■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 2023 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 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 5:00 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 5:00 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" 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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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

Yuni Garden, Hokkaido: 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. It's recommended that you visit the "Kochia Hill" viewing area, which is scheduled to open to the public on Friday, September 1, 2023. 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

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

Summer at Shiroi Koibito Park: Video Introduction 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

Noboribetsu Tourism: 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

Pacific Herring Spawning and Swarms: Video Introduction 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.

Shirahige Falls Illumination: 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

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

White-tailed Eagles in the Nemuro Strait of Hokkaido, Japan: Video Introduction 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: 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

Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden: Video Introduction This video, titled "Monkeys in the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden Hot Springs" (函館市熱帯植物園温泉の猿たち), was uploaded by "HOKKAIDO FAN MAGAZINE." The Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden in Hokkaido is home to a number of monkeys that can be seen enjoying hot springs during the winter months in Hokkaido. The Japanese macaques coming to the hot springs to seek warmth has become a signature sight of the winter season in Hakodate. At the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden, visitors can see the monkeys cheerfully running around the enclosure, or happily soaking in the hot spring water. It's a popular sight on Japanese Instagram. Be sure to check out the video of the happy monkeys and their cute expressions as they soak in the hot springs before reading along! More About Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden in Yunokawa Onsen Photo：Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden Yunokawa Onsen is conveniently located near Hakodate Airport in Hakodate, Hokkaido. Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden is located along the coast overlooking the Tsugaru Straits from the hot spring resort. In the greenhouses of the garden, visitors can enjoy rare flowers and plants that bloom in the everlasting summer in the tropics. There are approximately 300 species and 3,000 tropical plants, including ice cream trees, breadfruit, bougainvillea, hibiscus, etc. It's a popular spot where tourists can feel like they're in the tropics despite being in the cold of Hokkaido. From the observatory in the center of the greenhouse, visitors can look down on the unique tropical plants, and observe parakeets, beetles, and a variety of other creatures, including a crocodile (stuffed of course). In addition, the Japanese monkeys outside of Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden, which can be visited all year round, are the most popular attraction in the garden. In the front garden, visitors can enjoy the flowers of Japan's four seasons, and small children can play on the playground equipment. The park is also equipped with footbath facilities, so adults can also enjoy themselves in a way that only a hot spring can offer. It's great for warming up on a cold day! Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden is a popular destination not only for tourists but also for local families. Prices are 100 yen for elementary and junior high school students and 300 yen for adults, with a 20% discount for groups of 20 or more. Preschool children and students and children who attend school in Hakodate or live in the city but go to school outside the city are admitted free of charge. Cute Monkeys in Hot Springs at Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden in Winter Photo：The monkey hot springs at Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden Have you ever seen the famous footage of Japanese monkeys bathing in hot springs? Seeing them look so comfortable, as they relax in the hot springs just like humans would makes for a memorable sight. The approximately 90 monkeys at Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden have become famous for bathing in hot springs, and many tourists now come to see them enjoying the baths. The history of these monkey hot springs dates back to 1970. It all started when 20 Japanese monkeys were brought here to entertain guests. The current monkeys are the descendants of the boss, Kantaro, and his wife, Tomoe, who were brought in from Honshu (mainland Japan) at that time. If you're visiting Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden, you'll definitely want to check out the monkeys soaking in the hot springs. They say that the less hair a monkey has, the longer it's been bathing in the hot springs. Visitors can also buy food to feed the monkeys. The monkeys are also good at doing puppy-dog-eyes and while the beg you for food. The monkeys are also really photogenic, so be sure to being a camera for some nice Instagram shots. Summer at Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden! Photo：A banana tree at Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden, Hakodate During the summer, Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden holds an event called the Tropical Botanical Garden Summer Festival. There are water exciting activities, such as underwater tug-of-war, and concession stands are set up as well. There will also be hula dancers and Hawaiian bands performing, adding to the tropical atmosphere. (※Not held in recent years due to the coronavirus pandemic). In the greenhouse, visitors can also enjoy banana trees and summer flowers blooming in the flower beds. "Water Square" by the greenhouse is a popular place for children to splash about during the hot summer months. It's a place filled with cheerful laughter! Even in summer, you can watch the monkeys and feed them at the monkey hot springs. Be it winter or summer, Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden is fun in every season! Summary of Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden If you haven't seen the cute monkeys bathing in the hot springs with bright red faces yet, be sure to check it out in the video. The monkey hot springs are a famous winter attraction at Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden. The monkeys enjoying the hot springs just like humans is a n adorable sight. Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden is located inside the Yunokawa Onsen resort area, and hotels and inns are available for visitors planning to stay overnight. You can use Yunokawa Onsen as a base when planning a trip to Hakodate and enjoy the amazing sightseeing spots and delicious food the city has to offer! Hokkaido is a charming place to visit in the spring when the cherry blossoms bloom, in the summer when the lush greenery returns, and in the fall when the leaves change color. If you visit Hakodate's Yunokawa Onsen, be sure to check out the cute monkeys relaxing in the hot springs! ◆Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden◆ 【Address】3 Chome-1-15 Yunokawacho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 042-0932 【Hours】 April - October: 9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. November - March: 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 【Admission Fee】General admission: ¥300, Elementary and junior high school students: ¥100 【Parking】Available (Free) 【Access】Please check the official website 【TripAdvisor】Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden

The Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker: Aurora: Video Introduction This video, titled "Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker: Aurora" (網走流氷観光砕氷船おーろら), was uploaded by "Aurora Channel" (おーろら チャンネル). One of the most spectacular winter sights in the Sea of Okhotsk, east of Hokkaido, is drift ice. When the drift ice arrives in Abashiri, the Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker: Aurora becomes active. In this video, you can see the Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker: Aurora moving boldly through the drift ice blanketing the surface of the sea. Enjoy the magnificent view of the drift ice and even a majestic Steller's sea eagle taking off from the pure white drift ice! When Can You See Drift Ice in Abashiri? Photo：Drift ice seen from the Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker: Aurora The best time to see drift ice in Abashiri, located in eastern Hokkaido, is usually from mid-February to early March. The first day of the drift ice season (the first day when drift ice is visible to the naked eye from the coast) is in late January. After that, the first contact between the drift ice and the shore is usually in early to mid-February, and the best time to see drift ice is any time after that. After the drift ice has reached the coastline, there are no navigable waterways for ships. Abashiri's drift ice comes from the fresh water of the Amur River, which flows along the border between China and Russia. The fresh water poured into the Sea of Okhotsk becomes small ice cubes when exposed to the severe cold at sea. The small pieces of ice are then carried by cold seasonal winds and ocean currents, and slowly move southward across the Sea of Okhotsk, forming large chunks. Then, in late January or early February, the large blocks of ice arrive off the coast of Abashiri. The Tentozan Observation Deck, which is attached to the Okhotsk Ryu-hyo Museum (オホーツク流氷館, Okhotsk Drift Ice Museum), is a popular tourist spot, offering a 360-degree panoramic view of the ice floes from a great distance. Drift Ice Cruises on the Aurora, a Sightseeing Ice Breaker – Reservations, Prices, & More Photo：Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker: Aurora The Abashiri Icebreaker Aurora is a large ship with the power to break the ice. The ship's ice-breaking mechanism can withstand heavy impacts, and the power of the ship's ice-breaking system is impressive as it boldly hits the ice floes and breaks them into pieces. [Video] 3:15 - Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker: Aurora Breaking a Large Piece of Ice On board the Abashiri Icebreaker Aurora, passengers can view the drift ice from various locations. ・On the observation deck, passengers can enjoy the powerful sound of the ice floes breaking. ・The first-floor guest rooms are unreserved seating with sofas facing the sea, and the first-floor deck offers the best view of the ice floes from the lowest point near the surface of the sea. ・The special guest room at the front of the second floor offers a view of the ice breaking from comfortable seating. Special seating cannot be reserved in advance. Seats are limited to the first 50 arrivals on the day of the tour. Below is information on how to make reservations for the Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker: Aurora, as well as the fees and required time. ●Reservations Reservations for the Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker: Aurora can be made by phone or via the Internet. If there are still rooms available on the day of the tour, you can board without a reservation, but advance reservations are more reliable. ●Fees Individual Adults: ¥4,000, Elementary school students: ¥2,000 Groups (15 or more people): Adults: ¥3,600, Elementary school students: ¥1,800 Special seating: +¥400/Payment on the day: cash only ●Time required Approximately 1 hour Location Information + Roadside Station Ryuhyo-Kaido Abashiri Photo：Roadside Station Ryuhyo-Kaido Abashiri The arrival and departure terminals for the Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker: Aurora are located at Roadside Station Ryuhyo-Kaido Abashiri. The tourist information center on the first floor of the Roadside Station provides not only tourist information, but also information on local events, dining, and a variety of other information. In addition, during the winter, information on drift ice is provided via satellite. There's also a corner selling local specialties with a variety of unique souvenirs from Abashiri, and a multi-purpose exchange space where events are held. At the take-out corner and food court, you can taste popular dishes of Abashiri, such as Abashiri Burgers, Abashiri Zangi Manju (steamed buns with a unique type of fried chicken), Drift Ice Soft Serve ice cream, Drift Ice Curry and more. You can fill your stomach while waiting to board the ship, buy souvenirs, or walk along the deck and enjoy a view of the Abashiri River, the Sea of Okhotsk, and Boshi Iwa (a rock shaped like a hat). Summary of the Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker: Aurora The Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker: Aurora is 10 minutes from Abashiri Station by direct bus from the city center. There are no age restrictions, so families can board the ship together. This is a winter-only, Hokkaido-only drift ice sightseeing tour. On a clear day, the contrast between the blue sky and the pure white drift ice floating on the sea makes for beautiful photos. We recommend wearing outerwear that is easy to put on and take off, such as a windproof down jacket, and hats and gloves to protect yourself from the cold and wind. Please come to Abashiri to see the spectacular winter scenery. If you are lucky, you may see seals and Steller's sea eagles too! [Video] 2:36 - A Steller's Sea Eagle Resting Its Wings on Drift Ice 【Official Website】Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker: Aurora

Introducing the video of Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu! This video, “Niseko Mt. Resort Grand HIRAFU 2019-20 Snow Season PV” released by “Niseko Mt. Resort Grand HIRAFU”, is an introductory video of Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu in Hokkaido. You will be able to enjoy activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and chair snowboarding at Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu. The snow quantity and quality of the courses are perfect and there is a sheer variety of courses and they are vast in width as well. Equipped with lifts, gondolas, jumping platforms, and the night ski area, you can comfortably ski on the powder snow course. What Kind of Ski Resort Is Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu? Photo：Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu, Hokkaido Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu, which is part of "Niseko United" that spreads out at the foot of Niseko Annupuri, is located in Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido. Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu, located in the Hirafu area, has been attracting an increasing number of tourists, and is known for having the first night operation gondola in Japan in 1986. The Mountain Center Annex also opened in 2019. The Charm of Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu Photo：Mt. Yotei from Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu・Hokkaido Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu has an attractive course with a magnificent view that overlooks the majestic Mt. Yotei, one of the 100 Famous Mountains of Japan. There is an early morning skiing plan as well as night skiing plans. There's also a mountain center store, a kids park, and a kids room, so if you're coming with kids or forgot to pick up a few essentials, be sure to check these out. There are also fireworks at night, creating a fantastical atmosphere for you to enjoy. If you want to enjoy gourmet Hokkaido cuisine in the area, we recommend restaurants such as Hotel Niseko Alpen's Japanese cuisine "Shokusai Hirafu," "Lounge Cowbell" that sells western style cuisine, and "Restaurant Slalom." Tourist Information for Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu Photo：Niseko Area, Hokkaido The area around Niseko is also great for sightseeing outside of the skiing and snowboarding season. Consider checking out the NAC Niseko Adventure Center NAC Niseko Adventure Park and challenge yourself to activities, such as nature hiking! There are many hotels with hot springs in the Hirafu Onsenkyo area where Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu is located, so we recommend checking out all of the different accommodations offered and choosing one that suits your visit. Summary of Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu Photo：Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu, Hokkaido Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu is the perfect spot for those who want to enjoy action packed winter activities, like those shown in the video. You can check out what it's like to ski on the white slopes at 0:21, see snowboarding from 1:17, and chair snowboarding from 2:07 in the video. Hopefully this video has you pumped up and ready to go skiing and snowboarding at Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu. Make sure to check business hours, bus information, lift tickets, rental information, and live cameras before visiting! 【Official Website】Niseko Grand Hirafu [NISEKO Mt RESORT Grand HIRAFU]｜Official Website https://www.grand-hirafu.jp/winter/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu Ski Resort https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1025639-d1424106-Reviews-Niseko_Mountain_Resort_Grand_Hirafu_Ski_Place-Kutchan_cho_Abuta_gun_Hokkaido.html

Let's watch a sightseeing video of Northern Hokkaido! This time, we'll be taking a look at the video "'Welcome to DOHOKU Winter,' a PR Video for Northern Hokkaido" (道北地域プロモーション動画「Welcome to DOHOKU Winter」), released by "Asahikawa City Hall." Asahikawa, Nayoro, Shibetsu, and other parts of north central Hokkaido are areas where temperatures can drop to minus 20 degrees Celsius in winter. Despite this, many people visit the northern area of Hokkaido to enjoy sightseeing unique to the harsh winter season. Asahikawa and the Northern Hokkaido Region Photo：Wolves at Asahiyama Zoo, Hokkaido, Japan Asahikawa, Hokkaido is a core city that boasts the second largest population in Hokkaido after Sapporo City. The city is characterized by a large difference in temperature, with an annual difference of more than 50 degrees Celsius. In addition to Asahikawa's popular Asahiyama Zoo, there are spots such as Ueno Farm and the Arashiyama Observatory in the Northern Hokkaido region. Be sure to check out the Nayoro Observatory Kitasubaru, Kamui Kotan, and the Ayako Miura Memorial Literature Museum. For shopping, we recommend the convenient "AEON MALL Asahikawa Ekimae," which is directly connected to the glass-faced station building. There is also an entertainment district called "Sanroku-gai" in Northern Hokkaido. Activities To Enjoy in Northern Hokkaido Photo：Curling As you can see from 0:36 in the video, there are not only ski resorts where you can going skiing and snowboarding, but also places where you can experience curling in Northern Hokkaido. In the snowy mountains where you can enjoy the scenery of nature, you can see owls and the Japanese serow, as shown from 2:40. At Hyobaku Shrine in the Sounkyo Visitor Center area of Daisetsuzan National Park, the "Sounkyo Onsen Hyobaku Festival" is held in winter and is usually bustling with visitors. In Furano, you can enjoy a walk through the flower fields and a paraglider sky walk tour in the summer. Enjoy the Delicious Food of Northern Hokkaido, Shown in the Video Photo：Asahikawa Ramen, Hokkaido In the northern Hokkaido area, you will want to enjoy the delicious local delicacies from the sea and the mountains. Enjoy Jingisukan (a Japanese grilled mutton dish) that can be eaten at "Yagitsukai-no-Ie," Asahikawa Ramen at "Asahikawa Ramen-Mura," and coffee at "Coffee Mori-no-Tokei". you can also enjoy exquisite sake at the Otokoyama Sake Brewing Museum. Summary of the Northern Area of Hokkaido Photo：Snowboarding This time, we introduced the charming Northern Hokkaido area. Because Hokkaido is very large, we recommend using Asahikawa Airport for transportation to northern Hokkaido, including places like Asahikawa. There are many hotels and hot spring inns in the Northern Hokkaido area, including Hoshino Resorts, where you can enjoy a luxurious stay, so we recommend making reservation before your trip!

A Look at the Popular Squid Dish From Hakodate, Hokkaido This video, titled "Japanese Street Food - DANCING SQUID SASHIMI Hakodate Japan Seafood," was released by "Travel Thirsty." Squid is a common dish in Japan, but around the world, squid is generally only eaten in Asia, the Americas, and Mediterranean regions such as Italy, while countries where squid is eaten as sashimi are limited to Japan and Korea. In Europe, squid and octopus are generally avoided because of their grotesque appearance, but as Japanese food has become more popular around the world, they have slowly come to be accepted. The setting for this video is a food stall-style restaurant called "Tabiji" located in "Ekini Market" in Hakodate, Hokkaido. The restaurant serves squid and other fresh seafood dishes. Hakodate is popular for its wide variety of seafood dishes, and we recommend the squid dish shown in the video. The highlight of the restaurant is the fresh squid caught in the squid fishing pool inside the restaurant, which is processed and made into sashimi or ika odori don (a dancing squid rice bowl). You might be thinking "eating live squid is cruel," but don't worry, all the squid dishes served here are properly processed and the squid is in fact not live! You can also try other seafood, including various seafood bowls and sashimi. Squid Is a Common Dish in Japan, but How Much Do You Know About Its Biology? Photo：Squid For Japanese people, squid is a dish that can be eaten on a daily basis in a variety of delicious recipes. However, very few people know about the biology of squid, so let's learn a little about them here. Squid are marine mollusks, and as they are nocturnal animals, squid fishing is done at night. The main edible species, such as the Japanese common squid/Japanese flying squid and heterololigo (spear squid), are found in groups. Squid are often thought to have ten legs, but in fact they have eight, the same number as octopus, and the other two are actually tentacles and act as arms. Squid have a more developed muscle and nervous system than other marine organisms, making them one of the top ecosystems in the ocean. There are a variety of species, from the tiny firefly squid measuring only 2 cm in length to the giant squid measuring over 20 meters in length. Squid is a healthy food that is rich in nutrients such as vitamin E, taurine, amino acids, zinc, DHA and EPA. Fresh Squid Recipes Photo：Ika somen In other countries, squid is mainly eaten as fritters, but since Japan is the world's largest consumer of squid, many delicious recipes have been developed throughout the years. Ekini Morning Market, shown in the video, is known as the pioneer of squid fishing pools, where customers fish for squid in a small "pond" and the squid is prepared on the spot. You can see the squid fishing pool from 0:36 in the video. The best way to eat fresh squid is as sashimi! To cut squid, cut along the body and separate the body from the legs. The legs have suckers, a sharp beak, and innards, so carefully separate them with a knife so that the innards are not crushed. From there, cut the body of the squid into thin strips with a knife to make ika somen (squid noodles), a classic squid dish. You can see ika somen being prepared at 2:51 in the video. Fresh squid sashimi is very firm and chewy. The innards of the squid can also be eaten as sashimi, but the best way to eat them is to add salt, crush it, and marinate the squid slices overnight. It can also be cooked in any other preferred method, such as simmered squid and taro, dried squid, or stir-fried. In the video, the freshly processed squid is still moving on the plate, and at 11:57 you can see the squid's legs desperately clinging to the plate with its suckers. Summary of the Squid at Ekini Market in Hakodate, Hokkaido Photo：Japanese common squid At 12:54, towards the end of the video, you can see a delicious squid bowl with ika somen noodles, a generous amount of salmon roe, and a freshly processed squid. When you pour soy sauce on the squid the body will start to move and you might feel a little sorry for them, but just remember that they're not live, they're just as fresh as they can be. There are many rich squid fishing grounds in the seas around Japan, and the season varies for different types of squid: January to May is the best time to catch spear squid, and June to December is the best time to catch Japanese common squid. If you’re visiting Hakodate be sure to enjoy all of the delicious, fresh seafood the city has to offer! ◆Hakodate Morning Market – Ekini Market｜General Information◆ 【Address】9-19 Wakamatsucho, Hakodate 040-0063 Hokkaido 【Access】Approximately 20 minutes from Hakodate Airport via car or taxi 【Hours】May – Oct. 5:30 A.M. – 2:00 P.M., Nov. – Apr. 6:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. 【Closures】The third Sunday of each month, July, Sept., Dec. no closures 【Parking】Available (New Ohte Rooftop Parking) 【Telephone】0138-22-5330 【Tripadvisor】Hakodate Morning Market Ekini Market (駅ニ市場) https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298151-d3210230-Reviews-Ekini_Market-Hakodate_Hokkaido.html

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

Autumn Leaves + Sightseeing in Jozankei: Video Introduction This video, titled "Hokkaido's Best Views – Autumn Leaves of Jozankei in 2021" (紅葉2021　定山渓　北海道　　絶景), was uploaded by "GreenNova TV." Jozankei is located in Sapporo, Hokkaido, and is a popular, remote hot spring resort surrounded by rich valleys and deep forests. Jozankei's vivid autumn foliage is due to the rocky surfaces of the valley having large differences in temperature and the beautifully flowing river. Shikotsu-Toya National Park consists of five areas: the Lake Shikotsu area, Jozankei area, Lake Toya area, Mt. Yotei area, and the Noboribetsu area. In the Jozankei area, the area around Hoheikyo Dam is loved by many tourists traveling in Hokkaido as one of the best places to see autumn leaves. Be sure to check out this enchanting video that captures the autumn leaves at their best. Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort's Autumn Festival! Enjoy a Spectacular View of Autumn Leaves on a Gondola! Photo：Autumn at Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort is a ski resort located in Jozankei, Sapporo in Hokkaido. When the autumn leaves are in season, visitors can enjoy stunning colors created by Mother Nature from the foot of the mountain to the summit. The Autumn Festival is held every year when the autumn leaves are at their best, and the "Autumn Leaves Gondola" is a popular event utilizing a gondola. Viewing the autumn leaves while riding a gondola makes for an exciting experience, and the sweeping views of autumn leaves from the picturesque viewing platform at the top of the mountain are nothing short of amazing. There are also stalls serving delicious food and local specialties of Hokkaido, so be sure to enjoy the flavors of autumn to your heart's content! [Video] 0:30 - Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort A Stunning View of Autumn Leaves From the Sapporo Lake Daiichi Observatory The contrast of the autumn leaves from the maples, cherries, and other trees seen from the Sapporo Lake Daiichi Observatory makes it a spectacular place to enjoy the autumn foliage. Usually, the leaves begin to change color in late September, and the best time to view them is from early to mid-October. In addition to the Sapporo Lake Daiichi Observatory, there are four other "Sapporo Lake Observatories" nearby. The first observatory is the best place to view Jozankei Dam, and is also popular among many photographers as an excellent spot to take landscape photos, photos of the autumn leaves, and even photos of the starry sky with little light pollution. [Video] 2:30 - Sapporo Lake Daiichi Observatory Jozankei Dam – Photogenic Autumn Leaves and Breathtaking Starry Skies Photo：Jozankei Dam The Jozankei Dam, along with the nearby Hoheikyo Dam, serves as a water reservoir for the citizens of Sapporo. The lake created by the dam is known as Lake Sapporo. Jozankei Dam is a great spot for viewing autumn leaves surrounded by mountains. The trees are laid out in layers like rice fields on a steep slope, and the colorful autumn leaves are sure to delight. During the daytime, many people visit the park below the dam and the Jozankei Dam Museum. And come nightfall, the star-filled sky and stunning nighttime views from the observatory attract many visitors. In addition, the Hoheikyo Dam, which has been selected as one of the Top 100 Water Source Forests and Top 100 Dammed Lakes, is a popular tourist attraction, where visitors can see water being discharged from the dam. If you're lucky, you can even see a rainbow. Be sure to check discharge times before visiting. [Video] 3:20 - Jozankei Dam Shigure Bridge – A Place for Picturesque Photography! Shigure Bridge, located in Jozankei, Sapporo, is a bridge over the Shirai River, a branch of the Toyohira River, on the way from Jozankei Onsen to Jozankei Dam. The picturesque scenery of the flowing mountain stream and deep red autumn leaves makes for awesome photos on Instagram, and visitors can also enjoy a spectacular view of the autumn leaves in the valley from atop the bridge. Be sure to snap some photos of your own. [Video] 4:10 - Shigure Bridge JOZANKEI NATURE LUMINARIE – An Exciting Event of Illuminated Autumn Leaves at Futami Park Photo：JOZANKEI NATURE LUMINARIE, Futami Park, Jozankei JOZANKEI NATURE LUMINARIE, a light-up event held every year from Jozankei's Futami Park to the Futami Tsuribashi Suspension Bridge area, utilizes the natural beauty of the area. The event is usually held from June to mid-October. The nature trail "Futami Jozan-no-michi" (a course from Futami Park to Futami Tsuribashi Suspension Bridge, Kappabuchi Pool, and Akaiwa no Kan) is a popular sightseeing route along the Toyohira River, and is a walking path where visitors can feel the grandeur of nature. The walking trail is the stage for a light-up performance featuring illuminations and projection mapping to create a unique glow. The smell of the trees, the murmuring of the river, and the chirping of the insects combine to create a magical experience. JOZANKEI NATURE LUMINARIE is an admission-free event, but in recent years, it has become a limited event for Jozankei Onsen guests. If you are planning a trip to Jozankei, consider planning it in combination with a stay at a hot spring inn. [Video] 4:33 - Futami Park Summary of Autumn Sightseeing in Jozankei Jozankei has been designated as a national park and is famous for its autumn leaves. One of the reasons for its popularity is that it can be visited in less than an hour from the Sapporo city center. Surrounded by mountains on all sides, visitors can enjoy Mother Nature just by strolling through Jozankei Onsen, and enjoy the brilliant autumn leaves of fall. When the autumn leaves are in season and the walking trails in Jozankei are crowded, we recommend trying the convenient Jozankei Onsen one-day bus tours. You can stay at a nice hotel, enjoy open-air baths and delicious food, visit Jozankei Shrine to calm your mind, and, last but not least, enjoy the splendid autumn leaves. We hope this helps you make some exciting travel plans so you can enjoy an awesome time in Hokkaido the next time you visit!

A Look at Kofuku Station! This video, released by "Shinji kawamura," introduces Kofuku Station on the former Japanese National Railways' Hiroo Line that used to run in Hokkaido. The video is titled "Kofuku Station, a Holy Space for Lovers" (幸福の駅　恋人の聖地　Happy station A sweetheart's holy place). Aikoku Station (愛国駅) and Kofuku Station (幸福駅) on the former Japan National Railways' Hiroo Line are popular stations that have become nationwide trends. As you can see from 0:19 in the video, the inside of Kofuku Station is covered with copies of tickets, business cards, photos, and message cards A tourist once stuck his business card on the wall in the station wishing for happiness and that's how the tradition of stickying lucky cards on the walls was established. More About Kofuku Station, a Holy Space for Lovers in Hokkaido! Photo：Kokufuki Station - station nameplate, Hokkaido Kofuku Station is a station on the Hiroo Line of the Japan National Railways that used to exist in the town of Kofuku (幸福町, Kofuku-Cho), Obihiro City (帯広市, Obihiro-Shi), Hokkaido. The popularity of this station has exploded since 1973, when it was featured in NHK TV program "Shin-Nihon-Kiko" (A Travelogue for New Japan) and used as a filming location for a TV drama with the catchphrase "From the Land of Love to Kofuku." It's said that buying a ticket at this station would bring love and happiness and because of this the station sold 13 million tickets. Unfortunately, Kofuku station closed on February 2, 1987, when the Hiroo Line was discontinued. Since the Hiroo Line was discontinued, Kofuku Station has become a railroad park and Aikoku Station was turned into a transportation memorial hall. Both have become popular tourist destinations. Things To Do Near Kofuku Station, a Holy Space for Lovers in Hokkaido! Photo：Kofuku Station & a diesel train, Hokkaido In 2013, with the concept of "old but new," the station building was renovated to reinforce its earthquake resistance. A fountain called "Ai-no-Izumi" (The Fountain of Love), and a symbol tree called "Kofuku-no-Ki" were newly installed and the station was reborn as a more attractive site. The diesel trains, platforms, and abandoned railroad cars are still in their original state, allowing you to glimpse back in time. At Kofuku Station, known as a holy space for lovers, you can enjoy the "Kofuku Station Happy Ceremony," a wedding experience that includes a commemorative photo shoot while wearing a wedding dress. At the gift shop in the station building, you can buy souvenirs, such as key chains and tickets. Summary of "Kofuku Station," a Holy Space for Lovers in Hokkaido! Photo：Kofuku Station & a diesel train, Hokkaido The signboard and the Happiness Bell at Kofuku Station are just perfect for Instagram. There is a Kofuku Shrine near Kofuku Station and an Aikoku Shrine near Aikoku Station. These are also worth a visit. Sapporo (札幌, Sapporo) and Hakodate (函館, Hakodate) are the most popular tourist destinations in Hokkaido, but now you might want to believe in the sign of good luck and visit Kofuku Station. 【Tripadvisor】Kofuku Station https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g608507-d1882914-Reviews-Kofuku_Station-Obihiro_Hokkaido.html