Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

Bihoro Pass lies along National Route 243 on the border between Teshikaga and Bihoro towns, at an elevation of 525 meters. From its observation deck, visitors are rewarded with sweeping views of Lake Kussharo, Japan’s largest caldera lake.

Below, the deep-blue lake stretches out with Nakajima Island at its center, while its colors and atmosphere shift beautifully with the seasons and time of day. On clear days, surrounding peaks such as Mt. Io and Mt. Shari—and even distant Mt. Tokachi—rise sharply against Hokkaido’s crisp, open sky.

In the early morning, when conditions are just right, a sea of clouds may form over the lake, creating a dreamlike scene where mountain silhouettes appear to float above a white expanse.

At the viewpoint, cool mountain breezes and the gentle rustle of trees enhance the sense of calm, inviting visitors to slow down and take in the scenery. Nearby, the roadside station “Gurutto Panorama Bihoro Pass” offers local specialties and light meals. A monument dedicated to the song “Bihoro Pass,” made famous by Misora Hibari, also stands here, adding a touch of cultural nostalgia to this unforgettable landscape.

Nonno no Mori in Tsubetsu is a healing spot named after the Ainu word for flower, Nonno. Designated as a “Forest Therapy Base” based on the Japanese principle of shinrin yoku or “forest bathing,” these woods are considered meditative and healing. Witnessing the changing scenery of the seasons, such as when the forest is painted pink from Japanese primroses in the Summer, is a truly regenerative experience. In Winter, try taking a stroll through the tranquil forest on snowshoes and feel the power of the trees. If you are eager for more, expert guides have organized tours that seek to maximize this forest’s therapeutic effects. Enjoy the ultimate forest healing experience at Nonno no Mori!

At the foot of Tsubetsu Pass, in the heart of Eastern Hokkaido, stands a secluded lamp-lit inn surrounded by deep forest. The hot spring water is alkaline simple hot spring, known as 'beautiful skin water' for its smooth texture. Enjoy this enchanting and mysterious space, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city, nestled deep in the forest and enveloped by the scent of the woods.

Located on the eastern edge of the Akan Lake hot spring area, the Bokke Walking Trail is one of Hokkaido’s most fascinating natural attractions. Starting behind the Akan Lake Eco-Museum Center, this peaceful path stretches toward the lakeshore and leads to the “Bokke,” a bubbling mud volcano where hot mud and steam rise from underground. The name Bokke comes from the Ainu word meaning “to boil,” perfectly expressing this geothermal wonder.

Just a 15-minute walk from the entrance, visitors can experience the mysterious contrast between the calm surface of Akan Lake and the energy of the earth beneath. The area symbolizes the harmony of two elements — “fire” from the Bokke and “water” from the lake — creating a spiritual and powerful landscape.

Each season offers new beauty: white skunk cabbages bloom in spring, while the forest becomes lush and green in summer. The main route is 1.2 km, with additional trails such as the 1.5 km “Lakeside Path” and the 1.2 km “Forest Path.”

Easily accessible from the Akan Lake hot spring town, the Bokke Walking Trail is a must-see destination for Hokkaido travel, where visitors can connect with nature’s living energy.

Enjoy sweeping views from the rooftop observatory and explore the surrounding wetlands along a peaceful wooden boardwalk.

Perched on a hill overlooking the vast Kushiro Marsh, this facility is designed in homage to “Yachibozu,” a distinctive tussock-forming sedge found in the wetlands. It serves not only as an observation point but also as an introduction to one of Japan’s most important natural environments.

Inside, detailed dioramas and seasonal video displays bring the marsh ecosystem to life, illustrating its subtle changes throughout the year. From the third-floor observation room and rooftop deck, visitors are treated to a panoramic view of the Kushiro Marsh. The winding Kushiro River and scattered pools of water reflect the light, while cool breezes and distant bird calls convey the quiet vitality of this untouched landscape.

A 2.5 km wooden boardwalk surrounds the facility, leading visitors through a forested setting where the texture of the wooden path and the scent of conifers create a calming walking experience. Along the way, wetland plants and birdlife can be observed up close, offering a gentle and unhurried way to appreciate the diversity of this remarkable natural environment.