Lake Shikotsu (Shikotsu-ko), within Shikotsu-Toya National Park about an hour south of Sapporo, is a beautiful, deep caldera lake renowned for having some of the clearest, most pristine water in Japan. Formed in a volcanic caldera and ringed by conical peaks including Mount Eniwa and Mount Tarumae, it’s the country’s second-deepest lake and, thanks to its depth, never freezes over even in Hokkaido’s harsh winters. The clear blue water is wonderful for viewing, and visitors can take sightseeing boats or clear-bottomed ‘aqua’ boats, rent canoes and kayaks, or simply enjoy the lakeside scenery and forest walks. The small hot-spring resort of Shikotsu Kohan offers onsen and accommodation on the shore. In winter, the lake hosts the magical Chitose-Shikotsuko Ice Festival, where sculptures made from lake water are illuminated in glowing blues. Clean, tranquil and framed by volcanoes, Lake Shikotsu is an easy and rewarding nature escape from Sapporo or New Chitose Airport.

🗓️ At a Glance
Location Chitose, Shikotsu-Toya, Hokkaido
Hours Always accessible (activities daytime)
Admission Free (boats/activities paid)
Time needed 2–3 hours
Best time Summer; winter ice festival

What to See

  • Some of Japan’s clearest caldera-lake water.
  • Volcanic peaks ringing the lake.
  • Sightseeing boats, canoes and lakeside walks.
  • The winter Chitose-Shikotsuko Ice Festival.

Combine Your Visit

Getting There

  • By car: about an hour from Sapporo or near New Chitose Airport.
  • By bus: from Chitose or Sapporo to Shikotsu Kohan.

Tips

Take a sightseeing or clear-bottomed boat to appreciate the lake’s famously clear water, or rent a canoe. It’s an easy trip from New Chitose Airport or Sapporo, come in summer for boating and hiking, visit in early February for the illuminated Ice Festival, and combine it with nearby Lake Toya and Noboribetsu.