Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

Lake Saroma is the largest lake in Hokkaido and the third largest in Japan. This sprawling brackish lagoon, where fresh water meets the salty sea, is separated from the Sea of Okhotsk by a stunning, narrow sandbar. It is a place where the scale of nature feels truly infinite.

From the observation deck atop Mt. Horoiwa, an overwhelming 360-degree panorama unfolds beneath you. The water is a unique, deep azure known as "Saroma Blue," a color born from the lake's remarkable clarity and depth. The slender sandbar stretches across the landscape like a delicate line drawn by nature’s hand, dividing the calm lake from the wild Sea of Okhotsk, while the majestic Shiretoko Mountains shimmer in the distance. As you stand there, the salty breeze brushes your skin and the distant cries of seagulls fill the air, making the sparkling, rippling water feel alive.

As evening approaches, the world transforms. The sky and water merge into a single canvas, shifting through vibrant shades of orange to deep reddish-purple. It is a silent, soul-stirring transition that marks the end of a Hokkaido day. To complete your journey, visit the local lakeside eateries to savor Lake Saroma’s famous scallops. Known for their plump texture and incredible sweetness, these fresh delicacies offer a true taste of the rich Okhotsk bounty. Here, surrounded by the vast lake and endless sky, time seems to slow down, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural grandeur of the north.

Perched 376 meters above sea level near the heart of Lake Saroma’s shoreline, this observation deck offers a unique vantage point where you can witness the lake, the sea, and a sprawling sandbar all at once.

As you step onto the summit, a magnificent panorama unfolds, embracing the entire lake beneath you. Stretching across the horizon is the "Ryugu Kaido," a narrow 20-kilometer sandbar that separates the calm, shimmering waters of Lake Saroma from the deep blue of the Sea of Okhotsk. This striking contrast of colors creates a landscape unlike any other in the world.

The refreshing breeze carries a hint of salt from the sea, while the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant murmur of waves melt into the peaceful silence. On clear days, the distant peaks of the Shiretoko Mountains emerge on the horizon, adding to the grandeur of the scene. The sunlight dancing on the water and the vast, open sky offer a luxurious moment of serenity that truly defines the natural beauty of Hokkaido.

Experience one of Japan’s largest coral grass colonies, where the shores of Lake Notoro transform into a vibrant sea of red each autumn.

Located along the scenic shores of Lake Notoro in Abashiri City, this remarkable natural attraction showcases one of Hokkaido’s most spectacular seasonal landscapes. The salt-tolerant coral grass, known in Japanese as Akkeshi-so, changes from fresh green in summer to a brilliant crimson as autumn approaches. Listed on the Ministry of the Environment’s Red List, this rare plant spreads across approximately 3.8 hectares, creating a breathtaking scene that resembles a vast crimson carpet.

As you stroll along the well-maintained wooden boardwalks, you can enjoy the scent of the sea breeze and observe the delicate coral grass swaying in the wind up close. The contrast of the clear blue sky, the tranquil lake surface, and the endless stretch of deep red creates an unforgettable scene. During peak color season in mid-September, the Lake Notoro Coral Grass Festival attracts many visitors celebrating this fleeting beauty of autumn.

Appearing for only a short time each year, this extraordinary landscape is one of Hokkaido’s most iconic autumn sights and a destination well worth experiencing.

Located within a Michi-no-Eki in Kitami City, Kitanodaichi Aquarium showcases Hokkaido’s freshwater life, featuring world- and Japan-first exhibits that bring the power of Hokkaido’s rivers to life.

As you step inside, the “Waterfall Basin Tank”—the first of its kind in Japan—immediately captures your attention. From a vantage point beneath the water, you can watch fish swim against a powerful current. Their tails cut through white, foaming bubbles, creating a vivid sense of the river’s power. In winter, the aquarium unveils a world-first: a tank whose surface freezes over, recreating a natural winter river. In the tranquil setting, fish glide beneath pale blue ice in a spectacle found only here.

Another highlight is the exhibit of Ito (Sakhalin taimen), Japan’s largest freshwater fish. This is one of the largest Ito exhibits in Japan, featuring around 10 massive fish, each over 1 meter long. Known as the “phantom fish,” these giants make a striking impression as they glide past. Surrounded by the scent of pure water and the sound of flowing streams, this unique setting offers a deeper connection to Hokkaido’s aquatic ecosystems.

Experience an enchanting garden crafted by Ueno Sayuki, the visionary designer of a famous TV drama garden. This botanical paradise is perfectly acclimated to Asahikawa's unique climate, offering a tapestry of colors and seasonal beauty.

Nestled at the foot of hills overlooking the magnificent Daisetsuzan Mountain Range, this vast 4-hectare "Hokkaido Garden" invites you into a world of seasonal wonders. In spring, pastel-colored tulips gently awaken, while summer brings a breathtaking competition of vibrant perennials. As you stroll through the grounds, you might encounter friendly ducks wandering by, while the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers fills the air. The soothing melodies of wild birds provide a peaceful soundtrack, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of Hokkaido’s wilderness.

Beyond the flower beds lies Shatekiyama, a historic hill once used by pioneering soldiers for target practice. Today, it has been transformed into a romantic "Lovers' Sanctuary." At the summit, a majestic Dragon's Claw Willow casts a refreshing canopy. Under its shade, you can feel the cool breeze and hear the gentle rustle of leaves. After your walk, visit NAYAcafe, a charming space housed in a renovated old barn. Relax with a delicious local sweet and enjoy a slow, peaceful moment surrounded by your favorite blooms.

Asahikawa Ramen Village is a popular food theme park featuring eight of the city’s most celebrated ramen shops. It is an ideal destination for food lovers to sample and compare authentic Asahikawa ramen in one visit.

Asahikawa ramen is known for its distinctive soy sauce–based broth, a savory blend of seafood and pork bone stock, served with medium-thin curly noodles. Eight famous ramen shops line the walkway, each offering its own signature broth, noodles, and tender char siu pork. As you enter, the rich aroma of simmering soup and the sound of boiling noodles instantly whet your appetite. Behind the noren curtains, watch skilled chefs prepare each bowl before your eyes. Every steaming sip delivers deep umami flavor paired with satisfying noodles.

Beyond the food, the complex also features the charming Asahikawa Ramen Shrine, a playful celebration of ramen culture. Visitors can pass through the torii gate, make a wish, or take photos at this unique spot. Located in the Powers shopping center in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, the village offers spacious parking for cars and tour buses.

Asahiyama Zoo is a world-renowned destination where animals live as they would in the wild. Guided by the philosophy of "conveying the essence of life," the zoo's unique "behavioral displays" allow you to witness the innate wisdom and vitality of each creature up close.

Feel the raw power of the wild as the majestic howls of wolves pierce the crisp Asahikawa air, or watch in awe as orangutans gracefully traverse a tower 17 meters above your head. Every corner of the zoo is thoughtfully designed to ensure the animals' comfort while offering visitors an immersive experience. At the Seal House, a 360-degree cylindrical tank brings seals gliding right past you—so close that you can almost sense the sleek texture of their fur.

Winter brings its own magic with the famous Penguin Walk. In the quiet beauty of a snowy day, you can watch penguins waddling freely across the pristine white powder, their tiny footsteps echoing softly through the winter air. Don't miss the "Mogumogu Time" (feeding sessions), where the sounds of animals crunching their food and their focused expressions radiate pure energy. With over 20 fascinating facilities, including the Ezo Brown Bear House opened in 2022, the stories of these animals will surely leave a lasting impression on your heart.