Ozora Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Ozora, Hokkaido, Japan. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Japan? Look no further than Ozora, Hokkaido! Located in Japan’s Eastern Circuit, Ozora is a hidden gem that offers visitors a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to Ozora, Hokkaido.

Introduction to Ozora

Ozora is a small town located in eastern Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island. The town is known for its stunning natural beauty, including lush forests, sparkling lakes, and rugged mountains. While Ozora is relatively unknown to tourists, it’s a popular destination for Japanese visitors who come to hike, fish, and soak in the local hot springs.

List of Places to Visit in Ozora

No trip to Ozora is complete without visiting its many attractions. Here are some of the best places to visit in Ozora:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Ozora is home to several museums and historical places that offer a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage:

  • Ozora Culture Center: This cultural center showcases the traditional arts and crafts of Ozora.
  • Ozora Basho Memorial Museum: Dedicated to the famous Japanese poet Matsuo Basho, this museum offers exhibitions and poetry readings.
  • Lake Harutori and Mukawa Dam: Mukawa Dam is a hydroelectric power plant that was formed on Lake Harutori.

Natural Attractions of Ozora: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Ozora is a nature lover’s paradise, with plenty of outdoor activities and scenic views:

  • Mashu Lake: This beautiful crater lake is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, and is considered one of the clearest lakes in the world.
  • Mount Oakan: This active volcano stands at 1,316 meters and offers a challenging hike.
  • Harutori Falls: The Harutori Falls are a picturesque waterfall in the heart of Ozora.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ozora

One of the best ways to see the natural beauty of Ozora is to go on a hike or bike ride. Here are some great routes to explore:

  • Mount Oakan Trail: This challenging hike takes you up the active volcano for stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Mashu Lake Trail: This trail offers beautiful lake views and a relatively easy hike.
  • Ozora Bike Trail: This 20km bike trail allows visitors to explore the scenery of Ozora on two wheels.

Best Things to Do in Ozora: Activities and Tours

There’s no shortage of activities and tours to enjoy in Ozora:

  • Fishing: Ozora is known for its great fishing. Visitors can fish for char, trout, and salmon in the many lakes and rivers.
  • Hot springs: Relax and rejuvenate in one of Ozora’s many hot springs, which offer the perfect way to unwind after a long day of hiking.
  • Kitawaki Village Horseback Riding: Take a scenic horseback ride through the beautiful countryside in and around Ozora.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ozora

To make the most of your trip to Ozora, plan a week-long itinerary that includes these activities:

Day 1: Arrival and explore Ozora Town Day 2: Hike Mount Oakan Day 3: Visit Mashu Lake and Mashu Observatory Day 4: Fishing in the Ozora Area Day 5: Tour the Ozora Culture Center and Basho Memorial Museum Day 6: Relax in the local hot springs Day 7: Horseback riding in Kitawaki Village

Food and Drink Scene of Ozora

Ozora’s food and drink scene is a mix of traditional Japanese cuisine and local specialties. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hokkaido Crab: This local delicacy is a must-try for seafood lovers.
  • Soup Curry: A Hokkaido specialty, this curry-like dish is served with a soup base and various vegetables and meats.
  • Jaga Butter: A simple, yet delicious dish featuring butter and mashed potatoes.

Local Beverages

  • Sapporo Beer: Hokkaido’s most famous beer brand, which is widely available in Ozora.
  • Shiroi Koibito: A local cookie that’s a popular souvenir from Hokkaido.

Where to Stay in Ozora: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several accommodation options in Ozora, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some recommended places to stay:

  • Tsuruga Resort Spa Mizu no Uta: A high-end hotel with stunning views of Lake Mashu and an on-site spa.
  • Greenhouse Vega: A budget-friendly option with a friendly staff and clean rooms.
  • Ozora Youth Hostel: A great option for budget travelers, this hostel is located close to several attractions in Ozora.

What to Buy in Ozora: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for the perfect souvenir from Ozora? Here are some local products to consider bringing home:

  • Ainu Crafts: These traditional Ainu handicrafts are made from bark and are unique to this part of Japan.
  • Mashu Lake Glass: This beautiful glassware is made from the volcanic sands of Mashu Lake.
  • Shiroi Koibito Cookies: These delicious cookies are a popular Hokkaido souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Ozora

Ozora is known for its Ainu culture, which is indigenous to Hokkaido. Visitors should be respectful of these customs and traditions when visiting. Furthermore, visitors should also observe basic Japanese etiquette, such as removing shoes before entering homes or restaurants.

Best Time to Visit Ozora

The best time to visit Ozora is during the spring and autumn months (April-June and September-November), when the weather is mild and the autumn foliage is in full bloom. The summer months (July-August) can be hot and humid, while the winter months (December-February) can be bitterly cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ozora

When visiting Ozora, here are some things to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try the local seafood
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Take plenty of photos of the stunning scenery

Don’t:

  • Leave trash or litter behind
  • Enter hot springs without showering first
  • Ignore basic Japanese etiquette and customs

Safety and Health

Ozora is generally a safe and healthy place to visit, but visitors should be prepared for the weather and outdoor conditions. Here are some tips:

Safety in Ozora

  • Follow all posted signs and warnings in natural areas
  • Bring proper hiking gear for difficult trails
  • Carry a map and be familiar with the route

Health in Ozora

  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sunny days
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
  • Be prepared for changes in altitude when hiking

Getting to Ozora: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several transportation options for getting to Ozora:

Airports Near Ozora

The nearest airport to Ozora is Kushiro Airport, which is served by several domestic airlines.

Bus Stations Near Ozora

There are several bus stations in and around Ozora that offer transportation to nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi to get around Ozora and explore the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Ozora

The best way to get around Ozora is by car, as the town is spread out and many of its attractions are located in remote areas. Visitors can also take the bus or hire a taxi.

Where to Go Next from Ozora: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Ozora, visitors can also explore nearby destinations such as Lake Akan or the city of Kushiro.

Conclusion

Ozora, Hokkaido may not be on everyone’s radar, but it should be! With its stunning natural beauty, unique cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures, Ozora has something for everyone. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your own unforgettable trip to Ozora.

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