Lake Shikotsu-Hokkaido
What is Lake Shikotsu-Hokkaido?
Lake Shikotsu is a caldera lake located in Chitose City, Hokkaido, and is a famous sightseeing spot boasting clear, pure lake water and a rich natural environment. Surrounded by virgin forests and mountains (Mt. Eniwa, Mt. Kazafushidake, Mt. Tarumae, etc.), the lake offers a variety of seasonal scenery. It is one of the deepest lakes in Japan, with a maximum depth of about 360 meters, and is also called "the northernmost non-frozen lake in Japan" because it does not freeze over throughout the year. Located within the Shikotsu-Toya National Park, it is a popular spot for tourists from within and outside of Hokkaido.
Why Lake Shikotsu - Hokkaido - is popular and how to enjoy it
Lake Shikotsu is chosen by many tourists because of its easy accessibility and diversity of nature experiences. It takes only 40 minutes from New Chitose Airport by car or bus, and can be visited in a day trip from Sapporo. Visitors can enjoy sightseeing on the lake by sightseeing boat or speedboat, and underwater sightseeing boats are popular for viewing the clear surface of the lake from the water. Canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), fishing, and other activities are also available. Visitors can also relax in the lakeside hot spring resort and learn about the local nature at the Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center. In the winter, the Hyotoko Festival is held and visitors can experience a fantastic world of ice and light. The seasonal scenery and activities make Lake Shikotsu an attractive destination for nature lovers, photographers, and excursionists.
Lake Shikotsu - Hokkaido - Details
| name | Lake Shikotsuko |
| Location | Shikotsuko Onsen Banjo, Chitose City, Hokkaido, JapanView on Map) |
| parking lot | Yes (Pay parking lots around Lake Shikotsu: about 350 cars, 500 yen per day, etc.) |
| toilet | Available (multipurpose restrooms are located in the Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center and public restrooms are scattered along the walking trail) |
