Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

Set on the shores of Lake Poroto, Upopoy is a national center dedicated to preserving and sharing Ainu culture through exhibitions, performances, workshops, and hands-on experiences.

Opened in 2020, Upopoy is home to the National Ainu Museum, Japan’s first national museum dedicated to Ainu history and culture. Its name means “singing in a large group” in the Ainu language.

At the National Ainu Park, visitors can explore a recreated kotan (traditional village) with chise (traditional houses) and learn about Ainu life and traditions. Traditional instruments such as the mukkuri (mouth harp) and tonkori (five-stringed zither) create an immersive atmosphere.

The experience hall presents dynamic performances of Ainu traditional dance, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Visitors can also watch demonstrations of woodcarving and embroidery showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of Ainu culture.

Cafés and food facilities serve dishes inspired by traditional Ainu cuisine and local ingredients, offering another way to experience this heritage.

Surrounded by the natural beauty of Lake Poroto, Upopoy invites visitors to see, hear, and taste Ainu culture while gaining a deeper understanding of its traditions and values.

Located in the heart of the Noboribetsu Onsen area, the Oyunumagawa Natural Footbath offers a rare opportunity to experience the raw energy of a living volcano by soaking your feet directly in a naturally heated river.

Steam rises from the Oyunumagawa River as mineral-rich water, flowing from a volcanic crater lake at about 130°C, cools to a perfect temperature while winding through a lush primeval forest. The air is filled with the refreshing scent of greenery mingled with the earthy aroma of sulfur, distinctive of this world-famous hot spring resort. As you walk along the forest path, the gentle rustle of leaves and the melodic chirping of wild birds create a serene soundtrack to your journey.

Take a seat on the wooden decks along the riverbank and immerse your feet in the warm, cobalt-blue current. You can feel the smooth texture of river stones beneath your soles while the geothermal heat of the earth gently spreads through your body. Listening to the continuous, rhythmic sound of the flowing water, you will find yourself lost in a luxurious moment of relaxation. This dynamic, open-air bath is a gift from the earth, providing a unique sensory experience that only the volcanic landscapes of Noboribetsu can offer.

Discover one of Japan’s most renowned hot spring destinations, known as a “hot spring department store” for its rare variety of nine mineral-rich waters and abundant natural flow.

Stepping into this historic hot spring town, the scent of sulfur fills the air and clouds of white steam rise from the ground, creating a dramatic atmosphere. Noboribetsu Onsen’s greatest appeal is the remarkable variety of spring types found in one area, including sulfur, salt, iron, acidic iron, alum, mirabilite, and sodium bicarbonate springs. Hot spring hopping is a highlight, with traditional inns and hotels offering baths ranging from gentle waters that soothe the skin to mineral-rich soaks that warm the body and provide well-known skin-beautifying benefits.

The surrounding landscape reveals the power of nature. At Jigokudani (Hell Valley), boiling water and steam emerge from rugged rock formations, while the pale blue waters of Oyunuma Lake create a mystical scene. Visitors can experience geothermal energy at the geyser in Sengen Park or relax at the Oyunuma River natural foot bath, surrounded by forest scents and the sound of flowing water. Along the way, playful oni (demon) statues throughout the town add charm and a sense of discovery to this unforgettable hot spring destination.

Discover the Hakodate Jomon Culture Center, a one-of-a-kind destination where visitors can come face-to-face with a National Treasure and experience the refined aesthetics of the Jomon Period. Surrounded by the lush landscapes of Minami-Kayabe, the center serves as a gateway into the lives and spirit of a culture that flourished for over 10,000 years in harmony with nature.

The highlight of the exhibition is the “Chuku-Dogu,” a hollow clay figurine accidentally discovered in 1975. Standing 41.5 cm tall and believed to be around 3,500 years old, its softly rounded form is decorated with intricate geometric patterns. Created using remarkably advanced techniques that achieved walls only a few millimeters thick, the figurine radiates a quiet, timeless presence that draws visitors into a contemplative state beyond everyday perception.

Adjacent to the facility is “Michi-no-Eki Jomon Roman Minami-Kayabe,” making it a rare place where a National Treasure can be appreciated alongside a relaxing travel stop. In the hands-on workshop, visitors can connect with ancient ingenuity through the cool texture of clay and the rhythmic process of weaving hemp fibers. From crafting magatama beads to shaping miniature pottery, each experience offers a moment to let imagination drift back to life in the distant past.

Hokkaido's oldest hot spring features five natural sources and stone baths shaped by centuries of mineral deposits.

Hidden within the tranquil forests of Shiriuchi, Shiriuchi Hot Spring has welcomed visitors for centuries. Regarded as Hokkaido's oldest hot spring, its origins date back to the establishment of a Buddhist temple in 1247. This historic inn was once frequented by members of the Matsumae clan and remained a renowned bathing destination throughout the Edo period. Surrounded by ancient trees and rare bamboo groves, the peaceful mountain setting invites guests to slow down and savor the quiet beauty of nature.

One of the inn's defining features is its five naturally flowing hot spring sources, each with a distinct mineral composition. Water emerging at around 65°C fills the bathhouse with warmth and gentle steam. Over centuries, mineral deposits have formed striking layered rock formations around the baths, creating a visible testament to the spring's long history. Immerse yourself in these historic waters and enjoy a timeless bathing tradition where more than 800 years of history and nature exist in perfect harmony.

Explore Esashi’s traditional culture through live performances of Esashi Oiwake and displays of festival floats.

Esashi has long flourished as a port town through Kitamaebune trade. Esashi Oiwake Kaikan & Esashi Yama Kaikan introduce the traditional culture that developed throughout the town’s history. In the spacious 100-tatami-mat hall, live performances of Esashi Oiwake are held from late April to October, where visitors can hear the distinctive singing style of this traditional folk song. The grand stage curtain featuring Esashi Folding Screen paintings is also a highlight.

The adjoining Esashi Yama Kaikan displays festival floats (yama) used in the Ubagami Daijingu Togyo Festival, a long-standing festival in Esashi. Two of the 13 floats are displayed on a rotating basis each year, allowing visitors to see their intricate carvings and colorful decorations up close.

A 150-inch screen also presents video footage of the festival, showing the festival in action. Through folk songs and festival traditions, the facilities introduce the history and culture of Esashi.

Lake Toya’s stunning beauty was forged by the dynamic activity of Mt. Usu. To fully appreciate it, start your visit at the Lake Toya Visitor Center. The center introduces the region’s rich natural environment through easy-to-explore panels and real-life specimens, offering a hands-on experience perfect for visitors of all ages.

Next, visit the Volcanic Science Museum to discover the history and mechanisms of Mt. Usu’s powerful eruptions. The museum features striking exhibits, including trucks damaged in past eruptions. Seeing the rusted metal and scorched surfaces up close lets you feel the sheer force of nature and understand how people coexist with it.

After exploring the exhibits, take time to enjoy the lake’s serene surroundings. Relax in nearby hot springs or sample Hokkaido’s fresh cuisine, from local seafood to regional specialties. As you stroll along the lakeshore or soak in an onsen, you can sense the earth’s energy that continues to shape this breathtaking landscape.

Experience Lake Toya for yourself and witness the power of nature firsthand. Combining knowledge, exploration, and relaxation, your visit here promises to be an unforgettable journey.

A 6-minute ropeway ride takes you to a spectacular volcanic landscape overlooking Lake Toya.

Board the gondola at Kazan Mura (Volcano Village) at the foot of Mt. Showa-shinzan and ascend into an extraordinary world. As you rise, the reddish-brown slopes of Mt. Showa-shinzan stretch out below, while the sparkling blue waters of Lake Toya stretch across the horizon. At Mt. USU Terrace, located next to the summit station, sink into a sofa at the airy cafe, feel the refreshing breeze, and enjoy views stretching all the way to Mt. Yotei.

A 7-minute walk from the summit station brings you to USU360, a circular observation path. Gaze upon O-usu and Ko-usu while taking in a stunning 360-degree panorama of the dramatic terrain around the Ginnuma Great Crater. The energy rising from the earth beneath your feet and the occasional scent of sulfur remind you that you are standing on a living volcano. In autumn, the mountain is transformed into brilliant shades of gold and red, creating a striking contrast with the rugged volcanic terrain. Come and experience the extraordinary scale of Hokkaido for yourself.

A complex area centered around the home stadium, featuring dining facilities, accommodation, and hot springs. Visitors can also enjoy strolling through the area on non-game days.

Hokkaido Ballpark F Village is a stay-oriented entertainment facility located in Kitahiroshima City. At its center is ESCON FIELD HOKKAIDO, the home stadium of the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters. Parts of the area are open even on non-game days. TOWER 11 is a facility that pays tribute to baseball players Darvish Yu and Ohtani Shohei, who are associated with the number 11, and features a natural hot spring and sauna overlooking the field.

The area includes shops and dining facilities, where visitors can enjoy craft beer brewed on-site. Accommodation facilities and a nature experience zone are also available, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of facilities during their stay.

Various events are held in the outdoor space throughout the year, including activities that make use of snow during winter. In addition to watching baseball games, visitors can combine dining, hot springs, and accommodation for a variety of ways to enjoy their stay.