Onuma Quasi-National Park (126 Islets & Mount Komagatake Reflections)

Category: Volcanic Lake Park & Outdoor Recreation | Location: Hokkaido

Situated just a swift 25-minute express train journey north of Hakodate in Nanae Town, Onuma Quasi-National Park (Onuma Kokutei Koen) is the crown jewel of Southern Hokkaido, officially designated as one of the 'New Three Views of Japan' (Shin-Nihon Sankei) during the Taisho era. Born out of a cataclysmic eruption of the stratovolcano Mount Hokkaido Komagatake in 1640 that dammed surrounding river systems, the protected park encompasses three interconnected picturesque bodies of water: Lake Onuma, Lake Konuma, and Lake Junsainuma. The defining magic of Lake Onuma lies in its labyrinth of 126 volcanic islets scattered across its mirror-calm waters. Shrouded in verdant Japanese pines and maples, these miniature islands are linked by 18 graceful arched footbridges (Taiko-bashi). Visitors can embark on the leisurely 'Island Hopping Promenade' (Shima-meguri no Michi), wandering from islet to islet across the tranquil lake carpeted with blooming white water lilies in summer, all framed by the jagged volcanic silhouette of Mount Komagatake (1,131 meters) reflected immaculately on the glassy water. Onuma is a cherished haven for outdoor recreational activities throughout all four seasons. Travelers can rent cruising bicycles or tandem bikes to conquer the scenic 14-kilometer lakeshore loop, hop aboard sightseeing motorboats, or paddle leisurely in Canadian canoes. Before departing, a visit to the historic century-old shop Numa-no-ya right outside the train station is an essential culinary ritual to savor 'Ganso Onuma Dango'—irresistible bite-sized sweet rice dumplings nestled in compartments representing Lake Onuma and Lake Konuma coated with sweet soy glaze, red bean paste, or roasted sesame.