Lake Furen (Furenko)

Overview

Lake Furen is the 13th largest lake in Japan, situated at the base of the Nemuro Peninsula in eastern Hokkaido. Spanning an impressive 59.01 square kilometers, it's the second largest brackish lake in Hokkaido after Lake Saroma, boasting the longest perimeter (96 kilometers) among brackish lakes in the prefecture. Historically, the Ainu people referred to it as "Fure-petsu" (red river), due to the reddish water from the wetlands flowing into the Furen River. The lake itself was called "To" (swamp). Vast wetlands surround Lake Furen, providing nesting grounds for red-crowned cranes and a haven for various water birds. In winter, you can witness the spectacle of swans wintering on the lake. The Shunkokudai sandbar features Japan's only grove of Akaezomatsu (Picea jezoensis var. hondoensis) trees and a beautiful colony of Japanese rose (Rosa rugosa). Lake Furen and Shunkokudai are designated Ramsar Convention wetlands, preserving this precious natural environment. Lake Furen is a representative scenic spot in Hokkaido, brimming with magnificent nature and a diverse ecosystem. The expansive lake surface mirrors the sky, while the surrounding wetlands create a tranquil atmosphere. In autumn, the sight of swans descending onto the lake is truly captivating. The Akaezomatsu forest and Japanese rose colony of Shunkokudai further enhance the natural beauty of Lake Furen.