Discover -20℃ Miracle
An Immersion in Pristine Wilderness
Uncover the hidden beauty of the Kushiro Wetlands
Feel the Subzero Magic in the Kushiro
Wetlands National Park.
The Kushiro Marshlands National Park, where pristine nature still thrives. At the heart of this journey lies Lake Tōro, the largest in the marshlands. Experience a 3-day journey immersed in untouched wilderness.
Experience
Enjoy ice fishing, horseback trekking, winter canoeing, and relaxing in the sauna. Delight in a premium dinner and the warmth of a bonfire, creating unforgettable memories away from the everyday.
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Sunrise Canoeing
Paddle through the untouched wilderness
of the Kushiro Wetlands.Discover the rich ecosystem unique to the Kushiro Wetlands as you glide through the snow-covered streams linking Lake Toro and the Kushiro River.
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Ice Fishing Adventure
A perfect escape for anglers—cast your line
into the stillness of the ice.A classic winter activity,Ice fishing for smelt, lets you feel the life beneath the frozen lake. Enjoy a touch of luxury as you fish from the comfort of a special tent on the ice.
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Snow Sauna
Find balance in nature’s
quiet beauty.Embrace the intense 100°C temperature shift, a unique winter experience in Hokkaido. Let nature take over as you gaze at the Kushiro Wetlands and Hokkaido’s only steam locomotive, finding a deep connection with yourself.
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Horse Retreat
Connect with horses
in a snow-covered ranch.The snow-covered ranch is like a pure white canvas. Immerse yourself in a luxurious and unforgettable horse retreat, connecting with horses amidst the vast snowy landscape.
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Gourmet Winter Feast
Savor the culture through
carefully crafted cuisine.Enjoy a special dining experience featuring fresh ingredients from Eastern Hokkaido, blending modern techniques with the traditions of Ainu cuisine.
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Stargazing & Bonfire on Lake
Take a serene walk across a frozen lake,
surrounded by the peaceful silence of winter.Beneath a sky untouched by artificial light or noise, it’s just you, the stars, and the crackling bonfire. The stillness of the night feels even more enchanting in nature’s quiet embrace.
To-ro
Tōro: Where Nature Breathes
Behold the grandeur of the Kushiro River, a first-class meandering river embraced by Japan's largest Kushiro Wetlands.
Untouched, vast horizontal landscapes stretch across the eastern region, dotted with a network of lakes and marshes.
Amidst these, Lake Toro stands out, the largest in the wetlands and the centerpiece of our journey.
With its ever-changing seasonal beauty, the Kushiro Wetlands enchant all who visit, cradling a rich tapestry of diverse flora, fauna, and insects living abundantly. It is also a place steeped in history, home to the Ainu people who have coexisted with nature for generations. Toro is a town where the very breath of nature is audible.
Your Winter Itinerary
Immerse yourself in a 3-day, 2-night journey through the peaceful winter landscapes of the Kushiro Wetlands. Enjoy the quiet rhythm of nature, with time to relax, sip coffee, get some work done, or finally open that long-awaited book.
Day 1
Day 1 Details
09:30
Arrival at the Airport
We recommend taking a morning flight from Tokyo, arriving at Tancho Kushiro Airport.
10:00
Departure from the Airport
Pick up your rental car and head towards Lake Toro at your own pace.
11:00
Smelt Fishing
Enjoy a unique smelt fishing experience on the frozen surface of Lake Toro.
14:00
Check-in
Settle in at the craft hostel, THE GEEK.
15:00
Sauna
Relax and rejuvenate in a sauna with breathtaking views of the Kushiro Wetlands.
17:00
Free Time
Spend your free time however you like—whether relaxing or exploring.
19:00
Premium Dinner
Enjoy a cheese fondue inspired by Ainu cultural philosophy and other special dishes
Day 2
Day 2 Details
06:30
SunriseCatch the first light of day
07:00
Early Morning Canoe
Paddle through the wetlands in the crisp morning air.
09:00
Breakfast
10:00
Free Time
Take some time to relax or explore.
12:00
Horse Retreat
Horseback riding & bonding, followed by a gourmet lunch at the ranch café.
15:30
Free Time
Unwind more at your own pace.
17:00
Hot Spring (Optional)
Relax at Pon Pon Yu, designed by Kengo Kuma & Kenya Hara.
19:30
Premium Dinner
A special feast featuring the best of East Hokkaido’s seasonal ingredients.
21:30
Night Walk on the Frozen Lake
Experience the silence of the icy lake and discover the land’s rich history.
Day 3
Day 3 Details
08:00
Breakfast
10:00
Check-out
Set off on your next adventure.
Meet Your Local Friend
You’ll be warmly welcomed by young entrepreneurs from across Hokkaido and Eastern Hokkaido, along with guides who share a deep love for nature.
Keisuke Tatsukawa
Craft Hostel "THE GEEK"
Founded on July 7, 2020, inspired by the beauty of this land. We've crafted experiences that showcase the wonders of the Kushiro Wetlands, inviting you to fully immerse yourself in the majestic nature we fell in love with.
Plan
Event Dates
Midwinter (January 10 – February 10, 2025).
Price
110,000 JPY. Tax Included.
Participants
Minimum 2 / Maximum 10
Important Points
This event takes place outdoors during Hokkaido’s winter, so please dress warmly.
As you’ll be walking on snowy paths, we recommend wearing waterproof winter boots suitable for cold weather.
Since we’ll be in a national park, please take all trash with you to help preserve the environment.
Access
THE GEEK, our reception, is located about a 45-minute drive from Kushiro Airport and a 5-minute walk from JR Tōro Station.We look forward to welcoming you—have a safe journey.
FAQ
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How long is the tour / total duration?
This program is a 3-day, 2-night experience. We recommend arriving on a morning flight into Kushiro Airport. After checking in at THE GEEK, you’ll start your adventure at Lake Toro around midday.
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Are there any cancellations or changes due to weather?
In case of severe weather, the itinerary may be adjusted, and some activities may be canceled.
For any canceled experiences, a refund will be provided for the corresponding costs. -
What is included in the price? (Meals, entrance fees, transportation, etc.)
The price includes accommodation, activity fees (as listed under "Experience"), and meals (2 breakfasts, 2 dinners, and 1 lunch). Transportation to Kushiro and Toro, beverages during your stay, snacks during free time, and souvenirs are not included. This itinerary has been carefully crafted with recommendations from local residents who know and love the area. There are also exclusive experiences available only to participants of this program.
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Can you provide more details about the meals included in the program?
▼Day 1 Dinner
A cheese fondue dinner course featuring Japan’s only domestically produced Gruyère and Emmental cheese from Tomita Farm in Hokkaido. The dipping ingredients are carefully selected, including premium Shibecha Wagyu beef and other local specialties.
Ingredients:Shibecha beef, sausages from Okoppe, Tokachi mushrooms, seasonal vegetables, and baguettes made from Hokkaido wheat.
▼Day 2 Lunch
Enjoy a special Local Gourmet Plate supervised by Ms. Nakamoto from Kurashi Koto Kina, a renowned cooking school in Shibecha. The meal features exclusive local dairy products, wild game dishes, and a rich beef stew made with Hoshizora no Kuro-ushi, a premium local Wagyu beef.
▼Day 2 Dinner
A bistro-style feast featuring the finest seasonal seafood, vegetables, and Hokkaido pork, with ingredients sourced mainly from the East Hokkaido region.
※ Menu items may change depending on ingredient availability, but we are committed to serving fresh, locally sourced dishes. Upon prior reservation, we can also accommodate Halal-friendly options in accordance with our Muslim-friendly policy. -
Are there any cancellation or change fees?
5 days before to the day of: 100% fee
10 to 5 days before: 50% fee
No-show: 100% fee -
What payment methods are available? (Credit card, bank transfer, cash, etc.)
As a general rule, we ask for online payment in advance via credit card. On-site, we accept various payment methods, including cash, credit cards, transportation IC cards, QR payments, ID, and QuickPay. Please make your reservation and payment through the "Book Now" link.
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What should I do if I don’t receive a reservation confirmation email?
If you do not receive a reservation confirmation email, please contact us at the following phone number or email address: (Phone: 015-487-2100 / Email: support@thegeek.jp). We apologize for the inconvenience.
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Are there any age restrictions or health requirements for participants?
As a general rule, we do not accept children under the age of 12. Additionally, please note that due to the extreme temperature fluctuations in the area, there is a risk of sudden blood pressure changes caused by heat shock.
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Can children or pets participate in this program?
As a general rule, children under the age of 12 are not allowed to participate. Additionally, pets are not permitted in this program.
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Do you have any recommendations on what to bring, as well as advice on footwear and clothing?
During the winter tour, temperatures can drop below -20°C. We recommend wearing warm down jackets and layering your clothing to easily adjust to changing temperatures. Please also bring winter essentials like gloves, hand warmers, and sturdy footwear suitable for walking in snow or muddy conditions. Staying comfortable and warm will help you fully enjoy the experience!
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Where is the meeting point, and what time should I arrive?
The meeting point is at THE GEEK. Please arrive by 11:00 AM on the first day of the schedule.
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Do you have any recommended transportation options?
We recommend traveling by car from the airport. THE GEEK is about a 45-minute drive from Kushiro Tancho Airport. If you don’t have a driver’s license or prefer not to drive, you can also reach us by taking a combination of bus and train. The main roads are well-maintained with snow removal, and rental cars are typically equipped with 4WD and snow tires, so you can drive safely. Just be cautious of speeding, sudden braking, or sharp turns on winter roads.
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What language will the guide use during the program?
The guide will be available in both Japanese and English. For other languages, we offer support using a translation device.
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Is insurance included in the tour?
Insurance is not included, so we recommend that you arrange your own coverage before participating.
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Can we ride the steam locomotive (SL)?
Tickets for the SL Fuyu-no-Shitsugen Train are not included in this experience. If you wish to ride this sightseeing train, please check the timetable on the JR Hokkaido website and purchase your tickets individually.
You can also enjoy a great view of the SL from the accommodation, making it a perfect spot for photography.