Ubaranai Sango Grassland - Hokkaido

Ubaranai Sango Grassland (卯原内サンゴ草群落地) is a nature preserve found on the southern banks of Lake Notoro. It is located at 60-3 Ubaranai, Abashiri City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

卯原内サンゴ草群落地
Ubaranai Sango Grassland

Ubaranai Sango Grassland details

Lake Notoro, located north of Abashiri City, is a saltwater lake that is connected to the Sea of Okhotsk. A unique phenomenon occurs on the south shore of Lake Notoro, near the Ubaranai area, where the coral grasses change color beautifully from late August to mid-September. This astonishing transformation gives the lake a vibrant and mesmerizing appearance, earning it the name "Lake Notoro Ubaranai Coral Grass Community".

Ubaranai Sango Grassland (卯原内サンゴ草群落地)
Ubaranai Sango Grassland - Abashiri City, Hokkaido Prefecture

Coral grass, scientifically known as Salicornia, is an annual plant that grows to a height of 15cm to 30cm. Its name is derived from its striking resemblance to real coral. This halophyte thrives along the brackish water lakes containing salt. In 1891, Kingo Miyabe of Hokkaido University discovered Salicornia on Oyster Island in Lake Akkeshi, located in Akkeshi Town. He named it Salicornia, and it was later found to grow in other regions such as Notsuke Peninsula, Lake Onne, Lake Furen, Lake Tofutsu, Lake Saroma, and Lake Komuke. Interestingly, it has been discovered that the DNA of Salicornia from Korea and Salicornia from the Seto Inland Sea coast is similar, but the Salicornia found in Hokkaido is a distinct species.

卯原内サンゴ草群落地
"Japan's Largest Coral Community"

Behind the info board is the public toilet


卯原内サンゴ草群落地
The board commemorates the 1985 visit of the Emperor and the Empress.

The annual sight of Lake Notoro's shores being adorned with a crimson carpet is an iconic symbol that marks the arrival of autumn in Abashiri. However, due to its wetland nature, visitors must exercise caution while walking along the lake shore. Fortunately, the Ubaranai area offers the convenience of a wooden path, allowing visitors to enjoy the enchanting scenery without getting their feet dirty.

卯原内サンゴ草群落地
The Coral Grass up close

The Abashiri Quasi-National Park Ubaranai Picnic Site info board
The Abashiri Quasi-National Park Ubaranai Picnic Site info board

In recent years, the colony of coral grass has experienced a decline in numbers. In response to this concerning trend, the Ubaranai Tourism Association has taken the initiative to implement a conservation and development project. Their efforts aim to protect and revitalize the coral grass colonies around Lake Notoro.

Pictures of Ubaranai Sango Grassland

Pictures of Ubaranai Sango Grassland

Pictures of Ubaranai Sango Grassland

Pictures of Ubaranai Sango Grassland

Pictures of Ubaranai Sango Grassland

Pictures of Ubaranai Sango Grassland

It is worth noting that while there are multiple coral grass colonies around the lake, such as the Notoro area colony, the Misaki area colony, and the Heiwa area colony, only the Ubaranai area provides amenities such as restrooms and boardwalks for visitors. This thoughtful provision ensures that visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of Lake Notoro comfortably and conveniently.

Team Nicerio visits Ubaranai Sango Grassland

Team Nicerio visits Ubaranai Sango Grassland

Team Nicerio visits Ubaranai Sango Grassland

Team Nicerio visits Ubaranai Sango Grassland

Team Nicerio visits Ubaranai Sango Grassland

Team Nicerio visits Ubaranai Sango Grassland

Team Nicerio visits Ubaranai Sango Grassland

Team Nicerio visits Ubaranai Sango Grassland



My family and I visited Ubaranai Sango Grassland for the first time last September 19, 2022, which was the last day of our September 17-19 Road Trip. It was my 322nd day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. It was one of the highlights of our trip. I was amazed to see the “redness” of the grassland. It was a magical scene.

Ubaranai Sango Grassland fees

It’s FREE to park and explore Ubaranai Sango Grassland.

Ubaranai Sango Grassland operating hours

Ubaranai Sango Grassland is open 24/7. However, if you wish to see the place turn red, you should visit around mid-September.

Why visit Ubaranai Sango Grassland?

The Ubaranai Sango Grassland is a place to visit to see the mutual benefits that can arise from the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature. By preserving this land and allowing nature to flourish, local communities can generate additional income. Witnessing the captivating sight of a lush expanse of red grass upon visiting the Ubaranai Sango Grassland for the first time is a truly enchanting experience. I highly recommend this place. Keep in mind that you need to visit in mid-September to appreciate its beauty.

Getting to Ubaranai Sango Grassland

 

From Abashiri Station, walk to the Abashiri Station bus stop and board the Tokoro Line bus operated by the Abashiri Bus Company. 

Board down at the "Coral Grass Entrance" bus stop. From there, the Ubaranai Sango Grassland is about 400 meters away. 

Travel time: 26 minutes
Fare: 640 yen

Ratings

Crowd

Cleanliness

Overall rating

Location: Ubaranai SANGO Grassland, 60-3 Ubaranai, Abashiri, Hokkaido 093-0135, Japan

Comments

Post a Comment

Book your hotel thru KLOOK

Klook.com
Subscribe and get updated with the latest travel articles of The Backpack Adventures

Popular posts from this blog

Imus City Plaza - Cavite

Image
Located in the center of the Poblacion or town proper of Imus City in the province of Cavite, Imus City Plaza is one of the city's scenic and historical attractions. Imus City Plaza Imus City Plaza Details This plaza is located in front of the equally historical Imus Cathedral and Imus City Hall . Imus City Plaza is also the first place to greet you if you're heading to the cathedral via Sapinoso Street.  Imus City Plaza - Imus City, Cavite General Licerio Topacio The general guarding the flag Checking out each angle of the monument Imus City Plaza History Imus City Plaza is probably easily remembered because of the monument with two vintage artillery flanking it. The monument stands as an honor to the children of Imus who joined the fight for the independence of the country against Spain. As for the man standing on top of the monument, he is General Licerio Topacio . He is one of the most notable sons of Imus. He is famously known for honorably declining
Keep reading

Casa Hacienda de Tejeros - Cavite

Image
Located in Rosario in the province of Cavite, Casa Hacienda de Tejeros is famously known as the location of the historic Tejeros Convention of 1897. Casa Hacienda de Tejeros Casa Hacienda de Tejeros history Casa Hacienda de Tejeros was originally built in the 17th century. The hacienda and its surrounding lands were formerly owned by the Augustinian Recollects. The estate was once the largest and grandest estate in the country. It once covered as much as 1,125 hectares with the casa occupying 4 hectares of it. Casa Hacienda de Tejeros - Rosario, Cavite The NHI Marker of the Casa Hacienda de Tejeros The name tejeros came from the Spanish name tejer , which means "to weave". It's due to the fact that the weaving industry is one of the major industries of the municipality of Rosario. Going back to its historical importance, Casa Hacienda de Tejeros played an important role in 1897 when it hosted the assembly that the new leaders of the revolution were elected.
Keep reading

Bonifacio Shrine in Indang - Cavite

Image
Located in Barangay Limbon, Indang in the province of Cavite, the Bonifacio Shrine of Indang is one of the historical landmarks dedicated to the Father of the Philippine Revolution -Andres Bonifacio.  Bonifacio Shrine of Indang Bonifacio Shrine in Indang History Bonifacio Shrine in Indang marks the location of the nipa hut where Andres Bonifacio was seized and captured by the soldiers of his political rival and fellow revolutionary Emilio Aguinaldo in 1897. It was also here that Bonifacio was gravely injured after he was shot by an arresting soldier when he was being dragged to Indang town proper to be imprisoned. Bonifacio Shrine in Indang , Cavite This is how I look like pre-sneeze. The arrest of Bonifacio Philippine Historical Commission marker Presently, the historical nipa hut did not win against the tests of time. A small public park was constructed where the nipa hut was said to have once stood. The park features a statue of a seemingly very surprised Andres
Keep reading

Fukagawa Roadside Station – Hokkaido

Image
Fukagawa Roadside Station  ( 道の駅 ライスランドふかがわ ) is one of the 128 roadside stations spread across Hokkaido. It is located at 59-7 Hirosato, Otoecho in Fukagawa City, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Fukagawa Roadside Station Fukagawa Roadside Station details Fukagawa Roadside Station is officially called Roadside Station Riceland Fukagawa . It follows the theme “Fukagawa, the city of rice”. It is a place where visitors can buy high-quality Fukagawa rice and also a place where visitors can learn about rice and agriculture. Fukagawa Roadside Station - Fukagawa City, Hokkaido Prefecture Fukagawa Roadside Station was registered last August 13, 2002, and was given registration number 17.  Photos outside Fukagawa Roadside Station At present the roadside station has the following amenities: General Information It is located right after you enter the front entrance of the roadside station. Motorists can get information about tourist spots, restaurants, public facilities, and even road info and we
Keep reading

Jose Rizal Shrine in Calamba - Laguna

Image
Located at Francisco Mercado Street corner Jose P. Rizal Street, Barangay 5 Poblacion, Calamba City in the province of Laguna, Jose Rizal Shrine  ( Dambana ni Rizal ) is the birthplace of Dr. Jose P. Rizal -the National Hero of the Philippines. Jose Rizal Shrine (Calamba) Jose Rizal Shrine History Jose Rizal Shrine is probably well known as the ancestral house of Rizal's family. The house serves as a museum that contains furniture and items that belong to the Rizal family. Jose Rizal Shrine - Calamba City, Laguna Young Jose Rizal with his dog I wonder what Young Rizal had in mind Rizal Shrine NHI Marker For those who don't know, the house that stood in the lot is actually only a replica of the old ancestral house which was destroyed during the Second World War. The replica was constructed right after the war. The construction was supervised by the late National Artist Juan Nakpil. It was inaugurated in 1950. The entrance to Jose Rizal Shrine
Keep reading

A Guide to Collecting Eki Stamps

Image
Japan is undeniably a collector's paradise. As a matter of fact, there are a plethora of different things to collect here that are catered to every collector's unique taste and preference.  Anime fans have their usual toys, mangas, and memorabilia. Pokemon fans have numerous Pokemon Centers that sell an assortment of Pokemon merchandise. Kitkat collectors have more than 300 flavors of Kitkat to try out. Pilgrims have the temple stamps called goshuin which I wrote about last time. These are but some of the numerous possible things to collect in Japan . A Guide to Collecting Eki Stamps However, since I'm promoting budget travel, my article today talks about something that you can collect for FREE . Yup, you read that right. All you need to have is a clean notebook or tickler and an ever-watchful eye. A Guide to Collecting Eki Stamps Eki stamps , also called train station stamps, are rubber ink stamps that are typically found in most train stations in Japan. These stamps f
Keep reading

Jigokudani - Hokkaido

Image
Jigokudani ( 登別地獄谷 ) or Hell Valley in English is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Noboribetsu City. It is located at Noboribetsuonsencho/Noboribetsu Onsen Town in Noboribetsu City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Jigokudani Jigokudani details Nestled at the western foot of the active volcano "Katataraku" lies Jigokudani , a geothermal wonderland that forms a part of the "Noboribetsu Volcano" along with Oyunuma and Hiyoriyama . With a diameter of approximately 450 meters and covering an area of around 11 hectares, Jigokudani serves as the source of Noboribetsu Onsen , a renowned hot spring town where high-temperature fumaroles and hydrothermal activity continue to mesmerize visitors. In recognition of its unique ecological importance, Jigokudani has been designated as a "Special Protection Area" within the Shikotsu-Toya National Park . Jigokudani - Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido Prefecture The formation of Jigokudani can be traced back to vo
Keep reading

Daisetsuzan National Park - Hokkaido

Image
Daisetsuzan National Park ( 大雪山国立公園 ) spans 2,267 square kilometers and encompasses 16 peaks, offering diverse trails, abundant wildlife, and alpine flora. This is the largest national park in Hokkaido, Japan . This vast park covers parts of Kitami City, Asahikawa City, Furano City, and the towns of Higashikawa, Kamifurano, Minamifurano, and Kamishihoro. However, a large part of the park is inside the town of Kamikawa but for this article, I will write about my experience in the Higashikawa part of the Daisetsuzan National Park . Daisetsuzan National Park  Daisetsuzan National Park details Nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, Japan 's northernmost prefecture, lies the breathtaking Daisetsuzan National Park . Known affectionately as the "roof of Hokkaido," this expansive park is a haven for nature lovers, adventurers, and seekers of tranquility. Daisetsuzan National Park - Hokkaido Spanning an impressive 2,267 square kilometers, Daisetsuzan National Park is home to the awe
Keep reading

Agusan Del Sur: Bunawan Ecopark and Wildlife Reservation Center

Image
Found in Barangay Consuelo, Bunawan in the province of Agusan Del Sur, Bunawan Ecopark and Wildlife Reservation Center became famous for its world known centerpiece exhibit. Bunawan arc That exhibit is named Lolong , the world's longest salt water crocodile ever caught. Lolong was captured in Bunawan Creek, a part of the vast Agusan Marsh on September 3, 2011. Lolong In November of the same year, an Australian crocodile expert from the National geographic measured Lolong and confirmed that the crocodile was indeed the longest ever caught. the enormous Lolong measured 20 feet and 24 inches from snout to tail beating the Australian croc named Cassius which formerly holds the said title. A young kid views the croc 5 times his size Six months later, Lolong was officially certified by the Guinness Book of World records as the " World's Biggest Crocodile in Captivity ". Bunawan Mayor Elorde with some foreign guests Bunawan Mayor Cox Elorde t
Keep reading

Kamay ni Hesus Shrine - Quezon

Image
Kamay ni Hesus Shrine,  or simply Kamay ni Hesus   is a famous religious shrine and grotto. It is l ocated in Barangay Tinamnan, Lucban in the province of Quezon. Kamay ni Hesus Shrine Kamay ni Hesus Shrine History Also known as  Via Dolorosa Grotto , Kamay ni Hesus Shrine was built under the initiative of Fr. Joseph "Joey" Faller in 2003. He is known as a gifted healing priest. Due to Fr. Faller's healing masses, Kamay ni Hesus Shrine became one of the country's most visited healing centers. Kamay ni Hesus Shrine - Lucban, Quezon Statues of saints can be seen in different areas of Kamay ni Hesus Shrine A replica of Pieta by Michelangelo Pilgrims look like ants from a distance. Kamay ni Hesus Healing Church Inside the Kamay ni Hesus Healing Church One of the highlights of Kamay ni Hesus Shrine is the 50-foot statue of Christ with his arm wide open found on the top of a hill. This statue is often referred to as the Risen Christ or Ascending
Keep reading