“Frost Flowers” of Lake Akan
Have you seen the “frost flowers” of Lake Akan? This phenomenon can only be seen in the coldest months of winter when ice particles form in the shape of blooming flowers. You can’t always see them though – they only appear under specific conditions, including minimal wind and temperature below -15 degrees.
We recommend staying at Akanko Onsen and signing up for a tour to see the frost flowers at sunrise.
■Season: Around December to March
■Location: Inside Akan Mashu National Park, Akanko Onsen
■Spot Introduction:https://en.visit-hokkaido.jp/what-to-do/frost-flowers
jewelry ice, Toyokoro Town
Have you ever heard of jewelry ice? Jewelry ice is a natural phenomenon that occurs in Eastern Hokkaido. Ice particles that break away from the frozen Tokachi River and wash onto the shores of Otsu Beach, Toyokoro are known to look like glittering gemstones. They look especially beautiful at sunrise under the morning sunlight. Make sure to dress warmly as the temperatures can drop under -20℃.
*The shore is located near private residents. Please be mindful when visiting during early mornings and late evenings.
■Time to see the Jewelry Ice: mid-January to early march
■Spot Introduction:https://en.visit-hokkaido.jp/what-to-do/jewelry-ice
the Lake Mashu Muhyo (or frost in Japanese) Tour, Teshikaga
Introducing a special winter tour at Lake Mashu.
Participate in the Lake Mashu Muhyo (or frost in Japanese) Tour to see the trees covered in snow and white frost. A beautiful view against a backdrop of clear blue skies. Professional guides make sure that you have the best experience, unique to this location.
■Tour period: around late December to late February
■Location: Teshikaga, Kawakami District, Hokkaido
■Spot Introduction:https://en.visit-hokkaido.jp/what-to-do/lake-mashu-rime-tour
ice horizon, Notsuke Peninsula’s
Have you ever heard of Notsuke Peninsula’s “ice horizon”?
When the peninsula freezes in the winter, it creates an icy wonderland and the illusion of an endless horizon.
On a clear day, enjoy the contrast of the blue sky and the snow-covered ice. A breathtaking view indeed! We recommend travelers wear warm clothes and outerwear to visit and, most importantly, don’t forget to take a photo!
■Period: From mid-January until early March
■Address: 6 3 Notsuke, Betsukai, Notsuke District
■Access: 60-minute drive from Nakashibetsu Airport
■Spot Introduction:https://en.visit-hokkaido.jp/what-to-do/notsuke-peninsulas-gleaming-ice-fields
Ice Bubbles of Lake Nukabira, Kamishihoro Town
Have you ever seen such natural artwork??
These Ice Bubbles are a winter specialty of Lake Nukabira in Kamishihoro Town!
They are for when air bubbles get trapped under the frozen surface of the lake. Some ice bubbles form in multiple layers, creating a mysterious pattern that looks like it’s a message from outer space. Ice bubbles come in different sizes and shapes, so it’s fun to look for funny, pretty and odd shapes!
Unfortunately, they can only be seen during the short period between the freezing of the lake and the accumulation of snow.
What kind of shapes can you spot in these limited-time ice bubbles?
■Where: Lake Nukabira
■Address: Nukabira Genzensenkyo, Kamishihoro-cho, Kawato-gun, Hokkaido
■Access: Approximately 1.5 hours by Tokachi Bus from JR Obihiro Station Bus Terminal,
approximately 20 minutes on foot after getting off at Tokachi Bus Nukabira Office
■Spot Introduction:https://en.visit-hokkaido.jp/what-to-do/ice-bubbles