Lake Shikotsu: Hokkaido's Pristine Caldera Lake
Discover Lake Shikotsu: Hokkaido's pristine caldera lake with crystal-clear waters, stunning volcanic landscapes, and year-round outdoor adventures.
Lake Shikotsu, nestled in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, is a stunning caldera lake renowned for its exceptional water clarity and dramatic volcanic surroundings. As Japan's second deepest lake and northernmost ice-free lake, it offers year-round natural beauty and outdoor activities.
A brief summary to Lake Shikotsu
- Chitose, Hokkaido, JP
Local tips
- Visit the Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center to learn about the lake's history, geology, and ecology before exploring the area.
- Enjoy a sightseeing cruise or rent a boat to experience the lake's beauty from the water.
- Hike Mount Tarumae for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains (accessible from late May to October).
- Visit during winter for the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, featuring illuminated ice sculptures and winter activities.
- Consider staying at Shikotsuko Onsen to enjoy the lakeside hot springs and explore the area.
Getting There
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Bus
From New Chitose Airport, take the Hokkaido Chuo Bus bound for Lake Shikotsu from platform 28 (domestic) or 66 (international). The bus ride takes approximately 55 minutes to the final stop at Lake Shikotsu. The fare is around ¥650-¥850. From JR Chitose Station, take the Hokkaido Chuo Bus bound for Lake Shikotsu (Route number “空4” Sora 4) and get off at the “Shikotsuko” terminal. The bus ride takes about 45 minutes and costs around ¥1140.
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Car
From New Chitose Airport, drive approximately 40 minutes to Lake Shikotsu. The drive covers about 36 kilometers. From Sapporo, the drive takes about 1 hour via well-maintained roads. Parking is available at Lake Shikotsu, with fees of ¥500 per day for automobiles. Automobiles measuring 5 meters or longer will be charged as microbuses for ¥1,000.
Discover more about Lake Shikotsu
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hill of the Buddha
18.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of the Hill of the Buddha in Sapporo, a tranquil Buddhist temple surrounded by stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.
Makomanai Takino Cemetery
18.5 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Makomanai Takino Cemetery in Sapporo, a masterpiece of nature and architecture that honors history and art.
Stonehenge
18.8 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Stonehenge in Sapporo, a unique cemetery offering a peaceful retreat and cultural insights.
Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill
27.5 km
Discover breathtaking views and cultural heritage at Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill, a must-visit scenic spot in Hokkaido.
Chitose Salmon Aquarium
28.6 km
Discover the fascinating world of freshwater fish at Chitose Salmon Aquarium, featuring Japan's first underwater river observation.
Sapporo Peace Pagoda
30.4 km
Discover the Sapporo Peace Pagoda, a serene historical landmark that offers stunning views and a message of peace amidst the beauty of Hokkaido.
Moiwa Sanroku Station
30.5 km
Discover breathtaking views and thrilling adventures at Moiwa Sanroku Station, the gateway to Hokkaido's stunning landscapes.
Sapporo Japan Temple
31.4 km
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Sapporo City Observatory
32.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and celestial wonders at the Sapporo City Observatory, a premier tourist destination in Hokkaido for stargazing enthusiasts.
Hōhei Kan
32.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of Hōhei Kan, a heritage building and historical landmark in Sapporo, Hokkaido.
Maruyama Primeval Forest
32.8 km
Explore the lush landscapes and tranquil trails of Maruyama Primeval Forest, a serene nature preserve in the heart of Sapporo, Hokkaido.
Susukino Market
33.0 km
Explore Susukino Market in Sapporo: A vibrant shopping destination bursting with local flavors, unique finds, and an authentic Hokkaido experience.
Maruyama Park Center
33.1 km
Immerse yourself in nature's beauty at Maruyama Park Center, a serene escape in Sapporo offering seasonal activities and stunning landscapes.
Hokkaido Shrine Mikado
33.1 km
Discover the tranquility of Hokkaido Shrine, a historical Shinto site surrounded by nature, perfect for reflection and cultural exploration in Sapporo.
Nikka Whiskey Sign
33.3 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Sapporo at the Nikka Whiskey Sign, a stunning landmark celebrating Japan's whiskey heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Marukoma Hot Spring Hotel
2.8 km
Experience tranquility at this lakeside onsen hotel with natural hot springs and stunning views of Lake Shikotsu and Mt. Eniwadake.
Shikotsu-Tōya National Park
5.1 km
Explore the natural wonders of Shikotsu-Tōya National Park in Hokkaido, Japan, with breathtaking lakes, volcanic landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife.
Shikotsukoonsen
6.7 km
Escape to Shikotsukoonsen: Hokkaido's lakeside hot spring retreat with crystal-clear waters and stunning natural beauty.
Lake Shikotsuko Visitor Center
6.7 km
Explore Lake Shikotsu: Discover Hokkaido's volcanic landscapes, pristine waters, and diverse wildlife at this informative visitor center.
Mount Tarumae
8.5 km
Hike an active volcano in Hokkaido's Shikotsu-Toya National Park for stunning views and a unique geological experience.
Eniwa Valley
13.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Eniwa Valley, a captivating nature preserve in Hokkaido, Japan, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Takino Suzuran Hillside Park
17.8 km
Hokkaido's only national park, offering seasonal flowers, stunning waterfalls, and winter snow activities for the whole family.
Ashiribetsu Falls
18.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ashiribetsu Falls in Sapporo's Takino Suzuran Park, a designated top waterfall offering year-round natural splendor.
Ecorin Village
22.2 km
Discover the charm of Ecorin Village in Hokkaido, where beautiful gardens, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly attractions await every visitor.
Butsuganji Sapporohonzan
22.3 km
Find serenity at Butsuganji Sapporohonzan, home to Japan's largest reclining Buddha, surrounded by tranquil gardens in Sapporo, Hokkaido.
840 Jōzankei
22.3 km
Escape to Jozankei Onsen: Sapporo's serene hot spring retreat with stunning nature, therapeutic waters, and seasonal beauty.
Hōheikyō Dam
22.5 km
Discover Hōheikyō Dam in Sapporo: Where engineering meets nature's beauty, offering panoramic views and a tranquil escape in Jōzankei.
North Snow Land in Chitose
23.5 km
Experience winter thrills at North Snow Land in Chitose! Snowmobiles, tubing, and family fun await near New Chitose Airport.
Jozankei Farm, Fruit Theme Park
24.4 km
Experience Hokkaido's natural beauty at Jozankei Farm: fruit picking, gardens, tree trekking, and family fun in a scenic orchard.
Hōheikyō Hot Spring
25.4 km
Experience natural hot springs, scenic beauty, and unique dining at this celebrated Sapporo retreat.
Essential places to dine
HOKKAIDO WAGYU 牛美道〔GYUBIDO〕国際線店
28.9 km
Indulge in exquisite Hokkaido Wagyu at Gyubido - A must-visit Japanese steakhouse located within New Chitose Airport.
Dany's Restaurant
32.4 km
Discover delightful French crêpes at Dany's Restaurant in Sapporo – a must-visit culinary experience nestled in nature.
Nadamangaden Sapporoten
32.4 km
Discover the art of kaiseki at Nadaman Sapporoten in Sapporo – where tradition meets contemporary elegance for an unforgettable dining experience.
TERRA Farm to Table
32.6 km
Savor the essence of Hokkaido at TERRA Farm to Table - where fresh local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Maruyamakyoju
33.0 km
Discover Maruyamakyoju in Sapporo for an authentic taste of Japanese curry that tantalizes your taste buds with every bite.
Sapporo Genghis Khan (Main Shop)
33.0 km
Experience the authentic taste of Yakiniku at Sapporo Genghis Khan – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
Nigirimeshi
33.0 km
Discover authentic Japanese sushi at Nigirimeshi in Sapporo – where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.
ソリチュード
33.0 km
Discover the rich flavors of Hokkaido at ソリチュード, Sapporo's premier mutton barbecue restaurant offering an unforgettable culinary journey.
Sapporo Gyouzayasan
33.1 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Sapporo Gyouzayasan, renowned for its delicious dumplings and inviting izakaya atmosphere in Sapporo.
Kaiyotei Susukino store (seafood)
33.1 km
Experience authentic izakaya dining at Kaiyotei Susukino with fresh Hokkaido seafood in a cozy atmosphere.
Gotsubo Oyster Bar
33.1 km
Discover Gotsubo Oyster Bar in Sapporo: A Seafood Delight Offering Fresh Oysters and Authentic Hokkaido Flavors.
Daruma Main Shop
33.1 km
Discover authentic Jingisukan at Daruma Main Shop in Sapporo - where tradition meets flavor in an unforgettable dining experience.
Suginome Main Susukino restaurant
33.1 km
Experience the essence of Japanese cuisine at Suginome Main Susukino in Sapporo, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
いただき繕 Itadakizen
33.1 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Hokkaido at Itadakizen - where tradition meets modernity in every delicious bite.
Den - Japanese Buffet Dining
33.1 km
Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Den - an exceptional buffet dining destination in Sapporo offering a delightful variety of culinary delights.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo-Kitahiroshima
26.6 km
Experience the best of shopping at Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo-Kitahiroshima, where quality meets affordability in a stunning Hokkaido setting.
Chitose Outlet Mall RERA
29.3 km
Discover unbeatable deals and a variety of brands at Chitose Outlet Mall RERA, Hokkaido's ultimate shopping destination.
HUB HOKKAIDO SELECT SHOP
31.8 km
Experience the best of Hokkaido at HUB HOKKAIDO SELECT SHOP - your gateway to authentic local souvenirs and flavors.
Museum Shop MARUYAMA
32.8 km
Explore the charm of Hokkaido through unique gifts at Museum Shop MARUYAMA in Sapporo, a must-visit for every traveler.
presse (プレッセ)
32.9 km
Explore presse in Sapporo for a unique selection of home goods that embody Japanese craftsmanship and contemporary design.
ＥＹＢＬ
33.1 km
Explore the charm of Hokkaido at ＥＹＢＬ, where cosmetics, herbs, and unique treasures come together for an unforgettable shopping experience.
flatand
33.1 km
Explore the best of Japanese craftsmanship at Flatand, a charming home goods store in the heart of Sapporo, Hokkaido.
M'LLE
33.1 km
Discover contemporary fashion at M'LLE, Sapporo's premier clothing store, where local flair meets stylish design.
Maruyama Class
33.1 km
Explore Maruyama Class in Sapporo, a premier shopping mall offering diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences in the heart of Hokkaido.
chill
33.1 km
Discover unique fashion and lifestyle products at Chill Boutique in Sapporo, where style meets creativity in a cozy shopping environment.
Don Quijote Susukino
33.2 km
Discover the eclectic charm of Don Quijote Susukino, a discount store in Sapporo offering a vast range of products and a unique shopping experience.
Amérique
33.3 km
Explore Amérique in Sapporo for unique fashion finds that blend contemporary style with local artistry, perfect for every discerning traveler.
ANATOMICA SAPPORO (アナトミカ札幌)
33.3 km
Discover the essence of contemporary fashion at ANATOMICA SAPPORO, where quality meets style in the heart of Sapporo.
Arch
33.3 km
Explore Arch in Sapporo for unique clothing that blends modern style with local flair, perfect for any fashion-forward traveler.
Surugaya Specialty Store
33.3 km
Explore the Surugaya Specialty Store in Sapporo for a unique shopping experience filled with books, toys, DVDs, and collectibles, perfect for every hobbyist.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
N43
30.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Sapporo at N43, where unique cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere await every traveler.
BAR STINGRAY
32.6 km
Experience the lively ambiance of BAR STINGRAY in Sapporo, where delicious hamburgers, live music, and a modern izakaya vibe await.
Rad Brothers
32.9 km
Discover Sapporo's vibrant nightlife at Rad Brothers, where cocktails and izakaya cuisine meet a lively atmosphere.
Locotonte
32.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Locotonte, a cozy bar in Sapporo offering a delightful selection of drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Crowd
33.0 km
Dive into the heart of Sapporo's nightlife at Crowd Bar, where exceptional cocktails and exciting karaoke await every visitor.
Rhum & Cigar -hayanagi-
33.0 km
Discover Rhum & Cigar in Sapporo - a sophisticated bar offering exquisite rums and premium cigars in a cozy atmosphere.
Ikkei
33.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Sapporo at Ikkei, a bar with a unique atmosphere and an extensive selection of rare drinks.
Bar Brora
33.1 km
Discover Bar Brora in Sapporo for a unique blend of craft cocktails, local ambiance, and a taste of Hokkaido's vibrant nightlife.
The Bark
33.1 km
Experience the best of Sapporo at The Bark – a delightful blend of bar and dessert restaurant in the heart of the city.
ナイン
33.1 km
Explore the lively bar scene of Sapporo at ナイン, where locals and tourists unite over great drinks and warm camaraderie.
Moon Beams
33.2 km
Experience Sapporo's nightlife at Moon Beams, where exquisite cocktails and vibrant ambiance create unforgettable evenings.
BAR 黒の50
33.2 km
Discover Sapporo's vibrant nightlife at BAR 黒の50, where exceptional drinks and lively atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
The Long Bar
33.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at The Long Bar in Sapporo, where locals and tourists come together to unwind.
SYNC.
33.2 km
Discover SYNC. in Sapporo for an unforgettable nightlife experience blending bar culture with authentic Japanese cuisine.
Bar Orb
33.2 km
Discover Sapporo's nightlife at Bar Orb, where innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
