Only a select few can venture here. A tour exploring a field like the polar regions, where Japan's coldest temperatures were once recorded.
An adventure in Shumari, experiencing a landscape unlike Japan's, amidst powder snow, guided by locals who live in this land of extreme cold and heavy snow.
Thirteen islands, a complex, intricate topography, and a landscape that stretches out flatly. Visitors describe it as reminiscent of Finland, Alaska, Canada, or the polar regions. Then, the gift of extreme cold and heavy snow—'exquisite powder snow'—enhances the tour in an overwhelmingly extraordinary space. The tour guides are masters of Shumari's winter, living in this land of harsh conditions. Let's enjoy the unique activities of this place together!
EXPLORE THE SHUMARI: What is Lake Shumarinai?
In the Lake Shumarinai area of Horokanai Town in northern Hokkaido, Japan's lowest temperature of -41.2°C was once recorded, and temperatures still frequently drop below -30°C.
It is known as a 'special' place in Hokkaido, having recorded a snowfall of 3m 11cm on February 14, 2018, the first time in 36 years that snowfall in Hokkaido exceeded 3 meters.
Lake Shumarinai is a dam lake created to supply electricity. Even after more than 70 years, it remains surrounded by deep virgin forests, preserving a rich natural environment where various creatures, including the endangered and elusive Ito salmon, inhabit.
Tour Details
Participation Fee: ¥35,000 (tax included) / 2 days, 1 night with breakfast and dinner
Capacity: Around 10 people per day
Accommodation: Lake House Shumari
Age Limit: 5 years and older (Consultation available for under 5s)
What to Bring: Hat (covering ears), waterproof jacket, down jacket, fleece, heat-tech top and bottom, pants, waterproof pants, thick socks, gloves, goggles or sunglasses
Please prepare the cold-weather gear listed above, as the outdoor experience will take place in extremely cold conditions.
Activity Plan
Approximately 3-hour experiences planned for either morning or afternoon.
Lakefront Cafe
Move to a tent on the lake, offering a sense of private seclusion. Take a break on the frozen lake with a warm drink and some food.
Ice Fishing
Wakasagi (smelt) fishing is a quintessential winter activity at Lake Shumarinai. Catch fish to supplement your dinner. If you're lucky, you might even hook a large fish like a cherry salmon or an amemasu.
Snowmobile Tour: Like Traveling to Antarctica!?
Race across a landscape described as 'unlike anywhere in Japan' on a snowmobile. Feel the adrenaline surge.
Snow Play
Experience the pure joy of sliding down steep slopes, being pulled by a snowmobile, or simply rolling around in the snow. It's an activity for all ages to enjoy freely.
Photo by Seiji Kazui (center right, left)
Photo by Senshu Katsu (bottom right)
NPO Shumarinai Lake World Center
Tel. 0165-38-2029
http://www.shumarinai.jp/activity/guideandtours/explore-the-shumari/