Ice floe walks and stargazing at Lake Mashu — New winter experiences in Hokkaido

By MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network, reported by Li Xinyi

Winter in Hokkaido is the season of “powder snow,” and with its excellent snow quality, the region attracts large numbers of tourists for skiing and onsen bathing. Beyond skiing, there are many other unique ways to enjoy winter in Hokkaido. In Shiretoko, there is Japan’s only ice floe walk. From February to late March, when the ice floes drift ashore, visitors can don survival suits and take a stroll on the ice. Alternatively, from mid-January to late March, you can go on a snowshoe hike to the waterfall known as the “Maiden’s Tears.”

Lake Mashu once recorded a water transparency of 41.6 meters in Showa 5 (1930), ranking it as the lake with the highest transparency in the world. The lake has a circumference of 21 kilometers, with a maximum depth of 212 meters. Surrounded by sheer cliffs, Lake Mashu is an untouched “mysterious lake.” It is often shrouded in thick fog drifting from the Kushiro Wetland, which adds to its mystique. In winter, the lake is particularly enchanting thanks to its crystal-clear air and light-pollution-free starry skies. The period from November 1 to May 19 is ideal for stargazing.

Nearby Lake Kussharo lies Kawaguchiko Onsen, where steam from underground hot springs rising to the river surface creates a hazy atmosphere, earning it a nickname. The area is known for its mysterious charm. The hot spring water, emerging from white sand and green pine, has a uniquely refreshing quality. From mid-January to the end of March, the local area holds the “Kawaguchiko Onsen Diamond Dust Party,” which is free and open to visitors. In addition, Hokkaido in winter also offers canoeing opportunities. From January 9 to the end of March, a canoe nature tour is held along the headwaters of the Kushiro River — all unique winter activities in Hokkaido.

● Read more: A treasure of gentle northern skiing — The Prince Hotel New Furano

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