Experience the history and nature of the Lake Nukabira area in Kamishihoro Town. First you’ll go on a guided tour to see some concrete arch bridges formerly used in railway lines, including the famous Taushubetsu River Bridge. You’ll then re-energize yourself with a delicious lunch at a quiet log cabin called Mitsumata Sanso. Afterwards, you’ll visit Nukabira Onsen Nakamuraya, a lodge in Nukabira Gensenkyo where you can take a relaxing warm bath in the hot springs, enjoy roasted potato chips, or try your hand at making unique handicrafts. Before the end of the tour, you can stop by Pia 21 Shihoro Roadside Station to buy snacks or souvenirs.

The Taushubetsu River Bridge is a 130-meter long, 10-meter high concrete arch bridge that was part of the old National Railway Shihoro Line. Depending on the season, the bridge becomes visible or completely submerged under the lake, leading it to be called a “phantom bridge”. It is normally inaccessible to the public during the summer season, so this tour offers a rare chance to see it up close along with the changing water level and scenery of Lake Nukabira. You will also get to see other concrete arch bridges in the area.

After the concrete arch bridge tour, you’ll take a break at Mitsumata Sanso, a secluded log cabin with a relaxing atmosphere. You can also see and buy various handicrafts inside.

You can enjoy a hearty and delicious lunch made with local ingredients. Choose from Hatake-no-Lunch (sausages and potatoes) or Bokujo-no-Beef Rice (rice bowl with beef patty). 

At Nukabira Onsen Nakamuraya, you can rejuvenate yourself with a warm bath in the hot springs.

You can also relax in the lobby while roasting potato chips on a “hibachi” fire bowl, or try your hand at making various handicrafts.

Note: All images are for illustration purposes only. Your actual experience may vary.

Schedule

7:30	Meetup at northern style studio SLOW living
8:50-11:30	Taushubetsu River Bridge and concrete arch bridge tour
12:10-12:30	Sightseeing at Mikuni Pass
12:45-13:10	Walk around Mitsumata Sanso
13:10-14:10	Lunch at Mitsumata Sanso
14:40-16:00	Nakamuraya (onsen bath, handicrafts experience, snack time)
16:40-16:55	Shopping and free time at Pia 21 Shihoro Roadside Station
17:30	Arrive at northern style studio SLOW living