Lake Shikotsu
Japan's northernmost caldera lake, famous for extraordinary water clarity — visibility up to approximately 17–20 metres. Surrounded by three volcanoes, the lake offers kayaking, scuba diving and a winter ice festival each January–February.
Half day to full day
Free
Lake: always open; Shikotsu-ko Visitor Center: 9:30–17:30 (Apr–Nov)
May–October; January–February (ice festival)
Bus from Chitose Station (approx. 45 min)
Location
Why Visit
- 1
The lake never freezes despite Hokkaido winters, thanks to its great depth (363 m)
- 2
Canoe and kayak tours offer paddle-through views of the volcanic peaks reflected in the water
- 3
Winter Ice Festival (Jan–Feb) features blue-lit ice sculptures built beside the lake shore
- 4
Marukoma Onsen sits directly at the water's edge — bathe while watching the lake
Local Tips
One of Japan's deepest and clearest lakes, filling a massive volcanic caldera. The Marukoma Onsen ryokan on the lakeshore has outdoor baths right at the water's edge — day bathing is possible. In January, the Shikotsu Ice Festival creates illuminated ice sculptures. Kayaking the lake is the best way to appreciate its extraordinary clarity.
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