Guide
Lake Saroma is a massive brackish water lake located on the Okhotsk coast of Hokkaido, covering an area of approximately 152 square kilometers. It is one of the largest lakes in Hokkaido and ranks as the third-largest in Japan, following Lake Biwa and Lake Kasumigaura. The lake is characterized by its unique geography, separated from the Okhotsk Sea by a long sandspit. Because the salinity levels are close to seawater, the lake possesses characteristics of both a lake and a sea. A highlight of any visit is the view from the observation deck at the summit of Mt. Hora Iwa, which offers a breathtaking panorama of the water, often referred to as 'Saroma Blue.'
The history of Lake Saroma is ancient, with its name believed to derive from the Ainu word 'Sar-oma-pe' (meaning a river where reeds grow). There was a time when the lake was part of the sea before the sandspit formed. A significant historical event occurred in the late 1920s regarding the opening of the lake mouth. Previously, the mouth was located near Tofutsu in the east, creating an unstable environment that changed with the seasons. However, following excavation work in 1929, a wide, permanent mouth was formed near Sanriban to the west. This change shaped the current water quality and ecosystem. The region also boasts a rich history of fishing, with archaeological sites from the Jomon period through the Okhotsk and Ainu cultures found nearby.
The greatest highlight of Lake Saroma is its natural beauty. First, the 'Lake Saroma Observation Deck' at the top of Mt. Hora Iwa allows you to observe the vast expanse of water and its changing colors. Another must-visit is the 'Wakka Primeval Flower Garden' on the eastern side of the lake, a precious botanical treasure designated as a Hokkaido Heritage site. In autumn, the colonies of Salicornia (glasswort) turn a striking red, creating a unique and beautiful landscape. The long sandspit itself is a masterpiece of natural formation that draws many visitors. Additionally, the surrounding fishing ports offer a chance to see the seasonal movement of various marine resources.
The best time to visit Lake Saroma is from May to September. From spring through summer, the plant life and aquatic ecosystems are particularly active. A truly special sight is the red landscape of the Salicornia at the Wakka Primeval Flower Garden around September. For the most vivid colors on the water, it is recommended to visit during the daytime when the sunlight is brightest. Conversely, in the late afternoon, you can enjoy a beautiful sunset over the lake near the southeast side of the lake in Tokoro Town.
Activities around Lake Saroma center on nature observation and culinary experiences. At the Wakka Primeval Flower Garden, you can witness Hokkaido's precious ecosystem up close. For local food culture, visitors can stop by 'Michi-no-Eki Saroma-ko' or 'Michi-no-Eki Ai-land Wakkanai' to enjoy local specialties. The area is famous for its abundant seafood, including scallops, oysters, salmon, and Hokkai white shrimp. Driving along the scenic coastline is also a wonderful way to enjoy the changing landscapes of the lake.
There are several convenient facilities around Lake Saroma. Near Saroma Town on the south coast, 'Michi-no-Eki Saroma-ko' offers accommodation and local specialty shops. On the Wakkanai side, 'Michi-no-Eki Ai-land Wakkanai' features restaurants and an amusement park. For relaxation, there are several hot spring (onsen) facilities nearby, such as 'Saroma-ko Onsen' and 'Kitami Kin-no-Yu Onsen,' making them perfect spots to rest after a day of sightseeing.
When visiting the Lake Saroma area, please keep the following in mind: