Lake Notoro

Overview

Lake Notoro is a vast lake in Abashiri City, Hokkaido, facing the Okhotsk Sea. Once a brackish lake with a seasonally opening and closing mouth allowing seawater inflow, a shoreline protection project in 1973 fixed the lake's mouth, making it a saltwater lake. Lake Notoro's greatest charm is undoubtedly the Suaeda salsa (commonly known as sea blite or samphire) that paints the lakeshore crimson in autumn. Starting around September, the area is carpeted in vibrant red, creating a breathtaking contrast with the blue sky and lake surface. A well-maintained boardwalk allows visitors to appreciate the beauty of the Suaeda salsa up close. Tourist facilities are plentiful around Lake Notoro. On the east shore, in Notoro Port Town, you'll find "Lakeside Park Notoro," an auto-camping site. The Abashiri City Fisheries Research Center, also in the same area, showcases fishing gear and panels about the fishing industry along the Abashiri coast, including Lake Notoro, and even features a small aquarium. Lake Notoro is a captivating destination, offering stunning natural beauty, a beautiful Suaeda salsa colony, and fresh seafood. It's definitely worth a visit!