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 the breathtaking sight of Japan’s largest coral grass colony, where the shores of Lake Notoro transform into a vibrant sea of red every autumn.

Located along the scenic shores of Lake Notoro in Abashiri City, this expansive natural wonder is home to one of Japan’s most spectacular seasonal displays. The salt-tolerant coral grass, known officially as Akkeshi-so, creates a living landscape that shifts from lush summer greens to a fiery, brilliant crimson as the air cools in September. This precious plant, featured on the Ministry of the Environment’s Red List, spans about 3.8 hectares, creating a natural masterpiece that looks like a hand-woven red carpet spread across the earth.

As you wander along the well-maintained wooden boardwalks, the gentle scent of the sea breeze fills the air, and you can observe the unique, delicate texture of the swaying coral grass up close. The vivid contrast between the clear blue sky, the tranquil lake surface, and the endless stretch of deep red is a sight that truly resonates with the spirit. During the peak season in mid-September, the "Lake Notoro Coral Grass Festival" brings the area to life, celebrating this fleeting moment of autumn beauty. This iconic Hokkaido landscape offers a peaceful yet powerful encounter with nature that you will remember long after your journey ends.

Located within a Michi-no-Eki in Kitami City, Kitanodaichi Aquarium focuses on Hokkaido’s freshwater life, featuring world-first and Japan-first exhibits that bring the raw 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 strong current. Their tails cut through white, foaming bubbles, creating a sense of raw energy. In winter, the aquarium unveils a world-first: a tank where the surface freezes over, mimicking a natural river. In the quiet atmosphere, fish glide beneath pale blue ice in a winter spectacle found only here.

Another highlight is the exhibit of Ito (Sakhalin taimen), Japan’s largest freshwater fish. This display is among the largest in the country, featuring around 10 massive individuals, each over 1 meter in length. Known as the “phantom fish,” the sight of these giants passing before you is striking. Surrounded by the scent of pure water and the sound of flowing streams, this spot offers a deep 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 that brings together eight of the city’s most celebrated ramen shops. It is the perfect destination for food lovers to sample and compare a variety of 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. Inside the village, eight famous ramen shops line the walkway, each with its own signature recipe for broth, noodles, and tender char siu pork. As you enter, the rich aroma of simmering soup and the rhythmic sound of boiling noodles fill the air, instantly whetting your appetite. Stepping through the noren curtains, you can watch skilled chefs prepare each bowl right before your eyes. Every steaming sip delivers deep umami flavor perfectly paired with the satisfying texture of the noodles.

Beyond the food, the complex also features the charming Asahikawa Ramen Shrine, a playful shrine celebrating ramen culture. Visitors often pass through the torii gate to make a wish or take photos at this unique spot. Located within the Powers shopping center in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, the village offers spacious parking for cars and tour buses. It is one of the city’s must-visit gourmet attractions, where you can fully immerse yourself in Asahikawa’s vibrant ramen culture.

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.