A myriad of white birds fly in from Siberia before your very eyes – Hokkaido’s No. 1 Swan Lake in Japan

▲ The swans at Utonai Lake are honored guests that have traveled all the way from Siberia. (Photo / Reporter Chen Rui-zhong)

Reporter Chen Rui-zhong / Reported from Hokkaido

To safeguard wetland ecosystems, the Ramsar Convention was signed in 1971 by 18 countries, with the goal of collectively conserving and rationally using wetland environments through global cooperation. Currently, there are over 160 contracting parties worldwide. Hokkaido’s Utonai Lake is Japan’s first wetland area to be designated under the Ramsar Convention. Each year during autumn and winter, swans from afar flock here for the season, which has given Utonai Lake its well-known title as a “Swan Lake.”

▲ The mirror-like surface of Utonai Lake offers breathtaking scenery.

Spanning approximately 275 hectares with an average depth of about 1 meter, Utonai Lake is formed by the convergence of rivers such as the Bihoro River and the Tokachi River, and its proximity to the sea inlet results in abundant fish stocks and a naturally rich wetland environment. In the Ainu language, “Utonai” means “a place where small rivers gather,” which gives a glimpse into the character of the lake. This uniquely biodiverse habitat attracts numerous migratory birds to winter here every year. Research indicates that around 260 species of birds can be observed at Utonai Lake, making it a paradise for bird lovers.

▲ Hokkaido’s Swan Lake – Utonai Lake.

▲ The ecological center is equipped with high-powered telescopes for easy wildlife observation.

Every August, swans originally living in Siberia begin their southward journey toward Utonai Lake. After two months of flight, starting from October, tens of thousands of swans gradually arrive at the lake to spend the winter. They then return to Siberia the following spring. According to statistics, up to 1,000 swans may arrive at Utonai Lake each day during the migration period, making them cherished seasonal visitors.

▲ The park also features ecological education facilities to help visitors learn more about wetland life.

To allow the public to make good use of the wetlands and observe various waterfowl, Utonai Lake has established a Wild Bird Protection Center. Visitors can gain knowledge about wetland ecosystems and wild birds here. The center is also equipped with multiple high-powered telescopes for close-up views of the birds’ natural behavior – a thoughtful touch. Educational programs tailored for schoolchildren are also available, helping nurture early environmental conservation awareness.

▲ Near the wetlands, you may have the chance to observe swans and ducks up close.

Nature enthusiasts can also walk along the trails encircling the lakeshore for observations. To protect the waterfowl, pets are not allowed in the park, and visitors' shoes are disinfected one by one to ensure a safe environment for the birds. As a result, ducks and geese can often be seen napping peacefully or foraging by the lakeside. According to park management, special feed is provided for visitors to use when feeding the birds, ensuring their health. Watching wild swans and various birds swimming and flying gracefully is truly a moving sight.

▲ In autumn, besides admiring the swans, the golden fields of miscanthus grass are also worth seeing.

Aside from observing precious water birds, Utonai Lake itself boasts a tranquil setting with mirror-flat waters. Lush greenery thrives in spring and summer, golden autumn miscanthus glistens under the sunset, and in winter, the snowy landscape and frozen lake surface exude a romantic ambiance. Swans and migratory birds gather in impressive numbers, forming yet another spectacular scene that is not to be missed.

Utonai Lake
Address: 156-1 Uemae, Tomakomai, Hokkaido
Ecological Center Hours: 09:00–17:00, closed on Mondays

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