Introducing the third installment of our alcohol tourism series 😊

On Saturday, January 17, 2026, we will host “Taste the Terroir (Day Trip): A Wine, Gin, and Beer Tasting Tour with a Choice of Lunch.”

At Aizawa Winery, you will tour the vineyards and winery set in expansive nature and learn about the grapes and winemaking traditions nurtured by the Tokachi soil 🎵

At Tokachi Plain Distillery, known for its craft gin, you will observe the distillation process and sample its aromatic gins 😍

The tour concludes with lunch at CAFÉ＆BAR NUPKA 🍴
Pairing three drinks that color the journey—beer, wine, and gin—you will experience Tokachi’s craft alcohol culture with all five senses 🤗

https://tokachibare.jp/sake-museum/news/taxi-tour02-04/

——Guest Review: "I wish I could have stayed a little longer"

A journey embraced by the country’s largest caldera lake.
Encounter nature, indulge in gourmet food, and enjoy the quiet at night.

You can experience all this at Kussharo Prince Hotel.

Reservations are available via the profile URL.
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/kussharo_ph/

Event Announcement📣

On Sunday, December 14th, the 56th Hiroo Hair Crab Festival will take place😊
This is a gourmet event where you can savor plenty of Hiroo’s fresh seafood!!

The main attraction is a live sale of boiled hair crab prepared in a two-meter cauldron!!
You can also enjoy a hair crab speed-eating contest and delicious stalls offering snow crab miso soup, deep-fried shishamo smelt, seafood curry, and more🎵

At the direct-from-producer market you’ll find seasonal hair crab and shishamo, autumn salmon and hachikaku (sagefish), vegetables, and specialty products from Hiroo as well as local specialties from our sister cities Memuro Town and Saikai City in Nagasaki Prefecture, so please stop by if you like😀

The event’s finale is a fun raffle where Hiroo specialty products are awarded by lottery😍

Come and enjoy the flavors of the season🎶
It’s getting colder, so please dress warmly for the day🤗

https://hiroo-kanko.jp/2025/12/01/56-keganimatsuri/

＼ ＼ The Kushiro Local Products Festival has begun〜😊／／
Starting today!
The 54th Kushiro Local Products Festival🐟
A long line formed even before the doors opened‼︎
Local specialties from Kushiro, nearby towns, sister cities and sister city partners are all laid out in a row ^ ^
A winter tradition in Kushiro. You can't welcome New Year's Eve without coming to this.
The festival runs for three days starting today.
Please come and visit us 😊
📍Kushiro City Tourism & International Relations Center 1F Main Hall
(3-3 Saiwai-cho, Kushiro City)
12/12 (Fri) 10:00–16:00
12/13 (Sat) 9:00–16:00
12/14 (Sun) 9:00–15:00

“Teshikaga Eco Passport” service confirmed to run in winter 2026🚌💨
The Mashu–Kussharo sightseeing loop bus, Teshikaga Eco Passport, which tours scenic spots around Teshikaga, offers 2-day and 3-day passes—please reserve in advance and make use of them. It’s recommended for those who feel unsure about driving and for anyone who wants to enjoy sightseeing in Teshikaga with ease❣️
For details, see Teshikaga Navi✨
https://www.masyuko.or.jp/news/2025winterecopassport/

Midorigaoka Park Observatory in Tomakomai City offers views of the city and Mt. Tarumae from 56 meters above sea level.
Admission is free.
Open hours are 10:00–18:00 in winter and 9:00–21:00 in summer.
On the second floor, a multipurpose lounge hosts concerts and workshops, making it a relaxing spot for residents.
In the observatory plaza you may also encounter wildlife such as Ezo squirrels and Ezo deer ✨🐿🦌

From downtown Kushiro: Mt. Akan-Fuji and Mt. Meakan
Lake Akan in eastern Hokkaido is surrounded by vast, unspoiled nature.
Winter is finally in full swing ☃️ — stay tuned for winter scenery updates!

📢 Notice of Resumed Operations
Asahidake Ropeway will resume service from Thursday, December 11✨
Groomed courses are available in the MtAsahi winter area⛷
Skiing and sliding equipment may be brought into the gondolas and station buildings.

🕘 Hours: 9:00–15:40 (last ascent 15:20)
💴 Fare: Adults ¥2,800 / Children ¥1,750 (round trip)

For the latest information, check the Asahidake Ropeway official website

Hakodate's port at night. This beautiful night view gives the impression of a glittering cityscape, but the streets of Hakodate are not so bustling at night, and it has a peaceful charm. Of course, the real "star" of the show in Hakodate is not the port, but the Goryokaku. It feels incredible to find an advanced iteration of the the European star forts perfected under Vauban appearing unexpectedly in northern Japan. Fascinating history!

Window Art at Kamu
On display until around noon on Friday, December 26th!

📍Roadside Station Nishiokoppe Kamu

Throughout December,
the windows inside the facility are filled with drawings.🖍

With a Christmas and sweets theme,
children from the nursery, elementary and junior high students, and adults have decorated the windows.

The windows beside the karakuri organ
feature impressive works by five villagers!

We hope you enjoy seeing how each piece combines Christmas and sweets.


#Nishiokoppe Village
#Hokkaido
#window art
#Roadside Station
#Kamu
#winter
#Christmas
#sweets
#drawing

Winter break travel to Akanko!
⁡
Akanko dedicated booking site & Marimo Pay
As an opening commemorative campaign
While Marimo Pay normally offers up to 5% points back
we are offering an incredible 10% back for stays during the campaign period!!!!
⁡
With Christmas, New Year and other events packed into winter break
why not spend it at Akanko??
⁡
Book from the link in our profile!!
https://lake-akan.com/marimopay/

Akanko Winter Illumination Giveaway Campaign!!
Today between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM
Post a photo of the illumination on any social media and show your post to the tourism association counter staff to receive an immediate prize by lottery♪
We do not require any specific hashtag for social media posts, but if you would like to add one, please use
#Akanko Marimo Gate
.

“Midwinter!” Yamabiko Falls Viewing Event—Applications open from Monday, December 8th!

Experience the winter form of Yamabiko Falls, a sight shaped by nature—see it for yourself.

Event dates: Sunday, January 18th, 2026 (Application deadline: January 8th)
Sunday, February 8th, 2026 (Application deadline: January 30th)

Eligibility: Elementary school students and older (Each day limited to 30 participants; minimum number to hold the event: 5)
*Elementary school students must be accompanied by a guardian*

Participation fee: Adults 600 yen; elementary, junior high, and high school students 300 yen

How to apply: Use the QR code on the flyer
(Applications by email, fax, or phone are also accepted)

Inquiries: Engaru Town Board of Education Maruseppu Education Center

TEL 0158-47-2456
FAX 0158-47-3817
e-mail m-kyoui@engaru.jp

We hope you’ll join us♪

Recently, part of Utonai-ko (Lake Utonai) froze over. A swan standing on the ice flaps its wings✨🦢
Roadside Station Utonai Lake, which posts many stunning photos on social media, is open in winter from 9:00 to 17:00.
It offers plenty of delicious local food and goods, so please stop by for a break during winter road trips.
(Image provided by Roadside Station Utonai Lake)

Wakasho Market, a sightseeing spot you can reach in a 5-minute walk.
A popular place within walking distance of Kushiro Prince Hotel.
One of the joys of a trip is creating your own katte-don (original seafood bowl) with your favorite seafood.
Enjoy the distinctive flavors of this port town that bring a smile with every bite.
Finish your visit with a Hokkaido gacha to take home a little travel memory.
https://www.princehotels.co.jp/kushiro/experience/
Reservations can be made from the profile.
【Instagram】
https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/


Wakasho Market, one of Kushiro’s must-visit spots, is just a 5-minute walk from Kushiro Prince Hotel.
Here, you can enjoy the fun of creating your own Katte-don—a custom seafood bowl made with your favorite fresh toppings.
Savor the flavors of this charming port town, a taste that’s sure to bring a smile with every bite.
And don’t forget to finish your visit with a Hokkaido Gacha for a memorable little souvenir of your trip.
Reservations are available through the link in our profile.
【Instagram】
https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/


Wakasho Market, a sightseeing spot reachable in a 5-minute walk.
You can easily visit this favorite attraction from Kushiro Oji Grand Hotel.
The most popular offering is katte-don—the original seafood bowl you assemble with the seafood you like.
In the fresh flavors unique to a port city, each bite makes you smile without thinking.
Finally, don’t forget to try the Hokkaido capsule toy for a cute memento of your trip.
Reservations can be made via the link in the profile.
【Instagram】
https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/


Wakasho Market, a sightseeing spot 5 minutes on foot.
It’s a popular spot easily reached on foot from Kushiro Prince Hotel.
The custom seafood bowl made with your preferred seafood—Katte-don—is a major delight of the trip.
The fresh flavors unique to a port city spread a smile the moment you take a bite.
Finally, spin a Hokkaido gacha to leave a travel memory.
Reservations are available from the profile link.
【Instagram】
https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/

The winning entries from the 14th Teshikaga Photo Contest are now on display at Kushiro Prince Hotel—come together and enjoy them 📸✨

Period: Today through the end of February
Location: Kushiro Prince Hotel, 1st floor lobby

We are also actively seeking entries for the 15th Teshikaga Photo Contest. We look forward to your participation‼︎ (For details, please see Teshikaga Navi)

An update from the “Information Dispatch Bureau” on the Kawayu Onsen website 📝🆙

The Lake Kussharo Trout Fishing Tournament, held on November 15 and 16, took place on the Wakin Peninsula. This report covers how 100 anglers gathered and competed, capturing the excitement of the event. A must-see for fishing enthusiasts! 🎣 Please take a look ✨

Start your special day from the morning at our top-floor restaurant.
Relax and unwind with a seafood bowl or a buffet while taking in the breathtaking views.
Please help yourself to your favorite seafood and create your perfect bowl.
https://www.princehotels.co.jp/kushiro/plan/top_kushiro/breakfast2025/

You can make reservations from the profile URL.
【Instagram】
https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/


Start your special day with a morning at our top-floor restaurant.
Relax and unwind as you take in the breathtaking views, accompanied by a seafood bowl or a delightful buffet.
Create your own perfect dish by selecting and arranging your favorite seafood.
Reservations are available through the link in our profile.
【Instagram】
https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/


Start a special day from the top-floor restaurant.
Enjoy a relaxing time as you savor a seafood donburi or the buffet while admiring the stunning scenery.
Feel free to mix and match your favorite marine flavors to craft your own delicious plate.
Reservations can be made via the link in our profile.
【Instagram】
https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/


Start your special day in the morning at our top-floor restaurant.
Enjoy the overwhelming panoramic view with a seafood rice bowl or the buffet and let your mind unwind.
Fill your bowl freely with the seafood you want and complete your own unique meal.
Reservations are available via the profile link.
【Instagram】
https://www.instagram.com/kushiroprincehotel/

https://www.princehotels.co.jp/kushiro/plan/top_kushiro/breakfast2025/

Nature Encounter Event This Weekend!
On Saturday, December 6th, Professor Nakagawa from Hokkaido University will give a lecture at Kawayu Visitor Center.
You can enjoy learning about how volcanic activity has shaped the landscapes and vegetation of Akan-Mashu National Park through engaging research.
We hope you will join us!

Teshikaga Hikari Request ended on November 30.

Thank you so much to everyone who joined us! ✨ Winners will be announced by shipment.

Stay tuned to the official LINE for future event news and lovely updates. ☺️❣️

We are seeking participants for the “Yamabiko Falls Phantom Night Tour”! Applications open Monday, December 15.
Enjoy the magical sight of the frozen falls in midwinter, illuminated by lights.♪

Dates: Saturday, January 17, 2026; Saturday, February 7, 2026; Saturday, February 14, 2026
Time: 5:30 PM–6:30 PM
Capacity: 40 people per day
Participation fee: Adults (junior high school students and older) ¥2,000
Children (elementary school students) ¥1,000

How to reserve: Reservations will be accepted by phone at Engaru Town Maruseppu General Branch.
Reservations open Monday, December 15, 2025, at 8:45 AM

Inquiries / Applications
Engaru Town Maruseppu General Branch
TEL 0158-47-2211

CAPO Marche
We visited Ooyachi CAPO in March,
and we’re going again this month!

The CAPO Marche runs for four days from Friday, December 12th to Monday, December 15th.

On the first two days, booths will feature Rausucho, Makubetsu, Shibecha, Rankoshicho, Shikaoicho and Nishiokoppe Village.

On the last two days, delicious products will arrive from Toyoura-cho, Kembuchicho, Shimokawacho, Nayoro City, Moseushi Town and Shibetsu City.

Opening hours vary by day, so please check the announcements.

From Nishiokoppe Village, we’ll bring popular items from last time such as milk and cheese, wild vegetables, and canned venison and bear meat.

Four days filled with proud specialties from around Hokkaido.
Come to Ooyachi CAPO.

#Nishiokoppe Village
#Hokkaido
#Ooyachi CAPO
#CAPO Marche
#Delicious
#Winter

[Winter Version of Pochi Bags Arrives]
Pochi bags produced by Nishiokoppe Uenshiri Daiko
featuring illustrations of Setoushi-kun.

This winter, poch i bags themed for Christmas and New Year will be displayed at facilities around the village.

One member of the drum team designed motifs inspired by Christmas and the New Year.

Each design is sold in a set of three.
The price is 200 yen.

All three bags in a set have different illustrations, so we hope you enjoy the moment of deciding who to give them to.

The regular versions we have produced and sold so far—five-piece and three-piece sets—remain available.

Why not use a pochi bag to give a small amount of money or a message?

On sale at Hotel Rimu, Roadside Station Kamu, and Komu – Forest Art Museum.

We also welcome performance requests for Nishiokoppe Uenshiri Daiko.

For inquiries, please contact ni.uentaiko2488 at mark gmail.com.


#Nishiokoppe Village
#Hokkaido
#Setoushi-kun
#Pochi bags
#Nishiokoppe Uenshiri Daiko
#Winter
#Christmas
#Otoshidama

<Taiki Town urban area, the season’s first snowfall has arrived>

Last night’s snow left a light dusting across the town center.
This view comes from the newly completed Mt. Moiwa observation deck.
You can still drive to the observation deck parking lot, but the forest road is not plowed, so deeper snow will make the site inaccessible by car.

Notice: 2026 Wakasagi (Pond Smelt) Fishing Season (Reiwa 8)
The wakasagi fishing season is here!
The season is planned from Monday, January 5, 2026 to Wednesday, February 11, 2026 (National Holiday).
(Although the season usually runs until mid-March, to protect wakasagi stocks, this season will be limited to approximately one month. We appreciate your understanding.)

Please note that the opening date may change depending on ice conditions and weather.
Please check the association's social media for updates.
Fishing hours are from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Please follow the posted times and rules.

Equipment rental and sales are available at the reception desk, so tourists and first-time anglers can join with confidence 😊
We look forward to welcoming you!

Tomoya Kaneko Solo Live in Nishiokoppe
Born in Shimokawacho,
Tomoya Kaneko is active not only as a singer-songwriter but also as a radio host and variety show personality.

In Nishiokoppe Village,
there was someone who attended the same high school and belonged to the same soft tennis club as Kaneko.

That person invited Kaneko and organized the live event.

As part of Nishiokoppe Village’s 100th anniversary celebrations,
the concert used village subsidies and received support from the organizing committee members as well as many villagers and people from outside the village.

At the entrance and in front of the hall at Hotel Rimu, the live venue, life-size (slightly smaller) panels of Kaneko and a welcome board greeted guests.

Inside the venue,
Tomoya Kaneko fans’ uchiwa fans were placed on each table, and the stage featured illuminated letters reading KANEKO TOMOYA.

Kaneko’s humor-filled talk and passionate singing electrified the audience.

During the show,
as people approached to take photos, a sweaty Kaneko was nearby.

Standing alone on stage in front of 110 guests,
he shone as he entertained the crowd.

He joyfully responded to segments that brought children onstage,
and the excited children, even when they weren’t onstage, stood toward the back of the hall
and swayed happily.

Thank you to everyone who helped with video production and the raffle,
and to all who came to the venue.

Tomoya Kaneko, thank you for coming!!

#Nishiokoppe Village
#Hokkaido
#Tomoya Kaneko
#Live
#Setoushi-kun
#100th Anniversary of Village Founding
#Music
#Live

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Video—nice to meet you!
This is the Mizu No Kamui Kankoken, where pristine nature, protected since ancient times, still breathes.

On the official SNS account for this Cool Japan Video, we share the vast landscapes, seasonal changes, and small local charms centered on Akanko, Lake Mashu, and Kushiro Shitsugen, bringing you the sights and timely information unique to Eastern Hokkaido.
We aim to post discoveries that spark travel plans and information that lets you feel the atmosphere on site.

Please follow us and enjoy the present face of Eastern Hokkaido together!

[Event Closed Announcement📢]

The “Teshikaga Hikari Request” ended on November 30.

To everyone who participated,
thank you so much!✨

Winners will be notified by shipment instead of a public announcement.

On our official LINE,
we will continue to share event updates and delightful news!
We appreciate your continued support of the Lake Mashu Tourism Association☺️

Dance, Dance, Dance
Dance is closer to strength training than I thought…!
I realized that when I joined a dance lesson held in Nishiokoppe Village.

The instructor who taught us was Toshimasa Miya, a teacher at EOS DANCE STUDIO in Asahikawa City.

This was the second time Miya came to Nishiokoppe Village.

I couldn’t attend the first lesson,
but when I heard a second session would be held, I went to loosen my exercise-starved body.

As soon as the lesson began, music started playing.
I was surprised and thought, “Are we already dancing?” but we began with stretches set to the music.

It seems they teach you to get into the habit of moving to the rhythm from the stretching stage.

They say dance isn’t about moving your body as fast or as much as possible; what matters is moving to the rhythm.

They also explained that if you get better at moving specific parts of your body,
you can express more delicate whole-body movements in dance.

The smaller the movements, the more your muscles and mind work.
To keep your center steady while making various motions, you also need to strengthen your core.

Not being a regular dancer, I moved my arms and legs with all my might and ended up soaked in sweat.

It’s hard to move smoothly like the teacher or snap into sharp motions at times,
but when you move your body fully and use your limbs the way you imagined, it feels great.

While learning dance basics, people from elementary school age to adults enjoyed trying out dance.

A dance lesson is scheduled again after the New Year.

If you’ve been waiting for a chance to get moving,
or if you want to feel soothed watching people move joyfully,
come and join the next lesson.

#Nishiokoppe Village
#Hokkaido
#dance
#dance lesson
#EOS DANCE STUDIO
#Asahikawa
#winter
#exercise

The Tokachigawa Onsen Kohaku Night and Marche runs at Roadside Station Gardens Spa Tokachigawa Onsen through Sunday, December 7.

Centered on the amber color of the mall hot spring, the event features a symbolic tree inspired by Tokachi’s nature, Tokachi sake and snacks, and daily-changing markets and live music.

Come and visit us! 😊

Kohaku Night and Marche
Period: November 1, 2025 – December 7, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM–9:00 PM
Admission: Paid from 6:00 PM
Adults: ¥1,500; Elementary school children: ¥600