The Viral Hokkaido Beach: Where Snow, Sand, And Sea Meet

As fantasy is a driving force in Haruki Murakami’s work, the astonishing Hokkaido Beach in Western Japan is nothing short of a dream! It is the land where snow, sand, and sea meet.

It’s surreal when you see snow-covered sand dunes appearing before your eyes against the backdrop of the sea. Also, the blocks of ice or jewelry ice in the Tokachi River mouth attract a lot of visitors in the winter. 

And that’s not all! The beach has sandbars, volcanoes, coasts, and valleys. 

Further, located inside the San’in Kaigan Geopark (a UNESCO Global Geopark since 2010), Hokkaido beach Japan, sits pretty between the eastern Kyogamisaki Cape in Kyoto, and western Hakuto Kaigan Coast in Tottori. 

Do you also want to see Hokkaido beach snow and other unique attractions? You will find all the details in this Tour and Travel Blog. 

What Is The Best Time To Visit Hokkaido Beach? 

What Is The Best Time To Visit Hokkaido Beach

Hokkaido beach weather remains pleasant throughout the year. So, it’s a year-round destination. 

However, if you want to witness the golden moments where the sea, sand, and snow meet, you have to plan a trip from December to February. 

And let me spill the beans for you, Hokkaido Beach is not located in Hokkaido. Moreover, if you especially want to see the phenomenon of ice, snow, and sand meeting, you have to travel to the main island of Honshu.

Why Does Hokkaido Beach Have So Much Snow?

Why Does Hokkaido Beach Have So Much Snow

Hokkaido Beach has so much snow because strong wind blows and shift ice to the beach from late January to February. 

This ice comes from the frozen chunks of freshwater from the Amur River. Further, during January and February, you will find icebergs in the water and on the beach.

How To Reach Hokkaido Beach From Tokyo?

How To Reach Hokkaido Beach From Tokyo

The distance between Tokyo and San’in Kaigan Geopark, the home of Hokkaido Beach, is around 657 km. 

The best way to reach San’in Kaigan Geopark from Tokyo is by taking a bullet train. 

  • Take a bullet train from the Tokaido Shinkansen to Shin-Osaka Station. It will take around 2 hours and 30 minutes. 
  • Then, travel on the Super Hakuto limited express train for 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach Tottori Station.
  • Finally, you can take a bus from the Tottori Station to Hokkaido Beach.

However, if you want to really enjoy the scene of ice, sand, and sea meeting, you have to take a cruise ride from Monbetsu, Rausu, and Abashiri. 

Everything will appear before your eyes as an impossible dream as you see the Hokkaido Beach from the shore or an icebreaker. 

Do you want some more adventure while exploring the beautiful Hokkaido Beach? You can go for a guided ice walk from Shiretoko. 

And as you walk toward the beach, you will meet the most fascinating wildlife of the area. The sea eagles and white-tailed eagles, especially, will cross your path many a time. 

You will see a real-life example of how the food chain in nature works as these birds prey on fish before your eyes. 

Having said that, you will have to wear a dry suit and snowshoes for the walk. You will rent snowshoes from the Shiretoko National Park Nature Center. 

Shiretoko National Park Nature Center: A UNESCO World Heritage Site On Your Way To Hokkaido Beach

Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national park, is a favorite of hikers. You can go for a hike through the Furepe Waterfall Trail. 

The trail passes through a forest, and it opens in a meadow looked over by Mount Io, Mount Rausu, and Mount Tenchosan. 

Finally, the trail ends with a fascinating cliff-side view of Furepe Waterfall. It looks the most fascinating during the winter season. 

Due to extreme cold temperatures, the water of the waterfall gets transformed into blueish ice. 

Exploring San’in Kaigan Geopark: Home To The Hokkaido Beach

San’in Kaigan Geopark is a celebration of the Earth’s heritage. Stretching over 245,844 hectares, this Geopark is also home to the Genbudo Cave, “known as the place where the term of Quaternary geomagnetic reversal polarity was first proposed with basalt.

**“The San’in Kaigan UNESCO Global Geopark is home to a diversity of geological sites related to the formation of the Sea of Japan, including granite outcrops formed when Japan was part of the Asian continent (70 million years ago), as well as sedimentary and volcanic rocks accumulated when Japan rifted away from Asia (25 to 15 million years ago) to form the Sea of Japan, a geological process still on-going today.”**
– UNESCO

Further, due to the unique geological features, the park is also home to diverse flora and fauna. You will find rare plant species such as Ciconia boyciana, Pseudolysimachion ornatum, and Ranunculus nipponicus here. 

Moreover, you will be able to see many marine animals and avian creatures in the park. During the winter season, especially, you will spot marine animals such as:

  • Steller sea lions
  • Sea eagles
  • Seals

The Steller sea lions come here from the Kuril Islands in the south as the ice starts drifting toward the Hokkaido Beach. 

Again, irrespective of the season of your visit, you will meet Blakiston’s fish owl in San’in Kaigan Geopark. It is an endangered species. 

In addition, the nearby mountains here have some of the biggest mammals in Japan. You will find here “Ezo red foxes,” “Ussuri brown bears,” and “Ezo silka deer.”

Hokkaido Beach Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the frequently asked questions and their answers about Hokkaido Beach. 

Does Hokkaido Have A Beach?

Yes, Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, has many beaches. The beaches and coastlines along the Sea of Japan, the Pacific Ocean, and the Sea of Okhotsk show diversity in their characters.
Nevertheless, some popular beaches in Hokkaido are Shimamui Beach, Shiretoko Beach, Otsu Beach, and Otaru Dream Beach. 

Why Is Hokkaido So Famous?

Hokkaido is famous in the world for its milk and dairy products. It is also the land of inspiration behind many of Haruki Murakami’s work. 
Further, Hokkaido has a vibrant food scene with specialties such as Sapporo ramen and crab and scallop delicacies. 
Also, it has geological wonders such as Mount Asah volcano in the Daisetsuzan National Park and geothermal spots such as Noboribetsu Onsen. 

Where Is The Beach Where Snow, Sand, And Sea Meet?

Hokkaido Beach is the place where snow, sand, and sea meet. It is located in western Japan and it stretches between the eastern Kyogamisaki Cape in Kyoto, and the western Hakuto Kaigan Coast in Tottori. 


Share on Social Media

Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

title-img Related

READ MORE Florence

Travel To Florence: What To Do In The Evenings In The City

BY  Ankita Mar 25, 2024

If you're finally on vacation in Florence, you'll definitely want to know how to enjoy your trip at night as well. Here in the evening, it is mostly the piazzas, clubs, and restaurants that come alive, all perfect places to discover another face of the city. 5 Things To Do In The Evenings While Travel To Florence Florence is a city that deserves to be experienced even when the sun goes down. While during the day it is interesting to wander around visiting monuments and attractions, in the evening, it is more pleasant to slow down and enjoy its beauty at a leisurely pace. Moving well in advance and choosing the best Florence hotel deals will give you the chance to find the most convenient lodging in the center, so you can move around in comfort and with ease, even in the evening. That said, here are 5 things to do in Florence as the sun goes down. Treating Yourself To A Tuscan Dinner: Travel To Florence Top Attraction  You can't say you've been to Florence without treating yourself at least once to a delicious dinner in full Tuscan style. Take advantage of your vacation to also explore the food and wine side of this city and choose one of the many restaurants where you can try typical local appetizers, first courses, main courses, and desserts. Among the traditional dishes, you are sure to find the famous Florentine steak, lampredotto, ribollita, tripe, schiacciata, and delicious Santucci. Accompany your dinner with an excellent glass of local wine. At the end of your meal, you can also end the evening with a delicious Italian gelato, which you can try at one of the many gelato shops dotting the center. Related: Best Places To Visit In Italy Taking A Walk Along The Arno River After Dinner Walking around without following a specific itinerary is one of the best experiences to have in the evening in Florence, especially after dinner when there are less people around. At this time of day, the city is truly magical and can show you another aspect of its beauty. It is a must for your travel to Florence.  One of the most striking points to reach is Ponte Vecchio, from which you can admire the Arno and the surrounding landscape. The famous jewelry stores will surely be closed, but this makes the bridge the main protagonist of the scene. You can take advantage of the moment to take memorable souvenir photos and capture the view from a different perspective. Travel To Florence And Admie The Duomo Without Crowds One of the best times to reach Piazza del Duomo is definitely in the evening. After sunset, the square begins to empty out, and admiring the Duomo in all its magnificence becomes even more impressive. You can also decide to reach the square in time for the sunset: admiring it from the top of the Dome or from Giotto's Bell Tower is impressive. Chilling Out In Piazza Della Signoria Piazza della Signoria is one of the most beautiful squares in the evening. Located a stone's throw away from the Uffizi Gallery, it is a great place to spend a few hours, if only to sit and admire the many wonders it houses. In fact, it is one of the city's main squares, home to the seat of civic power and the copy of the David. It is also one of the most popular gathering spots for tourists because of its elegant outdoor cafes and monuments. Visit The Academy Gallery With An Evening Tour Finally, it might be a good idea to take an evening tour of the Accademia Gallery so you can see the original statue of Michelangelo's David. In fact, there are guided tours that also start in the late afternoon, around 5 p.m., so you can avoid the crowds that invade the museum during daylight hours. There are also other attractions that give you the opportunity to join tours like this, such as the Uffizi Gallery or Palazzo Vecchio. Things To Know About Florence When planning to visit Florence during your holidays, you must have an idea of the evening life and the whole thing. This particular section provides a little discussion regarding Florence as a city. Cost Of Living If you wish to stay there for a week, the hotels will do it, but if you intend to stay longer, you must know the market prices. The groceries, restaurants, and transport prices are quite affordable in Florene compared to other major European cities. However, leisure activities can be quite costly. Therefore, you must take additional precautions and prepare for the stay budget there. The cost of renting the flats bank is in the area where you want to live. You can even find rent as low as  900 Euros in San Nicolo! Shopping While You Travel To Florence To Save Money Don’t get disheartened about finding the price of food products in Florence. Supermarkets like COOP and SISA are great places to shop for your daily requirements, there. There, you can find farmers’ markets in Florence. In the local shops, you will be able to find good deals for the day. It can give you good savings. You can easily enjoy bulk shopping and get cheaper deals compared to supermarkets.  What Are The Best Neighborhoods For Expats In Florence? When you intend to stay for a few days in Florence, you definitely understand the local culture. Living in the safest and best neighborhood will be the best choice. The district is on the south side of the Arno River. It is known for its massive art galleries, restaurants, and antique shops. These are the places where you find yourself close to the culture of Florence.  Mention needs to be made of the Duomo neighborhood. This is the place for those fascinated with old things and historic neighborhoods. The place is located right in the heart of the city. Moreover, it has become one of the prime spots for tourists. Apart from them, you have the San Marco neighborhood, which has a lot of similar characters.  Read Also: 10 Facts That Will Make You Fall In Love With Italy Unlocking The Secrets: Key Ingredients In Italian Cuisine Which Is The Best Time To Visit Auli? – Travel Guide

READ MORE Travel Companion With PD & Qc Technology

Your Ultimate Travel Companion With PD & Qc Technology

BY  Abdul Aziz Feb 20, 2024

Are you an avid traveler, always on the go but constantly facing the struggle of charging your devices in different countries? Get rid of those annoying times and welcome smooth connections with the Ceptics 70W World International Travel Plug Adapter - Pd & QC! This handy travel buddy makes sure you can use your devices wherever you go without any trouble. Get set for a stress-free trip as we check out all the great things about this amazing adapter - let's take a closer look! GaN Technology powers the Ceptics 70W world travel adapter for 70W of power in the most compact all-in-one Adapter. Charge 6 devices at once with one universal outlet, 2 USB & 2x USB-C + 1 70W USB-C GaN (1 W/ power delivery & quick Charge 3.0) - Charges your laptop FAST and is perfect for travels. This adapter can be used worldwide, which makes it the perfect companion for globetrotters. The AC socket has a maximum output of 70 watts, which makes it suitable for small appliances such as laptops or hairdryers. Also, you can enjoy fast charging for your devices on-the-go with Quick Charge (QC) technology and Power Delivery (PD) support. Let's explore the features and Specifications of this world international travel plug adapter. Why Is A Ceptics 70w Plug Adapter Essential For International Travelers? There are over 15 different types of electrical outlets used globally. Some countries even have multiple standards ranging from 100 Volts to 240 Volts. Every country has its own unique plug shape and voltage requirements that make it difficult for travelers to use their electronic devices without a proper adapter. This is where the Ceptics 70W World International Travel Plug Adapter comes into play. It is suitable for devices that support dual voltage or worldwide voltage with an input range of 100-240V. If your device doesn't match the voltage of the destination country, you might require a voltage converter of the right size. You can enjoy your travels without worrying about the technicalities of electrical outlets and voltage standards with Ceptics 70W World International Travel Plug Adapter - PD & QC. How Does The PD & QC Technology Work? The PD & QC (Power Delivery and Quick Charge) technology used in Ceptics 70W World International Travel Plug Adapter can provide high-speed charging while simultaneously protecting your device from overcharging or overheating. This ensures that your devices are charged quickly but also safely. The adapter will automatically detect if your device supports PD & QC technology and adjust the power output accordingly. Specifications Of Ceptics 70w World International Travel Plug Adapter: Charge 7 Devices At Once 1 universal outlet: Accepts 2-prong or 3-prong plugs from all countries except South Africa (Type M) 2 USB-A Ports: For smartphones, tablets, iPhones, iPads, and other USB devices that support up to 2.4A 2 USB-C Type: 1 W/ power delivery & quick Charge 3.0 70W USB-C GaN: Fast charge up to 70W to PD or QC-enabled USB devices The Ceptics 70W World International Travel Plug Adapter has a special GaN 3.0 C-type port that uses advanced technology for super-fast charging. This means your devices will charge quickly. This adapter is great for people who need a reliable and fast way to charge their devices while traveling. 3 Slide-out Plugs This wall charger is compatible with Types I, C, G, and A outlets commonly found in countries like Australia, Europe, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This means that you can rest assured that you'll be able to charge your devices easily with the Ceptics adapter no matter where your travels take you. Features Of Ceptics 70w Plug Adapter The Ceptics 70W World International Travel Plug Adapter is feature-packed. This high-quality adapter offers convenience, safety, and versatility for all your charging needs while traveling. Staying connected on your adventures has been easier with its compact size and fast-charging capabilities. Let's explore the features of the Ceptics 70W World International Travel Plug Adapter. 1. Compatibility One of the key features of this adapter is its compatibility with outlets in over 150 countries worldwide. It comes with four different plug types to be able to connect in multiple countries. This reduces the need to carry multiple adapters or worry about finding the right one during your travels. Read Also: Experience Canada Like A Local: Insider Tips You Can’t Miss 2. Fast Charging The Ceptics 70W adapter comes with smart voltage technology that offers fast charging capabilities with both PD and QC. This means you can charge your devices up to 50% faster than traditional chargers which makes it extremely convenient for those busy moments. This adapter is also fixed up with a built-in smart IC chip that detects the maximum power needed for your device and adjusts accordingly. 3. Safety Safety is always a first priority when it comes to electronic devices when traveling. The Ceptics 70W adapter has been rigorously tested and certified by CE, FCC & RoHS standards and provides peace of mind knowing that your devices are protected from surges and spikes in voltage. Surge Protection Overcurrent Protection Overload Protection Include Extra 8A Fuse Another amazing feature of the Ceptics 70W World International Travel Plug Adapter is that it comes with an extra 8A fuse. This fuse adds an extra layer of protection to the device and makes it more reliable and safer to use during your travels. 4. Compact And Portable Design Another notable feature of this travel plug adapter is its compact design. Just 2 inches in height and weighing in at only 4 ounces (LxWxH: 2 x 2 x 3 inches), it takes up little space in your luggage or backpack. Its strong construction also makes it suitable for all types of travel from trips to business travels. Conclusion The Ceptics 70W World International Travel Plug Adapter is a fantastic choice for people who travel a lot. It uses advanced GaN technology and has fast charging with PD & QC 3.0. You can charge multiple devices at the same time with its multiple USB ports. It works in different countries with various outlet types like Type I, C, G, and A, and it handles both 110V and 220V power. Also, it comes with plugs for EU, Euro, US and UK outlets. This adapter is small, easy to carry, and ensures you can charge your devices quickly and easily anywhere in the world. Choose the Ceptics 70W adapter for a smart and reliable solution to your charging needs while traveling. Elevate your travel experience with the Ceptics 70W Travel Adapter – your global charging companion. Don’t forget to buy and power up your adventures effortlessly with the Ceptics 70W World International Travel Plug Adapter with PD & QC. Read Also: Winter Camping In Canada: Tips For Cold-Weather Adventures Guide To Exploring Whistler, Canada For A Memorable Getaway How To Enjoy Your Journey After You Book Flight Tickets From Canada To India?

READ MORE Plan A Getaway To Sevierville

8 Great Reasons To Plan A Getaway To Sevierville

BY  Abdul Aziz Mar 30, 2023

Sevierville, Tennessee, is a charming city in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. With its breathtaking natural scenery, rich history, and abundance of outdoor activities, it's no wonder that Sevierville is a popular destination for travelers worldwide. Whether you're looking to unwind in a peaceful mountain setting, explore the great outdoors, or indulge in retail therapy, Sevierville has plenty to offer. In this blog post, we'll explore why Sevierville should be at the top of your list for your next getaway. So whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or a shopaholic, read on to discover why Sevierville is the perfect destination for you. Walking In The Smokies The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has hundreds of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks. As you explore the park, you'll be surrounded by stunning scenery, including cascading waterfalls, old-growth forests, and panoramic views of the mountains. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a stroll, walking in the Smokies is a great way to connect with nature and create unforgettable memories. And with Sevierville's convenient location at the entrance to the park, it's the perfect base for your hiking adventure in the Smoky Mountains. Where To Stay A wide variety of lodging options are available, including cabins in Sevierville TN, which offer a unique and cozy experience nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains. Visitors can choose from luxurious options with amenities such as hot tubs, fireplaces, game rooms, or more rustic cabins with breathtaking views of the mountains. Additionally, nearby Gatlinburg offers a variety of dining options to explore. Family Fun With its natural beauty, amusement parks, and family-friendly attractions, Sevierville is a great place to visit with kids of all ages. One of the top family-friendly destinations in Sevierville is Dollywood, an amusement park with rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. From roller coasters and water rides to live entertainment and special events, Dollywood has it in the family to enjoy. Kids will love the chance to meet their favorite characters from the park's shows, while adults will appreciate the park's stunning scenery and wide range of dining options. Another tremendous family-friendly attraction in Sevierville is the Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo. This indoor/outdoor zoo features many exotic animals worldwide, including reptiles, birds, and mammals. Kids will love getting up close and personal with animals like lemurs, macaws, and sloths and learning about conservation efforts to protect these species. For indoor family fun, Sevierville has a variety of options as well. The NASCAR SpeedPark is a go-kart and amusement park with mini-golf, bumper boats, and a climbing wall. At the same time, the Sevier Air Trampoline and Ninja Warrior Park are great places to burn off energy with activities like trampolining, dodgeball, and obstacle courses. Cove Mountain Laurel Falls Shuttle Hike Cove Mountain Laurel Falls is a stunning waterfall accessible via a shuttle hike that is both fun and challenging. The shuttle will take you to the trailhead, where you'll begin your hike through lush forests and across babbling streams. Along the way, you'll encounter various wildlife and plant life, including rare wildflowers and old-growth trees. As you make your way to the falls, the scenery becomes more and more dramatic, culminating in the stunning sight of Cove Mountain Laurel Falls itself. This 60-foot waterfall is surrounded by towering cliffs and dense foliage, creating a truly magical atmosphere. Golf Golf is a popular activity in Sevierville, with several top-rated courses in the area, making it an ideal destination for golf enthusiasts. The Sevierville Golf Club and the Gatlinburg Golf Course are just examples of the many options available to visitors. Additionally, March Madness, a unique golf event hosted by LaFlare Golf, takes place in Sevierville annually. This event features a mix of golf and basketball, with players competing in both sports to win prizes. Whether you're a serious golfer or just looking to have fun on the course, Sevierville offers something for everyone. Ziplining With its beautiful mountainous terrain and lush greenery, Sevierville is the perfect place to experience the rush of zipping through the air at high speeds. Several zipline adventures are available in Sevierville, each offering a unique and exciting experience such as: Adventure Park at Five Oaks, features seven ziplines up to 2,000 feet long, a sky bridge, and a tree canopy tour. Legacy Mountain Ziplines, offers spectacular views of the Smoky Mountains and six ziplines spanning over four miles. Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park offers the fastest, highest, and longest zipline in Tennessee for those looking for an extra adrenaline rush. No matter which adventure you choose, ziplining in Sevierville will be an unforgettable experience. Shopping Home to Tanger Outlets, Sevierville offers over 100 stores featuring designer brands at discounted prices. From clothing to accessories to home décor, shoppers can find everything they need in one convenient location. But that's not all – Sevierville also boasts several unique shopping destinations, such as: The Apple Barn Village features various shops selling locally-made products, including apple cider, jams, and crafts. The Smoky Mountain Knife Works is another popular shopping destination, offering a vast selection of knives and outdoor gear. And for those interested in antiques and collectibles, the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community offers over 100 shops featuring handmade items from local artisans. Water Activities Sevierville is situated in a location surrounded by rivers and lakes, making it an ideal spot for kayaking, fishing, and other water sports in popular areas such as: Douglas Lake is a popular destination for boating and fishing, with over 30,000 acres of water and various fish species such as bass, catfish, and crappie. Visitors can rent boats or bring their own to explore the lake's many coves and inlets. The French Broad River is another popular spot for kayaking and canoeing, with various options for different skill levels. Thrill-seekers may also enjoy white-water rafting on the Pigeon River, which offers rapids ranging from Class I to IV. For a more relaxing experience, visitors can take a leisurely float down the Little Pigeon River in a tube or on a raft. Conclusion Sevierville is an exceptional travel destination offering visitors diverse experiences that will leave lasting memories. From its rich history and cultural attractions to its picturesque landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures, Sevierville has everything to enjoy. Whether seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life or an action-packed getaway filled with adventure, Sevierville is the perfect place to unwind, relax, and recharge. So, plan your next vacation to Sevierville and get ready to experience all the beauty and excitement this fantastic destination offers! Read More: 10 Best Nude Beaches In The World A Guide To National Parks In Virginia – Latest Guide What To Look For When Purchasing A Beach Tent For Vacation