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Abashiri Quasi-National Park
by Azharry
20 September 2023
Abashiri Quasi-National Park, or "Abashiri Kokuritsu Koen" in Japanese, was designated as a quasi-national park in 1958. Quasi-national parks in Japan share similar objectives with their national park counterparts, aimed at protecting the natural environment while allowing for sustainable recreational and tourism activities. Abashiri Quasi-National Park encompasses a relatively modest area of approximately 37,000 hectares, but within its confines lies a diverse and captivating assortment of natural wonders.
Wildlife are one of the most compelling aspects of Abashiri Quasi-National Park is its vibrant wildlife. The park's diverse ecosystems, ranging from coastal areas to forests and wetlands, provide habitats for a wide array of species. Here are some notable examples of the wildlife found in the park such as birdlife, Abashiri Quasi-National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 200 species of birds recorded in the area. During the summer, migratory birds such as swans, eagles, and ducks flock to the park's wetlands and lakes. Lake Abashiri, in particular, is famous for its swan population, attracting bird enthusiasts from around the world. The marine life park's coastal areas are teeming with marine life. In the frigid waters of the Sea of Okhotsk, seals and sea lions can be spotted, especially during the winter months when drift ice formations create ideal resting spots. Lucky visitors may even catch a glimpse of the elusive Steller's sea eagle, a magnificent raptor that frequents the coast. Other than that, land mammals are less conspicuous than its avian and marine inhabitants, Abashiri Quasi-National Park is also home to various land mammals. Foxes, deer, and small rodents like squirrels and chipmunks inhabit the forested regions of the park. The presence of these creatures adds to the overall biodiversity and charm of the park's landscapes. The flora in the park's vegetation includes a variety of plant species adapted to the region's harsh climate. Beyond its wildlife, Abashiri Quasi-National Park has cultural significance as well. Here, nestled among the natural wonders, you'll find the Abashiri Prison Museum, which offers a unique perspective on Japan's penal history. This museum, set in a historic prison building, provides insights into the harsh conditions of the past.
Highlights of Abashiri Quasi-National Park
Lake Abashiri (網走湖)
Lake Abashiri, located within the boundaries of Abashiri Quasi-National Park, is a mesmerizing destination known for its unique transformation during the winter months. This expansive lake, covering approximately 12,000 hectares, freezes over, creating a stunning ice-covered landscape that seems plucked from a fairy tale. Lake Abashiri is famous for its Icebreaker Cruises which Lake Abashiri offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience with icebreaker boat tours during the winter. These cruises allow visitors to navigate through the thick drift ice, providing an up-close encounter with the frozen world. Also, a winter activity, besides icebreaker tours, visitors can engage in various winter activities like ice fishing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding, immersing themselves in the park's winter wonderland.
Access
By Public Transport, start in Sapporo to begin your journey from Sapporo, which is the largest city on the island of Hokkaido and well-connected to the rest of the island. Take the train to Asahikawa and head to Sapporo Station and catch a JR (Japan Railways) train bound for Asahikawa. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the type of train you choose. Transfer to the Sekihoku main line at Asahikawa Station, transfer to the JR Sekihoku Main Line, which will take you to Abashiri. The train ride from Asahikawa to Abashiri takes around 4-5 hours, offering scenic views of Hokkaido's countryside. Once you reach Abashiri, you can either walk to your destination around Lake Abashiri or take a local bus or taxi, depending on your specific destination on the lake's shore. If you don’t have a car, car can rent a car in Sapporo. You can choose from various rental companies in the city. Driving Route can be Set your GPS or follow the road signs to take the east on the Doto Expressway (Hokkaido Expressway) toward Obihiro Continue on the Doto Expressway until you reach the Abashiri exit. Arrive in Abashiri after taking the Abashiri exit, follow the local road signs to Lake Abashiri. The drive should take approximately 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Once you arrive at Lake Abashiri, you'll likely find parking areas near popular attractions and accommodations. Upon arrival at Memanbetsu Airport, you can take a taxi or a local bus to Lake Abashiri, which is approximately a 30-minute drive from the airport.
Lake Notoro (能取湖)
Lake Notoro, adjacent to Abashiri Quasi-National Park, is celebrated for its ethereal beauty, especially in late spring and early summer. This saline lake is renowned for its colorful algae, which create striking hues of red and green on the water's surface. Lake Notoro is famous for its scenic overlook which visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Notoro from an observation deck. This vantage point provides a picturesque backdrop for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Seasonal Changes cause the colors of Lake Notoro to change with the seasons, offering a different spectacle depending on the time of year. It's a dynamic and ever-evolving natural attraction.
Access
By public transport, begin by making your way to Sapporo Station, a transportation hub that connects the city to various regions of Hokkaido. Here, you'll board a train heading towards Abashiri. This train ride, although relatively lengthy, grants you the opportunity to enjoy Hokkaido's breathtaking scenery as you pass through picturesque landscapes. Upon reaching Abashiri, you're almost at your destination. Lake Notoro is a short distance away from Abashiri, and you can easily access it by local bus or taxi. This final leg of your journey will take you along charming countryside roads, revealing glimpses of Lake Notoro's tranquil beauty even before you arrive. By car, renting a car in Sapporo is an excellent choice. Hokkaido's well-maintained road network ensures a smooth and scenic drive. Start your adventure by picking up your rental car in Sapporo. Set your GPS or follow road signs directing you towards Abashiri. The journey will take you east on the Doto Expressway, a route that promises to showcase Hokkaido's diverse landscapes. The drive typically spans around 4-5 hours, although travel times may vary depending on traffic and road conditions Upon reaching Abashiri, you'll find clear signage pointing the way to Lake Notoro. A short drive from Abashiri will lead you to the shores of this serene lake, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance and appreciate its unique, brackish waters. Once you arrive at Memanbetsu Airport, it's just a short 30-minute drive to Lake Notoro. Taxis and local buses are readily available at the airport, making your transfer convenient and hassle-free.
Lake Tofutsu (濤沸湖)
The viewing point is located just beside the road where you can stop by to enjoy the view.
For those with a passion for birdwatching, Lake Tofutsu is nothing short of paradise. Its seasonal transformations bring about an ever-changing cast of avian characters. Spring heralds the arrival of migratory birds, while autumn witnesses their farewell as they embark on their journeys to distant lands. In winter, when the lake often freezes, it becomes a serene stage for elegant swans and
Beyond the observation towers, Lake Tofutsu offers an extensive network of nature trails, inviting explorers to delve deeper into the wetland ecosystems. These trails provide an opportunity to connect intimately with the environment, offering chances to spot wildlife and explore the myriad wonders of the natural world.ake Tofutsu presents a canvas of unparalleled beauty. The tranquil waters, vibrant wetlands, and the graceful presence of waterfowl create scenes that are nothing short of captivating. Whether you're a professional photographer seeking to capture the perfect shot or simply an enthusiast with a camera, Lake Tofutsu's landscapes offer a wealth of stunning imagery.
For those seeking to deepen their understanding of Lake Tofutsu's ecological importance and its role as a sanctuary for migratory birds, educational centers and visitor facilities are available nearby. These centers provide valuable insights into the lake's ecosystem, the significance of its role in supporting migratory bird populations, and ongoing conservation efforts to protect this fragile habitat.
Access
The train ride from Sapporo to Abashiri, the nearest major town to Lake Tofutsu, typically took around 5 to 6 hours. The cost of a one-way train ticket ranged from approximately ¥10,000 to ¥15,000 per person, varying with the type of train and class of service chosen. This leisurely journey offers glimpses of Hokkaido's scenic beauty. Upon reaching Abashiri, the gateway to Lake Tofutsu, you'll need to use local transport to reach the lake. Local buses or taxis are readily available, and the travel time to Lake Tofutsu may vary depending on your specific destination within the area. The drive from Sapporo to Lake Tofutsu typically took around 4-5 hours in 2021, though travel times might vary depending on traffic and road conditions. The cost of renting a car varied based on factors such as the vehicle type, rental duration, and the rental company. On average, you could expect to pay approximately ¥10,000 to ¥15,000 per day for a standard rental car. Another convenient option is to fly to Memanbetsu Airport, which is relatively close to Lake Tofutsu. The flight duration from Sapporo (New Chitose Airport) to Memanbetsu Airport in 2021 was approximately 1.5 hours. Upon landing at Memanbetsu Airport, you can take a taxi or a local bus to Lake Tofutsu, a journey of approximately 30 minutes. The cost of this transfer would depend on your chosen mode of transportation.