Joanna James
Water sports and activities are more thrilling than just any other outdoor activity. There is excitement, learning and the wonder of discovery beyond what is imaginable from dry ground.
The canyon in the area of Jozankei Onsen is home to hot water springs as well as a cliffy terrain through which water rapids are formed quite easily. White water rafting is a common outdoor adventure for locals and those staying at hotels in Hokkaido alike, it is important to have a trained guide with you no matter how many times you have been on the rafting tour before. The highest safety protocols are in place and many enjoy the bumpy ride, the strong spray of fresh water and the chilly winds that wind their way through the trees. The experience is also recommended by hotels like Grand Park Otaru.
Both canoeing and kayaking are available for those who visit Hokkaido. The water is crystal clear during the months of summer, making it possible for those in the canoe or kayak to see the vistas under the water as they paddle their way through. There are glass-bottomed canoes and kayaks which can be used for your paddling cruise and should be the preferred option to thoroughly enjoy the aquatic life beneath the boat. The water is calm and apart from the ripples created by the oars, hardly anything moves on the entire horizon. Once in the water, stop for a mini photo shoot and gorge over the serenity that prevails in the area.
The water is chilly and the atmosphere also can be crispy, but if you don’t mind the initial tingling sensation, there are plenty of lakes, oceans and pools that you can choose from for a dip. The areas safe for swimming need to be checked or would be marked.
Just outside the city of Furano with its lavender fields is an area renowned for what the locals like to call ‘body canyoning. Instead of having any craft of any sort, the adrenaline junkies who enjoy this activity don life jackets and plunge into the water to trek waterfalls and slither down a natural water slide under the supervision of well-trained guides who speak English. The Furano water activities require an entire day of being in the water, therefore, bring extra clothes and snacks that are suitable for you to last an entire day in and out of water.
A little less than an hour away from the central area of Sapporo is the city of Otaru which is famed for the Otaru Canal and the hidden gem known as the Otaru Blue Cave. The sea cave is invisible from land and cannot be seen by large ships, the only way is to make a special trip through the aqua-blue sea waves to the equally azure cave. Tourists get to the tip of the cave within about fifteen minutes and must then prepare themselves for a ride through the cave with lights reflecting off the water at odd angles and the sounds of bats within.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a pas...
