#4

A Journey to Capture Snowy Nature through Snow Hiking: A Healing Experience Yasuyoshi Otaki
Photographer and Owner, foto-f8

As the year drew to a close in late December, I decided to take my new mirrorless camera—one I was still getting used to—and embark on a snow hiking trip to capture the majestic beauty of snowy landscapes. While the snow in the Sapporo area was still sparse, the Iwamizawa area was buried under a heavy blanket of it. So, I thought, why not head north?
Ah, and since I’d worked hard all year, why not treat myself to a night at an onsen hotel and spend some time taking photos while I’m at it? I chose Hotel Taisetsu ONSEN & CANYON RESORT on the recommendation of a friend. The hotel features multiple hot springs, and the room named Yukihana even comes with a private indoor bath. It sounded like the perfect reward for myself!
Sounkyo Onsen, the area where the hotel is located, brought back memories of a school trip I took in middle school. With a mix of nostalgia and excitement, I hastily planned my trip and set off, driving from Sapporo toward Sounkyo.

Before checking in, I visited a must-see scenic spot: Ginga-Ryusei Waterfalls. It was my first time seeing these waterfalls in winter. The frigid air that day had me layering up before I took out my camera.
The waterfalls were completely frozen, resembling a playground for ice climbers. For a brief moment, the clouds parted, revealing a clear blue sky—such incredible luck!
The rugged mountain peaks looked almost like something out of Europe (though I’ve never been there).
I strapped on my skis and enjoyed a light walk along the river. The biting cold was intense but refreshing at the same time.
On top of that, the sound of the flowing water was incredibly soothing.

Next, I drove to Lake Taisetsu.
True to its reputation, the lake was vast and majestic. The hazy outlines of distant mountains added to its beauty.

Feeling the chill creep in, I decided to head to the hotel. On the way, I noticed a sign for Oobako, a gorge nearby. I couldn’t resist stopping by. The contrast between the snow and the columnar joints of the rock formations took my breath away. It was so awe-inspiring that I almost felt a divine presence—or maybe it was just the cold!

At the hotel, I checked in and grabbed a complimentary coffee from the book corner, named The Book Box of A Beginning to Your Journey, in the lounge near the lobby. The hot coffee warmed my chilled body instantly.

My room had a massage chair—what a treat! I immediately sat down, turned it on, and let it work its magic. The gentle sound of water from the private bath added to the relaxing atmosphere, and before I knew it, I had dozed off. Blissful!
As I reached for the yukata provided, I discovered a pair of pajamas underneath. This thoughtful touch was perfect for someone like me, who always ends up with a disheveled yukata by morning. I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this attention to detail.

The European-style grand bath, Chinita no Yu, was next on my list. On the way, I found a cozy rest area called Peace Library. I lounged in a hammock, even picked up a picture book, and felt yet another wave of relaxation.
It made me wonder if my days had been really that tough, as I found myself constantly soothed by such a wonderful time and space.

I also explored the hotel’s basement, which houses dining options and a display of retro items like a black rotary phone and an old camera. Nostalgia at its finest!

Dinner was at the buffet-style restaurant, Hinna no Mori. With a large draft beer in hand, I indulged in all my favorite dishes. The sheer variety of food was astonishing, and everything tasted amazing. Before I knew it, I was full and happy. This place is a must-visit for anyone who loves good food!

I ended my day by soaking in two of the large baths before retreating to my room’s private bath. Afterward, a complimentary ice-cold beer from the fridge hit the spot. Free beer? Now that’s refreshing in every sense of the word!

The next morning, I started my day with a visit to Chinita no Yu, where the slightly hotter water helped wake me up. If the weather had been clear, the morning sun streaming through the stained-glass windows would have been lovely to see.
After a delicious breakfast, I glanced out the window while getting ready and noticed preparations for the Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival.

The sight reminded me of a few years back when I visited the festival for work. It was freezing but absolutely stunning. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to stay overnight then, which made this trip feel all the more special.

After checking out, I returned to the Oobako area for a snow hike along a forest trail. The sound of the river, the chirping birds, and the towering columnar joints created an idyllic setting. Initially, I followed someone’s snowshoe tracks, but soon I found myself in untouched, pristine snow. It felt amazing to glide along on my skis.
I found myself wishing for a hot coffee to complete the experience. Next time, I’ll make sure to bring a portable burner and a percolator. I suppose I was too focused on the onsen this time to plan for that!

This leisurely 5km round-trip snow hike was the perfect way to wrap up my journey. Of course, I ended up with sore muscles the next day—and still hadn’t gotten used to my new mirrorless camera—but it was all worth it.