Lake Nukabira
A Winter Miracle: Ice Bubbles Beneath the Frozen Surface
Nestled in the forests of Hokkaido, Lake Nukabira is a tranquil artificial lake created in 1955 by damming the Otofuke River. Surrounded by pristine nature, it reveals a different kind of beauty with each passing season.
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, enjoying the calm rhythm of the outdoors.
What truly sets Lake Nukabira apart is the breathtaking phenomenon known as “ice bubbles.” Methane gas rising from the lakebed becomes trapped beneath the frozen surface, forming countless bubbles suspended in the ice. The result is a surreal sight—like pearls frozen inside crystal-clear glass.
In the stillness of the frozen lake, the morning sun makes the ice shimmer, and each step produces a crisp, echoing sound beneath your feet. These delicate white patterns, shaped by nature over time, create a fleeting work of art that can only be seen under the right winter conditions. Once snow blankets the surface, the bubbles disappear—making this a rare and magical sight worth seeking out.
- * 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.
