After spending nearly six months trapped in a repetitive cycle of dorm life, university, and grocery runs, Hokkaido’s long, harsh winter slowly started to feel heavier than the snow itself. Everything felt routine, almost mechanical. So when Golden Week finally arrived, it felt less like a holiday and more like an escape we had been waiting for without realizing it.
We decided it was time to break free from that frozen rhythm.
After a bit of discussion especially with Angkush Da, we settled on a plan: a journey to Engaru–Maruseppu, followed later by Akan Lake and Ainu Kotan (Ainu Village). It sounded perfect: nature, open roads, and a long-needed reset.
The Journey Begins
On a fine and clear morning, we set off together including me, Tahid Bhai, Trisha Apu, Angkush Da, and his family. Even before reaching our destination, the journey itself felt like therapy.
Hokkaido unfolded around us in layers: long tunnels cutting through mountains, endless stretches of untouched nature, and the occasional deer quietly standing by the roadside like it belonged there more than we did. Music filled the car, conversations flowed easily, and every turn of the road revealed another reason to stare out the window in silence.
It already felt like we had left the ordinary world behind.
Yamabiko Falls: Nature’s Quiet Power
Our first stop was Yamabiko Falls.
A short hike brought us closer, and then suddenly—there it was. Water crashing down from above, powerful yet calming at the same time. The sound of the waterfall blended with the rustling forest, while sunlight filtered through just enough to form a faint rainbow in the mist.
It felt alive.
We spent a long time there, taking photos, laughing, and just standing still in between. Tahid Bhai earned a special title that day: our unofficial Napoleon,” guiding us through a safer path closer to the falls. Thanks to him, we managed to get near without being completely soaked—though ironically, he himself ended up fully drenched.
Somehow, that made it even more memorable.
Maruseppu Insectarium and Recreation Forest Park
From the waterfall, we continued to the Maruseppu Insectarium and Recreation Forest Park.
The insectarium was unexpectedly fascinating. It showcased a wide variety of local insect species, complete with detailed exhibits on their life cycles. One of the highlights was the butterfly section, where butterflies flew freely around us as if we had stepped inside their world. The staff were incredibly kind and knowledgeable, patiently explaining everything and answering our endless questions.
Outside, the recreation forest park offered a completely different kind of peace. Cherry blossoms were in bloom, softening the landscape with delicate color. We had lunch surrounded by nature, which made even simple food feel special.
Time moved slower there—in the best way.
Engaru Children Indoor Park Kids Metro & City Walks
By afternoon, we headed toward Engaru Children’s Indoor Park (Kids Metro). While Angkush Da and his family went inside, the rest of us wandered around the area, exploring the quiet town nearby.
There’s something calming about small towns in Hokkaido, nothing rushes, nothing demands attention. As the weather turned colder, we eventually made our way to the train station, spending time there just talking, laughing, and letting the day settle in our minds.
No rush. No agenda. Just being there.
Taiyo-no-Oka Engaru Park
Later, we went to Taiyo-no-Oka Engaru Park to have glimpse of Shibazakura. Though shibazakura are not fully bloomed yet though the vibes are awsome.
Chacha World: Art in Wood and Memory
Later, we visited Chacha World, which turned out to be one of the most surprising parts of the trip.
The wooden dolls and structures there were beautifully crafted, each piece carrying a sense of care and imagination. What stayed with us most were the works inspired by Seiji Fujishiro, known for his connection to Night on the Galactic Railroad. The art felt emotional, almost nostalgic—like it was telling stories without needing words.
It was one of those places where silence feels appropriate.
The Journey Back
As evening approached, we began our return toward Kitami. On the way, we stopped at a Nepalese Restaurant for dinner, sharing a final meal before the day slowly came to an end.
Afterward, Angkush Da dropped us back at our place.
The ride home was quiet. Ayub Bachchu’s music played softly in the background, carrying a kind of bittersweet calmness that perfectly matched how we all felt—tired, content, and a little unwilling to let the day end.
To Be Continued…
Golden Week didn’t just give us a trip, it gave us space. Space to breathe outside routine, to see Hokkaido beyond winter walls, and to collect small moments that somehow felt bigger than they were.
But the journey didn’t end here.
The next chapter took us to Akan Lake and Ainu Kotan—where the landscape, culture, and silence felt even deeper.