The Complete Guide to Lake Shikotsu Tourism | A Roundup of 7 Handpicked Activity Tours, Parks, and Access Information
What is Lake Shikotsu?
Enjoy the Blue of Lake Shikotsu on a Day Trip
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.
In this article, we'll cover Lake Shikotsu'sActivitiesWe'll explain this and how to access it in an easy-to-understand way.
◆For those planning their first trip to Lake Shikotsu
◆For those who want to know the best time of year to visit Lake Shikotsu
◆For those who want to know about activities to enjoy at Lake Shikotsu
Lake Shikotsuko
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Getting to Lake Shikotsu from Sapporo
Lake Shikotsu is located about 40 to 50 km from downtown Sapporo, andIt takes about an hour to get there by car.Can be done.
You can also get there by public transportation, andA free shuttle bus operates during certain seasonsSince this is the case, you can enjoy sightseeing even without a rental car.
Here, we'll introduce the main ways to get from Sapporo to Lake Shikotsu.
Access: 1 hour by car from New Chitose Airport
Lake Shikotsuko
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Free Buses and Shuttles
During the winter "Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival" and other events,Free shuttle buses operate from within Sapporo and from New Chitose AirportThere are years.
Although the operating periods and boarding locations vary by fiscal year, services often depart from and arrive at locations around JR Sapporo Station and New Chitose Airport, and advance reservations may be required.
Since this is a limited-time service, if you plan to use it,Check the latest service informationLet's go ahead and do it.
Public Bus
If you're traveling by public transportation,From JR Chitose Station via Hokkaido Chuo BusIt is common to use [...].
From Sapporo Station, it takes about 30 minutes by JR to Chitose Station; from there, you’ll need to transfer to a local bus, so the total travel time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Since there aren't many departures, it's a good idea to check the schedule before you go sightseeing.
Cars & Rental Cars
From downtown Sapporo, it takes about an hour to reach Lake Shikotsu via National Route 453.
The scenic drive offers views of Mount Eniwa and Mount Tarumae along the way, and you can enjoy the changing scenery throughout the seasons.
Since there are parking lots available around Lake Shikotsu,For those who want to take a leisurely stroll along the lake or enjoy activities at a relaxed paceWe recommend renting a car there.
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From New Chitose Airport to Lake Shikotsu
It takes about 40 minutes by car from New Chitose Airport to Lake Shikotsu.
It's easy to stop by on the first or last day of a trip to Hokkaido, andEnjoy nature right after your flight arrivesCan be done.
In addition to renting a car, you can also use local buses or shuttle buses depending on the season, so choose the best way to get there based on your travel plans.
Available for rent at New Chitose Airport
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A Day Trip from Sapporo
Lake Toya or Lake Shikotsu?
If you're planning a day trip from Sapporo,If you're looking for a laid-back experience, Lake Shikotsu is the place to go., ,If you want to visit tourist attractions, head to Lake Toyais recommended.
Lake Shikotsu is easily accessible, located about an hour's drive from Sapporo, and offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature, primarily through activities such as stand-up paddleboarding and clear-bottom kayaking, as well as walks along the lakeshore.
On the other hand, while it takes about two hours to get to Lake Toya from Sapporo, the area offers a wealth of tourist attractions, including the Mount Usu Ropeway, Showa-Shinzan, and the hot spring town.
If you want to enjoy spectacular scenery that’s quintessentially Hokkaido in a short amount of time, Lake Shikotsu is the best choice; if you want to fully enjoy hot springs and sightseeing as well, Lake Toya will likely leave you most satisfied.
Sightseeing and Highlights of Lake Shikotsu
Lake Shikotsu isn't just home to a beautiful lake; the surrounding area is also dotted with must-see tourist attractions.
If it's your first time visiting, be sure to check out these three highlights!
Lake Shikotsuko
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Lake Shikotsu Blue
The greatest attraction of Lake Shikotsu is what is known as “Shikotsu Blue”The crystal-clear blue surface of the lakeIt is.
This lake boasts some of the clearest water in Japan, and on sunny days, it offers a magical view that shimmers in emerald blue.
From the lake, you can experience its beauty up close while paddling in a clear kayak or on a SUP.
Lake Shikotsu Observation Deck
Around Lake Shikotsu,A viewpoint offering a panoramic view of the entire lakeThere are
From the observation deck, you can take in a panoramic view of Lake Shikotsu, Mount Eniwa, Mount Tarumae, and other majestic Hokkaido landscapes, making it the perfect spot to take a break during a road trip.
The contrast with the vibrantly colored mountains is especially beautiful during the fall foliage season, attracting many tourists.
Access: 1 hour by car from New Chitose Airport
Shikotsu Lake Hot Springs
Located on the shores of a lake, this hot spring town offers both day-trip bathing and overnight stays.
There are also inns where you can soak in hot springs known for their skin-beautifying properties while taking in the natural scenery of Lake Shikotsu, andRecommended not only for day trips from Sapporo but also for overnight tripsIt is.
Access: 1 hour by car from New Chitose Airport
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 Shikotsuko
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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
The Best Time of Year to Visit Lake Shikotsu
Lake Shikotsu is a tourist destination that can be enjoyed year-round, but the best season varies depending on your purpose.
・Summer (June–August)Activities such as SUP and clear-bottom kayaking are the most popular
・Fall (September–October)The autumn foliage is now at its peak, offering a beautiful contrast with the blue waters of Lake Shikotsu.
・Winter (January–February)The "Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival," one of Hokkaido's premier winter events, is held
If you want to enjoy outdoor activities, summer through fall is the best time; if you want to experience Hokkaido’s unique winter scenery, we recommend visiting during the Ice Wave Festival.
Combined with sightseeing at Lake Shikotsuko
＼Hokkaido's natural activities are also available! / / Hokkaido Nature Activities
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.
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