1. Coral grass of Lake Notori

Image provided by: Abashiri Tourism Association　

If you turn onto National Route 238 from Abashiri city, you'll see Lake Notoro on your right.

When we think of lakes, we usually imagine freshwater lakes, but Lake Notori is a saltwater lake. Because there is an inlet connecting it to the Sea of ​​Okhotsk to the north, its salinity is almost the same as seawater.

From mid-April to mid-October, you can enjoy clam digging in parts of Lake Notori, but if you want to fully enjoy the autumn scenery of Okhotsk and Shiretoko, we recommend the unique scenery of this time of year.

Image provided by: Abashiri City Tourism Division

That is the coral grass of Lake Notori. Coral grass is a type of grass belonging to the Chenopodiaceae family that changes from a dark green color to a vivid red like coral in the autumn. It was discovered in Akkeshi town, about a two-and-a-half-hour drive south of Abashiri city, and is therefore also called Akkeshi grass.

Lake Notori is home to a large colony of coral grass, which is at its best from mid- to late September.

The carpet that covers the entire area in bright red is truly breathtaking.

2. A Path of Emotion

Image provided by: Abashiri City Tourism Division

If you want to enjoy the quintessential autumn scenery of the Okhotsk and Shiretoko areas of Hokkaido, why not take a drive along the "Path of Inspiration"?

This route, which heads towards Abashiri City, branches off from National Route 244 (Shari National Highway) onto Prefectural Route 490 just before JR Masuura Station, then continues via Prefectural Route 683 to National Route 39 (Kitami National Highway), with seven guide signs along the way.

There's also a viewpoint parking area.

Image provided by: Abashiri Tourism Association　

Agriculture is thriving in the area surrounding Abashiri City, where crops such as wheat, malting barley, and potatoes are grown.

Along the "Path of Inspiration," you can enjoy the rich natural scenery unique to vast Hokkaido, including straight roads, open fields, and mountain ridges visible in the distance.

In the autumn, you might see the peaceful scene of farmers harvesting their crops.

3. Autumn foliage at Shiretoko Five Lakes

Autumn foliage is an essential part of the Japanese autumn scenery. Of course, there are also spots in the Okhotsk and Shiretoko areas where you can enjoy beautiful autumn leaves.

My top recommendation is the autumn foliage at Shiretoko Five Lakes. Shiretoko Five Lakes is one of the eight scenic spots of Shiretoko, offering particularly magnificent views on the Shiretoko Peninsula, with five lakes nestled majestically amidst the primeval forest.

There are two types of walking trails at Shiretoko Five Lakes. The first is a ground-level walking trail, which has two courses: 3km and 1.6km.

Depending on the time of year, the outing may involve attending lectures or participating in tours.
The elevated wooden walkway is an 800-meter-long promenade leading to Lake Ichi, allowing you to enjoy a safer and more free stroll from a higher vantage point.

4. Abashiri Seven Lucky Gods Festival

Image provided by: Abashiri City Tourism Association

The Abashiri Seven Lucky Gods Festival is held on the first Saturday and Sunday of September. In 2017, the festival celebrated its 24th anniversary.

This festival is said to be based on a pilgrimage to the Seven Lucky Gods, which began in 1929 and involves visiting shrines dedicated to the Seven Lucky Gods throughout the city.

The Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage was interrupted by the chaos of the war that followed, but it was revived in 1994 as part of a town revitalization effort.

Image provided by: Abashiri City Tourism Association

Events ranged from singing shows and comedy performances featuring celebrities to grand raffles, and in 2017, a food fair showcasing delicious foods from all over Japan was held.

Another event that shouldn't be forgotten is the Seven Lucky Gods Treasure Ship Procession, where citizens dressed up as the Seven Lucky Gods and boarded a treasure ship.
Auspicious events like this might bring good fortune and happiness into the coming year.

5. What is the autumn climate and appropriate clothing for the Okhotsk Shiretoko area?

Image provided by: Abashiri City Tourism Division

In September, the average temperature in the Okhotsk-Shiretoko area is 16.3 degrees Celsius, so you can still feel the lingering effects of summer. However, September actually sees a surprising amount of rainfall, and rain showers are frequent.

It's a good idea to check the weather forecast carefully and bring a folding umbrella just in case.
On the other hand, from late September through October, after this period, there will be many sunny days.

After late October, the weather quickly shifts from autumn to winter, and snowfall is even possible in the nearby mountains.

It gets chilly in the mornings and evenings, so dress warmly with long sleeves or a thick sweater. In November, the average temperature drops to 3.7 degrees Celsius. Make sure you have proper winter clothing, such as a coat.

Final thoughts

We've introduced recommended autumn tourist spots and events in Okhotsk and Shiretoko, along with tips on climate and appropriate clothing. How did you find it?
The Okhotsk-Shiretoko area, rich in natural beauty, is a tourist destination where you can enjoy scenery typical of Hokkaido even in autumn. Please do visit!

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