Reader’s Question:
Travel Plans for the Obon Holiday
I am planning to go on a road trip for car camping in the southern or eastern regions of Hokkaido during the Obon holiday. I expect to stay for about three nights
and will be traveling alone.
Route and Recommendations
I plan to start from Mukawa Town and take the route through Cape Erimo to Urakawa. Are there any recommended spots along the way? I enjoy driving while taking in beautiful scenery, and it would be fantastic to camp in a place with great views. If there are any good hot springs in the area, I would love to hear about those as well.
Road Trip Adventures in Hokkaido: A Solo Journey Through Obon
Ah, the Obon holiday in Japan! It’s like a breath of fresh air—a time when many Japanese people return to their hometowns to honor their ancestors, but for travelers like you and me, it’s the perfect moment to hit the road. This year, I decided to embark on a solo road trip in the captivating southern and eastern regions of Hokkaido, starting from Mukawa Town. My plan? To soak in the breathtaking scenery, breathe in that sweet mountain air, and camp under a blanket of stars. Let’s dive into my adventure!
The Route: Mukawa Town to Urakawa via Cape Erimo
As I revved up my trusty little car, a mixture of excitement and nerves bubbled up inside me. I had my route planned out, but knowing me, I was ready for spontaneous stops along the way. Leaving Mukawa Town, the drive immediately swept me into a world of enchanting landscapes. The rolling hills, lush greenery, and endless blue skies made me feel like I was on a postcard. Seriously, it was like Mother Nature had decided to show off.
The first stop I made was at a quaint little lookout point called Kamenokoshi Cape. A hidden gem, you could say! It wasn’t crowded at all, which made it perfect for a peaceful moment. I parked my car, stepped out, and took a deep breath. The ocean stretched out before me, and the sound of waves crashing against the rocks was so calming. I could’ve stayed there for hours, but I had places to explore!
Exploring Cape Erimo: Where Land Meets the Sea
Driving toward Cape Erimo, I felt a sense of adventure wash over me. The winding roads hugged the cliffs, with the ocean on one side and dramatic rock formations on the other. This is what I came for! I stopped at Cape Erimo itself, where the views were nothing short of jaw-dropping. Standing at the edge of the cape, with the wind whipping through my hair, I felt a connection to nature that I hadn’t experienced in a while. It’s moments like these that remind me why travel is so essential.
And let’s talk about the lighthouse at Cape Erimo! It’s iconic and definitely worth a visit. You can climb up to get a better view, and let me tell you, the sight of the waves crashing against the cliffs was mesmerizing. I took a few selfies (because, of course, I had to), and then I just sat on a nearby bench, soaking it all in. I could’ve easily spent the entire day here, but my camping spot was calling my name!
Camping with a View: Finding the Perfect Spot
After leaving Cape Erimo, I headed toward Urakawa, where I had done some research on a few camping sites. I wanted something with a view, ideally by the water. I stumbled upon a campsite called Urakawa Onsen Campground, which immediately caught my attention. It was nestled right beside the river, and the sound of running water was music to my ears.
The campsites at Urakawa Onsen were spacious, and I took my time setting up my tent. I mean, who doesn’t love the feeling of being surrounded by nature? It felt liberating. And guess what? The view was absolutely stunning! I glanced over at the river and the mountains in the distance, and I thought, “This is why I travel.” As the sun began to set, I was treated to a sunset that painted the sky in shades of orange and pink—it was like a living painting.
Soaking in the Hot Springs
After I set up camp, I decided to indulge in a well-deserved soak at Urakawa Onsen, which was just a short walk away. There’s something so magical about hot springs, right? The warmth enveloped me, and I could feel all the stress melting away. The onsen had both indoor and outdoor baths, but I opted for the outdoor one. Let me tell you, soaking in a hot spring while surrounded by nature is pure bliss. The stars began to twinkle above as I soaked, and I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this moment.
Day Two: A Journey Through Nature
The next morning, I woke up to the gentle sound of the river flowing nearby. I brewed some coffee on my portable stove and just sat there, sipping my drink and enjoying the serene atmosphere. After breakfast, I decided to explore the nearby walking trails. There’s nothing quite like walking through the forest, with sunlight filtering through the trees. A couple of hours later, I emerged feeling rejuvenated. Sometimes, I think the best therapy is simply being outside.
Discovery at the Urakawa Historical Museum
On a whim, I decided to check out the Urakawa Historical Museum. It was smaller than I expected, but it had some fascinating exhibits on the region’s history and culture. I learned about the indigenous Ainu people and their connection to the land, which was eye-opening. The friendly staff even shared some local folklore, which added a charming touch to my visit. It’s moments like these that immerse you in a place’s spirit.
Continuing the Journey: More Scenic Drives
After leaving Urakawa, I continued my journey southward toward Shikabe. The drive was scenic, with farms and fields stretching out on either side of the road. I made a quick stop at Shikabe Onsen, known for its sulfuric waters. It was fascinating to see the steam rising from the ground, and the smell? Well, let’s just say it was “distinctive”! But I took a dip, and it was worth it—my skin felt so refreshed afterward.
Final Destination: A Coastal Camping Experience
My final destination for the trip was a campsite near the coast known as Kanayama Camping Ground. I arrived just as the sun was setting, casting a golden hue over the landscape. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore was the perfect backdrop. I set up my tent and took a moment to appreciate how lucky I was to be here alone, yet surrounded by such beauty.
That night, I cooked a simple meal, and as I sat by the fire, I reflected on my journey. I thought about how traveling solo can sometimes feel daunting, but it also opens up a world of possibilities. I met people along the way, had spontaneous adventures, and most importantly, I connected with nature in a way I hadn’t in a long time.
Wrapping Up My Hokkaido Adventure
As I packed up my tent the next morning, I felt a twinge of sadness. This trip had been more than just a getaway; it had been a chance to reconnect with myself. Driving back toward Mukawa, I couldn’t help but smile thinking about all the memories I had created. Hokkaido had once again captured my heart, and I knew I would return someday.
If you’re planning a similar adventure during Obon or any other time, embrace every moment. Take the scenic routes, explore the hidden gems, and don’t forget to soak in those hot springs. Hokkaido is a treasure trove of beauty and culture, and trust me, it’s worth every moment spent on the road. Happy travels!
