Introduction to Recommended Campsites in Eastern Hokkaido! Activities and Gourmet too!

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Eastern Hokkaido Campsites

Eastern Hokkaido is a vast area with untouched nature, characterized by a dry climate and an expansive land that is not overcrowded, providing a relaxed environment for visitors. Recently, camping at unique campsites in the Eastern Hokkaido area has been gaining attention. There are several campsites where you can enjoy a private space amidst the great outdoors and vast landscapes. Moreover, Eastern Hokkaido is known for its delicious gourmet offerings. We introduce some recommended campsites where you can enjoy camping, gourmet food, and activities. We also asked campsite managers and activity guides to share the attractions!

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Tsurunonosato Camp Field

1.About Tsurunonosato Camp Field

Located about 30 minutes by car from Tancho Kushiro Airport, the gateway to Eastern Hokkaido, this campsite is easily accessible by public bus as well. It is a vast auto campsite in Tsurui Village, which is part of the "Association of the Most Beautiful Villages in Japan." The campsite covers an expansive area the size of approximately five soccer fields. It was created from a turf farm in Tsurui Village that had been operated by a turf farmer for about 40 years. The turf, Kentucky bluegrass, is used in golf courses. The campsite offers a no-hassle day camp plan, making it enjoyable for both seasoned campers and beginners. With Wi-Fi provided, it is ideal for a workation as well.

Owner of "Tsurunonosato Camp Field", Mr. Odagiri

Owner of "Tsurunonosato Camp Field", Mr. Odagiri

Mr. Odagiri, owner of "Tsurunonosato Camp Field," remarks: "This campsite is adjacent to the Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, allowing you to enjoy the magnificent nature of Eastern Hokkaido. Additionally, it has one of the largest areas in the region, offering ample private space to relax. We hope you spend your extraordinary time on the lush grass." (Mr. Odagiri)

2.Even Without Equipment!

At Tsurunonosato Camp Field, a "Day Camp Plan Without Equipment" is available from May to October. This plan includes rentals such as tarps, chairs for the number of people, and tables, so you don't have to worry about bringing gear or equipment! The challenging tasks of setup and takedown are completely taken care of, making it easy for beginners to enjoy by just preparing food and drinks. You can also use the public bus for round trips, allowing those without a car to enjoy a day camp.

[Accessible by Public Bus] Tsurunonosato Camp Field - Day Camp Without Equipment

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3.Recommended Day Camp Plan Using Public Bus

Please check the latest bus schedules yourself
Purchase food and drinks at a supermarket or convenience store in Kushiro city.

▲ For convenience stores, Seicomart is recommended! Examples of food purchased at Seicomart

10:25 Depart from Kushiro Station
↓ (Akan Bus)
11:16 Arrive at Shimohoro
↓ (Walk)
Around 11:30 - 16:00 Day Camp & Lunch
↓ (Walk)
16:20 Depart from Shimohoro
↓ (Akan Bus)
17:18 Arrive at Kushiro Station

4.A Hub for Sightseeing!

Tsurunonosato Camp Field, conveniently located near Tancho Kushiro Airport, is also an ideal base for exploring Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, Akan-Mashu National Park, and Tsurui Village. It operates during the winter, making it a great choice for winter camping as well. After enjoying a full day of sightseeing, you can relax and rejuvenate your tired body at the "Bijin no Yu" hot spring of Northern Village Hotel TAITO.

5.Access

Address: 〒085-1144 Hokkaido, Akan-gun, Tsurui Village, Hororo, Shimohororo

From Tancho Kushiro Airport:

By rental car/car

Take the Tancho Mai Road and Route 53
(About 30 minutes)

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Takkobu Campground

1.About Takkobu Campground

Located about 15 minutes by car from Kushiro city center, Takkobu Campground is an auto campsite situated on the shores of Lake Takkobu, which retains the appearance of a wetland marsh. The campsite features well-maintained auto sites, bungalows, and lodges, allowing even camping beginners to choose a style that suits them. Showers are available, and the fees are reasonable. It’s an excellent base for birdwatching and wetland exploration, and you might even encounter Hokkaido's native wildlife, such as the Ezo deer!

2.Recommended for Day Camps

Being just 15 minutes by car from Kushiro city center, this conveniently located campsite is also recommended for casual day camps to enjoy nature. Purchasing local fish, meat, and vegetables in Kushiro city and having a BBQ amidst nature ensures a satisfying experience for both the stomach and the soul. At unique local supermarkets such as Aicho, Hirose, Kaminari Sato, and Shoppers Hikari, you might find fresh ingredients and local specialties unique to the area. Of course, BBQ sets can also be procured at the campsite.

3.Activities

This lakeside campsite offers canoeing experiences and BBQs using local ingredients! Various tour companies provide activity plans, so why not choose one that suits you?

Introducing recommended activities you can enjoy at Takkobu Campground. We asked a guide to share the attractions of these activities!

Grace Field (Canoe Touring + Game BBQ Plan)

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After a canoe tour on the Kushiro River, enjoy a game (Ezo deer) and lamb Jingisukan BBQ at Takkobu Auto Campground, which offers a beautiful view of Lake Takkobu within Kushiro Shitsugen National Park. You can experience both a guided canoe tour and a BBQ prepared by local chefs who love game meat. (Reservations available for groups of 4 or more)

Mr. Takahashi from "Grace Field" not only leads canoe tours but also runs a restaurant that makes the most of local ingredients as a certified chef.

Takahashi is a canoe guide and chef at "Grace Field," and runs a restaurant that uses local ingredients.

"The best way to enjoy the Kushiro Shitsugen Wetland is by canoeing. The sounds and smells that you can only experience by being there are the perfect remedy for mental fatigue accumulated in everyday life. We also offer a plan where you can enjoy game dishes featuring venison from deer my father has hunted. It's a fun and delicious tour, so please come and experience it!" (Mr. Takahashi)

Canoe Pro: Kushiro River Round Trip Short Tour

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This guided short course departs from the canoe landing within the campsite and takes you on a round trip along the Kushiro River. The unique tour includes passing through the impressive "Jungle Tunnel." With medium-sized canoes accommodating up to 6 people, it’s recommended for families.

Mr. Numata, a canoe guide at "Canoe Pro," shares his insights:

"Kushiro Shitsugen is a special place with untouched nature. It is also a habitat for rare animals like the red-crowned crane and white-tailed eagle, and if you're lucky, you might see them. You might even catch a glimpse of a mink!" (Mr. Numata)

Additionally, renting a bicycle for cycling or taking a stroll westward to Yumegaoka Observatory, about a 30-minute walk away, is highly recommended. The observatory offers a panoramic view of the wetland, where you can observe the changing scenery of nature through the seasons. Takkobu Campground is perfect for those who want to fully enjoy a variety of activities.

4.Access

Address: 〒088-2141 Hokkaido, Kushiro-gun, Kushiro Town, Takkobu 65-2

From Tancho Kushiro Airport:

By rental car/car

Take the Kushiro Wetland Road
(Approximately 42 minutes)

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Yamahana Onsen Campground

1.About Yamahana Onsen Campground

Located about 30 minutes by car from Kushiro city center, Yamahana Onsen Campground is situated within Yamahana Park, which covers an area equivalent to 120 Tokyo Domes, on the western side of Kushiro Shitsugen. Surrounded by white birch forests, the campground offers auto sites and accommodations in cottages and campers. Each site provides a calm private space, making it very popular among families. The central house boasts a convenience store that sells snacks, condiments, fireworks, and charcoal, offering excellent convenience.

2.Perfect for Families with Children!

In addition to the campground, Yamahana Park has various facilities. It is home to Hokkaido's largest zoo, the Kushiro City Zoo, making it ideal for sightseeing with children. There's also the Kushiro City Red-Crowned Crane Conservation Center, where cranes, designated as a natural monument, are cared for. You can observe the cranes being kept along the road. The center also has a shop where you can buy crane-themed goods, perfect for souvenirs. After a day full of activities, relax your tired body in the hot springs at Yamahana Onsen Refle located within the park, ensuring a good night's sleep at the campground.

Here’s a recommended plan for families with children!

[Bus Trip] Lunch and Day-Use Bath at Yamahana Onsen Refle with Kushiro City Zoo Set Plan

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3.Activities

At the central house within the campground, you can rent mountain bikes for free, and rentals are also available at Yamahana Onsen Refle. Cycling along the trails extending from Yamahana Park is a great way to explore the Kushiro Shitsugen. Moreover, next to the Kushiro City Zoo is the Kushiro City Fureai Horse Park, where you can interact with horses. There are various experiences available, such as carriage rides and horse-drawn walks that anyone can enjoy, as well as horseback riding for all levels from beginner to advanced. Horse trekking, which involves venturing into the nearby forests, is also quite popular. Please note that reservations are required in advance if you wish to participate in these activities.

4.Access

Address: 〒085-0204 Hokkaido, Kushiro City, Akan Town, Shimoninishibetsu 11-34

From Tancho Kushiro Airport:

By rental car/car

Drive north on Route 65 and Route 952
(Approximately 20 minutes)

By bus

Take the Akan Bus Refle Line bound for Yamahana Onsen Refle, and get off at Yamahana Onsen Refle
(Approximately 13 minutes / ¥260)

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Wakoto Lakeside Camp Field

1.About Wakoto Lakeshore Camp Field

Located on the Wakoto Peninsula that protrudes into Lake Kussharo, a natural lake in Teshikaga Town, Wakoto Lakeshore Camp Field is gaining attention as a campsite in recent years. The location is nothing short of spectacular. Surrounded by Hokkaido's vast nature, the sight of the setting sun reflecting on the lake is a breathtaking view. You can pitch your tent close to the vast lake, enjoying the natural beauty of Eastern Hokkaido. The campsite offers free sites for bikers enjoying touring, and designated sites for day camping, ensuring excellent usability. Since it takes about 20 minutes by car to reach nearby convenience stores or supermarkets, it's recommended to purchase food and supplies in advance.

The charm of Wakoto Lakeshore Camp Field lies primarily in its overwhelming scenic beauty. You can enjoy the outdoors facing Japan's largest caldera lake, Lake Kussharo. From the camp field, you can enjoy nature without any visible man-made structures in sight. Especially during the evening and morning, the tranquility is exceptional, offering a relaxing effect. Moreover, besides the stunning scenery, it serves as an irresistible spot for outdoor enthusiasts as a "playable lake." Activities such as SUP, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and trekking around Wakoto Peninsula make this one of the few places in Eastern Hokkaido where you can enjoy water activities in the lake, attracting many visitors. As a campsite, it boasts a comprehensive range of rental items, providing peace of mind for beginners and those who come unprepared. (Mr. Sakai, manager of Wakoto Lakeshore Camp Field)

2.Even Without Equipment!

This campsite offers a "Hands-Free Bungalow Plan" equipped with all the necessary camping gear. All the camping gear you need is prepared in advance, so there's no need for the hassle of setting up. You can enjoy camping in Eastern Hokkaido without bringing anything. Prices start from 12,100 yen per room. With only three rooms available, it is recommended to book in advance. Of course, rental of camping gear such as tents, tarps, tables, and fire pits is also possible. Payment for rentals can be made on site with cash, credit card, or various QR payment options.

3.Activities

One of the most popular offerings at Wakoto Lakeshore Camp Field is the rental tent sauna. You can set it up facing the lakeshore for a superb relaxation experience while overlooking the great outdoors and the water surface. The cost is 5,500 yen for two hours. Additionally, electric boat rentals are available, allowing you to leisurely explore the Wakoto Peninsula from the water in a tranquil and serene setting. Being adjacent to the lake, activities like SUP and canoeing are also recommended. There are companies that offer guided canoe tours on Lake Kussharo, allowing beginners to enjoy with peace of mind.

4.Access

Address: Wakoto Peninsula, Teshikaga Town, Kawakami District, Hokkaido 088-3200

From Tancho Kushiro Airport:

By rental car/car

Drive north on Route 53
(Approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes)

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Camping Attire

Eastern Hokkaido is characterized by relatively low temperatures and a dry climate throughout the year. While summer days can often reach temperatures similar to those in Honshu, the stark difference lies in the coolness of the nights. As an area with significant temperature fluctuations, nighttime temperatures drop significantly, affecting how cold it feels. Therefore, it's recommended to bring a jacket or long sleeves and pants for the colder evenings. In spring and fall, dress closer to winter attire, with warm fleece or down jackets for extra comfort. Since you'll be camping in the great outdoors, insect repellent spray is essential. In particular, near water bodies, mosquitoes are prevalent, so don't forget to prepare mosquito coils or similar items. The mosquitoes inhabiting the wilderness are quite resilient, and a single bite can cause extensive swelling. Moreover, the paths around the campground are mostly unpaved. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for both camping and exploring the surroundings!

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Summary

Camping amidst Eastern Hokkaido's majestic nature offers a special experience with a leisurely flow of time. Many campsites boast vast areas, allowing for a luxurious camping experience with private spaces. Although Eastern Hokkaido is home to brown bears, campsites have robust safety measures in place, so you can feel secure. Near any campsite, you'll find plenty of facilities and activities to satisfy solo campers and families alike. Enjoying the seafood and land-rich bounty unique to Eastern Hokkaido is also highly recommended. Additionally, choosing a campsite that offers rental goods and hands-free plans allows you to camp easily with just a single item of luggage! So, which campsite will you choose?