HokkaidoLeisure

Michi-no-Eki Roadside Station Lake Utonai (道の駅ウトナイ湖)

Flow of the course

About 130 min here

About 30 min to the next stop

Next stop: Trace the history of the settlers of the Yufutsu plain

About this spot

A lake north of Tomakomai, a wetland registered under the Ramsar Convention. It is known as a place where tens of thousands of migratory birds rest their wings in spring and autumn, and even in summer a walk along the lakeside boardwalk brings you the calls of waterfowl and wild birds. A roadside station stands right beside it, stocked with local farm produce and light meals, so finishing an early lunch here leaves the afternoon relaxed. From the viewing points the wide water surface and reed beds open out before you, letting children feel a scale that is truly Hokkaido. There is also an indoor rest area, so even days with strong sunshine are manageable.

Tips

The lakeside boardwalk has little shade, so be sure to bring a hat and drinks. Insects are plentiful in summer, so repellent makes it more comfortable. The roadside station's dining area fills up at lunchtime, so arriving between 11:00 and 12:00 makes it easier to get a seat. Yufutsu Furusato Park is about 15 minutes away by car, an easy drive along the national road.