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Unlock the secrets of Hokkaido
Check out Memanbetsu for the ultimate nature experience
Memanbetsu is surrounded by typical Hokkaido destinations, so this is a not somewhere you can cover with a day-trip. In fact, the area also features the Shiretokomisaki UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. Wintertime brings spectacular scenery as ice floes cover the Sea of Okhotsk, producing a wonder of the natural world. With an abundance of fresh marine products, this is the perfect area for enjoying the bounty of nature.
Getting there from Memanbetsu Airport
- Bus
Approximately 42 minutes to Kitami City
Approximately 35 minutes to Abashiri City
- Taxi
Approximately 40 minutes to Kitami Station
Approximately 25 minutes to Abashiri Station
List of flights to and from Memanbetsu Airport
- All over Japan to Memanbetsu Airport
Haneda Airport (Tokyo)
Chubu International Airport (Nagoya)
Itami Airport (Osaka)
Kansai International Airport (Osaka)
- Memanbetsu Airport to all parts of Hokkaido
New Chitose Airport
Explore more around Memanbetsu airport
Coronavirus countermeasures
Garinko II drift ice breaker
This was originally a test ship built for oil field development, but it was subsequently remodeled and for the past 30 years it has been operated as a popular tourism boat. In summer you can enjoy fishing without needing to bring any equipment, while in winter there is the amazing spectacle of drilling through ice floes the measure an average depth of 3-6 feet. If you're lucky, you may even see wild steller's sea eagles.
Japanese pond smelt fishing on Lake Abashiri
Japanese pond smelt fishing on ice - an unmissable winter activity! Even young children can enjoy fishing with this method: the ice is opened by drilling a hole, and then it's just a matter of lowering the rod and waiting for a bite! If you're lucky you may even catch something in the first minute. Don't give up! This unique Hokkaido experience is well worth a try.
Yakiniku - Japanese BBQ
Yakiniku is Kitami's local specialty! Yakiniku cooked on a shichirin (a small earthen charcoal grill) gives a particularly aromatic smell and appetite-whetting sound. Offal cooked in this way is especially addictive. The local style is to enjoy hot yakiniku inside while outside the extreme cold drops to 10 below zero. There's nothing else quite like this way of dining.
The red-crowned crane sanctuary
The red-crowned crane has a wing span of 95 inches and is renowned as being one of the most beautiful of Japan's wild birds. In the Ainu language it is called Sarurunkamui, which means "god of the wetlands". These birds come to this area to feed from November to March every year. Around the time of the New Year holidays, you will typically see around 300 red-crowned cranes flying beautifully in unison. In February there are great photo opportunities as the birds perform their courting dances.
Washo market
Washo Market is one of Hokkaido's three main markets. Situated close to the train station, this market is very easy to get to. Here you will find a treasure trove of fresh seafood such as scallops, ikura (salted salmon roe) and crab. One of the standout features of this market is the "katte-don", a kind of make-your-own rice bowl where you can choose the amount of rice you want and then select your favorite toppings from seafood and fish roe stores within the market. This is one of the best opportunities you will ever have to design and eat your own unique seafood rice bowl.
Kawayu hot spring
This little-known hot spring using only local source waters is one of Hokkaido's great secrets. With one of the highest acidity levels of any hot spring in Japan, producing excellent antibacterial properties, people with skin conditions even come here to be cured. There are also sulfur mines nearby, the smell and scenery of which combine to produce a rare experience. A stay at this hot spring resort will soothe your soul as you enjoy the subtle luxuries of Hokkaido.
Mount Hakodate
The superb night view here is well worthy of its three-star rating in the Michelin Guide. Even if you've already visited and enjoyed the famous night view, it's worth visiting again to take in the less-famous yet equally impressive views on the other side. You may also enjoy the daytime scenery while hiking.
Goryokaku
Constructed as a government office of the Edo shogunate at the end of the Edo era, this star-shaped Western-style fortress has been designated as one of Japan's Special Historic Sites. When you visit, you will be able to learn about the history of the Battle of Hakodate and why the fortress was built in a star shape, while also enjoying the scenery as it changes through the seasons.
Hakodate morning market
Hakodate morning market began in 1945 outside Hakodate station, with farmers selling vegetables there. Hakodate is of course famous for its seafood rice bowls. These can be enjoyed indoors too, so the weather won't spoil your gastronomic adventure. It's also a great destination for families, with child-friendly activities such as squid fishing.
Jewelry ice
"Jewelry ice" is a natural phenomenon where ice from Tokachi river flowing out into the Pacific Ocean ends up on the beach, protected by waves, and softens to form glittering crystal-like structures. This is an extremely rare even that can only be seen here. Anyone who witnesses this natural marvel will be enchanted. Sunrise and sunset provide excellent photo opportunities. Why not dress warm and search for these remarkable ice jewels?
Butadon (pork rice bowl)
In Obihiro, bowls of rice are eaten topped with pork soaked in sweet sauce. You're bound to start drooling when you see this delicious meat practically overflowing from the bowl. There are endless restaurants specializing in this dish of rice topped with pork and vegetables, so make sure you have room to spare before heading out to look for your favourite one!
Shikaribetsu ice village
Shikaribetsu ice village appears at lake Shikaribetsu only in wintertime. There's an ice bar made purely from ice and snow as well as an open-air bath on ice. Weddings can even be held on the lake. With all these winter-exclusive activities to enjoy, Shikaribetsu is definitely worth a visit!
Sōya Hills (Hokkaido heritage site)
This picturesque spot has been selected as a Hokkaido Heritage site. Sōya Hills features a "Shell Road" made from the crushed shells of scallops, a local specialty. By using shells that would have been simply thrown away, waste has been reduced while at the same time producing a shell-laden path that is comfortable for walkers. It's also believed that the salt from seashells helps to prevent the growth of weeds. The contrast between this white road and the surrounding greenery is truly stunning.
Rishiri island
Rishiri island, located about 52 kilometers away from the coast of Wakkanai, is a fascinating island dominated by Rishirizan, which is one of Japan's hundred famous mountains. This is a must-see! In summer, why not take in the spectacular views of nature while cycling or trekking? If you're lucky, you may even see wild spotted seals. There's also a wealth of seafood to try, including delicious sea urchins
Sarobetsu plain
The vast Sarobetsu plain features Japan's finest high moors and shows the exquisite balance of the natural world. Standing there, you'll definitely feel at one with nature. Why not wander or take a drive along a coastal route while viewing plants that can only be found in Hokkaido? The landscape changes from season to season, and there's always something amazing to experience no matter when you visit.
Asahiyama Zoo
Located close to the center of Asahikawa City, the hugely popular Asahiyama Zoo lets you view animals from a variety of unusual angles. You can see earless seals swimming through cylindrical water tanks, for example, watch hippos diving underwater, or look up at polar bears from directly below. And don't forget to check out the animals at feeding time, when they really come to life. Bookings are not required.
Sounkyo hot springs ice fall festival
The magical scenes of spaces in steam-cloaked hot spring districts are simply unforgettable. Ice art produced over a period of three months always sets the pulse racing. The sculptures change from year to year, but ice castles and viewing platforms are typical. In the daytime you can see in detail how these sculptures were made, and there are attractions too, while at night there are light shows creating a more romantic mood.
Mount Asahi
Mount Asahi is the highest peak in Hokkaido. With cable cars going as far up Mount Asahi as the 5th station, this is a mountain that even beginners can enjoy climbing. In the colder months you can also rent snowshoes to explore this winter wonderland. And don't forget: Mount Asahi is an active volcano, so you look forward to seeing the force of nature as snow is blown out from the crater.
Terms and Conditions
All prices and offers are subject to change with availability. Hotel prices displayed include the promotional discount and are per room per stay based on the cheapest room available. All taxes & fees included. Blackout dates and other restrictions may apply. Prices are "from" prices based on the lowest available fare on the sample travel dates and will be confirmed prior to any payment being made.
