[winter][ Hokkaido Teshikaga Town]Lake Mashu (Teshikaga Town) Snow Scenery Spot
Lake Mashu is known as one of the most transparent lakes in Japan, and its mysterious blue color is famous as "Mashu Blue." In winter, the contrast between the snow-covered surrounding mountains and the clear lake surface fascinates visitors. The harsh winter cold of Hokkaido makes the lake surface even more transparent, and you can feel as if you are looking into the bottom of the lake through glass. In the silent environment surrounded by snow, you can truly feel the beauty and mystery created by nature. Especially in the early morning and evening hours, the sunlight reflects on the lake surface and snow, creating a fantastic view. Because the air is clear at this time of year, the gradation of the mountains surrounding the lake and the sky looks even more vivid. The sight of the snow falling on Lake Mashu blending with the Mashu blue lake surface is well worth visiting in winter. Tourists can not only capture this view on camera, but also feel the local atmosphere with their skin, experiencing an impression that cannot be conveyed in a photograph.
Lake Mashu in winter: A spectacular view of snow and the Mashu blue sky
Lake Mashu is known as one of the most transparent lakes in Japan, and its mysterious blue color is famous as "Mashu Blue." In winter, the contrast between the snow-covered surrounding mountains and the clear lake surface fascinates visitors. The harsh winter cold of Hokkaido makes the lake surface even more transparent, and you can feel as if you are looking into the bottom of the lake through glass. In the silent environment surrounded by snow, you can truly feel the beauty and mystery created by nature. Especially in the early morning and evening hours, the sunlight reflects on the lake surface and snow, creating a fantastic view. Because the air is clear at this time of year, the gradation of the mountains surrounding the lake and the sky looks even more vivid. The sight of the snow falling on Lake Mashu blending with the Mashu blue lake surface is well worth visiting in winter. Tourists can not only capture this view on camera, but also feel the local atmosphere with their skin, experiencing an impression that cannot be conveyed in a photograph.
Sightseeing spots and access information around Lake Mashu
There are several observation decks around Lake Mashu that are recommended for tourists. The first observation deck is the most accessible and is a great photo spot that overlooks the lake from the front. On a clear winter day, you can enjoy the snow-white mountains and the blue lake surface at the same time. The second observation deck is relatively quiet and you can view the lake from an oblique angle, so you can enjoy the scenery from a different perspective. The third observation deck is a little further away and is a hidden spot where you can feel the entire expanse of Lake Mashu. In winter, the main way to get there is by car, but chains or winter tires are essential as the surrounding roads are covered in snow. It takes about 30 minutes to get from the center of Teshikaga Town to Lake Mashu, and there are hot springs and cafes along the way, so you can enjoy sightseeing at a leisurely pace. If you use public transportation, it is important to check the bus schedule in advance as there are limited buses in winter. Getting to Lake Mashu in winter may be a bit of a hassle, but many visitors say that the spectacular views are worth it.
Things to know and recommended experiences when visiting Lake Mashu in winter
When visiting Lake Mashu in winter, it is important to take adequate measures to protect yourself from the cold. Because the area around Lake Mashu is at a high altitude, the temperature is very low and there are many windy days. Prepare yourself with a thick coat, hat, gloves, scarf, etc. so that you can stay comfortable even if you are outside for a long time. It is also important to pay attention to the cold protection of your feet, and we recommend wearing non-slip, waterproof shoes. In addition, the weather is prone to change in winter and snowstorms can occur suddenly, so it is important to plan your activities with plenty of time. Lake Mashu also offers activities unique to winter. You can enjoy winter scenery while relaxing and warming up at the surrounding hot springs, or you can enjoy a snowshoeing experience nearby. Local cafes and restaurants serve dishes and hot drinks made with ingredients unique to Hokkaido, which will warm you from the inside out. Lake Mashu in winter is not just a place to enjoy the scenery, but also a special experience that will heal your mind and body through contact with local culture and nature. That is why many tourists visit Lake Mashu as the highlight of their winter trip to Hokkaido.
[Snow Scene Spots]Other recommended spots
Daisetsuzan National Park Snow scenery spot
Hokkaido Kamikawa Town
About 30 minutes by bus from JR Kamikawa Station.
Mt. Hakodate Snow scenery spot
Hokkaido Hakodate City
From JR Hakodate Station, take the Hakodate Bus bound for Ropeway for about 15 minutes, then get off at the last stop and take the ropeway for about 3 minutes.
Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan (Shikaoi Town) Snow scenery spot
Hokkaido Shikaoi Town
Take a local bus from Obihiro Station and it takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Blue Pond (Biei Town) Snow scenery spot
HokkaidoBiei Town
Take the Dohoku Bus from JR Biei Station to Shirogane Onsen, then walk for about 5 minutes
Otaru Canal Snow scenery spot
Hokkaido Otaru City
Approximately 8 minutes walk from JR Otaru Station
Goryokaku (Hakodate City) Snow Scenery Spot
Hokkaido Hakodate City
About 15 minutes walk from Goryokaku Park Station
Mount Moiwa Observatory (Sapporo City) Snow scenery spot
Hokkaido Sapporo City
Approximately 20 minutes walk from Maruyama Koen Station on the Tozai Subway Line
Asahiyama Zoo Snow scenery spot
Hokkaido Asahikawa City
About 30 minutes by bus from Asahikawa Station
Lake Mashu (Teshikaga Town) Snow Scenery Spot
Hokkaido Teshikaga Town
You can take the Akan Bus sightseeing bus from Kushiro city.