The Complete Guide to Lake Shikotsu Tourism | A Roundup of 7 Handpicked Activity Tours, Parks, and Access Information
Table of Contents
- 1 The Complete Guide to Lake Shikotsu Tourism | A Roundup of 7 Carefully Selected Activity Tours, Parks, and Access Information
- 2 What Is Lake Shikotsu? Basic Information
- 3 7 Recommended Activities to Enjoy at Lake Shikotsu
- 4 Dangers and Precautions to Be Aware of When Visiting Lake Shikotsu
- 5 Model Itinerary for Lake Shikotsu
- 6 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Lake Shikotsu Tourism
- 7 summary
The Complete Guide to Lake Shikotsu Tourism｜
A Roundup of 7 Carefully Selected Activity Tours, Parks, and Access Information
In this article, we'll cover Lake Shikotsu'sActivitiesWe'll explain how to access it and what to keep in mind in an easy-to-understand way.
We’ll also introduce some suggested itineraries that even first-time visitors can enjoy with confidence, so please use them as a guide.
◆ For those who want to know about activities to enjoy at Lake Shikotsu
◆ For those who want to check safety precautions and tips for sightseeing at Lake Shikotsu
◆ For those who would like to use the suggested itineraries for day trips and one-night stays as a reference
Lake Shikotsuko
Click here for recommended tour ranking
What Is Lake Shikotsu? Basic Information
Lake Shikotsu, located in Chitose City, Hokkaido, is one of Japan's most renownedTransparencyIt is a caldera lake that boasts...
It is believed to have been formed by volcanic activity about 40,000 years ago, and its magnificent scale—spanning about 40 km—is truly captivating.
Enjoy Lake Shikotsu
Click here for recommended tours ▼
Location and Access to Lake Shikotsu
Lake Shikotsu isAbout a 40-minute drive from New Chitose Airport...It's about an hour's drive from downtown Sapporo.
If you're using public transportation, it's most convenient to take a bus from JR Chitose Station to the shores of Lake Shikotsu.
If you're driving, access from the Central Hokkaido Expressway is convenient, so we recommend renting a car.
Access: 1 hour by car from New Chitose Airport
Characteristics of Lake Shikotsu
Lake Shikotsu isLake that never freezesIt is known as a rare lake where the surface does not freeze even in the depths of winter.
The surrounding area is designated as Shikotsu-Toya National Park and is surrounded by majestic mountains such as Mount Eniwa and Mount Tarumae.
One of Lake Shikotsu’s greatest charms is that you can enjoy its ever-changing scenery throughout the four seasons.
7 Recommended Activities to Enjoy at Lake Shikotsu
Lake Shikotsu offers a wide variety of nature-based activities, and there are different ways to enjoy it depending on the season.
▼Lake ShikotsuLearn more about the tour ▼
Kayaking and SUP Experience
Paddling across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Shikotsu in a kayak or on a SUP is an experience unique to Lake Shikotsu.
There are tour operators along the lakeshore, andIntroductory Plan for Beginners...are also available.
▼Kayaking & SUPClick here for the tour ▼
Lake Shikotsu Sightseeing Boat
On the sightseeing boats that depart from the lakeshore,The clarity of the lake as seen from the bottom of the boatThere are sections where you can check this.
Since you can enjoy the beauty of the lake without having to walk, it's popular with families with young children.
Access: 1 hour by car from New Chitose Airport
Camping at Morlap Campground
Located on the lakeshoreMorlap Campgroundis recommended for those who want to enjoy camping in a quiet setting.
Spending some leisurely time gazing out at the lake will help you forget about your daily routine.
Access: 1 hour by car from New Chitose Airport
Day Trip Bathing at Marukoma Onsen Ryokan
At Marukoma Onsen Ryokan, nestled on the lakeshore,Natural Rock BathYou can enjoy a day trip to the hot springs while looking out over the lake.
It's also perfect for warming up after getting cold from all that activity.
▼Touring Hokkaido's Onsen TownsClick here for popular plans ▼
Access: 1 hour by car from New Chitose Airport
Lake Shikotsu Lakeside Bicycle Path
Located on the lakeshore,Bicycle PathThen, you can take a leisurely run while enjoying the refreshing breeze.
One of the attractions is that you can enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
Fall Fuji-dake Trekking
In the fall,Mt. FufushiThe nearby hiking trails are popular spots for viewing fall foliage.
There are well-maintained trails that are easy for even beginner hikers to tackle, so please give them a try based on your fitness level.
Access: 1 hour by car from New Chitose Airport
Lake Shikotsu Ice Wave Festival
At the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, a winter tradition, using water from the lake...A Giant Ice Sculpture...will be illuminated.
This event is sure to leave you in awe of the magical scenery.
Access: 1 hour by car from New Chitose Airport
Dangers and Precautions to Be Aware of When Visiting Lake Shikotsu
Lake Shikotsu is a charming place, but there are a few precautions you should keep in mind to fully enjoy your visit.
Risk of Water Accidents
Lake Shikotsu isA spot where the water drops off sharplyThere have been incidents of drowning while swimming in the past.
When swimming in the lake, be sure to use the designated safe areas.
Preparing for Sudden Changes in the Weather
Lake Shikotsu, surrounded by mountains, isThe weather is changeable...sudden strong winds or a drop in temperature may occur.
When enjoying the outdoors, it’s a good idea to bring along warm clothes and rain gear just in case.
Combined with sightseeing at Lake Shikotsuko
＼Hokkaido's natural activities are also available! / / Hokkaido Nature Activities
Model Itinerary for Lake Shikotsu
Here are some classic model itineraries for sightseeing at Lake Shikotsu that you can enjoy based on your schedule.
Day Trip Itinerary
In the morningCanoeing and SUPThis itinerary lets you enjoy various activities and have lunch at a lakeside café.
If you spend the afternoon enjoying a day trip to a hot spring facility, you can have a fulfilling sightseeing experience even in a short amount of time.
2-Day, 1-Night Tour
On the first day,Canoeing and SUPThis is a package that lets you enjoy activities and stay overnight at a campground.
On the second day, let's take a leisurely tour around the lake while enjoying some cycling and hiking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Lake Shikotsu Tourism
We especially recommend visiting from early summer, when the fresh greenery is beautiful, through fall, when you can enjoy the autumn foliage.
The Ice Wave Festival is held here in winter, so it's also popular with people who want to enjoy the snowy scenery.
It is within day-trip distance from New Chitose Airport and downtown Sapporo.
You can have plenty of fun even on a half-day tour, with activities like sightseeing cruises and canoeing.
Since the water can suddenly get deep in some areas, please avoid swimming outside the designated safe areas.
If you want to enjoy yourself safely, we recommend canoeing or SUP tours where life jackets are required.
summary
Lake Shikotsu isA lake with high clarityIt is a tourist destination known for its diverse range of activities that take full advantage of its rich natural surroundings.
Please be sure to experience the joys of each season while keeping safety in mind.
▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this one.
