Roadside Station Utonai Lake

Utonai Lake is registered under the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty on wetlands of global importance as habitats for waterbirds. It is also designated as a nationally protected wildlife area, making it an ideal birdwatching spot where wild birds such as white-fronted geese, ducks, and swans gather. On the lakeshore sits “Roadside Station Utonai Lake.”

The facility has an observation tower, and from the second-floor viewing room you can look out over the lake along with the wild birds that fly in. Head up to the third floor and you can step onto the rooftop deck for a 360° panoramic view of the lake, taking in Hokkaido’s rich nature with all your senses.

There is also a restaurant. You can enjoy rice bowls and curry made with Tomakomai’s specialty surf clams, known for having Japan’s top catch, as well as dishes made with Hokkaido-grown rice and buckwheat flour. You’ll want to savor the lineup of Hokkaido-only menu items made with delicious local ingredients.

There’s also an antenna shop with plenty of goods featuring the Shimaenaga, a cute, round, white wild bird whose fans are rapidly growing on social media. Since it only lives in Hokkaido, you might even spot one in the wild during your trip.

It’s in a great location, Approx. 10 minutes by car from New Chitose Airport, so it’s easy to stop by on your way to your destination.