We call the sightseeing area in Eastern Hokkaido that includes the Kushiro Wetland, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu the Kamui of Water Tourism Area.
“Kamui” is the Ainu word for the spiritual beings that dwell in nature and animals, and in particular “the kamui of water” represents the spiritual presence in water, symbolizing the region’s abundant water blessings and its relationship with people.
The Kamui of Water Tourism Area lets you experience a land shaped by a water deity, where wetlands, lakes, volcanoes, and Ainu culture weave together the story of the earth.
At the Kushiro Wetland, Japan’s largest wetland, you can enjoy vast scenery that is home to the specially designated natural monument, the red-crowned crane, and observe seasonal nature along boardwalks and trails.
Lake Akan is known as the only place in the world with large spherical colonies of marimo, and through facilities that teach marimo ecology, Lake Akan Onsen, and Lake Akan Ainu Kotan you can encounter Ainu culture that has been passed down alongside the water.
At Lake Mashu, visitors are greeted by the mysteriously deep blue water called “Mashu Blue” and a caldera lake that boasts some of the world’s highest water clarity.
Nearby at Lake Kussharo and Mt. Io, you can also see the dynamic natural expressions created by volcano and water, such as lakeside hot springs and steam vents.
We warmly present the stories of water, land, and culture that you can only encounter in the Kamui of Water Tourism Area.
“Kamui” is the Ainu word for the spiritual beings that dwell in nature and animals, and in particular “the kamui of water” represents the spiritual presence in water, symbolizing the region’s abundant water blessings and its relationship with people.
The Kamui of Water Tourism Area lets you experience a land shaped by a water deity, where wetlands, lakes, volcanoes, and Ainu culture weave together the story of the earth.
At the Kushiro Wetland, Japan’s largest wetland, you can enjoy vast scenery that is home to the specially designated natural monument, the red-crowned crane, and observe seasonal nature along boardwalks and trails.
Lake Akan is known as the only place in the world with large spherical colonies of marimo, and through facilities that teach marimo ecology, Lake Akan Onsen, and Lake Akan Ainu Kotan you can encounter Ainu culture that has been passed down alongside the water.
At Lake Mashu, visitors are greeted by the mysteriously deep blue water called “Mashu Blue” and a caldera lake that boasts some of the world’s highest water clarity.
Nearby at Lake Kussharo and Mt. Io, you can also see the dynamic natural expressions created by volcano and water, such as lakeside hot springs and steam vents.
We warmly present the stories of water, land, and culture that you can only encounter in the Kamui of Water Tourism Area.
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![[Image1]The award-winning works of the 15th Teshikaga Photo Contest are currently on display in the lobby of](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/b534927d559fe8332956f82ae752479493a27674.jpg)
![[Image2]The award-winning works of the 15th Teshikaga Photo Contest are currently on display in the lobby of](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/4d48d7d56ec07ce05d4f3ada8de7618e60e28b39.jpg)
![[Image3]The award-winning works of the 15th Teshikaga Photo Contest are currently on display in the lobby of](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/1beb6f981dfe6561f5e9f199a4917c3ad85c0aab.jpg)
![[Image4]The award-winning works of the 15th Teshikaga Photo Contest are currently on display in the lobby of](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/a94cd7d789f8a0558a6ed46267f09315c4edf0af.jpg)
The award-winning works of the 15th Teshikaga Photo Contest are currently on display in the lobby of the Kushiro Mashu Tourism and Culture Center! You can freely view a variety of beautiful pieces. This is a great opportunity to see some stunning works, so we invite you to come and enjoy them.
Additionally, the call for entries for the 16th Photo Contest will begin on November 20, 2026. We encourage you to participate as well! If you have beautiful images of Teshikaga, why not give it a try? We look forward to seeing your wonderful works!📸⛰️✨
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![[Image1]Notice of Temporary Closure Due to Renovation Work at Kotan Onsen Open-Air BathKotan Onsen Open-Air](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/49a8cc9e7124e36fa50d1a0f71ba5ad1324158da.jpg)
![[Image2]Notice of Temporary Closure Due to Renovation Work at Kotan Onsen Open-Air BathKotan Onsen Open-Air](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/e195509eb9087b6caf1bd3bc5636b968fb8c7eeb.jpg)
Notice of Temporary Closure Due to Renovation Work at Kotan Onsen Open-Air Bath
Kotan Onsen Open-Air Bath will be temporarily closed for renovation work on the following dates.
【Closure Schedule】
November 12th (Thursday) and 13th (Friday):
Closed for renovation
November 14th (Saturday) and 15th (Sunday):
Open for use
November 16th (Monday):
Closed for renovation work (reopening date undecided)
We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause to those planning to visit, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation. We will inform you once the reopening date is determined.
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![[Image1]On the night of November 8, when the temperature dropped to -4°C at Lake Akan Onsen, I was able to f](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/f164855252bde238045adf1240ba648d82b1ee37.jpg)
![[Image2]On the night of November 8, when the temperature dropped to -4°C at Lake Akan Onsen, I was able to f](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/52553ba423af3d7f0242a414b37e0e1e6c4b2bf8.jpg)
![[Image3]On the night of November 8, when the temperature dropped to -4°C at Lake Akan Onsen, I was able to f](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/b9b99ad7629bd2cec82e08e24f92745885014c04.jpg)
On the night of November 8, when the temperature dropped to -4°C at Lake Akan Onsen, I was able to feel the warmth of the torches precisely because it was cold. 😊 We will have another event this weekend, so please be sure to sign up.
• Schedule
14th (Saturday), 15th (Sunday)
• Time Schedule
20:00: Gather and check in at the front of Akan Lake Marimukan
With torches in hand, head to Ainu Kotan (disband at the site)
• Application
hok_night@tobutoptours.co.jp (until 18:00 on the day of the event)
*Registration will close once full.
*The event may be canceled due to inclement weather.
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![[Video1][October in Teshikaga]#Teshikaga #Teshikaga #Teshikaga #Kawayu Onsen](https://img-cooljapan.imgix.net/member_posts/image/video_1794211294_6af17dde02366.jpg?w=750&h=1000&fit=min&auto=format&q=70)
![[Image1]Invitation to the](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/32ef0c4fc19c68d7ff9ea8e0d2f424942188ace3.jpg)
![[Image2]Invitation to the](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/ef775c513fb5d3f77a504b3ffe1e50f1f79d0ce3.jpg)
Invitation to the "Akan Lake Onsen Torchlight March" hosted by Tobu Top Tours.
Would you like to walk through the solemn nights of Hokkaido, holding a torchlight?
In Akan Lake Onsen, local guides will introduce you to Ainu culture, as well as the history and nature of the region.
This night program allows you to experience the grandeur of nature at night and discover new charms of Hokkaido.
• Schedule: November 7 (Saturday), 8 (Sunday), 14 (Saturday), and 15 (Sunday) - a total of 4 days.
• Timetable:
• Check in at your hotel and have dinner
• 20:00: Gather and check in at the front of Akan Lake Marimukan
With torches in hand, head to Ainu Kotan (dissolve on-site)
• Application
hok_night@tobutoptours.co.jp (by 18:00 on the day)
*Registration will close once full.
*Registration for November 7 is now closed due to full capacity.
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![[Image1]【12/1】Sustainable Training for Accommodation and Tourism FacilitiesTeshikaga Town is working on](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/2f56a9ea84e3caf836f0e9573d1e5191d9fa28b0.jpg)
【12/1】Sustainable Training for Accommodation and Tourism Facilities
Teshikaga Town is working on "sustainable tourism." It is crucial for both visitors and residents to feel comfortable, while also ensuring that businesses can generate proper profits.
Currently, major OTA sites have implemented options for "sustainability," making it more essential than ever for accommodation and tourism facilities to engage in sustainable practices. Why not take this opportunity to learn about sustainable facility management that can lead to reduced costs for attracting customers and maintaining facilities? This training will provide practical insights based on the international label for sustainable tourism facilities, "Green Key," focusing on actionable initiatives that can be immediately implemented and are beneficial for management.
We look forward to your applications and participation.
■ Date: Tuesday, December 1, 2026
10:00 Seminar Start
16:30 Scheduled End
■ Venue: Mashu Tourism and Culture Center
■ Instructor: Satoru Takayama (Representative Director of JARTA)
■ Participation Fee: Free
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![[Image1]🍂🌲Akaezomatsu Forest🌲🍂Akaezomatsu Forest offers a chance to enjoy the beauty of autumn. The entrance](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/7ecf5c0675468ac36f549d051e1a5aaf8e438ff0.jpg)
![[Image2]🍂🌲Akaezomatsu Forest🌲🍂Akaezomatsu Forest offers a chance to enjoy the beauty of autumn. The entrance](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/c0e64f1797567b3fb518820e191496ac961a0b27.jpg)
![[Image3]🍂🌲Akaezomatsu Forest🌲🍂Akaezomatsu Forest offers a chance to enjoy the beauty of autumn. The entrance](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/296b4020c8d4f3db2ceefb8b4f9e55cdfb094215.jpg)
![[Image4]🍂🌲Akaezomatsu Forest🌲🍂Akaezomatsu Forest offers a chance to enjoy the beauty of autumn. The entrance](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/155312c0e319c200081f25e5b0f668df2a547103.jpg)
![[Image5]🍂🌲Akaezomatsu Forest🌲🍂Akaezomatsu Forest offers a chance to enjoy the beauty of autumn. The entrance](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/8a47927931509330300fd213290eb75347938f00.jpg)
![[Image6]🍂🌲Akaezomatsu Forest🌲🍂Akaezomatsu Forest offers a chance to enjoy the beauty of autumn. The entrance](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/6f65472a4ff8d5a905544c32c56eb1e08ae4a960.jpg)
🍂🌲Akaezomatsu Forest🌲🍂
Akaezomatsu Forest offers a chance to enjoy the beauty of autumn. The entrance to the walking trail is located next to the Kawayu Visitor Center, leading to a forest road where you can easily observe Akaezomatsu trees🚶♂️🌲✨
As you walk on the carpet of colorful leaves illuminated by magical sunlight, you can enjoy observing the plants and breathe in plenty of fresh air.
⚠️Please be cautious while walking as there are some fallen trees🪵
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![[Image1]【National Hometown Fair】The National Hometown Fair will be held from Saturday, October 31 to Tuesday](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/31ab2139d2d02e3031256f224aa4249c937ab419.jpg)
![[Image2]【National Hometown Fair】The National Hometown Fair will be held from Saturday, October 31 to Tuesday](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/cb43e30f9d471a19c397a1611176ec95c66e4a25.jpg)
![[Image3]【National Hometown Fair】The National Hometown Fair will be held from Saturday, October 31 to Tuesday](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/dc9402c9b1b13f367ae04c90dae0ab77c0bfc509.jpg)
![[Image4]【National Hometown Fair】The National Hometown Fair will be held from Saturday, October 31 to Tuesday](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/e538f1c21aa1a69e7e8a2486f7d44a9466ada8c9.jpg)
![[Image5]【National Hometown Fair】The National Hometown Fair will be held from Saturday, October 31 to Tuesday](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/293d84d1d9a3a3798fbda3d9ef6a870800728870.jpg)
【National Hometown Fair】
The National Hometown Fair will be held from Saturday, October 31 to Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Event Square, with the Mashu Lake Tourism Association also participating. We look forward to welcoming everyone! 🙇♂️🧸❣️
2026 National Hometown Fair
Date: October 31 (Saturday) to November 3 (Tuesday, public holiday), 2026
Location: Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Event Square
(1-1 Shinminato, Naka Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture 231-0001)
Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, rain or shine
Admission: Free
🚉City Subway
About a 15-minute walk via the Bashamichi from "Sakuragicho Station" and about a 15-minute walk from "Kannai Station"
🚉Minatomirai Line
About a 6-minute walk from "Bashamichi Station" or "Nihon-ōdōri Station"
About a 12-minute walk from "Minatomirai Station". Please note that travel times are approximate and may vary depending on service conditions and transfers.
___
*The images used are from the event held in 2025.
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![[Image1][Lecture] Unraveling the Starry Sky of Teshikaga through Science!Autumn has arrived, bringing longer](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/15f7256f99090a0e622d602405f0cec90159e324.jpg)
[Lecture] Unraveling the Starry Sky of Teshikaga through Science!
Autumn has arrived, bringing longer nights and clearer skies, making it the perfect season to enjoy the beautiful starry sky of Teshikaga Town. The way we see the night sky varies depending on the location and time.
Why can we see such a beautiful starry sky in Teshikaga Town?
In this lecture, we will welcome Mayuki Sano-Aihara, who studies the brightness of the night sky, to explore the charm of Teshikaga's starry sky from a scientific perspective. How do we measure the brightness of the stars, and what can we learn from the data? Through the study of the night sky, we will learn the importance of observing the changes in our surrounding natural environment. By looking at the familiar starry sky through the lens of science, why not rediscover the natural beauty of Teshikaga Town?
Whether you love the stars or have an interest in science, the natural environment, or the profession of research, please feel free to join us.
Implementation Period
Date: November 11 (Wednesday) and 13 (Friday), 7 PM - 9 PM
*The content will be the same on both days.
Venue: Town Community Center, Training Room
Target Audience: Town residents, approximately 20 people on both days (children under junior high school must be accompanied by a guardian)
Participation Fee: Free
What to Bring: Writing utensils
Application Deadline: November 9 (Monday)
Organizer: Teshikaga Eco-Town Promotion Council, Ecotourism Promotion Committee
Tourism and Commerce Division, Tourism Promotion Section
088-3292
2-3-1 Chuo 2-chome, Teshikaga Town, Kawakami District, Hokkaido, Japan
Phone: 015-482-2940 Fax: 015-482-2696
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![[Image1]Mt. Oakan has received its first snowfall!The summit is completely white❄The roads are also freezing](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/cec871ec66d66c9c7ee055a6bb3c30560768efe8.jpg)
![[Image2]Mt. Oakan has received its first snowfall!The summit is completely white❄The roads are also freezing](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/47d72f3c4ecd8a94cc2cb98d77a50a3e1b57cba3.jpg)
![[Image3]Mt. Oakan has received its first snowfall!The summit is completely white❄The roads are also freezing](https://img.cooljapan-videos.com/files/member_posts/image/e666099081bb6710e3f236c5c4b948c925008f1a.jpg)
Mt. Oakan has received its first snowfall!
The summit is completely white❄
The roads are also freezing in shaded areas during the early morning, turning into black ice, so
we recommend equipping your vehicle with winter tires when visiting Lake Akanko.
Additionally, it gets quite cold during the day, so having a light down jacket and gloves handy would be convenient.
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