The Kaminoko pond is a short distance from the carpark (free). The drive towards the pond was scenic as you can trace the water sources. Do take note there are small holes in the road leading towards the pond (perhaps it is a measure to keep speed in check), so do drive carefully. We met with a slight drizzle when we visit the pond. The turquoise blue of the water was still visible. Take a read at the signboard as it has a special story of how the pond got it's name. Beautiful nice place. Great for a stop over.

Good

you should visit there and confirm the clean water fountained underground everyday not by photo by your eyes.

pretty but not worth a long drive to get to. try harder, pond

A very beautiful pond!

beautiful💙

It was one of the cleanest and most beautiful ponds I’ve ever seen

Recommend observation deck 3. Somehow google recommends deck 1 as the best but for me deck 3 was def better. Video 1 is of deck 3 and you get a beautiful angle of the lake. Didn’t bother taking videos for deck 1 except for the fox that was roaming around 🤣 Recommend trying the Blue ice cream (ramune flavoured) as well as the Yubari melon (1 for 600 yen)

Fantastic, so beautiful.

This is a very beautiful lake and makes for incredible hiking. We visited recently and added a day hike around this lake to the short hike past Mt Io. Getting to the lake is a little tricky if you are staying in Kawayu Onsen. There is a bus which operates on a limited schedule from Mashu town but leaves late and returns early leaving very little time for anything more than visiting the observation deck. Definitely not for a long day hike. We didn’t have a car so ended up hitch hiking to and from the lake. Fortunately Japanese people are extremely nice and we easily got rides to and from Kawayu Onsen. We did the hike around the south portion of the lake to the Mt Kamui lookout point. An amazing hike with zero visibility on the way out but the clouds lifted for the return and we finally got to see how beautiful the lake is. Afterwards, we got to go back to our ryokan and relax away our pain. If you want any specific info on this hike, feel free to reach out to us. You can find our exact route by searching for Career Break Adventures and Lake Mashu, Japanese Hike or something similar. Good luck and enjoy!

摩周湖 Lake Mashu is beautiful in all seasons. Visited the place 3 times, and most impressive all of would be the wee morning viewing of unkai "雲海".

My favourite of the Akan national park lakes. The scenary was stunning, there were not many people around and it was just beautiful scenery. There is a hike there, but i reached too late and was too tired to try.

Was here in 5 Mov 2023. View is very good. Nice place to take photos. 👍

The beautiful and romantic lake! Let's go and feel!

It was my first time seeing a sulfur mountain up close. Steam was constantly rising from the ground, and the air was filled with a strong sulfur smell—almost as if the mountain was breathing. A rare and unforgettable experience of observing such a unique landscape.

On Sept 2, 2024, my wife and I drove here because the parking fee Yen500 for Lake Mashu was also good here. Unplanned,we had a close encounter of the sulphuric rock, smell and smoke. We shopped at the souvenir shop and got tax refund.

A stunning mountain shrouded in steaming sulfur clouds—an intense and unforgettable sight. The dramatic landscape creates a uniquely immersive experience.

We'll worth visiting, it was amazing to get so close. The smell of solpha was strong. Strongly recommend, it is an easy walk.

A must visit place! The sulphur smell was very strong, I was tearing when getting near to the place. Simple advice is not to "face" the wind direction.

We popped by to take a look as our parking ticket for Lake Mashu’s viewpoint allowed us entry to Mount Iō as well. The views were great, we got to see the sulphur crystals, steam and the hot water in this place. There is a smell about this place so take note if you’re sensitive to smell.

Strong sulphuric smell. First time seeing a volcano up close, so it was interesting for me. Might not be the most interesting for those who have seen volcanos before. Souvenir shop was average, eggs sold there were hard boiled with dry yolk, not the usual Japanese soft yolk egg.

The "Drift Ice Soft Serve" (350 yen) from the specialty ice cream shop "Rimo" is sold exclusively. It has a refreshing mint and lemon flavor and is topped with a small candy.

Souvenir shops and restaurant are there. In winter, there is a ferry station for crusing.

cool

(Translated by Google) Abashiri Roadside Station. This is a great place to experience the charm of Abashiri and eastern Hokkaido. There are also Mien and Alolan Vulpix manhole covers and stands with VOCALOID characters. If you're a fan of Pokemon or Vocaloid, be sure to stop by. [Souvenir Corner] The food selection is pretty mundane and cliched. Since it's Hokkaido, it's naturally different from Honshu, but it's not unique in eastern Hokkaido. Many of the items are likely to be found in other supermarkets and roadside stations, and even at major spots like New Chitose Airport. As someone who has visited Hokkaido many times and traveled to various regions, I ended up just looking around and thinking, "Oh, that's about it." On the other hand, there was a wide variety of character goods, including Vocaloid, although they were mostly small items. Also, perhaps due to the age of the building, the displays feel a bit outdated... [Other Facilities] - Restaurant - Observation Deck (Views of the Abashiri River and the Sea of Okhotsk) - Tourist Information Center - Aurora Train Ticket Office and Boarding Area *Please note that both the takeout and dining areas are closed after 4:00 PM. (Original) 網走の道の駅。 網走ひいては道東の魅力に一先ず触れるという分には良い所です。 又、マニューラ&アローラロコンのマンホール、VOCALOIDのキャラクターのスタンドが設置されています。ポケモンやボカロが好きな人であれば、是非実際に立ち寄ってみて下さい。 【お土産コーナー】 食べ物については、ラインアップがありきたりでベタな物ばかりです。 北海道なので当然本州よりは一線を画すのですが、道東の中だとユニークではなく、他のスーパーや道の駅にもありそうな物、なんなら新千歳空港とかの主要スポットで買える物も多く。 北海道に度々訪れ、様々な地域を巡ってきた身としては、「こんなもんかぁ」と、見回るだけで終わりました。 その一方で、ボカロ等のキャラクターグッズについては、小物中心ですが種類は多かったです。 又、建物の古さも相まってか、陳列の様相が一昔前っぽく感じられる…。 【他の施設】 ・レストラン ・展望台(網走川やオホーツク海を眺められる) ・観光案内所 ・おーろら号の券売所・乗り場 ※16時以降はテイクアウト・飲食コーナーのどちらも営業終了してるので注意

(Translated by Google) ❄️🚢 Roadside Station Ryuhyo Kaido Abashiri - A rest spot in a port town where you can feel the Okhotsk breeze🌊🌸 With a view of the Sea of ​​Okhotsk right in front of you, Roadside Station Ryuhyo Kaido Abashiri is a popular tourist destination🚙✨ Known as the departure and arrival point for drift ice sightseeing boats, it's a special location in winter where you can experience a world of pure white ice❄️🧊 🌊 The open feeling of the seaside is so refreshing🌬️🌅 Stepping outside the building, you can enjoy the pleasant sea breeze and a relaxing space with a view of the port🌈 Even outside of drift ice season, the clear blue sea and sky are a refreshing sight🌤️✨ 🍦 The shop and food area are also filled with local flavor.🍜🐟 The specialty ice cream soft serve and scallop burgers are lined with Okhotsk-inspired delicacies.🍦🍔 The flavor is just average, but it's a fun way to get into the tourist mood and enjoy a taste of the journey.😋🎵 🚻 The facility itself is a little old, but clean.🧼🚻 The parking lot is spacious and can accommodate tour buses, making it convenient to access.🚌 However, be aware that it can get crowded at certain times of the day.⚠️⏰ 🌟 Overall Rating: ★3.4 / 5.0 🌟 This seaside roadside station isn't particularly luxurious, but it's packed with the "Abashiri vibe."🏖️🌸 A small port town oasis where the romance of sea breezes and ice floes intersect.❄️🚢✨ (Original) ❄️🚢 道の駅 流氷街道網走 ― オホーツクの風を感じる港町の休憩スポット🌊🌸 オホーツク海を目の前に望む「道の駅 流氷街道網走」は、観光の拠点としても人気の道の駅🚙✨ 流氷観光船の発着所として知られ、冬には真っ白な氷の世界を体感できる特別なロケーション❄️🧊 🌊 海沿いの開放感が気持ちいい🌬️🌅 建物の外に出ると潮風が心地よく、港の景色が広がる癒しの空間🌈 流氷シーズン以外でも、青く澄んだ海と空が見られてリフレッシュできます🌤️✨ 🍦 売店＆フードコーナーも地元色豊か🍜🐟 名物の流氷ソフトやホタテバーガーなど、オホーツクらしいグルメが並びます🍦🍔 味はまあまあだけど、観光気分を盛り上げる“旅の味”として楽しめる感じ😋🎵 🚻 施設自体はやや古めだけど清潔感あり🧼🚻 駐車場は広く、観光バスも停められるのでアクセスも便利🚌 ただ、時間帯によっては混雑することもあるので注意⚠️⏰ 🌟 総合評価：★3.4 / 5.0 🌟 特別豪華ではないけれど、“網走らしさ”を感じられる海辺の道の駅🏖️🌸 海風と流氷のロマンが交差する、旅の途中に立ち寄りたい小さな港町のオアシスでした❄️🚢✨

(Translated by Google) The inside is a bit cluttered and not very nice, but you can buy a variety of souvenirs from Abashiri. I think they have more seafood than other roadside stations. You can also eat soft serve ice cream from the famous shop rimo on the first floor. The sea is nearby so you can enjoy the outside of the shop, so it's a great place to stop by when you come to Abashiri. The only downside is that the toilets are not air-conditioned so they get quite hot. (Original) 中は少しゴチャゴチャしていてあまり素敵ではないですが、網走のお土産が色々買えます。他の道の駅より海産物が多い気がします。 また一階では有名店rimoのソフトクリームが食べられます。 海も近いので店の外も楽しめるので、網走にきた際には寄りたい場所。 トイレが冷房ないのでかなり暑いのが難点。

(Translated by Google) I dropped by here the other day while touring roadside stations. It's a beautiful spot right by the sea. It was cloudy, but I imagine it would be even more beautiful on a sunny day. There's a restaurant on the second floor with a great view. They also have lots of souvenirs, It's well-stocked. The parking lot is spacious on both sides! It's along the national highway, so there are likely to be a lot of large vehicles. (Original) 先日、道の駅巡りの際にお邪魔しました。 海沿いで綺麗 曇りでしたが、晴れているとより綺麗なのでは？ 2階にレストランあり、展望良さそうです。 お土産もいっぱいで、 充実してます 駐車場は左右に広い！ 国道沿いで大型車多そう。

The facility has three floors. The first floor is a souvenir shop. After purchasing a ticket, you go down to the basement level, which includes three sections: 1. Drift ice viewing – You can put on thick winter clothing to experience a temperature of minus 15 degrees Celsius, and there’s an interactive activity where you can freeze a wet towel by swinging it in the air. 2. A multimedia theater – It introduces the phenomenon of drift ice. This area is more suitable for children, with limited visual appeal or playability. The ticket isn’t very cost-effective. On the second floor, there’s a dining area, and the third floor is an observation deck.

A few seconds in the -15 degree celcius room to freeze a towel, feel the ice from the sea of okhotsk, see the interesting tiny creatures from the sea of okhotsk, taste the blue salt ice cream, view the shiretoko mountain range from the roof top….. a good slow moment there.

Small but interesting museum. Can see some cute marine creatures and touch real ryuhyo ice. The staff are really nice and helpful. The Caramel soft serve with blue salt is tasty. The view seen from the observation deck is superb.

This museum is way cooler (pun intended) than we had expected! And super educational. Short visit, but sweet.

Lovely for an hour or two. Very interesting tanks of drift ice sea creatures. Very cool visual experience in the theatre. The frozen room is a fun experiment but don’t expect kids to stay in there very long!! Im sure the views are amazing but it was cloudy for our visit.

A small but sophisticated museum with abundant knowledge about the social wildlife in a drifted ice area, and delicious ice cream is definitely worth trying! The Italian restaurant on the 2nd floor is also 👍

View point at level 3 of the museum. Its free entry. You only need to pay for entry into the museum. There is also a cafe and a shop.

Found this place through the T.V series (manga adaptation) Hokkaido Gals are Super Adorable! by Kai Ikada. I really don't read or watch romance genres and haven't had read any since 2021( in O/L's subject - English Lit story - Twilight of a Crane) . I would like to say this is my first romance (including rom-com and slice of life) story/anime I have come access since Twilight of a Crane wasn't found by me nor I read it intentionally at the beginning... I love both of them but this (Hokkaido Gals are Super Adorable!) , I really love this so much. The scenes really are from real-life locations. That's what makes this unique for me. And the love reaction (known as chemistry) going between them and also with others really feels natural especially with the environmental setting, Winter to sprint then summer to autumn. All the pictures/images uploaded with this comment are based on the anime Hokkaido Gals are Super Adorable! and were originally taken from the anime by myself. All the credits goes to the anime producers and author @Kai Ikada. Thank you all for this marvelous creation. Looking forward for an announcement of Season 2 (🥹)

Visited on 14 May 2025 at around 2pm. Happy to see pink moss blooming. Pleasant weather. We walked all the way to the top of the hill. Beautiful scenery. Amazing experience.

26/4/25 jus tried our luck swing by the park. As stated 3/5 officially opens. So we literally saw nothing although it’s one wk apart. I wonder how this pinkies gonna grow by 3/5?! Not even a young buds being seen in the park

Be patient—they’re nearly in bloom. In the meantime, enjoy free entry and a pleasant walk. A perfect stop during your road trip.

Went here during May23, peak blossom. It does look like moss from far and like a carpet too. There are plenty of photo spots and some eateries selling ice creams and fast foods. If you have problems walking, there is a mini bus service going around the park. The driver will drive very slowly so you can take pictures with ease and enjoy the view. We didn't have enough time to explore every inch of the park because of tight schedule. Maybe next time. Highly recommend if northern Hokkaido is part of your plan. From Sapporo will take about 4-6h. So it won't be a day trip.

The flower park in May is stunning with the vastness of the curated vibrant pink moss field. You can easily spend 2-3 hours enjoying various activities such as pond fishing, go-karting, and the free foot Onsen. The entrance fee is ¥600. While there’s a lot of walking, a mini bus service is available for those with accessibility issues or limited time.

Great place to visit. The Shibazakura were just started to come into full bloom. You can walk the paths up through the flowers, drive go-karts around a track at the bottom, get a helicopter view from above. The flowers were spectacular. The Sakura coloured soft serve from one of the vendors wasn't bad either.

Very interesting place to visit. I watched Golden Kamuy which sparked an interest to come here. Quite sombre reading/seeing/watching the history of the place. When we were here, it was blazing hot. Bring an umbrella. We had one and it made things slightly more bearable. There are some provided apparently, but we didn’t see any at all anywhere. There’s one building with air conditioning which provided some reprieve.

The museum is set on the original site of the Abashiri Prison. The prison’s architecture is stunningly preserved, showcasing the five-wing wooden radial prison design, centered around a towering watchtower. The museum goes beyond just buildings by incorporating lifelike mannequins and detailed narratives, immersing visitors in the history and the daily lives of inmates and guards alike.

A cool yet haunting experience that was my main reason for coming to Abashiri. The museum is interactive and really does an excellent job of telling the stories of those who worked and were imprisoned there. Snow on the ground really painted a picture of the conditions that would have faced those there in winter.

The Abashiri Prison Museum is an absolute must-see. We visited in February 2025 during the winter, and it was a truly captivating experience. The museum offers an incredible look into the construction of the prison and the historical context behind its existence. The detailed wax figures were effective in bringing the narratives to life. What made our visit even more special was that we were actively watching the Golden Kamuy series, allowing us to immediately connect. Definitely, make time for this!

Abarishi is a good stop on the drive from Kitami to Shiretoko. The prison museum sits on very large grounds and is a made up of restored and replicas of what the prison was like from the late 1800s to early 1900s The attention to details helps to bring one back to how life was like not only for prisoners but also prison guards.

It doesn’t have a gloomy atmosphere as you might expect from visiting a prison. It has a beautiful ground. There are main cells, bath house, solitude cell as well as a staff quarter.

The tickets are pricey at ¥1500, and I would recommend Moyoro Shell Mound, Northern Peoples, and Ice Drift Museum for close to the same price combined! But, this experience is unique and will give hours of enjoyment to tour the grounds and see all of the displays and mannequins that have been set up well. Learning the history of island's other prison was great too!

Nice view and have a lot of swans.

Beautiful vast lake.

The heaven of insects and worms tho impressive

splendid

Beautiful, and one of the few places you can swim around here (at Sunayu beach).

Very Cold

One of Beautiful lake in Akan Mashu National Park

The marimo are interesting and adorably round, like Tribbles from Star Trek. In mid-October, the colors are beautifully intense, the weather is enjoyably cool, and the views are amazing. The boat tour was 2400 yen; quite decent considering we not only went around the lake, but also in the observation facility in the middle of the lake. The marimo ice cream was good, though I thought I tasted a faint green tea flavor. I recommend the Lake Observation area; it's a short hike and the view is great.

My only complaint from this place that there are too much to explore and too little time. Only have 3 hours to explore due to bus tour restrictions. It is so beautiful and magical. There is trekking path that provide some of the most stunning angle in this area. Look at the map from thw tourist center to find it. If possible stay there for at least 2 nights, totally worth it. If my stock rise by as much as 50% i will definitely visit Hokkaido again and stay at Lake Akan for 1 week. Thats how much i love this place. Though i recommend you to bring food from 7-eleven, most food in this area taste kinda bland

Lake Akan is home to the Marimo Algae balls. I came here during mid of Dec. If you would like to escape from overwhelming tourist, come to Lake Akan. If early winter spend max 2 days here. i went to the Ainu village, shopped for souvenirs, had Ainu lunch, walked the trails to see bokke boiling mud and soaked in Onsen. During summer the trails to the mountains are opened and one can go for hikes. Or during winter when the lake is totally frozen, winter activities will be held on frozen Akanko.

A pretty lake where you can enjoy the lake view and walking along the hot spring street. Of course, the hot spring is totally worth it! In summer time, the sightseeing boat is available, and in winter time you may want to do fishing and ice activities.

We were here in June and the weather was perfect. Not seeing a lot of tourist this time around. We also took the cruise which took approximately an hour and you get to see the famous moss ball. A short trail near the lakeshore took you into the woods and a number of geothermal spots. Relax and enjoyable.

Lake Akan was a really buzzing place with a lot of snowmobiles circling around (looked like locals were competing in some sort of race). It’s pretty interesting place but you’ll have to walk around 5min to get to this sign, worth! Can’t wait to be back in summer where the sign is probably in the middle of the melted lake?

Nature Museum closed every Tuesday Best is to go on walking trails to bokke - mud pools Forest is beautiful

I love quirky museums like this - but there’s genuinely a huge amount of history in this area, which used to provide 70% of global mint supplies. The second world war wrecked that, but this building (which is reconstructed but sits on the site of the original factory) goes into a lot of detail about how everything worked and the equipment used. The man who greeted me was friendly and was keen to explain the layout. There are two ten-minute videos in English on the history of it all, and Google Lens can help with the exhibits’ captions. There’s an adjoining building with a shop and a few more bits and bobs. Genuinely fascinating, and free!

Ok… this is a very interesting place. It’s not really the best for English speakers. Nothing is translated into English so you just have look. Still, it’s interesting to look at everything. And let’s be serious, you don’t anything about the process of making mint and menthol (at least I didn’t), so you’ll learn something. A big plus to the whole museum is the staff. Everyone was super friendly and happy to show you all about the exhibits. It’s a cute place with a lot of mint gifts you can buy. Worth a visit if you’re in Kitami.

I love mint so I really loved this museum. It showed the history of the mint industry in Kitami and how the oil is extracted. They also showcase different kind of mints and displays lots of mint related products.

We went there specially for the ice candle event, which was held for one weekend. It was really pretty.

The mint product were great. The exhibitions were interesting too

A quaint little building that has been carefully conserved. The gentleman manning the place spoke a little English and took the time to show us around which was really helpful as the media depicting its history were all in Japanese. Could tell he loved his job which made our visit all the more memorable. The lady manning the shop next door was wonderfully warm and friendly despite it being closing time when we entered. She too spoke a little English.

Kitami itself is limited in terms of sightseeing spots. However I actually learnt much here regarding its history of peppermint production, and the staff here are super friendly and kind, deserving of all the stars I gave.

It was amazing view.I'd like super recommend visit neighborhood here.fortunately When i went Lake onneto bright sunny weather. Very close from lake Akanko as well.

Onnetô-ko is a must see. The pretty lake is nestled within a verdant forest, with big trees often close to the shore. Hiking along the pleasant trail on the Eastern side allows you to fully enjoy the peaceful and lush environment. Best views on Mount Me-Akan and Fuji are from the Western shore, especially at the convenient wooden platform built for that purpose. Light is especially favorable at sunset.

Mother Nature decided to let us admire another side of this beauty. We are there on a misty day whereby we cannot see the mountains at all.

Nice calm lake. Not too many visitors as it is out of the way. Very nice onsen house, but very hot temperature in summer

Different shades of blue reflected from the lake, painting white clouds onto blue sky, greenish volcanoes as the back ground, simply stunning!

This is a very beautiful lake, but it is a bit out-of-the-way, and there are many more lakes around. If you love lakes, go for it, but it is just one of many in the area.

Beautiful lake but nothing else to do, there is an onsen nearby.

Very small but interesting fish exhibits which includes skin eating fish where you can dip your hands in for cleaning :) ~30 -40 mins for the whole tour

a place with a large garden, there is a unique building in front that attracts attention but at first I thought it was the main building. but the main building is on the side with a small bridge made of wood. tickets cost 760¥ for one adult. There isn't a very large aquarium inside, but the collection of fish is arranged in a charming, clean, orderly aquarium with lighting that creates a relaxed atmosphere. What was surprising was that the exit was directly connected to the souvenir shop. many types of wooden crafts, herbal things and snacks. more things can be seen in this shop actually hahaha which I think is really funny. but don't regret going here.

Impressive freshwater aquarium! Some of the larger fish probably should be in a larger tank but overall a very nice local aquarium. All the tanks were well maintained and the displays were informative and interactive.

Love this wonderful aquarium! It's small, but the creatures and tanks are very well taken care of. I love it that many descriptions of the fish are handwritten in a cute and fun manner and that the staff are so involved with the whole aquarium! 😄 it's one of the most enjoyable aquariums I've visited and will definitely go again if I'm in Kitami.

A nice roadside surprise with quite a few native trout and some South American fish, too. Small tanks and a bit overpriced, but worth a 20-minute stop, more if you browse the souvenir shops and have a soft cream.

Great Place! My family loves this place. There is also an indoor playground for kids. The souvenir shop is also good.

Very small, fits for a break from the road, not worth a trip.

Ice cream, fresh bakery, snacks, clean bathroom, good little stop

Stopping by Ashoro Ginga Hall 21 was a pleasant and convenient break for me and my family during our Hokkaido road trip. The rest area is spacious, clean, and well-organized, with plenty of facilities for travelers. Inside, there are small shops selling local products and snacks, giving us a nice chance to try some regional treats and pick up souvenirs. The hall also features information about the local area, which was helpful for planning our next stops. The staff were friendly and welcoming, making the visit feel even more comfortable. Outside, there’s a nice parking area and spaces to stretch your legs, making it an ideal spot for families traveling with kids. Don't miss out on the roadside station stamp and also the Ashoro Pokemon manhole cover when you visit.

Local roadside station. It has a cafe, separate restaurant, souvenir shop, information desk and toilets. Free parking.

Infront of the rest area have a small cafe sell nice coffee.

An old train station no longer in use. Stop by for a coffee break is fine

Nice place to take a rest while driving a car.

If you are looking for information, this isn't the place. More like a shopping mall.

Apparently the oldest winery in Hokkaido that almost closed down, but was taken over and run by the state now. They don't do tours but we could pay ¥1000 for a flight of 3 wines for tasting. Ended up enjoying their wine and buying a couple of bottles for future consumption.

Visiting Ikeda Wine Castle was such a treat for my daughter and me! From the moment we arrived, the place felt welcoming and charming, with its beautiful architecture surrounded by vineyards. We enjoyed sampling a variety of local wines and learning about the winemaking process—my daughter even got to try some of the grape juice, which she loved. The staff were friendly and happy to answer all our questions. Walking through the castle, we appreciated the scenic views and cozy tasting rooms.

The building and area are both really great and definitely deserve a visit, but with a name like Ikeda Grape and Wine Research Institute, I really expected better wine. I tried their three main varieties and they were all sour. Why? Do some actual research and make your wine better. Just search YouTube and you can find tutorials on how to make it less sour. 🤦

Interesting to walk around this winery, but don't have very high expectation on the quality of their wine.

Having tasted the wine in Hokkaido from a random wine shop, we were keen to visit the manufacturer. It is the only Japanese grape wine that we have truly enjoyed, comparative to the Australian and NZ wines we normally consume. We decided to have lunch in their restaurant. This was an excellent buffet meal with a great view of Ikeda and district. We highly recommend this place for all its offerings. The shop also has great local cheese and ham.

More than a winery, this place is the pioneer of OVOP movement, One Village One Product, and a place for rural revitalisation projects.. The museum also quite informative. gonna be there again.

It's free for visit and is not big. You can come if you have no idea of wine

Lake Kunabira is incredibly beautiful, but what's even more special is its captivating bridge, practically submerged in the summer and only visible in the winter. From the signposted viewpoint on the main road, walk about 200 meters through the primeval forest to reach the lake. The entire forest is filled with the breath of nature, and gazing at the mysterious bridge from the lakeside is so enchanting that we wouldn't have left if the repeated roars of bears hadn't drawn us to the road.

Beautiful scenery around an old railroad bridge. With the construction of the Nukabira Dam, the bridge became submerged for part of every year. It's now falling apart, and part of the bridge is likely to fall down in the next few years.

Nice looking old bridge. We saw it from the opposite side of the lake. There was a car park on route 273 and a short walk to the riverside where you can get a good view.

Walk on the lake to there !

Incredible place. However be careful with the route around the lake in the forest which it shown on google maps: It exists only on the map.

Beautiful landmark, in a quiet location with little to no tourists.

The bridge can be seen only when the water level goes down. Visit in Winter.

Amazing views, weather is excellent 👌 Have to stay here for at least a night

Passed by this lake while driving through to Taushubestu River Bridge and was not disappointed. Was pleasantly surprised to see such a wonderful and beautiful lake that I have to stop and admire the view.

Lake Shikaribetsu is a beautiful high altitude natural lake. It’s protected so there is no development except for the onsen and a campground. The lake water is clear and the mountains rise up in all directions.

If you love natural surround you, しかりべつ湖 always not let you despair!

Beautiful lake, even better if you take someone to do the rowing ..

Nice place to stay in and out of the city.We went here during winter festival.

I don't imagine to go there by my Honda Fit, not 4WD, just FF. If weather is fine, you can access here easily by car. I went there in the begining of February. It is mid-winter in Hkkaido. Lake Shikaribetsu has a snow and ice festival in this time. You can stay in the ice hotel and enjoy ice bar on the lake. Also they have a hot spa on the lake. Tkis is the really special hot spa you can enjoy only in this period. That's a terrific experience you'll ever have.

Very fun experience seeing big Banba Horses (850 - 1200 kg) racing while pulling 550-600 kg metal sled through obstacle hills! The one and only Ban’ei Horse Race in the world! Lot’s of parking space, rest area, foods.

Racing Hourse only at Obihiro - Hokkaido So Special Racing

**American Family Visiting** This was an interesting visit. While it's a little bit of a trip to get from Sapporo to Obihiro Racecourse, it's likely worth the visit if you want to experience a type of weighted sled racing that can't be found anywhere else. The grounds consist of main building where gambling and seating is found along with a couple of small shops and restaurants both in and on the grounds. You can either take a taxi to get here (which we did to get there) from the station, or if it's a nice day, the walk is not too bad (but still a walk!). There is also a small petting area where small farm animals and even the huge horses are out and you can feed them (these horses are HUGE though). The racing itself was interesting and while I understand this is traditional and that the animals aren't abused, it's tough to watch when whips are used, so if that bothers you, you may not want to go. The horses appear well cared for, the staff was friendly, and it was a lively crowd. You really have to get down at the race course level and walk/run along with them as the race goes.

I recommend Obihiro Racecourse. It is in Obihiro City, Hokkaido. You can walk there in 20 to 30 minutes. Obihiro Racecourse has many "Banba" horses. These horses were farm horses long ago. They can pull a one-ton sled with a jockey on it. You can enjoy it with your family. The racecourse has: A petting zoo Playgrounds for children Shops (like pork bowl restaurants, coffee shops, and cafeterias) I ate curry ramen at the cafeteria. It was very delicious. I also ate soft serve ice cream at the coffee shop. It is called "Bouquet Soft" and is made with organic milk. It was very tasty too!

Fun and interesting experience, everything was really well organised. The races are only on Saturday and Sundays starting at the afternoon, every 30 minutes there is a new race. We liked looking at the preparation for the race as well as the race itself which is very short. My husband even guessed the winning horse, unfortunately for non Japanese speakers it’s impossible to understand the gambling machines so we couldn’t do that.

I really interesting way of horse racing using Clydesdale horses pulling approximately 1 tonne of concrete blocks behind them over 5 Mounds of Earth. The track is not very long maybe 500 m but the excitement is very addictive

Honestly, exactly what I was expecting. My daughter and I read Silver Spoon and decided to check this place out years ago. It has what you would expect of horse racing, tradition over some more modern practices perhaps. I don't think any animals are straight up abused though and the racing was amazing to see up close. Took about 2 hours of our day, but is a real hike from Sapporo!

On 31 Aug 2024, my wife brought me here. We were surprised with the big free car park. We took lots of photos here, spending an hour very happily.

This a nice place with spacious surrounding farmlands. It is a good sightseeing spot with a cafe and souvenir store. Best for couples and families. Also a historical spot. Was featured on a NHK travel TV show making it famous. More info at hokkaidoguide.com

Cute little area to chill and have a walk 😎

The commemorative sticker on the station building looked like a fulu and was a little surprising. The sunset over the Hidaka Mountains is beautiful.

Lovely place!

(Translated by Google) You can also get there by bus from Happiness Station and Obihiro Station! I arrived just as the sun was setting and explored the area, but since the surrounding shops were closing, I was able to enjoy the scenery quietly. It was nice to wander around and read the stories of the people in the various locations. 😌 They also sell souvenirs in the small shop, so if you're interested, you can pick some up. (Original) 행복역, 오비히로 역에서 버스로도 이동 가능! 해가 질 시간대에 도착해서 둘러봤는데, 주변 가게들 마감시간 때라 조용히 보고 왔습니다. 곳곳에 담긴 사람들의 이야기를 읽으면서 한바퀴 쭉 구경하기 좋았어요 😌 작은 가게에서 기념품도 팔고 있으니까 관심 있으신 분들은 구입해서 가셔도 좋을 것 같아요.

(Translated by Google) 2025. 6. 13. 4:40 AM I left the hotel in downtown Obihiro and found the empty Happiness Station (Kofuku Station). It was a very small station that had already closed in 1981, but it was left so beautifully. I felt like precious and happy moments were also being conveyed. (Original) 2025. 6. 13. 새벽 4시 40분 오비히로 시내 호텔을 나와 아무도 없는 행복역(고후쿠역)을 찾았습니다. 1981년도에 이미 문을 닫은 아주 작은 역사지만, 참 예쁘게 남겨 두었네요. 소중하고, 행복했던 순간들도 함께 전해지는 느낌이 듭니다

An interesting privately maintained garden by a confectionary house that has little wooden huts that have a display of artworks. It also has a nice clear stream at its back which is very calming. Coffee, tea and some biscuits are offered at some of the huts as refreshment and generally great for taking a break. As you are exiting, there's a nice gift shop to pick up some tasty treats.

A botanical park and mini art museum. Estimate an hour to visit all the art galleries scattered in the park. The confectionary shop Rokkatei features six local flowers which are featured as the wrapping paper can be seen there (depends on the seasons) Entrance fee applies for the park, not for the cafe. There was self-serviced free coffee and a cookie at one of the galleries (No.3)

Quiet thoughtfully curated art in the wild. Def worth the time. They also offer umbrellas onsite during rain seasons.

Fascinating museum spread across several huts within a forest.

Absolutely worth the trip, had a wonderful morning here. The outdoor spaces are beautiful and I very much enjoyed the exhibitions. As well as the original Rokkatei artwork / the wallpaper room, there are a number of indoor exhibitions showcasing some beautiful artwork mostly of Hokkaido landscapes.

It is the exhibitions that stand out instead of the landscape itself in my view. The restaurant is worth a visit for a relaxing afternoon tea. Overall a good check point only if you have a few days around here.

Very nice garden and galleries. The cafe there is great too.

Great for a pleasant stroll among different plants, flowers, and landscapes. It's a large manicured park, with forests, grassland and flower beds. This place is suitable for people with small children and dogs. Perhaps there is a grander vision to this place that I didn't appreciate. I found it boring. We went in May so there was a constant drone of noisy insects from the forests.

Well maintained huge garden. Agradable walking in the woods, listening to the creek flow and gazing at goats in the pasture. .. Although it was raining but fresh air. Relaxing walk around.

Stiff walk upto the summit of Millennium Hill, worth a couple of hours to wander around the gardens. Don't forget the charcuterie in the shop, made using Tokachi Mangalica pigs, reputed to produce the tastiest pork in the world.

Can best be described as a destination for bus tours of Senior citizens who can’t really climb mountains and so have to settle for a flat, golf-course like manufactured nature experience. Fairly expensive considering there’s not much to see but there’s a large gift shop and a café serving set lunches

although the art spread across the garden is kind of confusing and their explanation boards are worn out, i would recommend this huge and spacious garden as a perfect place to picnic! we got to see a double rainbow on the day which topped it off with an evening sun 🌅

1.Green forest with river 2. Segway for rental available 1000 yen for 10 minutes. 3. Entrance fees 800yen if not mistaken. 4. Many chair and table set for picnic.

Family trip to Tokachi Millennium Forest in Hokkaido in 2016. Time flies, fresh air, gorgeous & fabulous views surrounding you. Perfect spot & conditions to let me spiritually mingled with the sky, the air, the surrounding mountains, the grass underneath. You can really & fully relaxed to meditate yourself to refresh your spirit and recharge your mind. What a relief!

✨ Shirahige Waterfall – A Curtain of Silver Whispers ✨ Shirahige Waterfall in Biei is like a scene painted by nature’s most delicate hand. From the cliffs covered in lush greenery, countless streams of pure water cascade down like strands of white silk, creating the appearance of a shimmering silver beard, which is how it earned its poetic name. The water pours gracefully into the turquoise-blue Biei River, where the milky mineral-rich streams blend with the crystal-clear current, giving the river its mesmerizing jade and sapphire tones. Standing before the falls, you can feel both the gentleness and power of nature—the mist cool against your skin, the sound of rushing water echoing like a soft symphony through the valley. Framed by vibrant forests that change colors with the seasons, the waterfall is breathtaking in every moment of the year—lush greens in summer, fiery hues in autumn, and a mystical frozen beauty in winter. Shirahige Waterfall is not just a natural attraction—it is a place where time seems to slow, and the soul feels refreshed by the eternal rhythm of water meeting earth. A true hidden gem of Hokkaido. 🌿💧

It’s a small waterfall — not grand or majestic, but truly beautiful. I visited in October, when the leaves hadn’t fully changed color yet, but it was still stunning. The water was crystal-clear with a soft blue tint, and the cool air felt so refreshing. Parking is free, convenient, and safe. Oh, and don’t forget to grab some takoyaki from the little shop right in front of the waterfall — it’s absolutely delicious, trust me! 😋💧🍂

My second time in winter pilgrimage to Shirahige Waterfall in Hokkaido felt even more magical than the first in September. There’s something deeply serene yet awe-inspiring about this place in winter. The snow-covered peaks of the Tokachi Mountains rise silently in the background, like gentle giants watching over the valley. And then, there’s the waterfall—not frozen, but flowing in the most striking shade of blue. It’s a crystalline, almost surreal turquoise, born from mineral-rich volcanic waters filtering through snowmelt. When sunlight spills over the scene, the snow glitters like diamond dust, and that blue stream stands out vividly—a ribbon of liquid sapphire weaving through a world of white. Every time I visit, it feels like nature is showing off its purest artistry. If you ever find yourself in Hokkaido in winter, don’t just pass by. Stay. Breathe it in. Let the cold air and the sight of that timeless flow remind you how beautiful stillness and movement can coexist. ✨❄️ #ShirahigeWaterfall #HokkaidoInWinter #WinterWonderland

Visited on a weekday in August with perfect sunny weather and no rain. It wasn’t crowded, although the Blue Pond area had several tour buses. Parking was easy and close by. The bridge offers a lovely spot to take in the views, and the waterfall nearby is beautiful with a stunning mountain backdrop. A charming house overlooks the whole scene, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. The clear blue water reflects the sky perfectly, making it a great place for photos. It’s a quiet, scenic spot that’s worth visiting for nature lovers and photographers. There’s also a small shop selling potatoes, ice cream and melons too. Great for some refreshments.

The minerals in the water actually turn it a vibrant teal blue and yes it really is that blue. Almost like a video game scene come to life. The waterfalls are spectacular. Do plan ahead tho because somethings will be closed at certain times of the year. Regardless, it was a wonder to see. I would suggest going to the Blue Pond as well. Really is a must see. My IG handle is nature_boi_sof_kayaks if you want to see more pictures. I'll post a few here but there is really so much more to see. As well I would recommend coming in the fall as the leaves turn vibrant yellows and reds that really pop against all the evergreens throughout the area.

9 Nov 2025 When we arrived, it almost dark. It's very cold today because of snow. A bit slippery as well even I'm wearing winter boots. I liked this spot more than the blue pond. Water's very clear and blue. Mountain and resort are covering with snow, are magical and wonderful.

You should visit this small little waterfall if you are visiting the blue pond also as well. It is nearby. You kind of overlook the waterfall from a bridge itself. The water from the waterfalls meet a clear stream of river water below.

We drove there and found it very easy to visit — plenty of parking and the pond is right next to the car park. There’s a short, easy trail and a small shop selling blue-themed ice cream and drinks, plus toilets on site. There isn’t much else around, but it’s a nice, quick stop if you’re in the area. We visited after exploring Furano and Biei, and it made a pleasant, scenic break.

🌿 A Hidden Gem of Nature and Calm If you’re a nature lover or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this spot is absolutely worth visiting. The surroundings are breathtaking — a perfect blend of lush greenery, soothing sounds of nature, and that crisp, refreshing air that instantly calms your mind. The blue ice cream and drink here are a must-try! They’re not just photogenic but also surprisingly delicious and refreshing after a bit of walking. It’s one of those small but memorable local touches that make the experience feel special. It does get quite crowded, especially on weekends or around midday, but the best part is — you can easily find some quiet by taking a short walk away from the main area. Just a few minutes off the main path, the crowd thins out, and you can enjoy the serenity in peace. A short walk ahead leads you to a beautiful waterfall, surrounded by autumn-colored trees that turn the entire scene into a painting. The soft rustle of leaves, the sparkle of water under sunlight, and the cool mist in the air make it one of the most picturesque spots to sit, relax, and take it all in. Whether you’re here for a quick visit or a half-day adventure, this place is a perfect blend of natural beauty, peaceful corners, and seasonal charm. Bring a camera, comfortable shoes, and a sense of wonder — you’ll leave refreshed and inspired.

This is one of those must-visit landmarks — the water is such a clear, stunning shade of blue that it completely captures your eyes. The autumn air was cool and refreshing, making everything around look even more vibrant. There’s also a small stream nearby, and the water there is the same beautiful blue. 💧🍁✨

✨ Absolutely Breathtaking! ✨ Shirogane Blue Pond is truly one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. The water is a mesmerizing, crystal-clear blue that looks almost unreal — like a painting come to life. The way the sunlight reflects off the surface creates a magical glow that changes with every angle. Even though it was quite cold this time of year, the view was still absolutely amazing — the crisp air actually made the colors feel even more vivid and refreshing. The peaceful, icy atmosphere gave the whole scene a quiet, dreamlike beauty. If you’re visiting Hokkaido, bundle up and go! It’s serene, stunning, and completely unforgettable. 💙❄️🌿

A very popular tourist spot in Hokkaido. However do be prepared that it doesnt not look as blue in real life. Most of the pictures you see online are have strong color filter I assume. Just by changing the lighting/filter of the camera you can achieve the results as well. Still a nice place to visit, there is the Shirahige waterfalls nearby as well that is worth visiting.

This small, mysteriously turquoise lake isn’t a place I’d particularly recommend to anyone who has traveled around the South Island of New Zealand. The reason is simple — after seeing the vast, breathtaking glacial lakes of Tekapo, Pukaki, or Wanaka, which are thousands of times larger and glow with that deep sapphire-blue color, it’s hard to feel much awe here. For everyone else, I’d say this: the lake isn’t very accessible, but if you happen to be nearby on a clear day, it’s worth a quick stop to take a look.

This is my 2nd time visiting this blue pond. The last time was in Sep a few year ago while this time is in Nov, which the pond water has an ice covered. I visited late evening and there were lots of tourists to watch the light show, which was amazing in such a cold weather, -1 degree! The pond spotlighted with changing colors beams and effects. This is truly such a way to attract tourists during winter time, which becomes dark early! Worth to visit more than one time!

Very disappointed! The room is old and smells. All the things in the room, including the mattresses, the hangers, the fridge, the slippers, are all very cheap. The restaurants are overpriced—the foods provided by the buffets do not have many varieties. Services are below average. Nearly all activities requires extra money. What’s the point of by paying high price staying here? Definitely won’t come again and do not recommend.

This was by far the worst hotel experience I have had in the past few years. We are very looking forward to spending time at this hotel with our whole family. But the hotel was overcrowded everywhere – from the lobby to the restaurants – making it feel chaotic rather than relaxing. Service was extremely poor. Nobody helped with luggage, when the room was cleaned it was always around late afternoon around 3pm-4pm. The room itself was very old, with a tiny bathroom and a low ceiling. The bathtub was partially blocked, and despite informing the front desk multiple times, nobody came to fix it. Communication was another huge issue. Hardly anyone, including the front desk staff, spoke proper English. Every question had to be answered via a translator app, which made even simple requests frustrating. There were many activities, including welcome drinks, that seemed to be for Japanese guests only, as all information was in Japanese with no English version. If this hotel is designed only for Japanese guests and the staff is not trained to communicate in English, they should make that very clear on their website to avoid misleading international travelers. Additionally, the hotel was overcrowded all the time. Breakfast at some restaurants had a 30-minute wait, and many restaurants required reservations. However, by the time we arrived for our four-day stay, it was impossible to get a reservation at any of them. Overall, this was a terrible experience, and I would not recommend this hotel to anyone expecting good service or an international standard of hospitality.

Travel to and from the hotel was convenient, with easy access by bus or train, and a complimentary shuttle service to Tomamu Station. The staff were very friendly and attentive. The room was clean and equipped with basic necessities. There are plenty of activities available in the area, including bus tours to Biei and Furano. The highlight of our stay was the easy access to witness the breathtaking Unkai at sunrise.

Visiting Hoshino Resort in Hokkaido during the off-season is definitely a great deal — the price is about half of what you would pay during peak season. Although the resort has been around for quite a while, the entire property is impressively well-maintained. We stayed in one of the older Twin Towers, but the room was still very nice and comfortable. There are several restaurants on-site to choose from, and the food is both delicious and reasonably priced. The resort also offers a variety of attractions and scenic spots to explore, so there’s always something to see or do. In my opinion, a stay of three days and two nights is just the right amount of time to enjoy everything the resort has to offer without feeling rushed.

Rooms big for japan but very dated 90’s vibes… the hotel facilities are good and the location is very nice for summer activities. The breakfast was terrible. For a large hotel charging 50,000¥ + a night for 2 people you would expect a better quality and much better selection for breakfast. zero fresh fruit (only canned fruit - very cheap of them), zero fresh bread or egg station and terrible coffee . Extremely poor glad we only stayed 2 nights.

My seven year old had a blast of a time here during winter in end March this year. Rooms are a bit dated but the view is phenomenal. Must have breakfast at Ninipuri. The snow view is magical. They have shuttle bus to get you around the area as the area is quite huge. We didn’t get a chance to experience the swimming pool as we only stayed one night. So highly recommended to stay for two nights! Also the soup curry was delicious. Activities during winter are also available here. We had fun time sledding and also snowmobiling

I would describe Tomamu the Tower as an embarrassment to the Hoshino brand. The moment we pulled up into the driveway, we started wondering if we had made a mistake coming here - and our worst fears were confirmed. The place is absolutely packed to the max with mostly overseas tourists. The carpark is almost always full and I had a long walk back to the lobby in heavy rain after parking. The hotel had clearly aged and was nowhere near the condition it should have been considering its price. The toilets are old and noisy, at times the water would not stop running after flushing. Moreover, mobile reception was poor from the room - beware if you are planning to do some work while you are here. The service: worst experience we had over an 11-day trip around Hokkaido. A lot of the staff members struggled to understand basic English. We requested a knife to slice fresh fruits that we had bought and were told that knives are “out of stock”! Well, we found an endless supply of knives at the restaurant. She could have given us any reasonable explanation - but don’t treat your guests like idiots. There were 3 restaurants to choose from for breakfast and at check-in, the staff recommended “Nininupuri”. The buffet was miserable - the best part was the cold udon. Everything else was ordinary at best, if not below average. The seafood bowl was tasteless and did not seem fresh. The second morning we tried buffet restaurant Hal which was better but extremely crowded. The best part of our stay - a nice dinner at Jingisukan King restaurant (see separate review). Overall, I see no reason whatsoever to visit here unless you are desperate for disappointment.

Unkai Experience. Didn’t get to see with a 40% rate. It’s like a lottery. Hotel guest get to enter for free with a shuttle bus arriving from the entrance lobby for pick up. The gondola takes a mere 5 mins to reach the top. Once you are there, there is a cafe that fills up quickly. Couple of vantage points. Then the rush to visit the other amenities for an instagram shot.

Visited on 7 Aug 2025. It opens at 5am, last cable car up is at 8am and the last cable car down is 9am so plan your sleep timing accordingly. The weather was not the most ideal when I went there but the mist dissipate to form the sea of clouds that everyone went there for. So if you have time, do wait in the cafe. You might end up liking the experience. The different spots are several minute walks away from each other with the rope bed, wedge deck and swing being uphill. Also the staff stationed at the ropebed can help you take group photos. Definitely worth the extra effort to come here.

The gondolas open early in the morning at 5:00am, but they often operate earlier, and during busy times there is a numbered ticket system, so it is advisable to arrive by 4:00am or 4:30am at the latest if possible. I arrived at around 4:40am and the gondola was already running, numbered 101, and I was able to board the gondola at around 5:20am. The view from the cloud walk on the deck jutting out from the cliff was fantastic, not only on the tower side but also on the west side of the valley, where the cloud sea covered the whole valley. We stayed two nights again, this time hoping to see a sea of clouds, and enjoyed a good view on the first day with clear skies ☀️. We were very happy to see a sea of clouds on the second day. The day before, the cloud sea rate was 30%, but we were super lucky. ✌️

This place will either be great or ordinary depending on your luck and the weather. We arrived at 0600 and there was already a queue of around 45 minutes to buy tickets and take the cable car up, so definitely plan ahead and check their website as it'll be updated with the probability of cloud formation and queue times. Generally, the earlier the better as the clouds tend to dissipate even before 0800. On a good day though, once you're up there it's a beautiful walk and experience to be above the clouds. You'll also get some fairly unique photos too.

Amazing! Quite lucky today as yesterday there was no unkai despite higher probability than today. Very well organized, the queue at 4.30am already at least 100 people in queue. There is about 40 lots at gondola base for parking otherwise plenty more a few steps away. Do not follow google map to drive here!!! You need to take the gondola

Place wanna visit again, hard to see cloud sea if u visit just 1night 2 days, recommend to visit more than a few days and try every dawn for it. We visited in early july and the sun rises at 3:45, need to go at the first time when the lift counter opens, at 4:30 to the front, unless u need to wait for more than 30 min to 1:30hours if late. Beautiful scenery, worth visiting.

Amazing place with very beautiful and attractive landscape 🌄 Even if you can't meet full cloud sea, it's worth to see the beauty of nature 🧗

Farm Tomita in Furano is one of Hokkaidō’s most beautiful flower spots. In summer, the fields turn into waves of purple lavender, mixed with colorful flower rows that look like a painting. Walking through the gardens is relaxing, and the views of the fields with mountains in the background are stunning. Don’t miss the lavender soft cream—it’s fragrant and refreshing on a warm day. Entry is free, and you can also shop for lavender products like perfumes and soaps to take home. A must-visit if you travel to Furano in July or August.

🌸 A Living Masterpiece of Color and Fragrance Farm Tomita is nothing short of breathtaking—a true wonderland where nature and artistry blend seamlessly. The iconic lavender fields, stretching endlessly in waves of purple, are the crown jewel of the farm. When the breeze flows across, the entire hillside dances with lavender fragrance, creating an almost dreamlike atmosphere. It’s not just a visual delight but also a sensory journey that stays with you long after you leave. ⸻ 🌼 More Than Lavender – A Symphony of Flowers What makes Farm Tomita truly remarkable is that it’s not limited to lavender alone. The farm carefully cultivates a wide variety of seasonal flowers, painting the landscape in ever-changing patterns of color. Stripes of scarlet poppies, golden marigolds, snowy baby’s breath, and vibrant cosmos form breathtaking “rainbow fields” that look like a living painting under the Hokkaido sky. Each section feels like stepping into a different garden, each with its own charm and beauty. ⸻ 🌿 A Perfect Blend of Tradition and Care Farm Tomita doesn’t just showcase flowers—it represents decades of dedication to preserving and celebrating Hokkaido’s floral heritage. Walking through its fields, you can sense the meticulous care behind every bloom. The farm also offers unique lavender-based products—perfumes, essential oils, soaps, and even lavender ice cream—allowing visitors to take home a piece of this floral paradise. ⸻ 🌞 A Place to Slow Down and Feel Happiness Above all, Farm Tomita gives visitors something priceless: a sense of joy and peace. Whether it’s gazing at endless rows of lavender, enjoying the sweet fragrance in the air, or simply standing still to admire the vastness of colors, the farm reminds us how magical nature can be. It is not only a feast for the eyes but also nourishment for the soul. ⸻ ✨ In short: Farm Tomita is a place where flowers speak the language of beauty, harmony, and happiness—a destination that leaves every visitor inspired and enchanted.

It was my first time visiting a well-maintained lavender field, and being surrounded by the fragrant purple blossoms was both magical and fascinating—visually and aromatically. Purple is a rare color in nature; when you think about it, it’s actually not that easy to find naturally occurring purple around us. Here, you can also try lavender products like soaps, air fresheners, and even ice cream. As for the lavender ice cream… how should I put it? It’s not that it tasted bad, but it definitely felt a bit unusual. Let’s just say that until that moment, I had never imagined what fabric softener with lavender scent might taste like.

Visited on 29 Sep 2025 and didn't expect to see so many beautiful flowers here in autumn. There are far fewer crowds compared to spring and summer, allowing you to really enjoy the flower field. Recommend visiting in late September or early October if you're looking to avoid the heat and crowds.

Charming farm! 🌻 Farm Tomita is a beautiful spot to experience Hokkaido's countryside and enjoy the vibrant lavender fields. A perfect place to relax and connect with nature 😊 But unfortunately, when I went there, the lavender flowers had already been harvested and at that time there were only other flowers.

Probably the most famous flower fields in Furano given how all the tour buses were stopping here. Very crowded with tourists. The flower fields were nice and well maintained but I cant help to feel that other less crowded ones nearby were more lush and more enjoyable. Still, worth a visit. Especially enjoyed the gentle fragrance of lavender wafting in the air

After hearing about and seeing Farm Tomita in so many Furano itineraries, we definitely wanted to see as well even though we went in mid-October. There were some colourful flowers in bloom so it was pretty but obviously not as vibrant as in summer. Worth visiting for a few photos.

We did the family rafting route in June 2024, my wife and I were traveling with young children. It was a very professional experience, and the whole briefing and experience was conducted in English. Reservations are required and the team is responsive with their emails.

Very nice rafting experience for all the family! Not super intense but with some challenging and exciting parts.

I Highly highly recommended HOA. A fun outdoor adventure in central Hokkaido with a superb team running the operation of the rafting. Great for families with teenagers, Singles as well as for a group of friends looking for some cool exciting action. To boot it comes with a beautiful Scenery, good rapids and unique wildlife. We enjoyed it tremendously. Very warm and special thanks to Pat the man, Kali, Laura, Anthony, Ashraf who is star. Thank you and hope to do it again soon, Guy

Fantastic experience. They have a pretty diverse crew from various countries and can speak English well. Very friendly guides that helped us settle into our rafting experience comfortably. Went in June and rafting was fairly easy due to low-tide.

The perfect outdoor adventure for Hokkaido - highly recommended! Our rafting experience with HOA was organized and professional, and Anthony our guide was the best we could’ve wished for - knowledgable, friendly, and great with kids! Our younger son was nervous and scared prior to getting on the raft, but Anthony eased him into it and made the journey super fun for both adults and kids. Both kids said they wanted to go back and do it again the next day! Thank you Anthony and HOA for the lovely experience!

Highly professional and English speaking guides across multiple nationalities. Went for the white water rafting + canyoning course and the crew took amazing care of us throughout. Definitely a must try for outdoor adventures lovers. Thank you for the great time!

I absolutely love this place. Such a solid crew and excellent river guiding by highly experienced professionals. They take such good care of everyone who walks through their doors, you can even enjoy a cup of tea at the end of the day while you look at the photos. Such a beautiful area and an amazing group of people. I'd give them ten stars or even a hundred if there were more to give!

Ningle Terrace feels like stepping into a little fairytale village, with rows of charming wooden cottages surrounded by trees. Each house sells unique handmade souvenirs, from candles to crafts, giving you something special to bring home instead of typical tourist gifts. It’s a pleasant place to stroll slowly, enjoy the atmosphere, and discover local creativity. The pathways are well kept and beautifully lit in the evening, which makes it even more magical. Parking is convenient with plenty of spaces available, so it’s easy to stop by even on a busy day. We spent about an hour just walking around and browsing the shops. It’s a peaceful and memorable stop, perfect for anyone who enjoys nature and artisanal items.

Magical, especially at evening/ night time when all the lights are twinkling against the back drop of the forest. We visited it as part of our Furano tour. Each hut housed individual artisan crafting leather goods, earrings, mini wooden windmills, and other wooden trinkets. The only caution noted are for the more mature visitors who might have a hard time with the steps which could be steep and sometimes slippery if wet or snowy. Other than that, this was a cute and fun place to explore.

This is a place with beautiful scenery all year round, with a different atmosphere in every season. The small wooden cottages blend perfectly with the surroundings. The handmade crafts inside aren’t cheap, but they’re worth checking out if you’re interested. It’s located near the New Furano Prince Hotel and ski resort, so there are many visitors in winter. There’s only one road leading up here, and it can get a bit crowded during the peak winter season.

If you ask me whether this place is beautiful — I’d say it’s really beautiful. But I drove quite a long way to get here, about an hour. I came during the autumn season, around 6:30 p.m., and most of the shops were already closed, though the lights were still beautifully lit. I’d say if you’re coming from far away and don’t have your own car, it might be a bit tricky to get here. But if you’re staying nearby and it’s easy for you to travel around, this place is definitely worth a visit. The cool October air made everything look even more wonderful. 🍂

This place feels like it is in a fairy tale! Love the building design. There are many shops that sell hand crafted products and you may find something that interests you. The only issue that I cannot enjoy that much is there are many inserts like caterpillars, spiders and flies everywhere, other than that I will be really enjoying the time spent there.

it is a magical spot visit during winter night if you love the vibe of elf feel. However, it is crowded and difficult for me to enjoy it. It has a big parking spot. Next to it has a small amusement park which my kids enjoy it.

31 August 2025 Wooden Shops selling handcraft souvenir ie candles, silvers, wooden craft art and a cafe. A beautiful forest concept shopping place. When night falls it will even be more magical as fairy lights lit up the whole path way Safe to walk but not wheelchair friendly

I chose this ski resort initially because it had wide slopes for beginners. However, during my recent visit, their lift broke down, and I saw people hanging on the lift for more than 30 minutes waiting for rescue. I think they have poor maintenance at the ski resort, and I do not recommend it.

Great ski resort! If you’re skiing here, this hotel is basically mandatory. Rental shop right out front—just step outside, strap in, and pray for good balance. No long walks, no heavy lifting—just you, the snow, and the occasional wipeout!

Beautiful views as you ski. 😍 The furano side greens are harder than the other side. So I stayed in kitanomine most of the time. The lifts are efficient and the staff are all polite.

Would have given more stars if one of the chairlifts were working. Also price of food at the hotel restaurants were expensive. Edit: Our second day was way better, we decided to ski the kitakome side . The runs there were better, and all the lifts were not crowded. Change review to 4 stars. I would still rate higher if the broken chairlift wasn't a factor.

Very nice skiing area. But, one lift Furano Downhill Swift Lift no. 1 is out of service. Therefore, the whole lift service of the area is out of sync. Therefore you must wait 30-60 minutes for the gondola service on a regular weekday. We are having a nice experience skiing, but this lift at fault really give you less value for money and time. Check out if the lift service is running before going? Also, contrary to all other gondola operators, they do not fill up the platform while waiting for a gondola arrival. So, first, at arrival the line start to move - loosing another 10 minutes. The egg lifts here take 6 person but they fill with 2-4 persons. This way, the line build up and creates more waiting time than needed. Both the gondola and egg lift lines steel valuable time from skiing - sad since it is not necessary.

Snow is powder type and friendly for beginner. Off seasons kind of less crowded and have more rooms to learnt to ski. Only downside that it only open till 1600hrs.

Furano snow land for children, after you alight from the bus, enter the hotel, turn right, walk through the gift shop, walk down the stairs, and out of the hotel, turn right you will see a car park. Across the road there is a souvenir shop, turn left and you will find the snow land. Pay money at the counter. Roughly you need 2 hours to finish playing everything, take note lunch break is about 12-1pm. If you want to save money, our kids had the most fun playing the sled, and it was the cheapest option. If you have cash to splash then play everything, we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves

Arte Piazza Bibai in Winter Visit Arte Piazza Bibai this winter for a magical experience just 60 kilometers northeast of Sapporo. This outdoor sculpture park features stunning works by sculptor Kan Yasuda, set against a snowy landscape. Explore the 70,000 square meters of art and nature, including a renovated school and gymnasium hosting winter events. Enjoy cozy drinks at the café, and best of all, entrance is free. It’s the perfect spot to appreciate art in a winter wonderland!

A great experience in a serene location. This is a slower, more peaceful art experience, not a gallery overflowing with artworks and people. If you've got a car in Hokkaido and you enjoy sculpture, this is worth a visit. We visited in autumn and had lovely weather and sunshine. Recent bear activity in the area meant some of the hillside and artworks inside weren't able to be seen, but the experience was enjoyable nonetheless. I wish I had worn gumboots or boots - my sneakers got quite wet from all the dew on the grass.

A few pieces are found inside the museum, but there are many Instagrammable areas and views in this huge art complex. Try also their cafe, highly recommended. The entrance is free.

The museum of an artist who made the white stone of Sapporo station which is well known as a famous meeting spot for locals. Very calm, connected with nature, I fell in love with this place ❤ there's a cafe deep inside, I'd love to go there next time!☺️

One of the most beautiful sculpture Gardens I have seen in a long time. Take your time to see it all!

Visiting with kids and finding the park all empty it was a bit sad that we were not able to use the big lawns to play a bit with our Frisbee, as all play is disallowed. Lot of open spaces on a hot day. Nice sculptures if you are into art.

Art installations in the middle of beautiful forest area. The art work stands out from the soundings. A must visit for sculpture and art lovers. The building was a former primary school.

We did a short stop here on our way to Sapporo from Obihiro. We didn't know that this place had so many melon products! Despite the cold evening wind, I had to try one of the melon soft creams and it was very good! There's a market inside with many products.

It’s a cool little rest stop but I’m not sure if it’s necessary to go out of your way to reach this place. The melons are nice and it’s fun to have melon soft serve (although there are better soft serves) If you need a pit stop, this is certainly better than your typical rest stop.

This was one of the three stops on our list in Yubari to taste the famous Yubari melon. This roadside station, like others in Hokkaido, sells many products that are related to and exclusive to the local area. The store offers both whole and sliced Yubari melons, a must-try when you're in Hokkaido during summer. They can also courier the melons for you. The melon is of superior quality, with a mellow taste and delicate texture that I’ve never experienced before, so incredibly good! I'm not sure if it was just luck, but I found the melon quality at this store to be better than the one nearby that also offers a melon buffet. The price here also seems cheaper. The Yubari melon soft serve is delicious as well, though you can find it in other places too (not common but not rare).

Clean toilets and great melon. The farmer was telling someone about his production method. Best melon I have ever eaten and I'm from Australia!

Nice short stop for melon related items! Food, desserts, souvenirs also have a small dining area to enjoy the foods and restrooms to use and carry on with your road trip.

We did a short stop here on our way to Furano; Saturday morning. The soft serve melon ice cream is delicious and so does the melon pan (bread) which start selling at 10am. The melon theme snacks and gifts are reasonably priced.

Don’t stop if it’s past 530 pm for melons! The supermarket is okay but the corner stall which is the only drinks stall open has waaaay overpriced melon drinks - 500 yen for literally soda and sugar :(