Hokkaido is the northernmost part of Japan. It is full of attractions, including Sapporo and Hakodate, where you can enjoy everything from historical sightseeing to recommended gourmet food from the north, as well as Shiretoko, the furthest point in Hokkaido, which is registered as a World Natural Heritage Site. We will introduce the charms of Hokkaido, which is a popular travel destination.
Shiretoko Goko Lakes
The entire Shiretoko Peninsula in Hokkaido has been designated as a national park and is also registered as a World Heritage Site. There are many sightseeing spots, which are well known as the Shiretoko Eight Views. The most representative place among these is the Shiretoko Goko Lakes.
The five lakes that live quietly in the virgin forest are named Lake Ichi to Goko. Water gushes out from a thin layer of lava layered on top of hard rock, creating a lake like this. Stroll along the promenade and feel the overwhelming breath of nature.
The grove of trees in the primeval forest remains untouched, and the sunlight filtering through the deep green branches that reach overhead is an experience you can’t get anywhere else in the city. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to spot red foxes, sika deer, and squirrels. Brown bears may also appear, so be careful!
The panoramic view of the Shiretoko Mountain Range reflected on the lake from the lakeside observation deck is sure to give you a true sense of the majesty of Hokkaido.
Furano lavender field
A lavender field covered in deep purple.
Furano’s lavender fields, filled with a refreshing scent, are a spectacular sight that represents Hokkaido.
In the Furano region, there are lavender fields in various areas such as Furano City, Nakafurano Town, and Kamifurano Town, and during the season, the entire area is colored in vivid purple.
The best time to see lavender, which is in full bloom in July, is early in the morning.The flowers, slightly wet with morning dew, darken in color and shine in the morning sun, making for a great photo opportunity.
The scent of lavender that emanates from it has excellent aromatherapy effects.
Its sedative effect calms your mind and leaves you feeling refreshed.
From the top of the hilly field, you can see far into the distance the ridgelines of the mountains, and enjoy the large-scale, spectacular scenery unique to Hokkaido.
When you look up from the foot of the hill, it looks like a mountain of lavender, which is another highlight.
Shirokane Blue Pond
Aoike Pond stands quietly on the outskirts of Biei, a city known for its beautiful nature.
During the Tokachidake eruption in 1988, a dam was built on the Biei River to prevent mudslides, and water from the river flowed in, creating a pond. Colloid particles, which are formed by mixing the aluminum contained in the spring water in this area with the water from the Biei River, emit blue light when exposed to sunlight. That’s why the water in the pond looks blue.
