Here are three recommended hiking trails in Niseko(Shinsennuma, Hangetsuko, and Kagaminuma) that are safe and enjoyable for beginners and children! Enjoy the mystical lakes and stunning views of Mount Yotei from boardwalks and well-maintained walking paths. This is a recommended guide for spring, summer, and autumn.
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Kutchan Town is located in the Niseko area in western Hokkaido , and is a town surrounded by abundant nature, including Mount Yotei, known as the northernmost beautiful mountain in Japan. This area is covered in the finest powder snow that skiers from all over the world long for, and is a truly charming resort worthy of being called the "St. Moritz of the Toyo." This account will introduce you to Niseko Kutchan's popular restaurants, beautiful natural scenery, luxury hotels, and useful travel information.
The Niseko area is surrounded by the majestic mountains of Mount Yotei and Mount Nisekoannupuri .
For those who think "serious mountain climbing is a bit too challenging, but I want to be healed by walking in nature!" or "I want to enjoy hiking safely with my children and family," the walking routes (footpaths) scattered throughout Niseko are perfect.
Niseko has many spots where you can encounter breathtaking scenery that looks like a painting just by walking along well-maintained boardwalks or flat forest paths.
This time, we'll introduce three scenic walking courses around "Shinsennuma," "Hangetsuko," and "Kagaminuma" that are perfect for beginners and allow you to enjoy the fresh greenery of spring, the deep green of summer, and the vibrant autumn foliage!
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Table of Contents
- Like a garden of the gods! Shinsennuma, Niseko's most spectacular scenic spot.
- The mystical Lake Hangetsu, nestled at the foot of Mount Yotei .
- Kagami-numa, a hidden gem where you can find healing in silence and tranquility.
- Perfect for beginners and families! The appeal of a "Nature Guide Tour"
- To enjoy yourself safely! Things you should know about precautions and measures to take regarding brown bears.
- Summary: Step into the nature of Niseko and enjoy a moment of healing.
Like a garden of the gods! Shinsennuma, Niseko's most spectacular scenic spot.
The most beautiful and overwhelmingly popular spot in the Niseko area is "Shinsennuma" (Shinsen Marsh). It is said to have gotten its name because "everyone was so amazed that they thought it must be a place where gods and immortals live," and it is indeed enveloped in a mystical atmosphere.
Ease of walking: ★★★★★ (Sneakers are fine)
Duration: Approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour round trip
Highlights: From the parking lot to the marsh, there is a well-maintained, flat, and easy-to-walk barrier-free wooden boardwalk , making it safe and enjoyable for people of all ages, from children to the elderly.
After passing through the bamboo grass fields, a high-altitude wetland suddenly appears. On windless days, the clear blue sky, the surrounding trees, and in autumn, the vibrant autumn leaves are reflected on the mirror-like surface of the water, creating a breathtakingly beautiful sight.
Key point: The parking lot is equipped with a rest house and clean restrooms, so you won't have any trouble taking a break before or after your stroll.
The mystical Lake Hangetsu, nestled at the foot of Mount Yotei .
Hangetsuko Lake is a mysterious crescent-shaped volcanic lake located at the northwestern foot of Mount Yotei , also known as "Ezo Fuji ."
Ease of walking: ★★★☆☆ (Sneakers are a must, there are some inclines and declines)
Duration: Approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour per loop
Highlights: From the parking lot, you'll walk along a trail surrounded by old-growth forest and descend to the lakeshore. Surrounded by ancient trees and the chirping of wild birds, you'll feel an exciting sense of adventure as if you're about to venture Oku into the forest.
Upon reaching the lakeshore, you'll be greeted by a serene, emerald-green expanse of water. In spring, the surface is a dazzling green, while in autumn, vibrant red and yellow maple leaves adorn the water's surface.
Tip: There are some uphill sections (stairs and slopes) on the way to and from the lakeside, so it's recommended to wear non-slip sneakers or trekking shoes.
Kagami-numa, a hidden gem where you can find healing in silence and tranquility.
Nestled quietly on the northeastern slope of Mount Annupuri, "Kagami-numa" (Mirror Pond) is a hidden gem highly recommended for those who want to avoid crowds and quietly connect with nature.
Ease of walking: ★★★★☆ (Sneakers are OK, but be careful of muddy areas)
Duration: Approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour round trip on the trail (even more comfortable with the gondola!)
Highlights: Enjoy a spectacular aerial stroll on the summer gondola! You can also approach Kagami-numa Pond by taking the summer gondola in the HANAZONO area. Enjoy an aerial stroll as you ascend in altitude, and then take a refreshing walk along a forest trail from the gondola station to the pond. This route is recommended even for those who are not confident in their physical fitness.
A mystical marsh that becomes a perfect "mirror": A tranquil wetland suddenly appears after you leave the walking path. When the wind dies down, the surface of the water before you becomes a perfect "mirror," just as its name suggests, reflecting the majestic Annupuri mountain range and the blue sky. This silent space, where you can only hear the chirping of birds and the sound of the wind, is the ultimate healing spot.
Tip: Taking the gondola makes the journey itself an exciting activity! The ground can get muddy the day after it rains, so please wear comfortable shoes.
Perfect for beginners and families! The appeal of a "Nature Guide Tour"
If you're thinking, "Walking on my own sounds fun, but I'm worried about getting lost," or "I want to learn more about nature," then we recommend joining a nature-oriented tour with a local nature guide (tour guide).
Learn more about Niseko's nature: Guides will provide engaging explanations of the forest's charms that you might miss just by walking around, such as the names of Takayama plants, the calls of rare wild birds, and the history of Niseko's formation.
With thorough safety management in place, you can enjoy hiking with peace of mind knowing that professionals will accompany you, assessing the weather, ensuring safe routes, and handling any potential problems. Many guides also speak English, making it very popular with international travelers.
Preparation is easy and hassle-free: Many tour companies offer rentals of items such as poles and boots, making it easy to experience authentic nature walks even while traveling.
■ Tour company
Good Sports
Mountain Guide Coyote
NAC Niseko Adventure Center
Niseko Hanazono Resort Hiking
To enjoy yourself safely! Things you should know about precautions and measures to take regarding brown bears.
The Niseko area boasts a rich natural environment with a large population of wild birds and animals, so please be sure to follow the rules and etiquette outlined below when exploring the area.
Make noise to let others know you're there: Brown bears are generally timid and have a tendency to avoid humans. Attach a bear bell to your backpack, clap your hands, or talk to your companions while walking to let those around you know you're there.
Never leave food or trash behind: the smell of food attracts brown bears. Please be sure to take all your snack and drink wrappers with you.
Check for bear sighting information beforehand: Check at trailheads and tourist information centers (such as roadside rest areas) for any recent brown bear sightings or warnings. Trails may be temporarily closed due to sightings.
Avoid walking in the early morning or around sunset: It's best to avoid walking alone during times when bears are most active (early morning and evening) and stick to daylight hours.
Summary: Step into the nature of Niseko and enjoy a moment of healing.
The Shinsennuma, Hangetsuko, and Kagaminuma lakes that we introduced this time are like treasures of Niseko, each with its own unique character and charm.
By taking thorough precautions and preparations, and sometimes walking with a trustworthy guide, you can safely encounter breathtaking scenery.
Be sure to grab your favorite camera and sneakers and take a stroll along Niseko's beautiful footpaths, which change with the seasons!
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