Smelt Ice Fishing in Lake Toro – Winter Activity in Kushiro Wetlands
Overview: Experience Traditional Japanese Ice Fishing
Smelt ice fishing (ワカサギ釣り) is a classic winter pastime in Hokkaido. At Lake Toro (塘路湖), you can try fishing for smelt through holes drilled in the frozen lake, surrounded by the snowy beauty of Kushiro Shitsugen National Park. It’s a fun activity for families, friends, and anyone wanting to experience authentic Japanese winter culture.
What Can You Do?
After drilling a hole in the ice, drop your line and wait for a bite! Local guides provide all the gear and tips you need. Many visitors cook their catch right on the ice, enjoying crispy smelt tempura fresh from the lake.
- Try smelt ice fishing with rental gear and local guides
- Cook and eat your catch as tempura on-site
- Enjoy the peaceful snowy scenery of Lake Toro
- Warm up in nearby cafes or rest areas
- Great for families, groups, and beginners
Local Legend: The Spirits of the Frozen Lake
Locals say the shimmering smelt beneath the ice are gifts from the lake spirits, rewarding those who brave the winter cold. Sharing your catch with friends is said to bring good luck for the coming year.
Local saying:
「冬の塘路湖、氷の下に幸あり」
Translation:
"In winter’s Lake Toro, happiness lies beneath the ice."
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How to Get to Lake Toro (Last updated: May 27, 2025)
| Departure | Route | Travel Time | Approx. Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| JR Kushiro Station |
Take the JR Senmo Line to Toro Station → Walk 10 min to Lake Toro Or drive/take a taxi directly to Lake Toro |
Approx. 40 min (train) | Approx. ¥640 (train) |
| Kushiro Airport | Airport shuttle bus → JR Kushiro Station → JR Senmo Line to Toro Station → Walk | Approx. 1 hr 30 min | Approx. ¥1,800–2,200 |
| JR Mashu Station | JR Senmo Line to Toro Station → Walk 10 min to Lake Toro | Approx. 1 hr | Approx. ¥1,400 |
| By Car | Drive from Kushiro city or airport to Lake Toro (free parking available) | Approx. 40 min | Varies |
| *Trains are infrequent—please check the timetable in advance. Free parking is available at Lake Toro. | |||
From JR Kushiro Station, take the JR Senmo Line to Toro Station and
walk about 10 minutes to the lake.
If coming by car, free parking is available at Lake Toro.
Recommendation: Dress warmly and arrive early for the best fishing and
beautiful morning light.
Note: Smelt ice fishing is available from late January to early March, depending on ice conditions. Please check with local operators for the latest information.
Smelt Ice Fishing Details
All ages and skill levels are welcome. Local guides provide equipment, bait, and instructions. Enjoy a unique winter adventure in Hokkaido’s countryside!
Smelt Ice Fishing Info
- Location: Lake Toro, Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, Hokkaido, Japan
- Season: Late January–Early March (varies by ice conditions)
- Admission Fee: Free entry (fishing/gear rental extra)
- Facilities: Rental gear, guides, parking, restrooms, cafes, warming huts
- Notes: Dress warmly; check ice conditions and availability in advance.