Lake Utonai

A four-season sanctuary where you can encounter About 270 species of wild birds

Lake Utonai, Japan’s first officially designated bird sanctuary, offers a peaceful environment where visitors can observe migratory birds and enjoy the changing beauty of nature throughout the year.


Located in the northeastern area of Tomakomai, Lake Utonai was designated in 1981 as Japan’s first wildlife protection area, making it a true haven for birds. To date, About 270 species have been recorded, and from autumn through winter, migratory species such as Whooper Swans and Greater White-fronted Geese gather here to spend the season.


Standing by the lakeside, you’re greeted by the refreshing scent of grass and trees, accompanied by the gentle chorus of birdsong. At the Nature Center, binoculars are available for rent, allowing you to observe elegant swans gliding across the water and the ever-changing scenery as the seasons shift. The shimmering calm of the lake and the vibrant presence of wildlife offer new discoveries and a deep sense of tranquility each time you visit.

  • * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
Nearest airports
New Chitose Airport Sapporo Okadama Airport Hakodate Airport Okushiri Airport Asahikawa Airport Wakkanai Airport Rishiri Airport Okhotsk Monbetsu Airport Memanbetsu Airport Nemuro Nakashibetsu Airport Tancho Kushiro Airport Tokachi Obihiro Airport

General Information

Postal code
〒059-1365　
Address
北海道苫小牧市植苗150-3
Telephone Number
0144-58-2505（Utonai-ko Sanctuary Nature Center）
Open
[Nature Center] 9:30-16:30 (open only on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays)
Prices
[Nature Center] Free admission
Car Park
20 spaces, free
Directions
●By car: About 5 minutes from Hokkaido Expwy Tomakomai-Higashi IC
Website

Official site (Japanese)

Wild Bird Society of Japan

* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.

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