Shikarivetsu Lakeside, Hokkaido Complete Guide|Experiencing the Charm of Four Seasons in the Hidden Paradise of Daisetsuzan National Park
What is Shikarivetsu Lake? A Hidden Gem Lake Representing Hokkaido
Shikarivetsu Lake (しかりべつこ) is located in Shikaoicho, Tokachi region of Hokkaido, and is the only natural lake within Daisetsuzan National Park. Situated at an elevation of approximately 810 meters, this lake boasts a perimeter of about 13.8 kilometers and a maximum depth of 108 meters, and is known as one of Hokkaido’s most beautiful lakes with exceptional transparency.
Formed by volcanic activity approximately 30,000 years ago, this lake preserves pristine nature in its original state, and serves as an important habitat for endemic species such as Miyabe char (Oshorokoma), making it academically significant.
The greatest characteristic of Shikarivetsu Lake is its isolated location and untouched natural environment. Surrounded by mountains exceeding 1,000 meters in elevation and with minimal artificial development, it provides visitors with a genuine “hidden paradise” experience.
Access Methods to Shikarivetsu Lakeside
Access by Car
Car access is the most convenient way to reach Shikarivetsu Lakeside.
From Obihiro City Center
- Approximately 60 kilometers via National Route 274, taking about 90 minutes
- Approximately 25 kilometers from Shikaoicho city center via Prefectural Road 85
From New Chitose Airport
- Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes using the Doto Expressway
- The route via Tomamu IC is the shortest
From Sapporo City
- Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours
- Via the Chuo Expressway to the Doto Expressway
Access by Public Transportation
By Bus
- Taikushoku Bus operates “Shikarivetsu Lakeside Onsen bound” service from JR Obihiro Station (summer only)
- Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes travel time
- Limited frequency, so advance confirmation of schedule is essential
By Taxi
- Approximately 90 minutes from Obihiro Station, fare approximately 15,000 yen to 20,000 yen
- Approximately 40 minutes from Shikaoicho, fare approximately 8,000 yen to 10,000 yen
Winter Access Precautions
Due to the high elevation, Shikarivetsu Lake requires caution regarding snow accumulation and icing during winter (November to April). Studless tires are essential, and visibility may become extremely poor during blizzards. It is recommended to confirm road conditions in advance and plan with plenty of time allowance.
Accommodation Facilities at Shikarivetsu Lakeside
Shikarivetsu Lakeside Onsen Hotel Fuusui
The most famous accommodation facility at Shikarivetsu Lakeside is “Hotel Fuusui.” With its prime lakeside location, guests can enjoy panoramic views of Shikarivetsu Lake from their rooms.
Facility Features
- Hot spring water supplied directly from the source
- Spectacular views of Shikarivetsu Lake from the open-air bath
- Cuisine featuring local Tokachi ingredients
- Various room types including Japanese-style and Western-style rooms
Shikarivetsu Lakeside Onsen Hotel Fukuhara
Another major accommodation facility is “Hotel Fukuhara.” Also positioned lakeside, it is characterized by its homey atmosphere.
Facility Features
- Warm, family-like hospitality
- Cuisine featuring fresh local ingredients
- Observation bath with lake views
- Reasonable accommodation rates
Campground
“Shikarivetsu Lake North Shore Camping Area” is available at the lakeside for a camping experience closer to nature.
Campground Information
- Operating Period: Early June to late September
- Tent sites and bungalows available
- Cooking facilities and toilets complete
- Reservation system (early booking recommended during peak season)
- Fees: Tent approximately 500 yen and up, bungalow 3,000 yen and up
Hot Springs at Shikarivetsu Lakeside
Spring Quality and Effects of Shikarivetsu Lakeside Onsen
Shikarivetsu Lakeside Onsen is a sodium calcium-chloride bicarbonate spring, colorless and transparent with a slight salty taste.
Main Therapeutic Effects
- Neuralgia, myalgia
- Joint pain, frozen shoulder
- Poor circulation, fatigue recovery
- Chronic gastrointestinal conditions
- Cuts, burns
With a source temperature of approximately 60 degrees Celsius, each facility adjusts it to appropriate temperature. Bathing while gazing at the lake provides a blissful time of relaxation for both body and mind.
Day-Use Bathing
Both Hotel Fuusui and Hotel Fukuhara offer day-use bathing (operating hours and fees vary by season, advance confirmation recommended).
General fees: Adults approximately 800 yen to 1,000 yen, children approximately 400 yen to 500 yen
Operating hours: Approximately 11:00 to 15:00 (varies by facility)
Activities Available at Shikarivetsu Lake
Canoe and Kayak Experience
The experience of paddling a canoe or kayak on the highly transparent water surface of Shikarivetsu Lake is an activity that should definitely be experienced when visiting this area.
Experience Details
- Implementation Period: Late May to mid-October
- Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
- Fee: Approximately 5,000 yen to 7,000 yen
- Guided tours available for beginners
- Early morning canoe tours offer enchanting scenery enveloped in morning mist
The surrounding mountains viewed from the water surface and the blue sky reflected on the water are extraordinary. With good fortune, you may encounter wild animals such as Ezo deer or Japanese foxes.
Trekking and Hiking
Multiple trekking courses are maintained around Shikarivetsu Lake.
Tenbozan Mountain Climbing Course
- Elevation: 1,173 meters
- Duration: Round trip approximately 3 hours
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Summit offers panoramic views of the entire Shikarivetsu Lake
Hakuunzan Mountain Climbing Course
- Elevation: 1,186 meters
- Duration: Round trip approximately 4 hours
- Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
- Rich in alpine plants
Lakeside Walking Trail
- Distance: Approximately 3 kilometers
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour
- Difficulty: Beginner
- Suitable for families with its flat terrain
Fishing
Fishing for Miyabe char (Oshorokoma) is available at Shikarivetsu Lake. However, as this fish is an endemic species of Shikarivetsu Lake and is protected, catch-and-release is the principle.
Fishing Information
- Fishing license required (daily fee approximately 1,000 yen)
- Period: May 1 to September 30
- Lure and fly fishing are mainstream
- Caught fish must always be released
Winter Special Event: Shikarivetsu Kotan
The highlight of winter at Shikarivetsu Lake is “Shikarivetsu Kotan.” This is a fantastical event where ice igloos are built on the completely frozen lake surface, held annually from late January through mid-March.
Main Facilities and Experiences
- Ice Open-Air Bath: An open-air bath on the frozen lake, found nowhere else in the world
- Ice Bar: Enjoy alcoholic beverages at a counter made of ice
- Ice Chapel: A frozen church where wedding ceremonies can be held
- Ice Lodge Accommodation: A lodging experience in an ice hotel
- Snowshoe Experience: Walk on the frozen lake surface
- Ice Skating: A natural skating rink
Admission is free (some experiences have fees), offering a unique experience symbolic of Hokkaido’s winter.
Four Seasons at Shikarivetsu Lakeside
Spring (May to June)
Spring comes late to Shikarivetsu Lake, with snow visible even in May. As the snow melts, new greenery sprouts, and various wildflowers begin to bloom along the lakeside.
- Average Temperature: 5 to 15 degrees Celsius
- Highlights: Contrast of residual snow and new greenery, spring flowers such as Ezo enogosaku
- Notes: Warm clothing essential as mornings and evenings are cold
Summer (July to August)
The short summer is the busiest season at Shikarivetsu Lake. The high elevation keeps summer temperatures cool, making it ideal as a summer resort.
- Average Temperature: 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (maximum around 25 degrees)
- Highlights: Deep green, starry night sky, alpine plants
- Activities: Best season for canoeing, trekking, and fishing
- Notes: Large temperature difference between day and night
Autumn (September to October)
Shikarivetsu Lake’s autumn colors appear early in Hokkaido, with peak season from late September to early October. The autumn foliage reflected on the lake surface is breathtakingly beautiful.
- Average Temperature: 5 to 15 degrees Celsius
- Highlights: Autumn foliage of rowan, maple, and Dake birch
- Best Season: Late September to early October
- Notes: Possibility of early snow from late October
Winter (November to April)
The harsh winter at Shikarivetsu Lake often sees temperatures dropping below minus 20 degrees Celsius. In January, the lake freezes completely, becoming the stage for “Shikarivetsu Kotan.”
- Average Temperature: Minus 5 to minus 20 degrees Celsius
- Highlights: Frozen lake, rime ice, diamond dust
- Special Event: Shikarivetsu Kotan (late January to mid-March)
- Notes: Complete winter gear essential, visibility can be zero during blizzards
Tourist Attractions Around Shikarivetsu Lake
Shikaoicho Town
The gateway to Shikarivetsu Lake, Shikaoicho Town has several points of interest.
Shikarivetsu Gorge Hot Spring
- Approximately 20 minutes by car from Shikarivetsu Lake
- A hidden hot spring along the gorge
- Day-use bathing available
Shikaoicho Town Products Center
- Local specialty product purchases
- Tokachi cheese and potato products
- Restaurant attached
Naitai Highland Ranch
One of Japan’s largest public ranches, located approximately 40 minutes by car from Shikarivetsu Lake.
- Area: Approximately 1,700 hectares
- Observation deck with panoramic views of the Tokachi Plain
- Light meals and soft ice cream available at the rest house
- Free admission
Nukabira Lake and Taushubetsu River Bridge
A man-made lake located approximately 50 kilometers north of Shikarivetsu Lake, also within Daisetsuzan National Park.
- A concrete arch bridge from the former Japan National Railways Shihoro Line
- A “phantom bridge” that appears and disappears depending on water levels
- The reflection in the early morning lake surface is spectacular
Dining at Shikarivetsu Lakeside
Cuisine Using Local Ingredients
Accommodation facilities at Shikarivetsu Lakeside offer cuisine using abundant ingredients from the Tokachi region.
Representative Ingredients
- Tokachi Beef: Tender, flavorful Japanese beef
- Ezo Deer Meat: Low-fat, high-protein game meat
- Tokachi Vegetables: Potatoes, corn, asparagus, etc.
- Tokachi Cheese: Abundant variety of dairy products
- Stream Fish: Mountain trout, char and other stream fish
Restaurant Information
Besides restaurants attached to accommodation facilities, independent restaurants are few around the lakeside, so dining is primarily at accommodation facilities. For day visits, it is recommended to return to Shikaoicho town for dining or bring a boxed lunch.
Notes and Etiquette for Shikarivetsu Lake Tourism
Rules for Nature Conservation
Shikarivetsu Lake is designated as a special area of Daisetsuzan National Park, with regulations for nature conservation.
Rules to Follow
- Collection of flora and fauna prohibited
- All garbage must be taken away
- Entry prohibited beyond designated trails
- Camping only in designated areas
- No feeding of wild animals
- Caught fish must always be released
Encounters with Wildlife
Wild animals including Hokkaido brown bears inhabit the areas around Shikarivetsu Lake.
Response to Encounters
- Avoid solo travel during early morning and evening hours
- Make noise with bear bells or radio while walking
- Manage food strictly
- Quietly retreat if you see a bear
- Report encounter information to accommodation facilities or visitor centers
Clothing and Supplies
Appropriate equipment is necessary due to the high elevation and rapidly changing weather.
Summer Season (June to September)
- Long-sleeved shirt and long pants (insect repellent)
- Cold-weather clothing (fleece or windbreaker)
- Hat, sunglasses
- Trekking shoes
- Rain gear
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent spray
Winter Season (November to April)
- Winter coat (down jacket recommended)
- Winter hat, gloves
- Snow boots with non-slip soles
- Hand warmers
- Snow boots
History and Culture of Shikarivetsu Lake
Connection with Ainu Culture
The place name “Shikarivetsu” is derived from “Shikaribet” in Ainu language, meaning “a river with waterfalls.” The Ainu people engaged in hunting and fishing in this region from ancient times, and Shikarivetsu Lake was an important place for living.
Traces of Ainu culture remain around the lake, visible in place names and names of flora and fauna influenced by the Ainu.
History of Development
Shikarivetsu Lake became noted as a tourist destination from the early Showa period. It was incorporated into Daisetsuzan National Park in 1939 (Showa 14), after which hot spring inns were opened.
While development progressed, a policy prioritizing nature conservation was maintained, and no large-scale resort development occurred, preserving the pristine nature to this day. This “hidden quality” has become Shikarivetsu Lake’s greatest charm.
Best Seasons for Shikarivetsu Lake Tourism
Shikarivetsu Lake has charm in each of the four seasons, but the best seasons by purpose are as follows:
For Activity Focus
- July to September: Diverse experiences possible including canoeing, trekking, and fishing
- Weather is relatively stable
For Autumn Foliage Viewing
- Late September to early October: One of Hokkaido’s premier autumn foliage spots
- Foliage reflected on the lake surface is spectacular
For Special Winter Experiences
- Late January to mid-March: Shikarivetsu Kotan opening period
- Unique experiences such as ice open-air bath
For Quiet Hidden Paradise Experience
- May to June, late October to November: Fewer tourists for a quiet stay
- Off-season prices also offer value
Sample Accommodation Plans Around Shikarivetsu Lake
1-Night 2-Day Model Course
Day 1
- 10:00 Depart from Obihiro Station
- 11:30 Arrive at Shikarivetsu Lake
- 12:00 Lakeside walk and lunch
- 14:00 Canoe experience (2 hours)
- 16:00 Check-in and hot spring
- 18:00 Dinner
- 20:00 Stargazing
Day 2
- 6:00 Early morning walk
- 7:30 Breakfast
- 9:00 Check-out
- 9:30 Tenbozan trekking (3 hours)
- 13:00 Lunch and departure
- 14:30 Stop at Naitai Highland Ranch
- 16:00 Arrive at Obihiro Station
2-Night 3-Day Model Course
In addition to the 1-night 2-day course:
- Nukabira Lake and Taushubetsu River Bridge sightseeing
- Shikarivetsu Gorge Hot Spring
- Touring tourist facilities within Shikaoicho Town
- More challenging mountain climbing (Hakuunzan, etc.)
These additions allow for thorough enjoyment including surrounding areas.
Things to Know Before Visiting Shikarivetsu Lake
Mobile Phone Reception Conditions
As Shikarivetsu Lakeside is in a mountainous area, mobile phone signals are unstable in some locations. Major carriers connect around accommodation facilities, but may have no reception while trekking. It is recommended to inform accommodation facilities of your travel plans in advance for emergency situations.
ATM and Convenience Store Information
There are no ATMs or convenience stores at Shikarivetsu Lakeside. The nearest facility is in Shikaoicho Town (approximately 25 kilometers away), so prepare cash in advance.
Gas Station
No gas station is available at Shikarivetsu Lakeside. The nearest is in Shikaoicho Town, so always fill up before heading there.
Medical Facilities
The nearest medical facility is a clinic in Shikaoicho Town. Those with chronic conditions should bring necessary medications.
Conclusion: Luxurious Time Spent at Shikarivetsu Lakeside
Shikarivetsu Lakeside is one of the few remaining places in Hokkaido where nature is particularly well-preserved. Situated at an elevation of 810 meters, this lake is one of the few places where you can escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and truly face authentic nature.
The lake’s transparent surface, primeval forest surrounding it, and scenery that changes with each season. Paddling a canoe across the lake, you will be captivated by the spectacular views created by the sky and mountains reflected on the water surface. The hot spring experience after a trekking adventure is exceptional, and bathing while gazing at the lake becomes a blissful moment.
In winter, “Shikarivetsu Kotan” emerges on the completely frozen lake surface, offering an experience unique in the world—bathing in a hot spring on ice. Under extreme minus 20-degree temperatures, soaking in warm water while gazing up at the starry sky will surely become a lifetime memory.
Shikarivetsu Lake has escaped large-scale development due to inconvenient access and continues to convey its pristine nature to the present. This very inconvenience has made this place special.
In modern society seeking convenience and efficiency, choosing to visit an inconvenient hidden paradise and surrendering oneself to nature’s rhythm represents a true luxury.
When visiting Hokkaido, be sure to extend your journey to Shikarivetsu Lakeside. There awaits an authentic nature experience that cannot be fully conveyed through photographs or words.
