Kanayamakohan Camping Ground

Home » Stay » Camping » Kanayamakohan Camping Ground

Kanayamakohan Camping Ground: Where the Lakes are Lush and the Lavender’s Lovely

It is a truth universally acknowledged that camping is one of those activities that always sounds far better in theory than in practice. You imagine crackling campfires, starry skies, and maybe a bit of fishing to boot. What you often get instead is wet socks, baffling tent poles, and a distinct feeling that nature might be out to get you. But at Kanayamakohan Camping Ground, nestled in the bucolic splendor of Hokkaido’s forested embrace, you’ll find a rare exception—a place where the reality actually matches the brochure. Here, against a backdrop of serene lakes, sprawling lavender fields, and charming bungalows (for those less enamored with sleeping on the ground), you might just rediscover the joys of the great outdoors—without the usual pitfalls.

Let’s Talk Pricing (Per Night)

  • Large Camper Site: ¥4,110
  • Camper Site: ¥3,080
  • Bungalow: ¥2,570
  • Camping (Per Adult): ¥610
  • Camping (Per Child): ¥240

Operating Season: May to September

The campground operates around the clock, so should you feel the impulse to pitch a tent under the stars at an indecent hour, you’re welcome to do so and check in the next morning with the ever-friendly staff, who are on hand from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM.

Facilities and Amenities

Here’s where things get interesting: the Kanayamakohan Camping Ground offers 500 camping spots, which are rarely completely filled, so there’s little chance you’ll be rubbing shoulders with your neighbors unless you want to. For those who prefer a roof but still enjoy the rustic experience, there are 7 bungalows on-site—perfect for the “glampers” among us!

Other facilities include:

  • Washing areas
  • Toilets (of course, these are always a concern when camping)
  • Parking (convenient, yes, but also blissfully tucked away to maintain the natural serenity)
  • 3 cooking spots (because nothing says “camping” like struggling to light a fire while others look on sympathetically).

A few restrictions to note:

  • Direct fires on the lawn? Not happening. Bring a fire pit or head to the cooking spots.
  • Bonfires and fireworks are also off the table, unfortunately.

And for those of you who fancy a little open-air performance or gathering, there’s even an outdoor stage available for rent. But if you’re looking for a ready-made spectacle, don’t miss the Kanayama Lake Water Festival, celebrated with much fanfare on the last Sunday of July.

Scenic Features and Activities

Let’s talk scenery—because this place has it in spades. Situated in the stunning Kanayamako Forest Park, the campground provides not only sprawling green lawns but also sweeping views of Lake Kanayama and its mountainous backdrop. Picture yourself waking up to mist rolling over the lake, or settling down in the evening with the fading light glinting off the water. Not bad, right?

Activities to keep you entertained

  • Fishing: Lake Kanayama is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, and if you’re keen on catching your dinner, you might just get lucky.
  • Canoeing: If you prefer to skim the surface rather than cast into it, canoe rentals are available. They offer guided tours from April to September, and the gentle 1.5-hour paddle promises views that might just make you forget how much your arms hurt.
  • Lavender Fields: Yes, lavender. Just a short jaunt from the campsite, the Lake Kanayama Lavender Fields are in full, fragrant bloom during July, attracting sightseers and photographers alike. Trust me, it’s a sight you won’t forget anytime soon.
  • Nature Walks: A slower pace more your style? Head to the nearby Kodokara Shrine, a quiet spot for reflection or simply a leisurely stroll through nature at its finest.

Group Discounts

If you’re traveling with a gaggle of 30 or more, congratulations—you qualify for group discounts. Be sure to ask about these when you book, as every yen saved is another yen you can spend on snacks for the campfire (just make sure you’re not roasting them directly on the lawn).

Getting There

No camping trip is complete without some driving directions to puzzle over. Fortunately, this one’s not too complicated:

  • From Sapporo: It’s a 2.5-hour drive northeast, which, let’s be honest, is pretty doable if you’ve got snacks and a good playlist.
  • From Furano: A breezy 43-minute drive south, almost a hop, skip, and a jump in Hokkaido terms.
  • By Train: If you’re determined to avoid driving, there’s the charmingly underused Higashi-Shikagoe Station on the Nemuro Line, just a 5-minute walk from the lake. However, given that the station sees about as much foot traffic as a snow-covered trail in August, you might want to check the timetable carefully.

Final Thoughts

The Kanayamakohan Camping Ground strikes a rare balance between unspoiled nature and thoughtful, practical amenities. Whether you’re there for a weekend of fishing, a peaceful paddle on the lake, or simply to lay back in the lavender-scented breeze, this gem of a campground has you covered. It’s perfect for solo adventurers, families, and groups alike, especially if you find yourself wandering between Sapporo and Furano. Don’t forget to stop and soak in the scenery—you won’t regret it.