2026.07.19

Lake Utonai: Wild Hokkaido, Minutes from the Airport

Located just a 15-minute drive from New Chitose Airport, Lake Utonai offers a breathtaking natural landscape that will make you forget how close you are to the airport.
The lake is designated as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention, and approximately 270 species of wild birds have been recorded here.

Surrounded by ever-changing seasonal beauty, the forests around the lake echo with the sweet songs of Japanese bush warblers in summer. It is also home to the Shima-enaga (Long-tailed Tit, also nicknamed “Snow Fairy” for its round, snowball-like appearance), a tiny and adorable bird deeply loved by locals and visitors alike. In winter, the area becomes a vital resting stop for migratory birds, such as Whooper Swans and Steller’s Sea Eagles. As one of Hokkaido’s premier birdwatching destinations, it attracts nature enthusiasts from both Japan and around the world.

Why do so many migratory birds gather at Lake Utonai?
The secret lies in the lake’s unique and ideal environment:
• An Essential Stopover:


It serves as a crucial resting point for birds migrating between mainland Japan and Siberia.

• Abundant Food Supply:


The fertile wetland provides a rich ecosystem full of fish and aquatic life for birds to feed on.

• Perfect Terrain:


With a circumference of about 9 km and an average depth of just 60 cm, the shallow waters allow birds to rest safely and forage with ease.

• Decades of Conservation:


In 1981, the Wild Bird Society of Japan established the country’s very first “Sanctuary” (wildbird reserve) here. Thanks to dedicated, long-term conservation efforts, this rich natural environment has been beautifully preserved.

A 360-Degree Panoramic View
Head up to the rooftop observation deck at Michi-no-Eki (Roadside Station) Lake Utonai to enjoy a spectacular, unobstructed 360-degree panoramic view of the vast lake and surrounding scenery.

Local Gourmet Treats & Exclusive Sweets!
After taking in the views, make sure to visit the adjacent Roadside Station.

The restaurants and shops offer a variety of local specialties. A must-try is the famous “B1 Ton-chan Butaman” (pork bun), made with Tomakomai City’s certified premium brand pork.
For dessert, we highly recommend the “the Shima-enaga Manju, a Lake Utonai exclusive,” crafted by a long-established local confectionery shop, this steamed bun features an adorable footprint of the Shima-enaga stamped on top. Filled with rich, fragrant black sesame paste, it is as delicious as it is cute!

Lakeside Walking Trails and the Nature Center
Right next to the Roadside Station is the Lake Utonai Sanctuary Nature Center.

Inside, you will find preserved specimens of local birds and wildlife, and professional rangers are always on-site to help you learn about the lake’s ecosystem in a fun and interactive way.

A beautiful wooden boardwalk path stretches right from the center along the lake, complete with cozy rest areas. In the summer, the lakeside comes alive with vibrant green reed beds and the lovely pink blooms of Hozaki-shimotsuke (willowleaf meadowsweet) flowers.

Listening to the wild birds chirping, gazing over the serene water, and savoring a delicious sweet bun—this peaceful experience is sure to satisfy all your five senses.
Lake Utonai offers an incredible encounter with Hokkaido’s grand nature, located right next to the airport. It is the perfect spot to kick off your journey or to unwind just before your flight home.
 
Hiroko M

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