Enchanting Lake Shikotsu: A Natural Gem in Hokkaido
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Shikotsu, a stunning volcanic lake in Hokkaido, perfect for outdoor adventures and tranquil escapes.
Lake Shikotsu, nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, is a breathtaking destination known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning landscapes, and outdoor adventures. This volcanic lake offers a serene escape for tourists, featuring picturesque views and a plethora of recreational activities, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Lake Shikotsu
- Chitose, Hokkaido, JP
Local tips
- Visit during early morning for the best photography conditions and to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lakeside, as there are many picturesque spots to relax and take in the views.
- Check for local festivals or events that may be happening during your visit for a unique cultural experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to hike; the trails around the lake offer stunning views but can be challenging.
- Don't miss out on trying the local seafood dishes at nearby restaurants for a taste of Hokkaido's culinary delights.
Getting There
-
Public Bus
From Sapporo Station, take the Chitose Airport Line train to Chitose Station (about 40 minutes). Once you arrive at Chitose Station, head to the Bus Terminal located just outside the station. Look for the 'Lake Shikotsu' bus service, which is operated by the Chitose City Bus. Purchase a ticket for Lake Shikotsu and board the bus. The journey to Lake Shikotsu takes approximately 30 minutes. The bus will drop you off at the Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center.
-
Train and Bus Combination
Start at Sapporo Station and take the JR Chitose Line to Minami-Chitose Station (about 30 minutes). At Minami-Chitose Station, transfer to the Chitose City Bus that goes to Lake Shikotsu. Ensure to check the bus schedule as it may not be frequent. The bus ride from Minami-Chitose Station to Lake Shikotsu takes around 20 minutes.
-
Taxi
From any location in Sapporo, you can take a taxi to Lake Shikotsu. While it may be more expensive, it provides a direct and convenient route. Simply tell the driver 'Shikotsu-ko' (Lake Shikotsu in Japanese). The drive will take approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic.
Discover more about Lake Shikotsu
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
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
Discover the serenity and architectural beauty of Sapporo Japan Temple, a unique spiritual landmark in Hokkaido's vibrant cityscape.
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.
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.
圓山開村記念碑
33.4 km
Discover the serene Maruyama Kiyota Memorial in Sapporo, a tranquil tribute to history amidst beautiful gardens and rich cultural heritage.
札幌開祖 吉田茂八碑
33.4 km
Explore the Hokkaido Monument in Sapporo, a stunning tribute to Japan's heritage and culture, surrounded by vibrant local attractions and beautiful scenery.
Sapporo Shiryokan (Former Sapporo Court of Appeal )
33.5 km
Explore the rich history of Hokkaido at Sapporo Shiryokan, a former court of appeal turned captivating local history museum.
Black Slide Mantra
33.7 km
Explore the Black Slide Mantra in Sapporo, a unique sculpture that merges art and play in the serene setting of Odori Park.
Sosei Bridge
33.8 km
Explore the beauty of Sosei Bridge in Sapporo, where modern architecture meets stunning landscapes, perfect for photos and leisurely walks.
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.
Shikotsu Lake Glass boat for sightseeing on the lake
6.6 km
Discover the underwater beauty of Shikotsu Lake with a unique glass bottom boat tour in Hokkaido, Japan.
Lake Shikotsu hot spring.
6.7 km
Experience the serenity and healing powers of Lake Shikotsu Hot Springs in Hokkaido, where nature and rejuvenation meet.
Shikotsukoonsen
6.7 km
Experience the therapeutic hot springs and breathtaking natural beauty of Shikotsukoonsen, a hidden gem in Hokkaido, Japan.
Lake Shikotsuko Visitor Center
6.7 km
Explore the natural beauty and rich culture of Hokkaido at the Lake Shikotsuko Visitor Center, your gateway to unforgettable experiences.
Mount Tarumae
8.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mount Tarumae, a volcanic peak in Hokkaido perfect for hiking and nature exploration.
Shichijo Waterfall
10.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Shichijo Waterfall in Hokkaido, a serene natural retreat surrounded by lush landscapes and tranquil sounds.
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
Experience the natural beauty of Takino Suzuran Hillside Park, a tranquil outdoor escape in Sapporo, Hokkaido with stunning seasonal landscapes.
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.
Hill of the Buddha
18.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and spiritual significance of the Hill of the Buddha in Sapporo, a serene sanctuary for reflection and peace.
Makomanai Takino Cemetery
18.5 km
Experience peace and artistic beauty at Makomanai Takino Cemetery in Sapporo, a serene resting place set in nature's embrace.
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.
Big sleeping Buddha -Butsugan-ji Temple
22.2 km
Experience tranquility at Butsugan-ji Temple, home to a magnificent sleeping Buddha in the heart of Sapporo, Hokkaido.
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.
