Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

A Ramsar-listed wetland known as a stopover site for migratory birds and a habitat for diverse wildlife.

Lake Utonai is a freshwater lake in northeastern Tomakomai. More than 270 bird species have been recorded in the area. In 1981, the Wild Bird Society of Japan established Japan’s first bird sanctuary here and has continued efforts to protect birds and their natural habitats. In 1991, the lake was registered as a Ramsar wetland.

Wetlands, grasslands, and forests extend around the lake, providing habitats for a variety of birds and other wildlife. Migratory birds such as greater white-fronted geese arrive in spring and autumn. Swans, ducks, and other species can also be observed, with the types of birds varying by season.

A nature trail along the lakeshore allows visitors to observe wild birds and explore the surrounding environment on foot. At the Nature Center, visitors can view exhibits about Lake Utonai’s natural environment and birdlife, as well as obtain information about the local environment. Birdwatching here offers an opportunity to learn about Hokkaido’s wetland ecosystems and the habitats that support migratory birds.

Karurusu Hot Spring is a peaceful retreat near Noboribetsu, surrounded by forests and beautiful seasonal scenery. Its clear waters and tranquil atmosphere provide a relaxing getaway throughout the year.

Known as a hidden retreat of the Noboribetsu area, Karurusu became Hokkaido's first National Health Onsen Resort in 1957. Named after the Czech spa town of Karlovy Vary (Karlsbad), it is set among mountains and known for its crystal-clear waters. Visitors can soak while enjoying fresh mountain air and a quiet natural setting.

Outdoor activities can be enjoyed year-round. Spring, summer, and autumn bring excellent hiking opportunities, along with vibrant greenery and autumn colors. In winter, rime-covered trees create a beautiful snowy landscape, while the nearby Karurusu Onsen Sunlaiva Ski Resort offers skiing and snow play in Hokkaido's famous powder snow.

Combining natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and historic hot springs, Karurusu remains one of Hokkaido's most peaceful spa destinations.

Discover the breathtaking natural beauty of the Lake Toya area on an unforgettable mountain horse trekking adventure.

Ride along magnificent trails with panoramic views of Lake Toya, Mt. Usu, Showa Shinzan, and even Mt. Yotei in the distance. As you follow peaceful forest paths, you will feel the crisp mountain air, hear the gentle rustling of leaves, and become fully immersed in the tranquil atmosphere of this globally recognized geopark. It’s the perfect outdoor escape to leave everyday life behind and truly unwind.

No previous riding experience is required. Before setting out, you will receive a clear, step-by-step introduction to riding posture and rein handling. An experienced guide will accompany you throughout the journey, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for beginners of all ages.

A variety of courses is available to suit your interests. Choose the "Lake Hill Trekking" course to explore lush forests and scenic highland trails, or enjoy the "Winter Adventure Trekking" course for a magical ride through snowy landscapes. Families can also opt for the supported "Family Course," where young children can safely enjoy the experience on horseback.

Connect with your horse and take in the vast, unspoiled landscapes of Hokkaido—an unforgettable journey into nature awaits.

Savor creamy, handmade sweets on a scenic hilltop overlooking Lake Toya—a charming farm where nature and flavor meet.

Standing on this gentle hill, you are greeted by the magnificent silhouettes of Mt. Yotei and the Niseko mountain range. The gardens of Lake Hill Farm are bathed in soft sunlight, where seasonal flowers bloom in vibrant colors and a refreshing breeze rustles through the trees. In the heart of this landscape lies the farm's workshop, where fresh milk from cows raised freely on these pastures is carefully crafted into velvety gelato.

As you take a spoonful of the chilled gelato, the rich, deep flavor of pure milk unfolds, followed by a surprisingly clean and crisp finish. For those seeking a hands-on memory, the aroma of the farm invites you to try your hand at butter making. Tasting your freshly made butter with a steaming hot potato is a simple yet extraordinary luxury. This immersive farm experience is sure to become an unforgettable chapter of your Hokkaido journey.

An outdoor sculpture park along the shores of Lake Toya. Fifty-eight sculptures based on the theme “Hymn to Life” are displayed throughout the area.

Lake Toya Gurutto Sculpture Park is an open-air sculpture space along the shores of Lake Toya. Located across the towns of Toyako and Sobetsu, sculptures by artists from Japan and abroad are installed along approximately 52 kilometers of roads and walking paths around the lake. Visitors can view a variety of outdoor artworks while walking along the lakeshore.

The sculptures are made from various materials, including bronze, marble, and stainless steel, ranging from figurative to abstract expressions. Unlike an indoor museum, all of the sculptures are placed within the outdoor natural environment. Visitors can appreciate the artworks together with the surrounding natural landscape.

The sculptures can be viewed against the backdrop of the lake, surrounding trees, and sky, while changes in light depending on the season, weather, and time of day alter how the works appear. Visitors can enjoy the natural scenery of Lake Toya together with the sculptures while walking along the lakeshore and exploring various works.

Experience the charm of Japan’s Edo period at this immersive theme park, where historic streets come alive with thrilling ninja shows, elegant oiran dances, and interactive cultural activities.

Step through the gates and enter a beautifully recreated Edo town. At Ninja Kasumiya-shiki, watch ninjas perform dynamic action scenes amid clever stage tricks and hidden mechanisms. Outdoors, the 10-meter-high Ninja Fortress delivers an exciting spectacle as ninjas leap through the air. At the Japanese Traditional Culture Theater, splendidly dressed oiran perform graceful dances that reflect the refined beauty of Edo culture. Meanwhile, the Oedo Theater entertains visitors with lively period comedies filled with humor and heartwarming moments.

Throughout the village, explore attractions such as the Ninja Mysterious Maze and enjoy hands-on experiences including shuriken throwing and archery. Costume rentals let you dress as a samurai, townsperson, or noble lady and step into the world of Edo. Stroll along charming merchant streets, where the aroma of freshly grilled soy-glazed dango fills the air, and enjoy a snack as you wander the cobblestone paths. Spend a memorable day immersed in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Edo-era Japan.

A cruise tour offering opportunities to observe 18 species of marine animals, including dolphins, whales, and orcas, from the boat during spring and summer.

In the waters off Muroran, 18 species of marine animals—including dolphins, whales, and fur seals—appear from spring through summer. Visitors may observe Minke whales swimming around the boat, pods of 500 to 1,000 Pacific white-sided dolphins moving across the ocean surface, and orcas, which are considered among the largest members of the dolphin family.

Cruises operate annually from June to around mid-August, with the end of the season varying depending on water temperature, sea conditions, and animal migration patterns. The tour typically runs twice a day, with each trip lasting approximately 150 minutes. After leaving port, the boat travels through the waters off Muroran in search of seasonal marine life.

The tour provides an opportunity to observe the natural ecology of wild animals and the marine environment off Muroran. Watching the sea from the deck and observing which species appear during the cruise also provides an opportunity to learn about the region's marine environment.

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.

With a 70-year legacy, Shiraoi Beef is renowned for its delicate marbling, rich umami, and exceptional quality. Raised amid the natural beauty of Shiraoi, it is one of Hokkaido's finest culinary treasures.

The story of Shiraoi Beef began in 1954, when Japanese Black cattle were introduced from Shimane Prefecture. Regarded as one of the foundations of Hokkaido's Wagyu industry, the brand has been carefully cultivated for generations.

Raised at the foot of Mt. Usu, the cattle benefit from pure water, a specialized feed containing beer yeast, and a low-stress environment. This careful approach produces outstanding quality, with more than 94% of Shiraoi Beef achieving A4 grade or higher. The brand gained international recognition when it was served to world leaders at the 2008 G8 Hokkaido Toyako Summit.

Shiraoi Beef is known for its fine marbling and tenderness. The sweetness of the fat melts on the palate, followed by the rich umami and depth of the lean meat. Whether enjoyed as a steak, barbecue, or traditional shabu-shabu, each preparation showcases its unique character.

Enjoying Shiraoi Beef in its hometown, surrounded by the tranquil landscapes of southern Hokkaido, offers more than an exceptional meal. It is an opportunity to experience the region's history, craftsmanship, and culinary heritage—an unforgettable taste of Shiraoi's unique food culture.

Located in Tomakomai, Northern Horse Park offers horse-related experiences, garden walks, seasonal activities, and dining featuring Hokkaido ingredients.

Northern Horse Park offers a variety of experiences centered on horses and nature. The park is home to retired Thoroughbred racehorses, ponies, and other horses. Visitors can enjoy lead-rein rides, horseback riding experiences, and horse-drawn carriage tours around the grounds, providing opportunities to interact with horses in different ways.

The botanical garden features around 1,000 types of flowers and plants, with seasonal displays throughout the year. Outdoor activities include Segway tours and park golf, while additional activities are available during the winter season.

Restaurants and cafés serve meals and light snacks made with Hokkaido ingredients, along with baked goods and sweets. Visitors can combine horse-related experiences with garden walks, outdoor activities, and dining, making the park a place to enjoy horses, nature, and seasonal attractions in one location.