Taisetsu Lake, Hokkaido Travel Guide

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Discover Taisetsu Lake: A serene Hokkaido escape offering stunning natural beauty, hiking, and seasonal delights in Daisetsuzan National Park.

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Taisetsu Lake

Taisetsu Lake, nestled in Daisetsuzan National Park near Sounkyo, Hokkaido, offers a tranquil escape with stunning seasonal beauty. Surrounded by lush forests and towering mountains, it's perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts seeking serenity.

A brief summary to Taisetsu Lake

Sounkyo, Kamikawa, Sounkyo, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido, JP

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Taisetsu Lake.

Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views and the best photography opportunities.
Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lakeside while soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Wear sturdy hiking boots if you plan to explore the trails around the lake.
Check local weather conditions before your visit, as they can change rapidly in mountainous areas.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching and to enjoy the diverse wildlife in the area.

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Explore Taisetsu Lake on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Taisetsu Lake, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Asahikawa Station, take a direct bus to Sounkyo Onsen. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and costs around ¥2,140 one way. Buses depart every 1-3 hours. From Sounkyo Onsen bus terminal, Taisetsu Lake is a short taxi or bus ride away. Alternatively, take a JR train from Asahikawa to Kamikawa Station (40 minutes by limited express train or 70 minutes by local train), and then catch a bus from Kamikawa to Sounkyo Onsen (30 minutes). Bus fare from Kamikawa to Sounkyo is between ¥390-¥600.
Taxi

From Asahikawa Airport or Asahikawa Station, a taxi to Sounkyo Onsen will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. From there, Taisetsu Lake is a short ride away. The estimated taxi fare from Asahikawa to Sounkyo Onsen ranges from ¥8,000 to ¥10,000. Within Sounkyo, a short taxi ride to Taisetsu Lake should cost approximately ¥1,000-¥2,000.
Car

If driving from Sapporo, take the Hokkaido Expressway towards Asahikawa. Exit at the Kamikawa Interchange (上川IC) and follow Route 39 towards Sounkyo. Continue on Route 39 for about 30 km until you reach Sounkyo, then follow the signs to Taisetsu Lake. Parking is available near the lake. Tolls on the Hokkaido Expressway can vary, but expect to pay around ¥3,000-¥4,500 from Sapporo to the Kamikawa Interchange. Parking near Taisetsu Lake is generally free.

Discover more about Taisetsu Lake

Taisetsu Lake, also known as Lake Taisetsu-ko, is a man-made lake created by the Taisetsu Dam on the Ishikari River. Located near Sounkyo Onsen in Hokkaido's expansive Daisetsuzan National Park, it offers visitors a serene escape into nature. The lake's stunning beauty changes with the seasons, from spring cherry blossoms to vibrant autumn foliage and a snowy winter wonderland.The lake was formed to control flooding, provide irrigation, and generate hydropower for the region. Today, it serves as a picturesque destination for tourists seeking tranquility and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along lakeside trails, taking in the fresh air and soothing sounds of the water. Hiking opportunities abound, leading to breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the vast landscapes of Daisetsuzan National Park. Birdwatchers can spot diverse wildlife around the lake, while winter brings opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.The area's history is intertwined with the indigenous Ainu people, who have long revered the natural beauty of the region. The name 'Sounkyo' itself means 'the river with many waterfalls' in the Ainu language, reflecting the area's stunning natural features. The construction of the Taisetsu Dam and subsequent creation of the lake have added another layer to the area's rich history.While visiting Taisetsu Lake, be sure to explore nearby attractions such as the Ginga no Taki (Milky Way Falls) and Ryusei no Taki (Shooting Star Falls), cascading down 100-meter high cliff sides. Obako, a beautiful rock formation resembling folding screens, is also worth a visit.