photography – EZRAPADES.COM

April 27, 2025April 28, 2025

Of Hell Valleys, Snow Sports, and Volcanoes

In addition to the tour of Hokkaido’s central region the other day, we were also able to book another tour through Klook. This included a tour to Hokkaido’s southern area, which includes the cities of Chitose and Noboribetsu and the and the town of Sobetsu. We were eager to seize this opportunity, as we had read in various blogs and watched several travel videos highlighting the stunning winter scenery in these parts of Hokkaido. Furthermore, we were excited about the prospect of riding snowmobiles for the first time!

The day started as usual. We took the train to Odori Station and eagerly waited for our tour bus at its exit 31. The bus came in time and this time, it’s a smaller bus compared to the one that we rode in Biei. The bus accommodated probably just 15 of us.

The first stop was Jigokudani, or “Hell Valley,” located in Noboribetsu, an onsen city in Hokkaido. Noboribetsu is known for its wide range of hot springs, from standard to premier resorts. The area is volcanic, similar to much of Hokkaido’s landscape. As you approach the parking lot, you can immediately detect a sulfuric odor in the air. The otherworldly scene of bleached rocks, steaming pools, and the strong smell creates a hellish landscape that evokes the feeling of demons surfacing from the earth. It’s truly another landscape worth capturing.

The next stop was the Usuzan Ropeway in Sobetsu, which is about 30 minutes away from Jigokudani. The entire Mt. Usu complex is volcanic. The ropeway takes you from a platform in the parking lot up to approximately 500 meters above sea level, bringing you close to the crater of the active Mt. Usu. At the summit, you can hike another 100 meters to reach the observatory. Winters in this area can be quite harsh, so it’s essential to equip yourself properly. The observatory features an open space similar to a park, providing a full 360-degree view of the winter landscapes from the top of the hill. This includes a picturesque view of the nearby Lake Toya, Showa Shinzan, and the crater of Mt. Usu itself, which is adorned with puffs of steam and smoke.

We hiked back to the ropeway station, which would take us back to the parking lot. There, we found a souvenir shop and an opportunity to take a quick tour of the park’s bear ranch. Eager to see the bears, we didn’t miss out on the chance to take a quick tour. Unfortunately, many of the bears hibernate during the winter, so a lot of them were not present. However, we were fortunate enough to see some black bears and a few wild crows.

We made a pleasant detour to Lake Hill Farm, a charming shop that showcases a delightful range of locally-produced dairy products, including freshly prepared soft-serve ice cream, butters, milk jams, and more. We seized the opportunity to taste Hokkaido’s renowned dairy offerings, and we were very satisfied with our experience. Soft-serves in winter? Why not?

Our final destination was the snowmobile track in Sobetsu, just about 15 minutes away from the Lake Hill Farm. The tour offers an optional ride as part of the tour. For those interested in riding in tandem, the fee is JPY 12,000 per snowmobile, while individual riders can enjoy the experience for JPY 14,000. All necessary safety gear is provided, and participants can look forward to an exciting hour-long ride along the scenic and icy tracks of Sobetsu, with a brief break midway.

As it was our first experience with snowmobiling, we initially felt a bit apprehensive, but we quickly grew more comfortable. It’s important to note that in adherence to the park’s safety policies, taking photos or videos while riding is not permitted. However, guests are welcome to capture moments during the break when the snowmobiles are parked, which occurs about halfway through the ride. Overall, it was a truly rewarding experience, and we highly recommend it!

Our tour, filled with unforgettable and first-time moments, had to come to an end. The experiences we shared and the memories we created will surely remain with us for the rest of our lives.

As we made the two-hour bus ride back to our hotel, the streets of Sapporo unfolded before us. Finally, we approached Odori Station with the view of Sapporo’s iconic TV Tower standing tall and vibrant against the night sky.

R.A.

April 15, 2025April 15, 2025

A Glimpse of Hokkaido’s Central Region

During our winter trip to Hokkaido, Ayacchan successfully booked two guided tours through Klook that took us to various locations across the island. The first tour lasted the entire day and included visits to Asahikawa, Biei, and Furano. The second tour featured Noboribetsu‘s “Hell Valley,” Mount Usu (Usuzan), Lake Toya, Lake Hill Farm, and an hour-long snowmobile ride on a winter-only track in town.

Let us first take you on the first tour: Asahikawa, Biei, and Furano.

We began our day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, we made our way to Exit 31 of Odori Station, where tour buses were set to meet their respective groups. Arriving promptly at 8 AM, we eagerly awaited our tour bus, surrounded by fellow travelers who were also waiting for theirs, as snow continued to fall around us.

The tour was conducted in English and Mandarin, catering to a group of Chinese, Indonesian, and Singaporean tourists. We set off from Odori Station in Sapporo, which took us to our first destination, Asahikawa. The scenic drive lasted approximately two hours, offering glimpses of the breathtaking winter landscapes and picturesque countryside that Japan is renowned for.

Asahikawa's Asahiyama Zoo

Before arriving at Asahikawa Zoo, our tour guide provided important guidelines about what to do and avoid during our visit. We were also informed about our time limit and the key attractions we shouldn’t miss, including the famous Penguin Parade.

We spent approximately two hours exploring the zoo and seeing the various animals. During our visit, we saw black bears, polar bears, wolves, various birds, reptiles, and monkeys. However, the highlight of the day was the main event: the Penguin Parade.

After the parade, we took our time to explore and take pictures. Once we finished, we returned to the bus just in time. Our next stop was Biei’s “Christmas Tree.”

Biei's "Christmas Tree"

Biei’s Christmas Tree is one of Hokkaido’s Six Unique Trees. It is a solitary Tohi spruce that draws tourists with its picturesque appearance, standing alone, proudly on a blanket of snow. During our visit, we were given just a few minutes to take in the beautiful sight.

The snow-covered landscapes were surreal, blanketing the ground in a pristine layer of white that mirrored the overcast, gray skies above. The solitary tree stood proudly against the winter backdrop. The stillness of the scene created a serene atmosphere. Many believe that winter is the best time to photograph the tree, as the beauty of the snow fields contrasting the tree is simply mesmerizing.

The Shirogane Blue Pond

Our next stop was Shirogane Blue Pond, located in Biei. This man-made pond was created due to the work done on the Biei River. The striking blue color is thought to be due to aluminum hydroxide in the water, which originated from the 1988 eruption of the nearby Mount Tokachi. Unfortunately, the area is covered in a thick blanket of snow during the winter, transforming the supposedly Blue Pond into a Frozen White Pond. Instead of exploring the icy scenery, we decided to visit a nearby shop to buy blue soft-serve ice cream, which was perfect to enjoy in the cold weather surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

The Shirahige Waterfalls

Our next stop was the Shirahige Waterfalls in the Shirogane Onsen area of Biei, Hokkaido. The falls are formed by a cluster of groundwater streams that gush out from the cliffside into the stream below. The park features a bridge that allows visitors to walk and take in the area’s spectacular natural beauty. Below runs the Biei River, which is often referred to as the “Blue River” because of its striking deep cobalt blue hue. Among all the places we visited that day, Shirahige Waterfalls was the most breathtaking. It felt like stepping into a living postcard.

Furano's Herb Hill

Our tour came to an end at Herb Hill in Furano. Here, visitors can explore an exquisite range of lavender products, from soothing oils to lotions and scents. There were also various dairy products since Hokkaido is well known for its dairy farms. Prices range from affordable to luxury. Inside the shop were also food stalls, an ice cream station, and a soup kitchen serving comforting bowls of warmth.

After a delightful day in Asahikawa, Biei, and Furano, it was time to head back to Sapporo. The journey took approximately two hours, offering us a chance to reflect on the beautiful landscapes we had just experienced. We arrived at Odori Station around 7 PM, boarding the train back to our hotel near the lively Susukino district. On our way home, we stumbled upon these lovely snow lanterns at the nearby Nakajima-koen. We didn’t waste the immortalize the moment and took photos around before finally walking back to our hotel.

Hokkaido’s winters are truly captivating. The snow-covered scenery is reminiscent of a scene straight out of a postcard or a cinematic masterpiece. Each moment feels magical as we take in the stunning nature that surrounds us.

April 9, 2025April 9, 2025

Memories of Otaru

We took a late morning train from JR Sapporo Station to Otaru Station, arriving just in time for lunch. To fully maximize the daylight, we decided to skip lunch. In winter, the sun sets in Hokkaido as early as 4 PM, and many attractions, including the Otaru Aquarium, close earlier because of this limited daylight. So, after disembarking from the train, we immediately caught a bus to transport us to the Otaru Aquarium, eager to make the most of our visit.

The bus ride from Otaru Station to Otaru Aquarium took us approximately 20 minutes. Buses returning to Sapporo Station run every hour until sunset. Upon disembarking, we were immediately met with a powerful blizzard. The Otaru Aquarium proudly sits atop a hill to the northwest of Otaru City. It’s well-known that this area experiences winter blizzards frequently.

I remember jokingly telling Ayacchan that our winter trip in Hokkaido wouldn’t be complete without experiencing a blizzard.

Now, there’s your blizzard, Rei-san.

Ayacchan almost gave up. “Let’s just turn back and catch the next bus back to Otaru Station,” she said as we tried to shelter at a nearby bus stop.

“Let’s just wait for a moment. It will be over soon, I promise.” I reassured.

After a while, the blizzard had not stopped. It weakened, sure, but it had not stopped. The people we were with at the bus stop started to climb up the hill toward the aquarium’s entrance.

“Let’s go. Just be careful. I’ll be right behind you.” I told her.

We faced the blizzard head-on and climbed the hill for the next ten minutes. Once we arrived, we immediately went to the booth to purchase our tickets. We stepped inside, where an artificial fireplace warmly greeted us. We immediately nestled next to it, soaking in the warmth and comfort.

“Ahhhh. Kimochi!” (“Ahhh. It feels good!”) we said in unison.

We entered the aquarium where winter animals were waiting for us. Luckily, we arrived just in time for the Penguin Walk and the Dolphin show. (You may check out the Otaru Aquarium website for the show schedules)

The penguins walked gracefully in front of the crowd as if they were determined to entertain every human eye watching them. Their elegant movements were captivating, drawing everyone’s attention just a few centimeters away from where the audience stood.

The dolphins never failed to amaze us. They are known for their intelligence and ability to perform complex cognitive tasks, such as problem-solving, using tools, and engaging in intricate social interactions. All of these skills were showcased by these dolphins at the Otaru Aquarium. It’s a show that you must see!

We decided to take a cab back to the city, as we didn’t want to waste time waiting more than half an hour for the next bus. This decision allowed us to make the most of the remaining daylight since it was nearly 4 PM. The ride took about 15 minutes and cost us approximately 2,500 JPY. It’s worth noting that cabs in Hokkaido are much more affordable compared to those in Tokyo, and Osaka.

As we made our way north from Otaru Station, remnants of the blizzard still lingered around us. We took a moment to warm up inside a mall before continuing our walk. The stroll lasted about ten minutes and covered roughly five blocks. Ultimately, we arrived at Otaru’s most popular attraction: the Otaru Canal. This iconic waterway, known for its beautifully preserved warehouses and historical significance, has become a must-see destination for both visitors and locals.

At first, I found myself wondering, “What makes a canal so special that it attracts so many visitors?” But when I finally saw it with my own eyes, I understood why it was a must-see. The scene was nothing short of enchanting, reminiscent of a scene from a movie. The area was lined with vintage lamp posts, casting a warm, romantic glow across the water, while vibrant snow lanterns flickered alongside in the gentle breeze, a sign of the ongoing Otaru Light Festival.

There was an option to take a scenic boat cruise along the Canal for approximately 1,000 JPY per person. Unfortunately, due to the heavy snowfall during our visit, the service was suspended. Undeterred, we decided to explore the canal on foot. Strolling along the frozen banks, we marveled at the charming historical buildings lining the waterway and the flickering beauty of the snow lanterns. It turned out to be an unforgettable experience, allowing us to delve into the winter atmosphere at our own pace.

Otaru is truly beautiful during the winter months, with its streets blanketed in snow and twinkling lights illuminating the night. Ayacchan and I made a pact to revisit this beautiful city and explore its charm in different seasons, eager to see it in full bloom during spring, bask in the vibrant colors of autumn, and enjoy the warm days of summer. We can’t wait to experience everything Otaru has to offer throughout the year.

March 31, 2025March 31, 2025

Playing Under The Sapporo Snow

It was our first snowfall together, so we had to do everything to make every moment count and create lasting memories together. The way the snowflakes danced in the air, and how they blanketed everything in a soft white layer added a magical touch to our day.

Odori Park, Sapporo, Japan
February 2025

February 8, 2025February 8, 2025

Two Hours in Okayama

Okayama was a delightful surprise. We had initially pictured it as a quaint little village. Still, it turned out to be a bustling city with towering establishments, an efficient transport system, and many attractions waiting to be explored.

Okayama City, the capital of Okayama prefecture, is conveniently located about 180 kilometers southwest of Osaka. The journey from Shin-Osaka station by Shinkansen is a mere 30 minutes, passing through the heritage cities of Kobe and Himeji. Upon arrival at Okayama station, it’s easily linked to a bus stop that can take you to different parts of the city. The city also operates trams, making it a breeze to navigate and explore.

Okayama City exudes a unique charm, much like Himeji and Kobe. It’s a bustling city but not as chaotic and overwhelming as Tokyo and Osaka. It’s not as loud, not as vibrant and colorful. Yet, there’s something about Japanese cities that sets them apart from each other, and Okayama’s charm is something you’ll want to experience for yourself.

We took a bus to the city’s most visited attraction. The Okayama Castle, built in the mid-1300s as a keep to Okayama’s most prominent feudal lords over the centuries, stands tall as a reconstructed castle as the original was burned down during World War II. Bus fares from JR Okayama Station to Okayama Castle costs JPY 210 one way.

The castle is separated to the mainland by a moat. After a 5-minute walk from the bus stop, a well-lit concrete bridge will bring you to the castle’s grounds. There’s quite of a climb to the castle. However, once you’re done with all the walking and the climbing, the view of the castle, especially at night, will be totally worth every step.

We were unfortunate that we arrived around 6 in the evening that day. The castle museum is open to public from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM and costs JPY 400 to enter for adults and JPY 100 for students. They also give discounts for groups of 20 or more. Refer to the price list below for the ticket prices (as of December 2024).

Verdict. Is Okayama City worth visiting as a tourist?

Absolutely! Aya-chan and I’s biggest regret that time was we weren’t able to allot more time to explore the city. If you’re visiting Kansai and you’re planning to go on a side-trip to Hyogo and Okayama prefectures, make sure to allot ample time to explore the wonders of these prefectures. A whole day or two would probably suffice. We’ll probably come back someday.

May 18, 2024January 9, 2025

El Nido: A Story of Persistence and Crystal Clear Waters

After two years of anticipation, Aya-chan’s dream has finally become a reality. The four of us, including Aze and Honey, decided to embark on a journey to the enchanting Bacuit Bay of El Nido. Aya, since she started working with us, has always harbored the dream of cruising through the warm, crystal clear waters of El Nido, with its majestic limestone cliffs standing as silent witnesses to our escapades.

For years, our plans seemed to be at the mercy of the weather gods, as every attempt to set a date for our trip was met with rain clouds that seemed to follow Aya-chan. It became our little running joke – that Aya was a rain magnet. But we didn’t let this deter us. With each canceled plan, our determination grew stronger. We knew that the perfect day would come when the sun would shine for us, and the islands of El Nido would welcome us with open arms.

Finally…the day has come.

The day couldn’t have been more perfect. As the clock struck 9 am, the sun greeted us with its warm embrace, a common blessing during dry season in Palawan. The sky, a vast canvas, was adorned with just a smattering of clouds. The air was still, with the winds holding their breath, as if in anticipation of our grand journey ahead. The sea mirrored this calmness, its surface smooth and unbroken, like a sheet of polished metal.

With twenty-two fellow adventurers, we stepped onto the boat, each of us carrying a sense of excitement, and our hearts beating in unison. As the boat began to glide over the sea, we left behind the all the familiar and sailed towards the promise of the extraordinary.

The Enigmatic Beauty of Shimizu Island

Nestled in the stunning Bacuit Bay of El Nido, Shimizu Island emerges as an island that’s not only rich in marine biodiversity but also steeped in legend. A mere 20-minute boat ride from Corong-corong Beach, this island beckons with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it a snorkeler’s paradise.

Shimizu Island holds more than just natural allure; it carries a poignant tale that adds to its mystique. The island’s name, evocative of its Japanese connection, is a tribute to a Japanese scuba diver who met a tragic fate while exploring the underwater caves surrounding the island. According to local lore, the diver, known by the surname Shimizu, vanished into the ocean’s depths, only to be found lifeless days later on the island’s serene shores.

Bacuit Bay’s Twin Gems: Twin Rocks

As the name suggests, Twin Rocks features two monumental rock formations that rise majestically from the turquoise sea, creating a striking visual contrast against the marbled sky. It’s a sight that embodies the raw beauty of nature and the spirit of adventure that El Nido offers.

For the first-time visitor or the seasoned traveler, Twin Rocks is a testament to the fact that there are always new discoveries to be made, no matter how many times you’ve explored a place. It’s a reminder to keep looking beyond the familiar routes and itineraries because you never know what natural masterpiece awaits around the corner.

Big Lagoon: A Kayaker’s Paradise

The Big Lagoon is often the star of the show when it comes to natural attractions. Its expansive and deep waters are a call to those who love to explore by kayak. The journey to the lagoon is an adventure in itself, offering a mix of tranquility and excitement as you paddle through the serene waters.

For many, the trip to the Big Lagoon is a memorable experience. The physical exertion of kayaking can be quite tiring, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. The sense of achievement when you navigate through the lagoon’s vastness is unparalleled.

However, nature has its own plans, and sometimes they include a sudden downpour. It’s a reminder that even the best-laid plans can be at the mercy of the elements. Rain can add an unexpected layer to the adventure, making the experience even more unforgettable. Rain started to fall.

Squeezed through this tiny little cave at the far end of the lagoon.

…and it’s about to rain. Thanks, Aya-chan.

The Hidden Charm of the Secret Lagoon

Tucked away beside the majestic Big Lagoon, there lies a hidden place known to locals as the Secret Lagoon. It’s a place shrouded in mystery and humor, with a running joke among the local men about the three types of water you’ll find within its embrace: saltwater, brackish water, and the whimsically named ‘human water.’

The journey into the Secret Lagoon is an adventure in itself. Visitors are greeted by a small, unassuming hole in a rock, a natural gateway so narrow that it permits entry to only one person at a time. This singular passage adds to the lagoon’s allure, making the act of entering feel like stepping into another world.

Once inside, the Secret Lagoon opens up into a serene oasis, a stark contrast to the narrow entry point. The Secret Lagoon is not just a body of water; it’s a testament to nature’s ability to hide wonders in plain sight, challenging adventurers to seek out and appreciate these hidden treasures. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best experiences require a bit of effort—and a sense of humor—to uncover.

Lunch first before squeezing through the Secret Lagoon…not a good idea.

The tiny, unassuming hole on a rock to access the lagoon.

Entalula Beach: A Slice of Paradise

Entalula Beach is a beach that has captured the hearts of travelers from around the globe. With its powdery white sands, dramatic limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it’s no wonder this beach is often listed among the world’s best.

A visit to Entalula is like stepping into a postcard-perfect scene. The secluded nature of the island offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re basking in the sun, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, or simply enjoying a picnic on the beach, Entalula provides an idyllic setting for relaxation and adventure.

And these were what’s underneath the turquoise jewel.

It was a day to disconnect from the world and immerse ourselves in nature’s beauty. A day where time seemed to stand still, and the only thing that mattered was the beauty that surrounded us and the memories we were about to create.

AFQs (Answered Frequent Questions), because FAQs are too mainstream:

Tours cost PHP 1,200-1,400 per person, inclusive of lunch prepared by the tour guides.

Tours can be arranged through your hotel or accommodation.

Tours start as early as 8:00 AM and end before 5:00 PM.

Snacks, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages are available in SOME islands and only accepts cash and GCash as modes of payment.

Other fees include: 1) Environmental fee of PHP 200 per person (PHP 100 if resident of Palawan); 2) Kayak rental fee of PHP 300 per kayak (can seat 2-3 persons)

Use of snorkels and water shoes are highly recommended. These can be rented at PHP 100, if I remember correctly.

You may leave a comment if you have further questions.