recommend visiting the Otaru coast from February to March! However, because it's a natural phenomenon, it's not always possible to see the pacific herring swarms, even if you visit at the right time and place. That being said, it's still worth a try to see the incredible sight. Delicious, Seasonal Pacific Herring Recipes! Photo：Nishin soba In Hokkaido, which is famous for herring production, there are various ways to eat delicious seasonal herring. Pacific herring are considered to be in season only in spring, but it's said that they are also in season in autumn. In Japan, pacific herring are processed in many different ways. Some of these are herring roe, kombu-maki (kelp rolls), nuka nishin (herring in rice-bran paste), and migaki nishin (dried and sliced herring). One of the rarest products is frozen herring stuffed with mentaiko (spicy cod roe). Migaki nishin is famous for its use in nishin soba (a bowl of soba topped with a dried herring), a specialty of Kyoto. In addition, we also recommend carpaccio, which is made by cutting the fish into three pieces and pouring a seasoning mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper over the meat. The herring and pumpkin pie from Ghibli's "Kiki's Delivery Service" is another dish that tastes even better when made with pacific herring caught during season in Hokkaido. If you like cooking, we recommend trying a simple recipe, which requires just some cooked herring, vegetable paste, white sauce, and cheese inside a pie topping, and then baking. Seaweed With Roe From the Pacific Herring Photo：Komochi kombu When herring come to the shallows to spawn in large schools, they lay their eggs on seaweed. Because the eggs are sticky, they tend to adhere to seaweed, such as kombu (edible kelp) and wakame seaweed. Originally, natural seaweeds on which the eggs were laid naturally were harvested, but due to a decrease in catches, there are fewer and fewer of them. Therefore, seaweed is now hung where the pacific herring will pass by to encourage spawning. The result of pickling these seaweeds in salt creates 2 delicious types of seaweed called komochi kombu and komochi wakame. They are often used in festive New Year's dishes in Japan to bring good luck. Summary of Herring Swarms and Spawning in Hokkaido The pacific herring swarms resemble a milky white sash fluttering in the blue sea. The contrast between the blue and white colors allows for some vivid photography as well. It's fascinating to think that this phenomenon occurs when large schools of herring gather to spawn and release their sperm in order to procreate. If you're traveling to Hokkaido in February and March during spring, consider visiting the coast of Otaru. If you're lucky, you may be able to see the herring swarms, a mysterious phenomenon of life.

Introducing SDG Initiatives by Companies in Hokkaido via Video This video, titled "Recycling Scrap Tires to Make New Products! From Hokkaido SDGs to the Future｜WEEK⑤ Broadcast on December 3, 2021" (廃タイヤをリサイクルで新たなモノへ！ＳＤＧｓ北海道から未来へWEEK⑤ 2021年12月3日放送), was uploaded by "HBC News Hokkaido Broadcasting Co." (HBCニュース　北海道放送). This news program introduces companies in Sapporo, Hokkaido that are working on SDGs, in 7-minute video. This article will explain SDGs and introduce the technology to transform scrap tires into a resource, as seen in the video. Learn about the future SDGs through the efforts of a company that has been developing technology to treat scrap tires as a resource for the past 22 years. What Are SDGs? Photo：SDGs The term SDGs refers to "Sustainable Development Goals." They are international goals that aim for a sustainable and better world by 2030, and there are 17 major goals in total. This time, the video introduces goal number 12, "Responsible Consumption and Production," which aims to "ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns." In other words, it is an initiative to reuse scrap tires, which are disposed of in large quantities, by converting them back into recyclable resources. The Sapporo Based Companies That Have the Technology to Turn Scrap Tires Into a Resource Photo：Scrap tires Introduced at the beginning of the video is the aquarium tank at Sunpiazza Aquarium in Atsubetsu, Sapporo. The aquarium's purification system contains special anti-algae/anti-mold pouches that inhibit the formation of algae and mold, which can be seen at 1:13 in the video. The anti-algae pouches make it easier to keep the aquarium clean and reduces the frequency at which they need to be cleaned. The anti-algae pouches are made of crushed anti-bacterial plated film, and this technology originated from the crushing technology of scrap tires. The company that developed the anti-algae pouches is Kotobuki Sangyo of Sapporo, Japan. Kotobuki Sangyo's core business is the manufacturing of roller guides, which are auxiliary devices used in steel mills to stretch steel heated to over 1000℃. The company's roller guides account for about 80% of the domestic market share, but 22 years ago the company decided that it could no longer rely solely on these roller guides and began exploring new avenues of business. The largest percentage of scrap tires are recycled for thermal use as fuel (65%), while repurposing (reuse of rubber) accounts for only 17%. Kotobuki Sangyo has taken on the challenge of recovering scrap tires and recycling them back into useable materials. The tires contain steel wires and mesh, so it was very difficult to develop a technology to remove these and crush the resilient rubber. Kotobuki Sangyo developed a machine specialized in recycling scrap tires, believing that recycling was absolutely necessary to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Made With Rubber Chips From Recycled Scrap Tires Source :YouTube screenshot Rubber mats (water-permeable rubber sheets) and rubber boots made with rubber chips made from crushed scrap tires are introduced at 5:40 in the video. The rubber boots are made of ultra-fine 0.06 mm rubber powder by utilizing this crushing technology. This recycled rubber can also be used to make new tires. Some manufacturers have begun selling sandals and bags made from scrap tires, as well as crepia powder (クレピアパウダー), antibacterial insoles for safety shoes, and crepia fiber, which are made from scrap tires. How Scrap Tires are Currently Disposed of in Japan Photo：A car tire Scrap tires are industrial waste and cannot be disposed of like regular trash; they must be picked up by a disposal company. In addition to being collected free of charge by dealers when new tires are purchased and replaced, used tires can also be purchased if they are still usable. In addition to the method introduced here (turning scrap tires into rubber chips for reuse), there are other methods which include turning them into recycled oil, metal, and rubber. In addition, "recycled tires," in which only the grooves of the tire are re-covered, have been attracting attention as a way to reduce the amount of scrap tires themselves. These recycled tires are subject to Japan's Green Purchasing Law. Summary of Japan's Scrap Tire Recycling and SDGs The above video, "Recycling Scrap Tires to Make New Products! From Hokkaido SDGs to the Future｜WEEK⑤ Broadcast on December 3, 2021," introduces a company with the technology to recycle scrap tires. Approximately 100 million scrap tires, roughly 1 million tons, are generated every year, and the problems surrounding them are becoming more and more serious. Simply burning and disposing of scrap tires is damaging to the environment and a waste of valuable resources. In order to reduce CO2 emissions, save energy, and conserve resources, it's important to use scrap tires as a resource. If you still haven't yet, be sure to check out the video to learn more about companies and their efforts to turn waste tires into resources.

White-tailed Eagles in the Nemuro Straits, Nemuro City, Hokkaido, Japan. This video, titled "White-tailed Eagles" (オジロワシ), was uploaded by "Gaiapress Channel." Along with footage of white-tailed eagles living in Hokkaido, it provides detailed explanations of their ecosystem. It's a great opportunity for those interested in nature and the birds of Hokkaido to learn more about the area. Be sure to read on to learn more. The White-tailed Eagle Photo：A white-tailed eagle The white-tailed eagle is a bird belonging to the Accipitridae family and the Pandionidae genus. It lives near coastlines, rivers, and lakes, and is often found alone or in pairs. It is a carnivore and feeds on fish, birds, mammals, animal carcasses, young hares, and quail chicks. [Video] 0:12 - The White-tailed Eagle The white-tailed eagles’ size ranges from 80cm for males to 94cm for females, with a wingspan of 180-220cm. They have a distinct call, with males making a "gri-gri-gri" sound and the females a "gra-gra-gra-gra" sound. White-tailed eagles that breed in northern Eurasia migrate to areas around China and the Persian Gulf for the winter. In recent years their breeding rate has decreased, and they have been designated as a domestic endangered wild animal species, as well as a protected species since 1970. The Habitat of White-Tailed Eagles and Where to See Them in Japan Photo：A white-tailed eagle catching a fish On the Nemuro Peninsula, located between the Shiretoko Peninsula and Kunashir Island, you can see drift ice that has drifted southward from the Amur River. In the video, you can see white-tailed eagles on the drift ice as well. [Video] 0:27 - White-tailed Eagles on Drift Ice The natural habitat of white-tailed eagles is Eurasia, Europe and East and West Asia. In Japan, they mostly migrate to northern Japan, and in Hokkaido, they breed in small numbers. It takes 6-7 years for white-tailed eagles to become fully mature birds. When they are young, they have brown tail feathers, but when they become adults, their tail feathers turn white and their beaks turn yellow. Feeding Habits of Japanese White-Tailed Eagles In the video, you can see white-tailed eagles congregating, targeting fish lurking under the sea ice. The Nemuro Strait is home to a thriving pollock population, and white-tailed eagles gather there to take advantage of the abundant supply of pollock. [Video] 2:07 - A White-Tailed Eagle Stalking a Walleye Pollack Birds of the hawk family that feed primarily on fish are called sea eagles. White-tailed and Steller's sea eagles are typical examples of sea eagles, and salmon and cod are their favorite catch. You can see them preying on them in the video. [Video] 2:43 - A White-Tailed Eagle Feeding White-tailed Eagles and Steller's Sea Eagles Occupying the Nemuro Peninsula On the Nemuro Peninsula, coastal areas where fishing is carried out are inhabited by crows and seagulls, but about 6 miles offshore, there are birds of prey such as white-tailed eagles and eagles. White-tailed eagles occupy and settle down in favorable locations, such as high places with good visibility or suitable winds in snowy weather. A Group of White-Tailed Eagles Flying Above a Nest Photo：A white-tailed eagle flying through the skies In the video, you can see a group of white-tailed eagles gathering in the mountains. Their nest is located in a place far from the sea. [Video] 4:25 - White-tailed Eagles Gathering in the Mountains "Kettle" is the word used to describe a group of eagles or hawks rising together like a thermal updraft and flying into the sky. In the case of white-tailed eagles, they also form "kettles" regardless of migration. One of the characteristics of white-tailed eagles is that multiple adult birds can be found perching on one tree. [Video] 4:49 - A Kettle of White-tailed Eagles Facts About White-tailed Eagles and Their Vision The video also talks about the white-tailed eagle's vision. White-tailed eagles are known for their narrow upward sight, and it's believed that their eyes do not work in situations with little contrast, such as snowstorms. [Video] 6:05 - Regarding the Sight of White-tailed Eagles White-tailed eagles are also known to fatally crash into wind turbines. Most accidents involve hitting a wind turbine from above, which seems to be related to the narrowness of their visual field. Such accidents are commonly known as "bird strikes." Difference Between White-tailed Eagles and Steller's Sea Eagles Photo：Stellar's sea eagles eyeing fish from above the drift ice The bird with white shoulders is the Steller's sea eagle, and the bird that looks brownish all over is the white-tailed eagle. Both are large birds of prey that have wingspans over 2 meters when fully spread. If you visit the Nemuro Peninsula for sightseeing, you'll now be able to tell the difference with this information! [Video] 0:51 - White-tailed Eagles and Stellar's Sea Eagles White-tailed eagles, have many similarities to Stellar's sea eagles, such as not being susceptible to avian influenza. However, there are differences in minor details, such as the fact that they move in flocks and have gentle personalities. Summary of White-tailed Eagles Hokkaido, where this video was shot, is home to a variety of wildlife and plants. On the Nemuro Peninsula, in addition to white-tailed eagles and Stellar's sea eagles, there are also tours for bird watching. You can see wild birds such as the red-crowned crane, the red-flanked bluetail, and the hazel grouse. Take a trip to the wilderness of Hokkaido and enjoy bird watching in winter!

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

Sapporo Teine Ski Resort, Sapporo, Hokkaido - Video Introduction This video, titled "2018-2019 SAPPORO TEINE PV," was uploaded by "TEINE CHANNEL - Sapporo Teine Official" (TEINE CHANNEL ～サッポロテイネ公式～). Sapporo Teine Photo：Sapporo Teine Ski Resort, Teine, Sapporo, Hokkaido Sapporo Teine is a ski resort located on Mt. Teine, 1,023 meters above sea level, in Teine, Sapporo, located on Hokkaido, Japan's Northernmost Island. The summit overlooks the city of Sapporo and Ishikari Bay, making it a popular destination due to its splendid scenery. Sapporo Teine Ski Resort features 15 courses, with a total of 9 lifts and gondolas, and offers courses for beginners and advanced skiers alike. This popular ski resort is located approximately 15 km (~9 miles) from downtown Sapporo. 2 Zones Used as Venues During the Sapporo Winter Olympics Sapporo Teine is characterized by its division into two zones: "Highland" and "Olympia." The Highland Zone has hosted four technical alpine skiing events (slalom and giant slalom) during the Sapporo Olympics, while the Olympia Zone hosted the torch stand and five bobsledding and luge events. Sapporo Teine's 'Highland Zone' Photo：Snowboarding The Highland Zone features a total of seven courses. The City View Cruise allows you to enjoy skiing while looking out over the city of Sapporo. You can enjoy high-quality powder here until spring. [Video] 0:03 - Highland Zone This video shows snowboarders and skiers enjoying the powdery snow at Sapporo Teine. The conditions are perfect! [Video] 0:19 - Snowboarders and Skiers Enjoying the Powdery Snow Kitakabe is one of Sapporo Teine's most difficult courses and is loved by advanced skiers. It's full of steep slopes and uneven planes, making it challenging but enjoyable. At the Yuichiro Miura & Snow Dolphin Ski School held at the Highland Zone, staff members who know the snow well at Sapporo Teine will teach you not only skiing and snowboarding techniques, but also the charm of the snowy mountains. Olympia Zone: Great for Beginners and Families Photo：Sapporo Teine Ski Resort, Teine, Sapporo, Hokkaido The Olympia Zone, with its many gently sloping courses, is recommended for beginners and novice skiers. The popular Rainbow Course is 1,700 meters long! Beginners can enjoy skiing here at their own pace. The Teine Olympia Ski School, accredited by the Professional Ski Instructor’s Association of Japan (SAJ), allows both kids and adults to learn how to ski, so people of all skill levels can take lessons appropriate for their level. The advanced course in the Olympia Zone, the Olympic Cauldron Ocean Dive, allows you to ski steep slopes while enjoying the view of Ishikari Bay, so if you're a confident skier/snowboarder, you should definitely give it a try! The Olympia Zone's Dinosaur Kids Park! Dinosaur Kids Park is recommended for those with kids. You can enjoy the Triceratops slide, sledding, tubing, and more. Sleds and snow tubes can be rented free of charge. The 116-meter-long wind-shielded snow escalator allows visitors to easily climb gentle slopes without being hit by snow or wind. Access to Sapporo Teine Photo：New Chitose Airport Sapporo Teine is located approximately 60 minutes from New Chitose Airport and 40 minutes from central Sapporo by car. The resort features 2,800 parking spaces available for use free of charge. If you're coming from far away, be sure to check out their special rental car plans and taxi packages. Summary of Sapporo Teine Ski Resort Sapporo Teine is a ski resort with a wide variety of courses that can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced skiers alike. If you get tired from skiing, take a break at the rest house North Maple or the cafeteria Skadi in the Highland Ski Center, which seats up to 650 people. If you plan on doing some sightseeing in Hokkaido as well, we recommend making hotel reservations as early as possible. Last-minute reservations might not be possible. Sapporo Teine is a ski resort where both national and international competitions have been held. It's a place where you can enjoy skiing or snowboarding at the same venue where high-level competitions have been held. During the warmer months, the golf course offers three courses. Visitors can enjoy golfing in a place surrounded by the magnificent nature of Hokkaido. Mountain climbing is another popular activity for experiencing the outdoors of Hokkaido, and the waterfall Heiwa no Taki (平和の滝, lit. "Peace Falls") is a popular place for it. Sapporo Teine is a leisure facility that can be enjoyed throughout the year! 【Official Website】Sapporo Teine - Sapporo Teine Golf Club 【TripAdvisor】Sapporo Teine