Kamishihoro: Taushubetsu River Bridge and Naitai Terrace

Two clear highlights to consider when planning a trip to Kamishihoro are the Taushubetsu River Bridge, whose visibility changes with the water level and season, and Naitai Terrace, with its views across the Naitai Highland Ranch. At the bridge, when to visit and whether you are permitted to drive there are key considerations. At the ranch, the main attractions are the views from the terrace, grazing cattle, and the occasional wild deer. For planning purposes, this means that one destination depends on seasonal conditions and access, while the other offers scenic views and wildlife watching.

The Taushubetsu River Bridge Throughout the Year

When the water level is low, the Taushubetsu River Bridge emerges onto the surface of the frozen lake from around January. As the water level rises, it begins to sink around June; from roughly August to October, it lies on the lakebed. The months are approximate guideposts, not a fixed calendar: timing varies from year to year, partly depending on rainfall. For planning, it is helpful to distinguish between the bridge appearing on the ice and later lying on the lakebed. If you want to see it, factor in this changing pattern rather than assuming it will always look the same.

Visiting the Bridge and Road Access

Road access is also part of planning your visit. The forest road to the Taushubetsu River Bridge is closed to vehicles without a permit. Options include viewing the bridge from a roadside observation point, taking a paid tour with a local guide, or driving along the forest road in an authorized vehicle. Your choice therefore depends both on how you want to visit and on the requirements for road access. If you plan to take a tour, check the schedule and make a reservation with the provider.

Naitai Terrace and the Ranch

Naitai Terrace is located near the summit of the Naitai Highland Ranch. From its observation terrace, visitors can look out over the extensive ranch. This viewpoint differs from the Taushubetsu River Bridge: here, the specific draw is the view across the ranch, whereas at the bridge, the focus is on the seasonal changes in its visibility. At the highland ranch, you can see grazing cattle and, occasionally, wild deer. Deer sightings are only an occasional possibility.

Trip Planning and Finding a Hotel

For the bridge, the seasonally changing viewing period and permitted road access are key considerations. Naitai Terrace, by contrast, offers views across the ranch and the chance to see grazing cattle and, occasionally, deer. Consider whether to plan your travel dates around the bridge’s changing appearance or to make the ranch views your preferred excursion. This will help you compare hotel options with a clear idea of which type of outing will shape your trip.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Abuta District, Rebun District, Takikawa, Soyamisaki, Makkari, Suttsu, Nayoro, Hokuto

Back to the main travel overview: Hokkaido.