Winter-exclusive Outdoor Activities in Hokkaido You Can’t Miss

Text by Lin Yijun   Photography by MOOK Mo carve Photography Team

For travelers from warmer climates, it’s hard to imagine that the vast snowy expanse before your eyes is actually a lake. Every winter, when Lake Akan in eastern Hokkaido freezes over, this surreal landscape emerges, with thick snow accumulating into hiking trails exclusive to winter — these are all part of the winter-exclusive charm of the northern lands.

Winter in Akan is full of fun from the early morning, and a morning walk is a major highlight. Due to the vastness of the lake, the snow in the center of Lake Akan, constantly blown by the cold wind, forms ice crystal snowflowers that bloom in the direction of the wind. These icy blooms melt quickly under the sunlight, making them a fleeting, once-in-a-morning sight.

To witness the winter scenery, we braved the chilly early morning winds, trudging through the snow. Even though we knew the ice on the lake was tens of centimeters thick, walking on the snowy lake surface still felt a bit nerve-wracking. Fortunately, guides monitor the ice conditions closely, so following them ensures a safe journey.

When we reached the center of the lake, the sun was slowly emerging from behind Mount Akan. As the sunlight hit the snow, it sparkled with tiny lights — it turned out to be the ice crystals reflecting the sun, creating this dreamlike scene that soothed our disappointment at not seeing snow flowers.

Beyond the breathtaking lake center views, you can also experience the thrill of snowmobiling or take a moment to enjoy the peaceful fun of ice fishing. Vendors drill holes in the ice and set up tents; all you need to do is rent a fishing rod to try ice fishing. The caught pike can be taken straight to a nearby restaurant to be fried into tempura. Fresh pike tempura sprinkled with salt is incredibly flavorful and is a must-try delicacy when visiting Lake Akan in winter.