#北海道観光 #北海道旅行 #HOKKAIDOLOVE
■北海道観光公式サイト「HOKKAIDO LOVE！」
https://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/
#LakeToya #HokkaidoAdventure #NatureHealing #TokachidakeOnsen #NoboribetsuOnsen #Jigokudani #JapaneseCulture #Onsen
Welcome to Hokkaido: A Journey of Discovery, where we’ll explore the breathtaking beauty and unique culture of Japan’s northern gem. I’m Neil, and I’ll be your guide on this captivating journey through Hokkaido, a land of contrasts, where the great outdoors and soothing hot springs come together to create a one-of-a-kind experience.
*Embracing Nature’s Spirituality and the Healing Power of Onsen*
Our adventure begins on the serene shores of Lake Toya, a volcanic caldera lake nestled in the heart of Shikotsu-Toya National Park.
Lake Toya, with its origins dating back to volcanic activity 110,000 years ago, feels like a step back in time. On the Center Island, we find ourselves surrounded by ancient forests, a tranquil oasis devoid of civilization’s noise.
Noboribetsu Onsen, a historic village dating back to the Edo period, is a sanctuary of healing. Noboribetsu offers ten different types of onsen water, and its name likely originates from the high sulfur content water, known as “Iyo” or sulfur springs, which appear milky white.
Jigokudani itself is a geothermal wonder, where the Earth’s core is on full display through steaming vents and boiling pits. The valley is the result of an explosion crater created by the eruption of Mt. Kuttara, providing the source of the 10,000 tons of hot spring water that flows to the many hot spring hotels in the village.
*Cycling Through Hokkaido’s Scenic Beauty*
Road cycling is a popular activity in Hokkaido. The eastern side of Hokkaido is especially favored by road cyclists due to its well-maintained road network, safety, and accessibility. The region’s cool, dry climate offers ideal conditions for cycling, with changing seasons providing diverse scenic beauty. Hokkaido’s wide roads, designed to accommodate heavy snowfall in winter, make it exceptionally cycling-friendly.
Both road and gravel cycling options are available, with the opportunity to tour the northeastern tip of Hokkaido. The Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2005, offers picturesque roads. The climb to the top of the Shiretoko Pass, approximately 10 kilometers long, rewards with breathtaking views. We experience this ascent using an E-Bike, enjoying the splendid vistas along the way.
*A Journey through Hokkaido’s Healing Landscape*
Our journey continues, and we find ourselves in the captivating Tokachi region. This lush landscape is known for its vibrant autumn colors, a breathtaking spectacle as we paddle across Lake Kuttari. We explore the sacred cliff known as Ganke, accompanied by the resident eagles soaring above.
The Tokachi Adventure Club introduces us to an array of outdoor activities. They offer a variety of adventures, from rafting along the Tokachi River to canoeing on Lake Kuttari. The region’s diverse natural beauty and outdoor opportunities make it a unique location for adventure enthusiasts.
As evening approaches, we transition from the excitement of adventure to the tranquility of healing at Tokachidake Onsen. This hot spring village is renowned for its moor onsen water, an alkaline amber treasure believed to improve circulation and beautify the skin. The moor onsen’s unique properties are enriched by centuries of vegetation.
*Nature’s Gift to Hokkaido*
Tokachigawa Onsen is distinctive due to its base of organic plant matter. Over thousands of years, the wetland surrounding the Tokachi River transformed into peat layers underground. The mineral-rich water, heated by geothermal energy, passes through these peat layers, emerging as moor onsen. In essence, the hot springs owe their existence to the abundant nature of centuries past.
The indigenous Ainu people of Hokkaido spoke of these springs long ago, referring to them as the “medicine swamps.”
*A Holistic Approach to Wellness*
The true magic of hot springs unfolds with regular use, as part of a holistic approach to health. Hokkaido beckons you to experience its unique charm, whether you seek outdoor thrills, cultural immersion, or simply the chance to relax and rejuvenate. Come, explore, and heal in Hokkaido, where nature and culture intertwine to offer an extraordinary journey.