Lake Utonai
Be Moved by Majestic Nature and the Sparkling Waterside
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.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Category
- With friends
- History, culture, art
- Shooting locations of films, dramas, or commercials
- Solo trip
- Guys' trip
- Girls' trip
- Couple
- Travel style
- Activities & Outdoors
- Animal habitats, plant habitats
- Lake and marsh, waterfall, pond, dam
- Mountain, ridge, plateau, marshland, canyon
- Natural scenery, spectacular views
- Bird watching
- Travel Inspiration
- Enjoy spectacular views
- Nearest airports
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 bus: About 40 minutes from JR Tomakomai Station by Donan Bus bound for New Chitose Airport, get off at "Nature Center Iriguchi" and walk about 15 minutes
●By car: 5 km from Tomakomai-Higashi IC/JCT on the Hokkaido Expwy via Route 36, about 5 minutes - Website
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
