From March to April, Hokkaido finally welcomes spring. During this period when temperatures begin to rise, there are various effects caused by the melting of the snow. Here are "4 things to keep in mind" for those who are moving to Hokkaido or visiting for sightseeing during this time of year when Hokkaido-area residents also have a hard time.

1. Sherbet-like snow is a peculiar thing! Shoes should be completely waterproof.

When the temperature is above freezing, the road surface becomes a sorbet of melted and unmelted snow, and the sidewalks become sticky because the drainage cannot keep up. If you wear breathable shoes, sneakers, pumps, or other shoes with shallow openings, water will get inside your shoes.

The best way to prevent this is to wear completely waterproof shoes. In addition to winter shoes that do not get soaked, it is also a good idea to use waterproof spray to prevent water from seeping in and to use silicone covers for shoes that can be worn completely. What may seem obvious, but is important, is to watch your feet and where you are going. Don't get stuck in a puddle while looking at your cell phone.

Be careful when waiting at traffic lights! Prevention of muddy water from cars

In spring in Hokkaido, cars drive on muddy road surfaces. Especially during the daytime, there are large puddles of water in some places, and the muddy water that splashes frequently reaches the sidewalk. Basher! is heard, your precious clothes will be ruined if you get soaked. When walking on the sidewalk or waiting at traffic lights, keep as much distance from the roadway as possible.

3. Wipers are essential to prevent muddy water while driving! Refilling washer fluid is important.

When driving during the thaw, you will be surprised at how dirty your car becomes due to muddy water. It is quite common to be sprayed with muddy water by oncoming cars as you pass by. For this reason, windshield wipers are a must. If a truck or other large vehicle sprays a large amount of muddy water on your windshield, you may lose your vision for a moment, so drive safely and use your wipers calmly.

If you are renting a car, this is not a problem, but if you are coming in your own car, make sure to check the washer fluid. If the car is too dirty during the trip, please wash the car lightly to ensure good visibility.

4. A shiny skating rink at night? Beware of Black Ice Burn!

In Hokkaido, temperatures change dramatically in early spring, and it is not unusual for the temperature to drop below freezing at night. At such times, you should be careful of black ice. Black ice burn is a thin layer of ice on the road surface, which looks black at first glance, as if it is just wet. It is a terrible surface that makes you slip like a skating rink when you think it is just wet.

When driving at night in sub-zero temperatures, it is always a good idea to drive safely, thinking that you may be driving on black ice-burn. Even when walking across the street, it is recommended to be careful when walking, such as penguin walking, thinking that it might be Black Ice Burn.

Be careful of avalanche accidents and falling snow in the snowy mountains.

In addition to the above, backcountry trekkers should also be aware that there has been a series of avalanche accidents in the snowy mountains. Please enjoy Hokkaido safely and securely by paying attention to what you need to watch out for because it is the time of the year when the snow is melting.