Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

Lake Utonai, known as a sacred place for birdwatching, is also called a "paradise for wild birds" and a "treasure trove of plants," with over 270 species of wild birds observed to date. In autumn, migratory birds such as whooper swans, Bewick's swans, and greater white-fronted geese arrive in large numbers to overwinter. It serves as a crucial stopover point for migratory birds.

In 1981 (Showa 56), it was designated as Japan's first wildlife protection area (bird sanctuary). The Nature Center offers binoculars for rent, so why not enjoy some birdwatching? Various wild birds visit each season, offering new discoveries year-round, making it a place to enjoy again and again. On the lake shore, there is also the Lake Utonai Wild Bird and Animal Protection Center, which similarly features exhibition facilities.

Located about 8 km northwest of Noboribetsu Hot Spring and surrounded by high mountains on three sides, this was the first national recreational hot spring area in Hokkaido. It was named 'Karurusu Hot Spring' because its water quality is similar to the famous Czech spa, Karlovy Vary. From spring to autumn, you can enjoy mountain climbing and hiking, and in winter, you can enjoy the rime ice and snow activities at the nearby 'Karurusu Hot Spring Sunlaiva Ski Resort.'

Embark on a refreshing mountain horse trekking adventure while enjoying the stunning views of Lake Toya, Mt. Usu, and Showa Shinzan! After receiving basic lessons on riding posture, you will set off with a guide, making it easy for beginners to join. There are various courses, including the full-fledged 'Lake Trekking' that takes you around the highlands and through the forest, and the 'Family Trekking' course that allows small children to participate.

Hokkaido is famous for gelato and soft-serve ice cream, and at Lake Hill Farm you can enjoy these treats made from the fresh milk of cows raised on their vast ranch. The farm is a hidden gem located in the beautiful wilds of south-central Hokkaido. Various ice cream flavors are on offer, but the natural, not-too-sweet tastes of the local dairy and fresh fruits really shine through. A café serving pudding and cream-puffs (a Japanese dessert snack favorite) is also located on-site. And if you’re in the mood for something savory, be sure to try the pizza made with homegrown wheat. While the food is great, the views surrounding the farm are just as appealing: sprawling landscapes featuring snow-crowned mountains and rolling plains. On clear days, you’ll get excellent shots of Mt. Yotei climbing above the horizon – it’s one of the most famous views in Hokkaido.  And if you’re an animal lover, don’t forget to go say hi to the farm’s pet goat Yuki!

A wide variety of sculptures based on the theme of “Anthem of Life” are displayed in an open-air art gallery surrounding the lakeside of Lake Toya, which is rich in nature. 58 sculptures of various kinds are lined up. Visitors can enjoy looking at and touching the artworks, which blend in with their surroundings, while taking a leisurely stroll along the lakeside.

The Edo period (1603-1868) is alive and well, and only a short 15-minute drive from Noboribetsu Onsen. You and your family can walk through this incredible recreation of a town as it appeared in the time of the samurai. While here, why not take in performances, like the exciting ninja show and the extravagant geisha show? If you are feeling creative, make your own traditional Kokeshi doll keyring or Koma top as a souvenir. To really get into the fun, dress up like a ninja yourself and feel like you are on a mission from a local lord. Come to Jidaimura to explore the fun of a bygone era!

From spring to summer, you can observe up to 18 species of marine animals, including dolphins, whales, and seals, in the waters near Muroran. You might see minke whales swimming around the boat, watching humans, and sometimes even groups of 500 to 1,000 Dall's porpoises. Occasionally, you can also spot orcas, the largest species in the dolphin family. The tours operate from June to mid-August and end when the dolphins leave. The period during which dolphins can be seen varies each year depending on the water temperature and other climatic conditions. Typically, there are two trips per day, each lasting about 150 minutes.

Nestled along the serene shores of Lake Poroto, Upopoy—meaning “singing in a large group” in the Ainu language—is Japan’s first national center devoted to the revival and development of Ainu culture. This symbolic space promotes understanding and respect for the Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido, and serves as a place to learn about their deep-rooted history and rich cultural heritage.

At the heart of the facility is the National Ainu Museum, Japan’s first national museum focusing on the Ainu. Nearby, the National Ainu Park offers a hands-on, immersive experience of Ainu traditions. The park also includes a solemn memorial site, designed with dignity for Ainu ancestral commemoration.

Visitors to the National Ainu Park can enjoy authentic Ainu traditional dance performances, and join in a variety of interactive programs. From playing indigenous instruments such as the mukkuri (mouth harp) and tonkori (five-stringed zither), to participating in cooking and tasting Ainu dishes rooted in traditional knowledge of nature, the experiences are engaging for both adults and children—making it a perfect destination for families.

After exploring, you can browse a curated selection of Ainu crafts, museum goods, and books at the gift shop, or relax at the on-site restaurant or café, where you can savor flavors from Ainu food culture. Spend a fulfilling day surrounded by the stunning scenery of Lake Poroto, immersed in the spirit of cultural harmony.

Japanese beef is considered to be among the best in the world, and the black wagyu cows in Shiraoi Town, central Hokkaido, typically yield delicious grade-A beef. The cattle are given a uniquely blended feed using beer yeast and are raised in a stress-free environment that allows the meat to have a tender texture and a rich, mellow flavor. At the farm’s on-site restaurant, Shiraoi Beef is served barbecued, as steak, or in shabu shabu and sukiyaki (types of Japanese hotpot).

Within the spacious grounds, about 80 horses reside freely, including ponies and retired racehorses. A wide variety of hands-on programs allow you to enjoy interacting with these magnificent animals. From horseback riding and horse-drawn carriages to leading horses, there's something for everyone, from young children to adults. You can also deepen your understanding of horses by visiting the museum dedicated to them and taking a tour of the stables where they live.

The park also offers a rich selection of activities that allow you to connect with nature. Explore the botanical garden, boasting around 1,000 species of flowers blooming successively across its 3.3-hectare (about 8.2-acre) expanse. Enjoy a variety of activities such as Segway riding and park golf. A dog run is also available, allowing you to enjoy nature together with your pets. In winter, snow activities like snowmobiling and cross-country skiing make their appearance, offering opportunities to revel in the great nature of Hokkaido year-round.

On the premises, you'll find the "Garden Restaurant," where you can dine while overlooking the beautiful botanical garden, and a "Cafe" with an open and airy atmosphere where freshly baked bread and sweets are served. Why not savor the blessings of Hokkaido's land and seasonal ingredients while feeling the refreshing air of nature?