Lake Abashiri
A Breathtaking Lake Where the Evening Sky Glows Crimson
Lake Abashiri is a scenic gem long celebrated for its natural beauty. Located southwest of Abashiri City, this coastal lagoon stretches about 43 km around and offers a serene yet captivating atmosphere year-round.
From the center of the eastern lakeshore, the Yobito Peninsula extends into the lake and features a well-maintained 7 km walking trail. It’s the perfect spot for birdwatching and relaxing nature walks. In late April to early May, visitors can enjoy a spectacular display of white skunk cabbage blooming across the nearby wetlands.
Lake Abashiri is also renowned as the top source of wakasagi (Japanese smelt) in Hokkaido. In fact, the lake supplies wakasagi eggs to markets across Japan—so much so that it could be said Japanese wakasagi fishing wouldn’t be what it is without Lake Abashiri. One traditional method practiced here is under-ice net fishing: a rope with a net is threaded beneath the frozen lake surface through holes, then pulled up to haul in the catch.
For tourists, everything you need is available in one convenient rental set—including rods, tackle, and bait—making it easy to experience ice fishing even for first-timers. Best of all, freshly caught wakasagi can be fried as tempura on the spot for an unforgettable winter treat. Don’t miss the chance to try it for yourself!
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Category
- With friends
- Couple
- Family
- Travel style
- Camping
- Activities & Outdoors
- Animal habitats, plant habitats
- Lake and marsh, waterfall, pond, dam
- Red leaves, scenic spots, observation platforms
- Natural scenery, spectacular views
- Visit seas, rivers, and lakes
- Bird watching
- Canoeing, kayaking
- Smelt fishing, fishing
- Travel Inspiration
- Best for a girls' trip
- Nearest airports
General Information
- Address
- 北海道網走市
- Telephone Number
- 0152-44-5849（Abashiri Tourist Association）
- Car Park
- 80 spaces
- Directions
- ●By car: About 10 minutes from JR Abashiri Station
●By car: About 20 minutes from Memanbetsu Airport - Website
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
