Lake Notoro Crimson Coral Grass Colony (Notoro-ko Sango-so)

Category: Coastal Wetland Nature | Location: Hokkaido

Located directly west of Abashiri City and opening into the Sea of Okhotsk, Lake Notoro (Notoro-ko) is a sprawling brackish lagoon celebrated nationwide for its pristine natural colony of Sango-so (Salicornia europaea / glasswort coral grass). This rare halophytic succulent thrives exclusively in saline coastal mudflats nourished by periodic oceanic tides. Every autumn in September, the fleshy stems of this remarkable plant transform from summer green into a blazing, deep-crimson carpet that carpets the shoreline as far as the eye can see. The Ubaranai district along Lake Notoro's southern shore hosts Japan's largest and densest protected colony of coral grass, blanketing approximately 3.8 hectares of coastal wetland. To safeguard this fragile ecosystem against foot traffic while allowing guests intimate encounters with nature, extensive elevated wooden boardwalks have been constructed right across the crimson expanse. Strolling along these pathways offers panoramic photo opportunities where the vivid scarlet vegetation appears to merge seamlessly with the shimmering lake waters. The visual contrast at Lake Notoro during peak autumn is legendary among nature photographers. The fiery scarlet of the coral grass juxtaposed against the deep cobalt blue of northern skies and the crystalline reflection of the brackish lake creates an unforgettable palette. The tranquil shores also serve as a vital resting sanctuary for migratory waterbirds, including elegant whooper swans and coastal waders journeying along the subarctic flyway.