A Clear-Sky Revisit to Lake Mashu
Our drive through eastern Hokkaido brought us to Lake Mashu, often called “The Misty Lake Mashu.”
The last time I visited, the lake was completely hidden behind thick fog. I could barely see the surface.
This time, I came back hoping for a different view.
And this time, I was rewarded with a clear, panoramic scene.
Under the blue sky, the deep sapphire water stretched out quietly below us. The stillness of the lake made the moment feel almost sacred.
Lake Mashu is known for frequent fog, especially in summer. Because the view depends so much on the weather, seeing it clearly felt even more special.
There are three parking areas and viewpoints. We first stopped at the Third Observatory, which was peaceful and less crowded — perfect for taking in the scenery quietly.
The First Observatory was much busier, with tour buses and many visitors. However, it offers more facilities, including souvenir shops and light snacks.
One feature that stood out was the setup for stargazing. Reclining seats and an audio guide create an environment designed for observing the night sky.
With almost no surrounding artificial light, the stars are said to be breathtaking.
I would love to return one evening to experience it.
A Delicious Stop Between Lake Mashu and Kaminoko Pond
On our way from Lake Mashu to Kaminoko Pond, we stopped at Cream Dowa, a charming shop known for its gelato and pizza.
They offer some unique and adventurous flavors.
If you’re feeling curious, I recommend trying the Sakura Mochi or Hojicha.
The Sakura Mochi gelato was surprisingly authentic — it truly tasted like the traditional Japanese sweet, complete with a soft, almost chewy texture. It was unlike any gelato I had tasted before and left a strong impression on me.
The Hojicha flavor was gently roasted and not overly sweet. It had a calm, mature flavor that you wouldn’t tire of easily.
The refreshing Salty Rock flavor was light and easy to enjoy, while the classic Hokkaido Milk is always a safe and satisfying choice if you’re unsure.
We also ordered pizza, which is baked fresh after you place your order.
The rectangular pizza had a crispy crust with a unique, original dough. Light yet flavorful, it paired perfectly with the relaxed pace of the drive.
After admiring vast landscapes, enjoying local flavors added another layer to the experience. It was a simple but memorable stop.
The Emerald Mystery of Kaminoko Pond
Our final destination was Kaminoko Pond.
The pond shines in a vivid emerald green, a color that almost feels unreal.
It is said to be fed by underground water from Lake Mashu. The clarity of the water is astonishing — you can clearly see the fallen trees resting on the bottom.
Depending on the angle of the sunlight, the color shifts between blue and green. Walking around the pond and viewing it from different angles reveals subtle changes in tone.
The atmosphere is quiet and deeply connected to nature. Simply standing there and taking a breath feels calming.
The vast beauty of Lake Mashu,
the local gelato and freshly baked pizza,
and the transparent waters of Kaminoko Pond.
This drive through eastern Hokkaido was not only about seeing nature, but also tasting and feeling it.
It was a day shaped by nature’s blessings — one I would gladly experience again in another season.
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