Located along the Sea of Okhotsk coastline in Abashiri, Hokkaido, Notoro Lake (能取湖, pronounced Notoro-ko) is a breathtaking destination known for its vast coral grass (Akkeshi-sou) colonies. During autumn, the lake’s shores are transformed into a stunning sea of vibrant red, thanks to the coral grass covering the area.
In this guide, we will introduce the best viewing spots to experience the spectacular coral grass scenery at Notoro Lake. Additionally, we’ll highlight must-visit attractions nearby and provide access information for travelers. To make your visit even more convenient, we have also included recommended hotels near Notoro Lake. Be sure to use this guide when planning your trip!
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Notoro Lake: Access, Nearby Attractions & Japan’s Largest Coral Grass Colony!
Where is Lake Notoro Located? How to Access the Lake?
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Lake Notoro is situated northwest of Abashiri City in Hokkaido, Japan.
Since there are no direct railway lines to the lake, the most common way to reach it is by taking a local bus from Abashiri Station or renting a car from Memanbetsu Airport or other nearby locations.
◆ Memanbetsu Airport – A Convenient Hub with LCC Flights
For travelers from Tokyo and Osaka, Memanbetsu Airport is the most convenient gateway to Lake Notoro and Abashiri. Besides ANA and JAL, Peach Aviation (LCC) also operates flights to Memanbetsu, making travel to Eastern Hokkaido more affordable and accessible.
As of May 2021, Peach operates flights from Narita, in addition to routes from Haneda and Sapporo. Moreover, in July 2021, Peach introduced a direct flight from Kansai International Airport (Osaka), making it even easier for tourists to visit this beautiful lake.
◆ How to Get to Abashiri Station by Train
To reach Abashiri Station, the nearest station to Lake Notoro, the most convenient option from Sapporo is the Limited Express "Okhotsk" bound for Abashiri. Alternatively, you can take the Limited Express "Lilac" or "Kamui" from Sapporo to Asahikawa, then transfer to the Limited Express "Taisetsu" for Abashiri. This route also offers a comfortable and scenic journey.
◆ How to Get to Lake Notoro by Rental Car
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From Memanbetsu Airport, you can drive to Lake Notoro via Hokkaido Route 104 or National Route 39. The travel time is approximately 30 minutes, making it an easy and convenient trip by rental car.
◆ How to Access Lake Notoro via Public Transportation
For travelers using public transportation to Lake Notoro, the most convenient way is to take the Abashiri Bus Tokoro Line or Saroma Sakaeura Line and get off at the "Sango-sou Iriguchi" (Coral Grass Entrance) bus stop.
If you're coming from Memanbetsu Airport, you will need to transfer to the Abashiri Bus Tokoro Line or Saroma Sakaeura Line at the "Keimusho-mae" (Prison Front) bus stop before continuing your journey to the lake.
Beautiful Glasswort Fields at Lake Notoro, Ubaranai Area
Lake Notoro is a surprisingly spacious lake in eastern Hokkaido, famous for its scenic views and stunning fields of Glasswort (locally known as Coral Grass or "Sango-sou"). To experience the beauty of these striking red plants, visit the Notoro Lake Glasswort Colony located on the southern shores of the lake, specifically in the Ubaranai area.
A well-maintained wooden boardwalk here allows visitors to comfortably admire the expansive Glasswort fields from above. The Glasswort reaches peak vibrancy from August to early October, becoming a symbolic sight marking the short autumn season in Eastern Hokkaido. When this vivid red carpet disappears, it signals the approaching winter.
◆ Best Time to View Glasswort: During Low Tide
For the ideal Glasswort sightseeing experience, visit during low tide. At high tide, the Glasswort colonies submerge underwater, so it's recommended to check the tidal schedules beforehand. In October, tides become particularly high ("spring tides"), making the month of September at low tide the best viewing period.
Although named "Akkeshisou" after the place Akkeshi, the largest Glasswort colony in Japan is found right here at Lake Notoro. Another Glasswort habitat exists in the Seto Inland Sea region, but recent studies suggest that species in the Seto Inland Sea are more closely related to those found in Korea.
Clam Digging at Notoro Lake
While Notoro Lake is best known for its stunning coral grass (Sango grass) in autumn, it also offers an exciting seasonal activity from April to July—clam digging. Thanks to the cooperation of the Nishi Abashiri Fisheries Cooperative, clam digging is held along the eastern shore during this period.
Despite being called a lake, Notoro Lake is connected to the Sea of Okhotsk, allowing for a rich variety of marine life, including fish and shellfish. The designated area for clam digging stretches from the eastern tip of Futamigaoka Fishing Port to the northern section of Lakeside Park Notoro. Only asari clams (Japanese littleneck clams) can be collected—all other shellfish are off-limits. To preserve the ecosystem, visitors are encouraged to follow the rules, such as not taking small clams and keeping the area clean.
Notoro Lake is also abundant in marine resources, and flatfish (karei) fishing is a popular pastime among visitors.
Camping at Lakeside Park Notoro
For those looking to extend their adventure, Lakeside Park Notoro, located in the southeastern part of Notoro Lake, is an excellent option. This facility offers campgrounds, park golf courses, cottages, and even Mongolian-style yurts (paos) for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
As of May 2021, the camping fees are ¥1,050 per tent, ¥2,100 for auto camping sites, and Private tent sites for ¥3,150.
Experience the natural beauty of Notoro Lake—from clam digging in spring to breathtaking scenery in autumn.
Experience the Breathtaking Views of Notoro Cape
Located northeast of Notoro Lake, Notoro Cape is a stunning scenic spot where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views. On clear days, you can see as far as Shiretoko, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. While it is a fantastic location during summer, it is also a popular winter spot for viewing drift ice on the Sea of Okhotsk, making it a year-round attraction.
The name "Notoro" in Notoro Lake and Notoro Cape comes from the Ainu language, meaning "place of the cape," which refers directly to this cape. Nearby, you’ll also find the Misaki Ranch, operated by the city of Abashiri, offering another picturesque landscape.
Ubetsunai Traffic Park & Abashiri City Railway Museum
Although railways no longer operate around Notoro Lake, the Yumo Line, a former Japan National Railway (JNR) line, ran through the area until 1987. At the site of the former Ubetsunai Station, you can still see a 9600 Series Steam Locomotive (No. 49643) along with a preserved passenger car (Oha 47 508).
For railway enthusiasts, a visit to the Abashiri City Railway Museum, located inside the Encóndor Café, is highly recommended. The museum displays historical items from the Yumo Line, including old station nameplates and railway artifacts, making it a great stop for history and train lovers alike.
Recommended Lakeside Stay at Notoro Lake: Kagariya
For travelers visiting Notoro Lake, Kagariya is a highly recommended traditional Japanese inn (ryokan) conveniently located just south of the coral grass colony. This charming accommodation is best known for its panoramic baths and private open-air onsen, offering a relaxing retreat with breathtaking views of the lake.
At Misaki Restaurant, guests can savor the fresh flavors of Okhotsk seafood, including scallops (hotate) and rockfish (kinki), carefully prepared to highlight the region’s culinary delights.
Plan Your Visit to the Stunning Notoro Lake
Notoro Lake is a year-round destination, with the vibrant coral grass season in autumn being a highlight. However, the lake offers stunning views in every season. Nearby attractions include Mount Tento, Abashiri Prison Museum, and Lake Saroma, making it an excellent spot for scenic exploration.
If you're planning a trip to Abashiri, be sure to visit the top attractions introduced in this guide for an unforgettable experience!
