Lake Tachibana Snowshoeing Tour
Tour Overview
Snowshoe to a frozen lake!
Lake Tachibana is a small volcanic lake near Noboribetsu Onsen. Every winter it freezes completely creating a truly magical sight. Surrounding the lake is a beautiful forest that gets covered in snow, turning it into a winter wonderland.
This snowshoeing tour starts by walking through a broadleaf forest until we reach the base of the ridge. From there we zig-zag up to the top from where you will be able to see the lake. We then make our way down to the lake and find a good rest spot.
Once at the lake, we will enjoy the beauty of this hidden gem whilst enjoying a nice hot drink and snack. After getting all the photos you desire and feeling content we will make our way back through the forest to the start point.
Details
- Availability: Late December-March
- Duration: 3 hours (9:00-12:00 and 13:00-16:00)- early or late start available for private tours depending on availability.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Max participants: 4 people
- Equipment: Snowshoes, poles and gaiters included
- Clothing: Winter weather can be cold and dangerous so appropriate clothing is important. Layers that can be added or removed when you get hot or cold are needed.
- Top:
- Base layer: Long-sleeved synthetic top (no cotton) that wicks away moisture.
- Mid-layer: Thin fleece or down jacket that gives you some warmth.
- Outer layer: Windproof jacket that shields you from the wind.
- Bottom:
- Trousers: Leggings will keep your legs warm and hiking trousers that are windproof for the shell layer (no jeans or skirts).
- Socks: Thick wool socks that are higher than your boots.
- Footwear: Hiking boots or snow boots will keep your feet dry.
- Head and hands:
- Wool hat that covers your ears.
- Warm gloves or mittens.
- Additional items:
- Sunglasses and Suncream
- Backpack
- Watch this video to see what you should wear. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2unwPfykJns
- Top:
- Rental (available sizes):
- Shell jackets: M (1), L (2), XL(1) – ¥500
- Waterproof gloves with inners: S (1), M (1), L (2) – ¥500
- Food and drinks: Please bring water. A hot drink and biscuits will be provided.
- Pick-up: Free pick-up and drop-off is available in Noboribetsu and Noboribetsu Onsen.
- Payment: Cash only
Tour Schedule
9:00-9:15: Pick-up (Pick-up from Noboribetsu and Noboribetsu Onsen)
9:15-9:30: Drive to the start point
9:30-10:30: Snowshoe through the forest to the lake
10:30-11:00: Have a rest and enjoy the lake!
11:00-11:45: Snowshoe back to the start point
11:45-12:00: Drive back and say goodbye!
Know before you go
- This is a physical activity and participants should be able to climb up uneven terrain over a distance of 4km
- Please prepare for bad weather even if it is sunny, mountain weather can change quickly.
- Tour will be either be canceled or postponed (if possible) if bad weather occurs.
- If there is an injury or the guide deems it unsafe to carry on, the tour will finish.
- Please prepare your own insurance as Nobo Tours does not have insurance for its customers.