Lake Shikotsu is a volcanic caldera lake 50 minutes south of Sapporo by car, and even closer to New Chitose Airport. It holds the title of the clearest lake in Japan (measured by water transparency), and unlike the more famous Lake Toya, it remains relatively uncrowded. The water is so clear that in shallow areas you can see the bottom at 5-10 metres depth.
The lake never freezes despite harsh winters, kept above freezing by geothermal activity from the surrounding volcanoes.
What to Do
Clear Kayaking
The signature experience. Clear-bottom kayaks let you look straight down into the transparent water while paddling. Tours run from spring through autumn, approximately 5,000-7,000 yen for 90 minutes. Book ahead in summer.
Hiking
Mt. Tarumae (1,041m) is the most popular hike, taking about 3-4 hours round trip. The summit crater is still active with steam vents, and views from the top cover the lake, Pacific Ocean, and surrounding mountains. The trail is well-marked but steep in sections.
Onsen
Shikotsu Onsen village on the lake shore has several hotels with day-use bathing. Marukoma Onsen, on the opposite shore (accessible by boat), has baths at the lake edge where the water literally laps at the bath wall. See our onsen guide.
Ice Festival (January-February)
The Shikotsu Ice Festival creates illuminated ice sculptures along the lakeshore, using the crystal-clear lake water which freezes into blue-tinted ice. Smaller and quieter than the Sapporo Snow Festival but beautiful in its own way.
Getting There
From Sapporo: 50 minutes by car, or bus from Sapporo Station (approximately 80 minutes, 1,050 yen).
From New Chitose Airport: 40 minutes by car. Good first or last stop on a Hokkaido trip.
Combine With
Lake Shikotsu, Lake Toya, and Noboribetsu form a triangle south of Sapporo that makes an excellent 2-3 day loop. See our itineraries.