Peer into the Witch’s Eye: Stargazing and viewing ice trees at Lake Mashu

While Hokkaido is blanketed in the festive white of its winter snow carnivals, compared to the lively atmosphere of major cities like Hakodate, Sapporo, and Asahikawa, the eastern part of Hokkaido celebrates the depths of winter with its own tranquil charm. At Lake Mashu, the most enigmatic spot in eastern Hokkaido, the sudden appearance of thick fog draws much attention from visitors. Every winter, the lake shore becomes covered with layers of ice trees. Taking a limited winter bus tour from January to March to stargaze and admire the ice trees is a gift from nature.

Lake Mashu is the most mysterious crater lake in eastern Hokkaido. With no rivers flowing in or out, its water boasts exceptional clarity, and its stunningly azure transparency has earned it the nickname “Witch’s Eye.” In winter, the lakeside, adorned with ice trees, glimmers brilliantly under the sunlight. On clear, cloudless nights, you can join a bus tour to stargaze at Lake Mashu by signing up through hotels in Kawayu Onsen. Though the nights are bitterly cold, the magnificent, glittering starry sky above is truly awe-inspiring.

The winter Lake Mashu Stargazing Bus operates from the third Saturday of January until March 20. Guests staying in Kawayu Onsen can sign up for the Lake Mashu Stargazing Bus in the evening. Located near Lake Kussharo, Kawayu Onsen is often shrouded in steam rising from hot springs emerging from beneath the earth’s surface, creating a mystical ambiance. The area is especially popular in winter. The ice trees around the lake present a uniquely beautiful sight. The steam rising from the hot springs mingles with the ice trees to form a dreamlike scene. At night, the ice trees reflect the light from the steaming springs, creating an otherworldly glow. The entire landscape takes on a fantastical beauty.

Travelers wishing to join the stargazing and ice tree viewing tour only need to sign up through their accommodation. The fare is 1,200 JPY for adults and 600 JPY for children. Buses pick up guests directly from their hotels.

Lake Mashu
Address: Shimizu, Kiyosato-machi
Transportation: Accessible via route bus from JR Mashu Station. Alternatively, take the “Akan–Mashu National Park Line” bus, which stops at Lake Mashu’s First Observation Deck for 15 minutes.

Read more: Sharing Winter Colors with Swans at Lake Kussharo (Provided by Tripass Attractions)