Kitami City
🗺️ Lake Saromaサロマ湖
Kitami City
About Lake Saroma
Enjoy the abundant nature! Located in Hokkaido, it is Japan's third largest lake.
Details
Lake Saroma, located in the northeastern part of Hokkaido, is Japan's third-largest lake, following Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture and Kasumigaura in Ibaraki. The beautiful lake surface displays a deep and clear blue, earning it the nickname "Saroma Blue." In the evening, the colors of the sky intertwine with the lake, creating a breathtaking view.
There are several spots nearby that offer great views of Lake Saroma, with two recommended observation points. One is the Saroma Lake Observation Deck at the summit of Mount Horoiwa, which is the closest point to the lake. This is the only place where you can take in the natural beauty from a panoramic perspective, offering a complete view of the entire lake, the sandbar between the Sea of Okhotsk and the lake, and even the Shiretoko mountain range. The other is the Ryugu Observation Deck located on the sandbar between the Sea of Okhotsk and Lake Saroma. From here, you can simultaneously gaze at both the Sea of Okhotsk and Lake Saroma, with the scenery of the lake, ocean, and sky merging beautifully.
For those looking to enjoy the rich natural scenery, a visit to the Wakka Natural Garden is recommended. Located within the Abashiri Quasi-National Park, it is Japan's largest coastal grassland and has also been designated as a Hokkaido Heritage site. The Wakka Nature Center offers bicycle rentals and VELOTAXI services, making it a great place to immerse yourself in nature.
Due to the prevalence of scallop and oyster farming in the lake, many nearby restaurants serve fresh seafood from both the Sea of Okhotsk and Lake Saroma.
Highlights
Japan's third largest lake.
There is an observation deck at the top of Mount Hōrō near the lake, offering panoramic views of the scenery.
The Ryūgū Observation Deck provides breathtaking views of both the Sea of Okhotsk and Lake Saroma.
Scallop and oyster farming is prevalent, and you can enjoy fresh local seafood at several nearby restaurants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a foreign language introduction signboard or manual? (If so, please let me know which languages are available.)
There are sightseeing facilities available. There are guidebooks in Japanese, English, Traditional Chinese, and Simplified Chinese.
Is there free Wi-Fi in this area?
There are rest areas along the roads.
Are there coin-operated lockers?
Sorry, no.
Is there a restroom?
There are various tourist facilities.
Recommended Tours & Activities
Essential Information
Address
Tokoro Town, Kitami City, Hokkaido / Saroma Town / Yubetsu Town
Getting There
It takes about 1 hour by car from JR Kushiro Main Line "Abashiri" Station.
Website
Visit official websiteLocation Tags
Kitami City










