Lake Nukabira
A Winter Miracle: Ice Bubbles Beneath the Frozen Surface
Surrounded by pristine forests, Lake Nukabira is a tranquil lake created in 1955 by damming the Otofuke River. Its appearance changes with the seasons, revealing a different kind of beauty throughout the year.
In winter, the lake freezes over and becomes a popular spot for smelt fishing, while in summer, anglers gather in search of rainbow trout and Japanese dace. Amid the surrounding wilderness, the lake offers a peaceful escape at any time of year.
What truly sets Lake Nukabira apart is the breathtaking phenomenon known as “ice bubbles.” Methane gas rising from the lakebed becomes trapped in the ice, forming countless bubbles suspended within the frozen surface. The result is a surreal sight, like pearls scattered inside crystal-clear glass.
In the stillness of the frozen lake, the morning sun makes the ice shimmer, while the crisp sound of footsteps on the ice heightens the sensation of winter’s cold. These delicate bubbles create a fleeting work of art shaped by nature. Once snow blankets the surface, they disappear, making this a rare and magical sight that can only be experienced for a short time each winter.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Category
- With friends
- Guys' trip
- Couple
- Family
- Travel style
- Activities & Outdoors
- Winter scenery, drift ice
- Lake and marsh, waterfall, pond, dam
- Red leaves, scenic spots, observation platforms
- Natural scenery, spectacular views
- Skiing, snow activities
- Visit seas, rivers, and lakes
- Smelt fishing, fishing
- Travel Inspiration
- Enjoy spectacular views
- Scenic routes
- Nearest airports
General Information
- Postal code
- 〒080-1403
- Address
- 北海道河東郡上士幌町ぬかびら源泉郷48-2
- Telephone Number
- 01564-4-2323（Higashitaisetsu Nature center）
- Open
- 9:00-17:00（Higashi Taisetsu Nature Center）
- Closed
- Wednesdays（Higashi-Daisetsu Nature Center）
- Car Park
- 10 spaces, free
- Directions
- ●By car: About 60 minutes from Hokkaido Expwy Otofuke Obihiro IC
●By bus: About 100 minutes from JR Obihiro Station - Website
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
