7 Lakes to Visit in Hokkaido | A Summary of Stunning Lakes You Should See at Least Once in Your Life

7 Lakes to Visit in Hokkaido | Stunning Lakes You Should See at Least Once in Your Life
Update Date:
Activity Japan Editorial Department

Popular tourist destinations, Hokkaido Special feature on Lake
In Hokkaido, Over 50 swamps and lakes There is. This time, Carefully selected by the Activity Japan editorial team I especially recommend it. Seven lakes in Hokkaido We will introduce the following.

In addition to access information, we also have information on how to read the difficult lake names, recommended sightseeing spots in the area, and featured articles that we recommend! Don't miss it!

Lake Shikotsu

The silhouette of Lake Shikotsu and Mount Eniwa reflected in the setting sun
Images Courtesy: photoAC

" Lake Shikotsu "(Shikotsuko)" is The second deepest lake in Japan Another attraction is its easy access, being only about an hour by car from central Sapporo and New Chitose Airport.
The color of the lake, which boasts one of the clearest waters in Japan, is Lake Shikotsu Blue "It is also called "

In winter, the very popular event " Chitose Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival The Chitose Shikotsu Kohyouto Festival is held here. The ice sculptures, which are made by spraying water from the lake, shine blue during the day and are lit up at night, creating a truly magical sight.

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This feature focuses on Lake Shikotsu, a popular tourist spot in Hokkaido. Lake Shikotsu is easily accessible from Sapporo, about an hour by car! We'll introduce you to the reasons why Lake Shikotsu is so clear, its characteristics and attractions, recommended tourist spots and hot springs in the area, and local gourmet food. We'll also tell you about activities and leisure activities where you can enjoy the magnificent nature of Lake Shikotsu!
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Lake Toya

Lake Toya in Hokkaido
Images Courtesy: photoAC

It is about a two-hour drive from Sapporo or New Chitose Airport. It is also famous as a hot spring resort. " Lake Toya Many guests also come to Toyako for the hot spring cure.
There are active volcanoes such as Mount Usu and Mount Showa Shinzan in the surrounding area. A caldera lake formed by an ancient volcanic eruption is.

Even though it is in Hokkaido, it is known as a lake that never freezes. In addition, Nakajima, which floats on the lake, One of the most powerful spots in Hokkaido But it is also true.

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Lake Mashu

Foggy Lake Mashu as seen from the third observation deck / Hokkaido
Images Courtesy: photoAC

Highly transparent even by global standards of" Lake Mashu Masyuuko is a lake that is often shrouded in mist, giving it a mysterious atmosphere. On sunny days, the sky is reflected in the lake, making its deep blue color look even more beautiful.
It is easily accessible, about an hour and a half by car from both Kushiro Airport and Memanbetsu Airport.

Lake Mashu is In Ainu language, Kamuito means Lake of the Gods It is also called. The underground water of Lake Mashu springs out There is also Kaminoko Pond, with its striking blue color, which is a popular tourist spot along with Lake Mashu.

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Lake Saroma

Morning sun over Lake Saroma, Hokkaido
Images Courtesy: photoAC

" Lake Saroma " is a place facing the Sea of Okhotsk. Japan's largest brackish lake Unlike the name of the town of Saroma where the lake is located, the name is generally written in katakana.
It is easily accessible, just over an hour by car from Memanbetsu Airport, the gateway to tourism in Okhotsk. We recommend stopping by in the mornings and evenings to enjoy the spectacular views of the lake, ocean, and sun.

Lake Saroma is Salinity is the same as seawater As a result, scallop and oyster farming is popular. Savor delicious seafood Why not give it a try?

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Lake Kussharo

Sea of clouds at Bihoro Pass / Lake Kussharo, Hokkaido
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It is about a two-hour drive from Kushiro Airport (Tanchō Kushiro Airport) and about an hour drive from Memanbetsu Airport. Lake Kussharo "Kusshaloko" is also a popular hot spring resort.
With a shovel etc. If you dig a little on the lakeside, you'll find hot springs. There are also some places where you can have a slightly unusual hot spring experience.

Japan's largest caldera lake There are many scenic spots around Lake Kussharo, especially from Bihoro Pass and Tsubetsu Pass. A sea of clouds enveloping the lake Sometimes you can see it.

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Shiretoko Five Lakes

Shiretoko Five Lakes/Hokkaido
Images Courtesy: photoAC

" Shiretoko Five Lakes "Shiretokogoko" is A general term for the five lakes on the Shiretoko Peninsula. It is about a two-hour drive from Memanbetsu Airport and is a mystical spot where much virgin forest remains.
There are two walking courses: a barrier-free boardwalk and a nature trail.

There are many precious plants and animals, Registered as a World Natural Heritage Site It is a protected area close to nature, so please be careful when visiting. Follow the rules and manners I hope you enjoy it.

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Lake Akan

Lake Akan scenery/Hokkaido
Images Courtesy: photoAC

About an hour's drive from Kushiro Airport (Tanchō Kushiro Airport). Lake Akan "(Akanko)" is One of Hokkaido's leading hot spring towns with over 100 years of history It is also known as the lake.
On the lake, you can enjoy sightseeing cruises on pleasure boats and boats, Tour of an Ainu Kotan (village) is popular.

It is also known as the habitat of the "Marimo", a special natural monument of Japan. At the "Marimo Exhibition and Observation Center" on Churui Island in the lake, Marimo, which is also classified as endangered Would you like to learn more about this?

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List of 7 must-see lakes in Hokkaido | Map

Enjoy the beautiful lake scenery on your trip to Hokkaido

Lake Shumarinai at sunset/Hokkaido
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Hokkaido Here are seven lakes to visit: Carefully selected products I did! What do you think?

Hokkaido is a place rich in nature and has many lakes. A different look depending on the season It will show you.
If you are traveling to Hokkaido, be sure to check it out. Lake tourism Be sure to put it in your schedule too!

*The content of this article is current as of April 2025.
Featured image provided by: photoAC

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