10 Fun Activities at Lake Shikotsu! A Guide to Popular Experiences to Enjoy with Kids
When Choosing Activities at Lake Shikotsu
Key Points to Keep in Mind!
Lake Shikotsu isJapan's Clearest WatersThis beautiful lake—often referred to as such—is a spot where you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.
In this article, we'll cover everything from recommended activities for summer and winter, toFun for the whole familyWe'll provide a comprehensive overview, from hands-on experiences to tips for making reservations.
If you're planning a trip to Lake Shikotsu, be sure to check this out!
◆For those who want to know when to make a reservation and what to bring
◆For those who want to find activities they can enjoy with their children
◆For those planning a trip to Lake Shikotsu and having trouble deciding on activities
Hokkaido Recommendations
Click here for tour ranking
What kind of place is Lake Shikotsu?
Lake Shikotsu is located in Chitose City, Hokkaido, within Shikotsu-Toya National Park.One of Japan's clearest watersIt is a caldera lake that boasts...
It's easily accessible, located about a 40-minute drive from New Chitose Airport, andEven for a day tripIt's gaining popularity as a tourist destination where you can really enjoy yourself!
Throughout the four seasonsChange one's expressionThe lake's scenery is also one of the major attractions of Lake Shikotsu tourism!
▼Click here for the complete guide to sightseeing at Lake Shikotsu▼
How to access
From New Chitose Airport,About 55 minutes by carFrom JR Chitose Station,About 45 minutes by carWe'll arrive in about that long.
If you're using public transportation, there are buses bound for Lake Shikotsu that depart from Chitose Station and New Chitose Airport.
Since there may be snow and icy roads during the winter, if you plan to rent a car,studless winter tire (tire)Don't forget to put it on!
Shikotsuko Onsen, Outside the City Limits, Chitose City, Hokkaido
◆Access by Car
・About 55 minutes from New Chitose Airport
・About 45 minutes from JR Chitose Station
◆Access by Bus
・Approx. 55 minutes from New Chitose Airport (Bus No. 28 bound for Lake Shikotsu)
・About 45 minutes from JR Chitose Station (bound for Lake Shikotsu)
◆Parking
・Standard car: 500 yen per visit
・Motorcycles: 200 yen per visit
◆Facilities
The visitor center has restrooms, a rest area, and other amenities.
The Charm of Lake Shikotsu
Lake Shikotsu’s greatest appeal is, without a doubt, itsHigh transparencyIt is!
The view of the surrounding mountains reflected on the lake’s surface is,season by seasonIt shows us different expressions.
In the summer, enjoy refreshing water-based activities, and in the winter, take in the magical snowy scenery, and,Throughout the yearThe fact that it’s fun is another reason for its popularity!
Enjoy Lake Shikotsu to the Fullest!
Click here for recommended tours ▼
[Summer] Things to Do at Lake Shikotsu
Top 5 Popular Activities
At Lake Shikotsu in the summer, you can enjoy activities both on and under the water.A Wide Variety of ActivitiesWe have everything you need!
An experience unique to a lake with such crystal-clear water is,Something for Everyone, from Kids to AdultsIt's all stuff I can do.
Here, we’ve carefully selected and present five popular activities recommended for summer.
Popular tours held around Lake Shikotsu
Learn more about this
Lake Shikotsu Sightseeing Boat (Underwater Sightseeing Boat)
The Lake Shikotsu Sightseeing Boat is,An observation room where you can view the underwater worldIt is a sightseeing boat equipped with [...].
Since you can watch the scenery on the lake bottom and observe the fish while staying on the boat,Even if you have small children with youYou can enjoy it with peace of mind!
Since you don't have to worry about getting wet,Regardless of the weatherIt's also great that it's available.
Canoeing and Kayaking Experience
The experience of gliding across the calm lake surface in a canoe or kayak is,Unique to Lake ShikotsuYou can experience that refreshing feeling.
Since some tours include an instructor as a passenger,Even for beginners or those with childrenThat's reassuring.
The view from the lake will make for a special memory—one that’s a little different from what you see from land!
▼Click here for recommended kayak tours▼
SUP Experience
SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) is an activity in which you stand on a board and use a paddle to move across the water.
Since it's fun while helping you develop your sense of balance,Great for family outings, tooIt's a perfect fit.
On a sunny day, the lake's surface...Like a mirrorIt's also gaining popularity as an experience that looks great in photos!
▼Click here for recommended SUP tours▼
Fishing for Himesama (Fishing Experience)
Lake Shikotsu isHigh-quality Japanese charIt is a lake known for its fish.
If you purchase a fishing permit,Even beginners can feel free to...You can try your hand at fishing!
There are also packages that let you enjoy the fish you catch right on the spot, making your travel memories even more special.
Lakeside Camping (Mifue Campground)
Mifue Campground is a popular camping spot located on the shores of Lake Shikotsu.
Beaches Where You Can Swim in the LakeIt's also nearby, and it's bustling with families during the summer.
We have everything from tent sites to RV sites, so you can choose the one that best suits your camping style!
[Winter] Things to Enjoy at Lake Shikotsu
Top 5 Popular Activities
Lake Shikotsu in winter is completely different from summer.Fantastic atmosphereThe product will be wrapped in a
Lake that never freezesThe charm of winter lies in its unique, beautiful scenery and the experiences you can only have in a snowy region!
Here are five recommended winter activities.
Popular tours held around Lake Shikotsu
Learn more about this
Lake Shikotsu Ice Wave Festival
The Lake Shikotsu Ice Wave Festival features ice sculptures made from the lake's waterIce Sculptures IlluminatedIt's a major winter event!
It is held every year from late January to mid-February and attracts large crowds of tourists.
The magical light show is,Creating Family MemoriesIt's perfect for that, too!
Frost-Covered Trees Viewing Tour
In the mountainous areas around Lake Shikotsu, you can see beautiful rime ice when the conditions are right.
If you take a guided tour, you'll see the highlightsEfficientlyYou can turn it.
Make Sure to Stay WarmGet ready and enjoy the breathtaking winter scenery!
The Open-Air Bath at Marukoma Onsen Ryokan
Marukoma Onsen Ryokan is,Just dip right into the lakeThis inn is known for its open-air baths, which offer a sense of openness.
From the bathtub made of natural rock, you can see Lake Shikotsu’sA panoramic view of the magnificent sceneryCan be done.
Day-Trip BathingSince that's also an option, we recommend stopping by while you're sightseeing!
Tent Sauna
Tent saunas set up on the shores of Lake Shikotsu are gaining attention as a new way to enjoy winter!
After you've warmed up thoroughly,Instead of a cold bathWe also offer a package that lets you enjoy snorkeling in Lake Shikotsu, known for its exceptional water clarity.
We recommend incorporating this into your winter trip to Lake Shikotsu as an experience that will refresh both your mind and body.
[Winter Special] Kayaking & SUP
In winter, Lake Shikotsu has fewer plankton in its waters, so even more than in summer,Transparency increasesIt's that time of year.
If you ride in a clear kayak or on a clear SUP with a transparent bottom, you can enjoy both the still lake surface and the crystal-clear water below.
measures against coldIf you take these steps before participating, you'll be able to enjoy a magical experience on the lake that's unique to winter!
Recommended clear kayak tours include
Here
Recommended Clear SUP Tours are
Here
Recommended Tours to Enjoy at Lake Shikotsu
At Lake Shikotsu, we aim to make seasonal experiences even more fulfillingGuided TourThere are also many options available.
Even for beginners,Many tours include equipment rentals so you can participate with peace of mind.
Here, we’ll introduce some of our most popular kayak and SUP tours!
Popular tours held around Lake Shikotsu
Learn more about this
Kayak
On a kayak tour, you'll paddle into the coves along the lakeshore in a boat that's more maneuverable than a canoe.
If it's a guided tour,Highlights of Lake ShikotsuYou can enjoy it while listening to an explanation.
Tours held during the quiet early morning hours are especiallyVery popularThat's right!
▼Click here for recommended kayak tours▼
SUP
On a SUP tour,for beginnersThere are many plans available that start with a basic tutorial.
Since the course is adjusted based on weather and lake conditions,Peace of mind when it comes to safetyIt is.
On the lakeYoga Trial ClassSome tours even offer special programs that incorporate SUP!
▼Click here for recommended SUP tours▼
Things to Enjoy Along with Lake Shikotsu
Recommended Activities
Around Lake Shikotsu,If you go just a little further,There are plenty of fun tourist attractions and activities to enjoy.
If you have some extra time in your itinerary, we recommend visiting this place as well.
Here, we’ll introduce three of the most popular experiences!
Popular tours held around Lake Shikotsu
Learn more about this
Lake Toya Tour
Like Lake Shikotsu, Lake Toya is a caldera lake located within Shikotsu-Toya National Park.
What is Lake Shikotsu, with its sightseeing cruises and strolls through the hot spring town?A Different Kind of CharmYou can enjoy the
Approximately 1 hour by carSince it's just that far, it's perfect for a multi-destination tour that combines different itineraries!
Enjoy Lake Toya to the Fullest!
Click here for canoe tours
You can even go to Lake Toya!
Click here for sightseeing taxi tours
Hot Air Balloon Ride
If you venture a little further from Lake Shikotsu,The Spectacular Views of the Niseko Mountain RangeYou can also enjoy a hot-air balloon ride that offers a panoramic view from the sky!
This is a limited-time plan available from June through September that lets you enjoy a sightseeing cruise in the crisp air of the early morning or evening.
Even young childrenSince everyone can join in, it's the perfect way for the whole family to make memories together!
Recommendation
Click here for our hot air balloon experience packages
rafting
Japan's Finest Clear StreamAt the Shiribetsu River (Niseko)—which was selected as one of the top spots—you can enjoy a full-fledged rafting experience!
In spring, you can experience the raging torrents of melting snow; in summer, you can admire fish such as rainbow trout in the crystal-clear waters; and in fall, you can enjoy the colorful autumn foliage—each season offers a unique experience.
Recommended Authentic Rafting Experiences
Click here for our trial plan
Reservations for Fun with Kids—
Preparation Tips
When enjoying activities with your children,Advance Preparationis very important!
Please note that particularly popular tours may fill up quickly, so it’s important to book early.
Here, we'll explain when to make a reservation and what to bring.
When to Make a Reservation
*During peak seasons, such as summer vacation and long weekends, we recommend making reservations at least one month in advance.
Popular tours and campgrounds include,As early as one month in advanceSometimes all the slots are booked.
Same-day reservations are availableSince there are certain activities involved, it's a good idea to check in advance!
List of Items That Are Handy to Have
□Towel
□ Beverages
□ Sunscreen
□ Winter Clothing and Gloves
□ Waterproof Bag
If you're traveling with children, be sure to take a breakPicnic blankets and light snacksIt's a good idea to have some on hand, just in case!
About Activities at Lake Shikotsu
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Many activities, such as the Lake Shikotsu sightseeing cruise and SUP experiences, are open to children of all ages. However, age restrictions vary by activity, so we recommend checking the official website for each activity in advance.
We recommend booking popular tours at least two weeks in advance. During peak seasons, such as summer vacation, tours can fill up as early as one month in advance, so booking early is your best bet.
Yes, there are plenty of unique winter experiences to enjoy, such as the Lake Shikotsu Ice Wave Festival, tent saunas, and winter-exclusive clear kayaking and SUP. Be sure to dress warmly before participating.
summary
At Lake Shikotsu, you can enjoy canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding in the summer, and the Ice Festival and hot springs in the winter, among other things,Each seasonYou can enjoy a whole new kind of charm!
With the kidsThere are many activities to enjoy, making it a great destination for family vacations.
Be sure to use this article as a guide to plan some experiences unique to Lake Shikotsu!
▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this one.
