You've probably heard of Lake Shikotsu, and heard it's only an hour from Sapporo, but you're probably wondering what it's really like and whether it's worth seeing.

It's definitely worth seeing. In fact, you should definitely go. It's close to Chitose Airport and Sapporo, and there are roads leading to Noboribetsu, Lake Toya, and Niseko.
Even if it means taking a slight detour, missing out on experiencing its beauty will surely be a major regret that lingers long after your trip to Hokkaido.

This time, we'll introduce some of the charming tourist spots and places to visit around Lake Shikotsu.

1. What is Lake Shikotsu?
2. Sightseeing and attractions of Lake Shikotsu
2-1. Bird Forest, ~ National Vacation Village Walking Trail
2-2. Bifue Campsite and the Forest of Giant Trees
2-3. Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center
2-4. Mountain Railway Bridge to National Vacation Village
3. Activities and things to do at Lake Shikotsu
4. Cafes and Restaurants at Lake Shikotsu
4-1. Mizu no Uta Healthy Buffet Amam
4-2. Log Bear
5. Hot spring and hotel information around Lake Shikotsu
5-1. Lakeside Villa Suimeikaku
5-2. Marukoma Onsen Ryokan
Final thoughts

Lake Shikotsu was formed 40,000 years ago, when Japan was still connected to the Asian continent by land.

It is said that Lake Shikotsu was circular at that time, but subsequent volcanic activity shaped it into its current form.

It boasts exceptional clarity, consistently ranking among the top two lakes in Japan, alongside Lake Mashu, and is one of the clearest lakes in the world.

Unlike Lake Mashu, a mysterious lake always shrouded in mist, this lake rarely experiences mist, allowing you to enjoy its mirror-like surface at any time.

Surrounded by majestic peaks, the lake's waters are calm and it is the northernmost non-freezing lake in Japan, never freezing even in winter.

From the fresh greenery of spring, to camping in summer, to the vibrant autumn foliage, and the ice festival in winter, this lake displays a variety of beautiful faces throughout the year, all while being conveniently located near urban areas.
On Sundays, it becomes a major tourist spot bustling with many visitors.

2-1. Bird Forest, ~ National Vacation Village Walking Trail

Let's take a stroll through the bird sanctuary starting from Kyukamura Shikotsu-ko.

The surrounding area boasts a rich natural environment, with not only small birds but also chipmunks, red foxes, and many other animals.

Along the way, there are several viewpoints where you can see not only wild animals through the trees, but also the surrounding mountains such as Mt. Eniwa, Mt. Fuppushi, and Mt. Tarumae from Lake Shikotsu, as well as the Bifue area on the opposite shore.

On a clear day, the crisp air, the deep blue of the sky, and the azure of the lake, with sunlight reflecting off the water's surface, create a breathtaking spectacle that will leave a lasting impression.

The 1.7-kilometer section connecting Nakamorappu is well-maintained, with explanatory signs and gazebos along the way, making it a safe and enjoyable experience. The two trails merge at two points, but the lower trail might be the better option.

After enjoying forest bathing and birdwatching amidst the magnificent nature typical of Hokkaido, return to Kyukamura Shikotsu-ko and enjoy a day trip to the hot springs.

Currently, a large rock blocks part of the trail, so you can only walk as far as Nakamorappu, but you can still enjoy nature.

2-2. Bifue Campsite and the Forest of Giant Trees

If you're looking for a wilder, more natural experience of Lake Shikotsu, we recommend the Bifue area, almost directly across from the hot spring resort town. There you'll find the true, ancient form of Lake Toya.

Turning off the main road and driving down a dirt road from this campsite, you'll find yourself in a forest of giant trees. It's a vast natural landscape that makes you wonder if you're really in Japan.

Upon landing, you are enveloped in a profound silence. The aura of the deep forest rises as if the very essence of the earth has been solidified.
With each breath you take, you should feel that pure, invigorating energy flowing through every part of your body.

The unpaved roads and the journey that took you here will all be forgotten, as you will be overwhelmed by the sheer power and weight of nature.

I also recommend the Bifue Falls; let yourself be deeply healed by the harmony of the beautiful dance of light created by the flowing water and the soothing sounds.

2-3. Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center

If you're visiting Lake Shikotsu, one of the essential rules of sightseeing is to stop by this visitor center first.

This is because this visitor center is where all the information about the natural environment of Lake Shikotsu is concentrated.
Just by looking at this, you can gain a basic understanding of Lake Shikotsu.

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by stuffed animals and models of Lake Shikotsu, as well as a large aquarium featuring the graceful Himemasu salmon, the symbol of Lake Shikotsu.
The richness of nature around Lake Shikotsu is truly palpable. You're sure to be overwhelmed by the magnificent natural beauty that can be experienced less than an hour from Sapporo, a city of 190 million people.

Next, there's an exhibit about the history of Lake Shikotsu's formation. Through dioramas, it's easy to understand how the current Lake Shikotsu came to be.

At the very back, there's a large window opening onto Lake Shikotsu, and by gazing at the magnificent scenery from there, you've achieved your goal at the visitor center. Now, your preparation for learning about the nature of Lake Shikotsu is complete.

2-4. Mountain Railway Bridge to National Vacation Village

First, head to the lakeshore where the sightseeing boat dock is located. The Yamasen railway bridge spans the edge of the spacious, well-maintained lakeside park.

The red iron bridge is a remnant of the narrow-gauge railway that once ran here, used to transport timber from around Lake Shikotsu to paper mills.
This charming bridge is a silent storyteller of the development around Lake Shikotsu. As a legacy of Hokkaido's development during the Meiji era, it was designated a Modern Industrial Heritage site by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry in November 2007, as part of a group of modern industrial heritage sites that tell the story of the paper industry's progress.

Crossing this bridge leads to the road to the National Vacation Village. Compared to the tranquil public parking lot and hot spring town, this road is a bit steeper, but the view of Lake Shikotsu and Mount Eniwa that opens up rapidly is truly magnificent. The breeze blowing up from the lake is also refreshing.

Make a little effort to reach the observation deck. It's normally a great spot to watch the sunset sinking behind the mountains.
At sunset, the lake's surface is illuminated by the setting sun, the sky gradually turns purple, and Mount Eniwa, its green color deepening as it eventually reveals a silhouette reminiscent of an ink painting. You might find yourself forgetting the passage of time for a while, captivated by its beauty.

One thing you absolutely must do at Lake Shikotsu is take a sightseeing boat. Enjoying the scenery from the water is, of course, a given on any lake. This is true for the popular sightseeing boats of Lake Toya, Lake Akan, and Lake Onuma in Hokkaido, and it's a common sight in many places outside of Hokkaido, including Lake Biwa.

However, what makes Lake Shikotsu's sightseeing boats unique is that they offer more than just views from the surface of the lake. Let's take a look at the scenery underwater as well.

Lake Shikotsu boasts one of the world's five clearest waters, making it possible to witness unique sights that can only be seen because of its distinctive formation.

Lake Shikotsu has a unique geological formation called columnar jointing, which was created when magma cooled and solidified rapidly during the lake's formation.
The clarity of Lake Shikotsu allows us to clearly see this topography, which resembles sheer cliffs that convey the pulse of the Earth to the present day. Sand ripples spread across the sandy bottom, which is about 2 meters deep.

As the water depth increases rapidly, a characteristic of caldera lakes, the color of the water changes dramatically from cobalt blue to emerald green. It's a breathtaking moment.
Beyond the clear blue water, the pristine, submerged form is fantastical. The air inside the ship is filled with a sense of romance.

In addition to these, there are also high-speed boats and swan boats available, allowing you to enjoy a refreshing drive across the lake and feel the wind in your hair.

For those who want to connect with nature, rafting and canoeing experiences are also available.
Since it's a popular genre, it's a good idea to make a reservation in advance and prepare thoroughly before immersing yourself in the magnificent nature of Lake Shikotsu.

4-1. Mizu no Uta Healthy Buffet Amam

Mizu no Uta is the number one most popular lunch spot at Lake Shikotsu. It's a restaurant that's extremely popular for its lunch buffet.
Tsuruga Resort is extremely popular throughout Hokkaido for the quality of its buffet and service.

It's bound to be top-notch. The dishes are carefully crafted with women in mind, using plenty of local vegetables to create an elegant and refined flavor.
The dessert selection is, of course, extensive. What's more, each dessert is slightly smaller in size, which is appealing because it allows you to enjoy a wide variety of flavors.

Image courtesy of:Shikotsu Lake Tsuruga Resort Spa Mizu no Uta

Since it's a hot spring resort, the packages that include day-trip bathing are a great deal.
The terrace overlooking Lake Shikotsu is incredibly pleasant, and there's even a footbath. You can combine it with a bath, enjoy tea on the terrace, or even indulge in a spa treatment. It's a spot that offers plenty of post-meal delights.

Shikotsu Lake Tsuruga Resort Spa Mizu no Uta Healthy Buffet Amam
TEL +0123-25-2211-XNUMX
Shikotsu Lake Hot Springs, Chitose City, Hokkaido
Opening hours
[Lunch] 11:30 - 14:40 (Last order 14:00)
　　　　Two shifts ① 11:30~, ② 13:10~

4-2. Log Bear

In the heart of the hot spring town, lined with souvenir shops, lies a log cabin brimming with Hokkaido charm. This is Log Bear, renowned for its curry and authentic coffee.

Lake Shikotsu is famous for its pristine water. This makes it an ideal location for coffee, where water quality significantly impacts the taste.
Each cup of coffee is carefully prepared, boasting a perfect balance of aroma, body, and flavor, leading many to consider it the best coffee in the Lake Shikotsu area.
Enjoy a leisurely time in our tranquil shop, where a pleasant silence prevails.

And the master barista, who some regulars say is even better than the coffee itself, is another one of the shop's attractions.
Some people say that his greatest charm lies in his immense, playful nature, reminiscent of Mount Eniwa, and his profound personality, like that of Lake Shikotsu.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Lake Shikotsu, along with the aroma of coffee.

LOG BEAR
0123-25-2738
Shikotsu Lake Hot Springs, Chitose City, Hokkaido
Hours: 9: 00 ~ 22: 00
Irregular holidays

5-1. Lakeside Villa Suimeikaku

Shikotsu Lake Onsen may not be particularly flashy, but it has an incredible number of wonderful accommodations.
Among them, our recommendation is Lakeside Villa Suimeikaku, which has a truly adult resort atmosphere.

All eight guest rooms offer lake views. Enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view of Mount Eniwa all to yourself. The open-air bath is available for private use by reservation, and there are also accommodation plans that include access to it.

For dinner, we had an Italian course meal. The chef, who hails from Hokkaido, created dishes using mainly local ingredients, and each one was a masterpiece.
This restaurant is so renowned that some people travel all the way from Sapporo just to eat lunch here, and it was also featured in the Michelin Guide Hokkaido 2017.

Enjoy a relaxing adult getaway in a space where everything is of the highest quality.

Lakeside Villa Suimeikaku
Chitose City Shikotsu Lake Hot Springs
0123-25-2131

5-2. Marukoma Onsen Ryokan

Marukoma Onsen Ryokan is a single inn located directly across from Lake Shikotsu Onsen.

It is the oldest hot spring inn at Lake Shikotsu, founded in 1915 (Taisho 4). It is a truly long-established inn, and its history is practically synonymous with the history of Lake Shikotsu hot springs.

The unique feature of this hot spring is that its open-air bath is connected to the lake. It's not just the closest to Lake Shikotsu, but it's a hidden gem that gives you the feeling that you're bathing in Lake Shikotsu itself.

It is also a member facility of the "Japan's Hidden Hot Springs Association." Its vastness is something that can only be truly appreciated by experiencing it firsthand.

Bathing in an open-air bath while basking in the morning or evening sun will awaken you to a sense of being one with nature, in a way that goes beyond mere rusticity.

This style has remained unchanged for 100 years since the company's founding. The large number of repeat customers from all over the country is surely proof of this.

Marukoma Onsen Ryokan
7 Horominai, Lake Shikotsu, Chitose City
0123-25-2341

Final thoughts

We've introduced some of the tourist spots and attractions around Lake Shikotsu. What did you think?

You can spend a whole day enjoying Lake Shikotsu, or you can enjoy it as part of a drive, for example, as a short sightseeing stop on your way from Chitose Airport to Sapporo. Hokkaido, where you can enjoy nature so easily, is truly wonderful.

I highly recommend that you experience the magnificent nature of Lake Shikotsu and refresh yourself!

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