■ Overview (history, characteristics, appeal)
Onuma Park (located in Nanae Town, Kameda District, Hokkaido) is a scenic park dotted with lakes and small islands at the foot of Mount Komagatake. It is said to have been formed when the terrain changed due to eruptions and volcanic activity of Mount Komagatake during the Edo period, and its greatest attraction is the landscape created by the interweaving of large and small islands, the grassy lakeside, and the majestic shape of Mount Komagatake. The park's appearance changes with each season, from the fresh greenery and cherry blossoms of spring, to the greenery and water activities of summer, the autumn leaves, and the snowy scenery of winter. You can enjoy sightseeing, photography, and the outdoors throughout the year.
■Highlights
- Numerous islands floating on the surface of Lake Onuma and Lake Konuma: You can get up close and personal by sightseeing boat or rowboat. There are also spots where you can enjoy island hopping via bridges and promenades.
- View of Mt. Komagatake: On clear days, the view of Mt. Komagatake across the lake is beautiful, making it a popular photo spot.
– Lakeside promenades and walking trails: From casual strolls to cycling, there are trails around the lake.
– Boat and canoe experience: Rent a boat or take a canoe trip on the lake. Recommended for families and couples.
- Bird watching and nature observation: The area is rich in wetlands and lakeside nature, making it ideal for bird watching and observing seasonal plants.
- Seasonal events and sights: The cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons are particularly spectacular, and in winter you can enjoy the snowy scenery (activity on the ice is subject to restrictions and safety checks).
■Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train: The nearest station is Onuma Koen Station on the JR Hakodate Main Line. The park area is within walking distance from the station, and you can head to the lakeside from in front of the station. The journey from Hakodate takes about 20 to 30 minutes by train (varies depending on the type of train and time of day).
- By car: Approximately 30 minutes by car from Hakodate city (depending on road conditions). There are multiple parking lots (some paid and some free). It is a convenient base for driving tours from central or southern Hokkaido.
- Bus/tourist routes: Depending on the season, tourist buses and shuttles may operate from Hakodate and southern Hokkaido. Please check the operating status in advance.
*Public transport times and operating conditions, as well as travel times by car, may vary depending on the season and time of day. For the latest information, please check the JR timetable, road traffic information, and the town's official tourism website.
■ Estimated stay (estimated time required)
– Quick stroll: about 1 hour (station → lakeside walk/photography)
– Boat ride + lakeside walk: 2-3 hours (including sightseeing boats and rental boats)
- Day trips including hiking and climbing Mt. Komagatake: half a day to a full day (climbing depends on equipment and physical strength)
– Leisurely sightseeing + stroll around the area (including nearby tourist spots): 1 day
It's a good idea to plan for half a day to a full day depending on your purpose.
■ Nearby spots
- Mt. Komagatake (mountain climbing/mountain scenery): A famous peak that can be seen from the lakeside. A base for mountain climbing and trekking.
– Restaurants and cafes around Onuma Park: Enjoy meals and snacks made with local ingredients. There are also souvenir shops scattered around.
- Hakodate city (Goryokaku, night view of Mt. Hakodate, morning market, etc.): Easy to access by car or JR, so you can combine sightseeing.
- Hot springs and accommodations in Nanae Town: We recommend taking a day trip to the hot springs or staying overnight for a relaxing stay.
(It is efficient to combine this with sightseeing in Hakodate depending on your sightseeing plan.)
■Points to note (crowds, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn foliage season, and weekends can be crowded, and you may have to wait in line for parking and boats. We recommend leaving early or visiting on a weekday.
- Manners: To protect the environment, please be sure to take your trash with you and do not feed plants or wild animals. Avoid lighting fires anywhere other than designated areas.
– Boats and water activities: Rentals may be seasonal and may be suspended or canceled due to weather conditions (strong winds, dense fog, etc.). Please take safety precautions, such as wearing a life jacket.
- Winter precautions: While the snow and ice in winter create beautiful scenery, traffic restrictions may occur due to frozen roads and snow accumulation, and activities on the ice may be prohibited due to insufficient ice thickness on the lake. Please avoid risky behavior and be sure to check safety information.
- Transportation/Operation Information: Public transportation service is limited in some areas, so please check the return journey time in advance. There may be fewer services, especially in the evening.
- Use of drones, etc.: Flying drones without permission may violate rules and cause inconvenience to others. Please observe regulations and etiquette.
Reference/Notes
– Before visiting, please check the latest information (boat operations, events, and transportation information) at tourist information centers around Onuma Park or the town's official website.
– Information on photo spots and rental items (bicycles, boats, etc.) will be available at local facilities.
If necessary, we can also create model itineraries (half-day/full-day), recommended photo spots for each season, and specific examples of restaurants and accommodations in the area. What additional information would you like to see?
