From March to April, spring finally arrives in Hokkaido. During this time, as temperatures begin to rise, the snow melts, bringing various effects. For those who are planning to move to Hokkaido or visit the island during this difficult time for Hokkaido residents, here are four things you should be aware of.

1. Sherbet-like snow can be tricky! Make sure your shoes are completely waterproof.

When the temperature rises above zero, the road surface becomes a mixture of melted snow and unmelted snow, turning it into a slushy mess, and the sidewalks become soggy because the drainage system cannot keep up. If you wear shoes with good ventilation, sneakers, pumps, or other shoes with a shallow opening, water will get into your shoes.

The best way to prevent this is to wear completely waterproof shoes. In addition to wearing winter shoes that don't get wet, it's also a good idea to use waterproof spray to prevent water from seeping in, or to use silicone shoe covers that you can wear completely. And although it may seem obvious, it's important to keep an eye on your feet and your destination as you walk. You don't want to end up walking while looking at your phone and stepping into a puddle.

2. Be careful when waiting at traffic lights! Measures against muddy water from cars

In spring in Hokkaido, cars drive on muddy roads. Especially during the day, there are large puddles here and there, and muddy water often splashes onto the sidewalk. The moment you hear the splash, your precious clothes get soaked, which can be a real disaster. When walking on the sidewalk or waiting at a traffic light, try to keep as far away from the road as possible.

3. Windshield wipers are essential to protect against muddy water while driving! It's important to refill windshield wiper fluid

If you drive a car during the snow melting season, you will notice how muddy your car is. It is also common for cars passing by to splash muddy water on you. That's why windshield wipers are essential. If a large vehicle, such as a truck, splashes a large amount of muddy water on your windshield, you may not be able to see ahead for a moment, so drive safely and stay calm and use your windshield wipers.

If you are renting a car, there is no problem, but if you are using your own car, make sure to refill the windshield washer fluid. If your car gets very dirty during your trip, wash it lightly to ensure good visibility.

4. A shiny ice rink at night? Beware of black ice

In Hokkaido, the temperature changes drastically in early spring, and it is not uncommon for the temperature to drop below freezing at night. At times like these, you need to be careful of black ice. Black ice is a thin layer of ice on the road surface, and at first glance it looks black, as if it is just wet. Although you may think it is just wet, it is a terrifying road surface that makes you slip like you are on an ice rink.

When driving at night in temperatures below freezing, it is best to drive safely, always keeping in mind that you may be driving on black ice. Even when crossing the road on foot, it is recommended to walk carefully, for example by walking like a penguin, as you may be crossing black ice.

Beware of avalanches and falling snow on snowy mountains

In addition, if you are planning to go backcountry skiing, please be careful as there have been a series of avalanche accidents on snowy mountains. As the snow melts, please be aware of the things you need to be careful of and enjoy Hokkaido safely and securely.