The Characteristics and Attractions of the Shiretoko Five Lakes | Walking Courses and Recommended Guided Tours

Hokkaido
of
Eastern Hokkaido
Located in
Shiretoko Five Lakes
"teeth
Eight Views of Shiretoko
One of them.
A Unique Ecosystem Comes to Life
Shiretoko
teeth,
world Natural Heritage Site
Also registered in
Major sightseeing and view spots
is.
In this article The seasonal characteristics and attractions of the Shiretoko Five Lakes Things to know when strolling around Two routes and travel times , Important points and etiquette , Weather and clothing A thorough explanation of I will.
Recommended guided tours by course Also introducing So, if you are planning to visit the Shiretoko Five Lakes, please refer to this article.
table of contents
- 1 What are the Shiretoko Five Lakes?
- 2 Two walking routes and required times for exploring the Shiretoko Five Lakes
- 3 Recommended guided tour around the Shiretoko Five Lakes
- 4 Enjoy sightseeing at the Shiretoko Five Lakes to the fullest on a guided tour!
- 5 Editorial department recommended feature articles
What are the Shiretoko Five Lakes?

Shiretoko Five Lakes teeth, Generic term for five lakes in Shari Town, Hokkaido is.
Five lakes surrounded by virgin forest, one lake , two lakes , three lakes , four lakes , five lakes and each has a name, Registered as a World Natural Heritage Site It has been.
The Shiretoko Goko Lakes, where nature remains untouched, has been rebuilt by local forestry officials with elevated wooden paths and promenades. Barrier-free By being Feel free to enjoy a stroll .
The fantastic scenery that becomes a picture no matter where you cut it, Shiretoko of popular spot As such, it attracts many tourists every year.
Location, Map, and Access
Approximately 20 minutes by car from Utoro, Shari Town
Shiretoko Five Lakes teeth Hokkaido eastern part of Eastern Hokkaido located in In Shiretoko National Park is in
The magnificent scenery of the Shiretoko Goko Lakes, formed by the volcanic activity of Mt. Superb views of the Shiretoko mountain range and the Sea of Okhotsk can also be viewed.
There is a parking lot for 100 cars within the park grounds. Shiretoko Five Lakes Park Parking Lot "and," Shiretoko Five Lakes Field House "," Shiretoko Five Lakes Park Service Center There are two buildings:
Located at the entrance to the ground walkway At the Shiretoko Goko Field House, Walking procedures and lecture In addition to conducting At the Shiretoko Five Lakes Park Service Center Rest area there is Souvenirs and snacks for sale Also Therefore, it is recommended to stop by here to fill your stomach before going for a walk.
features and charm

Shiretoko Five Lakes teeth A natural wonder surrounded by virgin forests You can enjoy In addition to the lake, you can also enjoy the spectacular views of the mountains, forests, and ocean. Therefore, Scenic spots in Shiretoko Also popular as is.
Around the Shiretoko Five Lakes, Hokkaido squirrels, Hokkaido deer, red foxes, brown bears and wild birds A place where many wild animals live, such as It is also.
The mysterious and beautiful virgin forest reflected on the surface of the water, the spectacular view of the mountains, etc. The energy of nature that releases the feeling of daily blockage you will be able to feel
Seasonal highlights and closing periods

Enjoy the fantastic scenery that changes with the seasons Also, One of the attractions of Shiretoko Goko is.
Early May to mid-June
When it becomes a flower, it has distinctive white petals.
Skunk cabbage
is blooming, and if it is until about the end of June,
Tachitsubo Violet and Ezo Corrida
You can also enjoy the carefree flowers such as.
Also,
June is the birthing season for Ezo deer
Therefore,
With any luck
Newborn fawn
You can meet
That too!
In autumn, the leaves turn beautiful colors is. Luxurious scenery with beautiful reddish golden mountains In addition to being able to enjoy Collecting acorns etc. Hokkaido squirrel Appearance of You can see.

Shiretoko Five Lakes Opening Period teeth, Access road Opening period of Shiretoko Park Line (Route 93) Conforms to .
Shiretoko Park Line (Route 93) Usually from November to late April Due to the harsh winter weather conditions, the risk of avalanches, and environmental concerns, it is not possible to spray antifreeze. The road from the Shiretoko Five Lakes Gate to Kamuiwakka Hot Spring Falls is closed during the winter. It will be.
Then the snow melted and the road opened. The Shiretoko Five Lakes are open from mid-April until mid-November when snow begins to fall. It will be.
If you plan to visit before or after, Check the official website for the latest information Please do so.
Recommended clothing for each weather and season
Shiretoko Five Lakes Recommended clothing for strolling around varies greatly depending on the season and weather.
The area around the Shiretoko Five Lakes
Cool in summer and bitterly cold in winter
It is characterized by becoming.
The temperature difference is extreme, and the weather is prone to change, with sudden rain and fog.
Therefore, in general,
Layerable clothing
When,
rain gear
(Rainwear or a raincoat is recommended instead of an umbrella), and
Insect repellent measures
is important
It will be.
especially May to August In addition to the abundance of insects such as mosquitoes and black flies, it is also important to protect your skin from thorns, branches, and plant rashes. Long sleeves and long pants are recommended even in summer It has been.
Many areas of the ground trail are unpaved,
Sneakers or trekking shoes
etc.
Comfortable walking shoes
is recommended
.
It is difficult to slide during snowy season
Snow boots
During the snow melting season and on rainy days, large puddles and mud can form on the roads.
Boots or waterproof shoes
is required.
Detailed clothing guidelines are as follows:
-
Lightweight long sleeves and pants
Wear layers such as a windbreaker to protect yourself from sunburn and insects - sun-blocking hat
- Thin gloves or work gloves
- Comfortable sneakers or trekking shoes
- Rain gear (rainwear or raincoat that allows you to use both hands)
- Backpacks and pochettes
-
Warm jacket and long pants
Layer up and protect yourself from the cold with lightweight down jackets and windproof outerwear - A warm hat or earmuffs
- Gloves with excellent heat retention
-
Comfortable snow boots or trekking shoes
Non-slip shoes with excellent heat retention and waterproof properties are recommended. - Rain gear (rainwear or raincoat that allows you to use both hands)
- Backpacks and pochettes
Important points and etiquette when visiting the Shiretoko Five Lakes
Shiretoko Five Lakes When visiting the following Observe precautions and manners .
- take the trash home
- do not eat or cook
- do not pick plants
- Do not feed or approach wild animals
- don't smoke
- Do not walk with pets
- do not bring other plants
- don't fly drone
- To avoid trampling on the marshes and vegetation, do not walk off the trail or take breaks.
Meals are available at the Shiretoko Five Lakes Park Service Center, etc. Prohibited except in designated areas is. The smell of food can attract brown bears and wasps. Therefore, when taking a walk Put candy and gum in a sealed plastic bag keep it.
Water and tea are available for drinking on the trails, but for the same reason In principle, sports drinks and other drinks containing sugar or sweet flavors are prohibited from being brought in. It has been.
Breaking the rules may result in punishment under the Natural Parks Act
there is.
Please enjoy your walk while observing good manners to ensure a safe and pleasant walk without disturbing the wild animals.
Two walking routes and required times for exploring the Shiretoko Five Lakes
For walking around the Shiretoko Five Lakes "elevated boardwalk" When "Ground Promenade (Large Loop/Small Loop)" Two routes there is.
In the following
Detailed introduction to the characteristics and courses of each route
.
The route, of course,
Travel time, fees, and rules vary depending on the period.
So please check it out carefully and use it as a reference for your walk to the Shiretoko Five Lakes.
Elevated wooden path

Elevated wooden path teeth It is a boardwalk that is 2-5m high and approximately 800m long, and it is the only one of the Shiretoko Five Lakes. You can go
Free to explore during opening hours
Barrier-free structure
Therefore,
Wheelchair and stroller accessible
.
Alongside the elevated boardwalk
electric fence
Because it is stretched,
You can enjoy a stroll without worrying about brown bears coming up.
.
The round trip distance is 1.6km , The journey takes approximately 40 minutes It takes about You can also turn back halfway through, Mountain range observation deck, Okotsuku observation deck, lakeside observation deck Three observation decks are installed. It has been Panoramic Lake Of course, Shiretoko mountain range and Sea of Okhotsk You can enjoy each scenery.
Although it is only Lake Iko, it is suitable for those with small children or those who are not confident in their physical strength. A recommended course for those who want to casually enjoy the Shiretoko Five Lakes is.
Elevated wooden path
price | free |
---|---|
Park opening period | Mid-April to mid-November *Same as the opening period of the Shiretoko Park Line (Route 93) |
Opening hours | 8:00-18:30 (Shiretoko Goko Park Parking Lot/May vary depending on the season) |
Time required | Round trip: 40 minutes |
Ground walking path (large loop and small loop)

ground promenade
teeth
A walking path through the forest that takes you to all five lakes and one lake
.
Recommended for those who want to experience the dynamic nature of Shiretoko up close
This is a course.
Even on the ground walkway Two courses and," Vegetation protection period "and" Brown bear activity season "of In two periods Routes (travel time) and rules vary .
There are two courses on the ground walkway. there is. The circumference is 1.6km The "short loop" goes around Lake Ni and Lake Ichi can be, The circumference is 3km The "Great Loop" explores all five lakes It is possible to do this.
Unlike the elevated boardwalk, where you can turn back halfway, Both courses are one-way However, the trail may be closed or unavailable due to bear sightings or trail conditions.
To walk along the ground trail, you will be given a pass after completing the reception procedure at the Shiretoko Goko Field House. Entry permit (valid only on the day of issue) You can get the latest information about the trail, such as bear sightings and countermeasures. Attendance at a lecture of approximately 10 minutes is required is.
・Brown bear activity season (May 10th to July 31st)
The forests around the Shiretoko Five Lakes Brown bear habitat and especially May to July is the period when brown bears wake up from hibernation and become active. is.
" Brown bear activity season "for, Regular entry certification and lecture attendance required In addition, Participating in a guided tour led by a licensed, registered guide is a requirement for walking on the ground trail. It will be.
Registered chaperones
What is that?
Leaders who have learned how to avoid encounters with brown bears and how to deal with them if they do occur.
This is what I mean.
Not only do the tour leaders have a wealth of knowledge, but they also work to improve the safety of the tour by sharing real-time information on brown bear sightings and other such information via radio.
Guided tour So, we will stop by various viewpoints and give explanations, The large loop tour takes approximately 3 hours , The short loop tour takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes The required time is:
At Activity Japan
Guided tour by a registered leader
We handle a wide variety of items.
The fee includes all the necessary lectures and binoculars rentals.
There are also plans set up in advance, so please make a reservation.
A safe and authentic tour with extensive commentary
Let's enjoy it.
・Vegetation protection period (opening - May 9th / closing - August 1st)
The park is open during periods other than the brown bear activity period. Vegetation protection period " Payment of usage fees, registration procedures, and lecture attendance Once you have completed the above, The ground walkway Free to stroll independently can .
If you are walking alone, The main loop takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes About The short loop takes about 40 minutes You can take a stroll around.
Of course, you can still book a guided tour during this time. So, if you want to enjoy a more authentic walk with commentary, We recommend joining a tour is.
Ground Promenade (Chijo Yuhodo)
price |
[Vegetation Protection Period] Lecture fee: Adults 250 yen / Children (0-11 years old) 100 yen [Brown bear activity season] Depends on the guided tour fee |
---|---|
Park opening period | Mid-April to mid-November *Same as the opening period of the Shiretoko Park Line (Route 93) |
Opening hours | 8:00 - sunset 17:00 or 18:00 (may vary depending on the season) |
Time required |
[Vegetation protection period] *For individual walks Large loop: approx. 1 hour 30 minutes / Small loop: approx. 40 minutes [Brown bear activity season] Guided tour: Large loop: approx. 3 hours / Small loop: approx. 1 hour 30 minutes |
Recommended guided tour around the Shiretoko Five Lakes
If you want to enjoy the Shiretoko Goko Lakes deeply Joining a tour is recommended .
If you're on a tour with a guide who knows the area, you might miss it Yezo deer footprints and brown bear claw marks , various local attractions A lot of benefits to teach me.
According to your physical strength and convenience A large loop tour around all five lakes or, A short loop tour exploring only Lake Ichiko and Lake Nikoko or an elevated boardwalk tour ,or A full-day tour that combines a large loop, a virgin forest tour, and cycling You can choose from the following:
Encounter seasonal flowers, dynamic virgin forests, and wildlife etc. Shiretoko Let's enjoy a thrilling stroll while enjoying the great outdoors.
Ground Promenade (Large Loop) Five Lakes Tour
The Shiretoko Five Lakes are a scenic spot that represents Shiretoko. Surrounded by virgin forest, you can walk around all five of the mystical lakes on the ground footpaths and elevated boardwalks. Walk through the forest, where many wild animals and plants live, and experience the majestic nature of Shiretoko up close.
This eco-tour tour takes you around five small lakes scattered throughout Shiretoko's virgin forest. These are scenic spots that represent Shiretoko, a World Heritage Site. The Shiretoko Five Lakes are an area designated as a "Use Control Area" by the Ministry of the Environment. All participants are required to attend a lecture before the tour.
A nature guide will guide you deep into the pristine nature of Shiretoko. By taking a walk with a nature guide, you can approach the core of the world heritage Shiretoko, the mechanism of nature that you have never noticed before. Would you like to spend a luxurious time on a Shiretoko guided tour in the great outdoors? We rent binoculars free of charge to everyone on our guided tour. binoculars
Why not spend some luxurious time in the great outdoors on a guided tour of Shiretoko? We offer free binoculars rentals for all our guided tours. This is a guided tour of nature where you can use binoculars to carefully observe the wild animals, wild birds, plants, and flowers that inhabit Shiretoko, a World Natural Heritage Site. You can see Ezo deer, Ezo red foxes, Ezo squirrels, wild birds, and other animals that you would not normally be able to see.
The Shiretoko Five Lakes are a representative tourist spot in Shiretoko and are definitely worth a walk. A certified guide will lead you leisurely along a course of about 3km with little elevation change. You can stroll while looking for animal tracks and feeling the rich nature of Shiretoko. The lake, surrounded by virgin forest, is a very quiet and attractive field. ***Guided tour schedule***◆5/10-7
This is a trekking that goes around the Shiretoko Five Lakes, which are designated as a special protection area of Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Area, including the elevated wooden path. Japan's first epoch-making forest adventure experience guided by a registered leader with a license in the area where brown bears live. Not only the lake, but also Ezo deer, red foxes, wild birds, alpine plants, autumn leaves, etc.
This is a trekking that goes around the Shiretoko Five Lakes, which are designated as a special protection area of Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Area, including the elevated wooden path. Japan's first epoch-making forest adventure experience guided by a registered leader with a license in the area where brown bears live. Not only the lake, but also Ezo deer, red foxes, wild birds, alpine plants, autumn leaves, etc.
[Hokkaido, Shiretoko] Shiretoko "Five Lakes Full-Lake Tour" with free transfers!
This is a plan to tour the entire Shiretoko Five Lakes. We will guide you leisurely through the pristine forests and lakes! This is a plan to tour the entire Shiretoko Five Lakes by walking along the ground trail. The basic meeting point is the Shiretoko Five Lakes Field House, but we also provide free transportation from various locations in the Utoro Onsen area. Lecture at the Shiretoko Five Lakes Field House (about 10 minutes) ↓ Enter the Shiretoko Five Lakes
[Hokkaido, Shiretoko] Shiretoko Five Lakes Guided Walk
Shiretoko's most popular tourist spot is the Shiretoko Five Lakes. Take a guided walk through the forests of Shiretoko, where the natural beauty of the area has remained intact since the beginning of time. As you tour the five mystical lakes, you can spot traces of wild animals such as brown bears and Ezo deer, as well as enjoy a variety of spectacular views. On windless days, the Shiretoko mountain range is reflected in the mirror-like lakes. The scenery is breathtakingly beautiful. Take a walk
One-day tour including a tour of the five lakes on the ground promenade (large loop)
[Hokkaido Shiretoko] Enjoy the rich nature of Shiretoko! Shiretoko 1DAY Guided Tour
Summer in Hokkaido is something that everyone wants to visit at least once. We will guide you through "Okhotsk", which is rich in nature even in Hokkaido, for a leisurely day. The theme of the Shiretoko area is "to fully enjoy nature". In the morning, a guided walk around the Shiretoko Goko Lakes takes you through the representative fields of Shiretoko. We will pick you up at a restaurant in Utoro for lunch. The remaining half day is trekking in the primeval forest. Walking on the animal trail and cliffs
[Hokkaido/Shiretoko] Experience the world of animals by walking on the path of animals!
Shiretoko is a peninsula surrounded by the sea. Take a walk in a wonderful environment where you can feel the nature created by the mountains and the sea. Afternoon walks in the virgin forest will take you on a private tour through nature that is rarely seen by people. This tour is recommended for those who do not want to walk in the same places as other guided tours, and who want to explore a special place that is different from other people. Depending on the season, through the trees and plants as tall as you are
[Hokkaido, Shiretoko] Shiretoko Enjoyment eBike Tour
This is an eco-friendly one-day tour that takes you around Shiretoko's most famous scenic spots: the Shiretoko Five Lakes, Furepe Falls, and Shiretoko Pass. The tour is conducted on e-bikes due to the steep ups and downs, but it still requires some physical strength, so it is recommended for those who normally enjoy long cycling trips. The Shiretoko Five Lakes are 3km long and take 3 hours, and the Furepe Falls are 2km long and take 1 hour.
Ground walking trail (short loop) Lakes 1 and 2 or elevated boardwalk tour
You can stroll around Lake Two and Lake One of the Shiretoko Five Lakes on a ground walkway, and return via an elevated boardwalk. While walking along the walking path, you can observe the nature that changes with the seasons. You can mainly observe Ezo deer and wild birds. Roads and walking paths may be closed due to brown bear sightings, snowfall, storms, etc. If we know of a closure in advance, we will contact you by mobile phone and, if you wish, we will arrange a day off.
Shiretoko Five Lakes (Lakes 1 and 2) and Kamuiwakka Hot Spring Waterfall Tour
Shiretoko's most scenic spot is the Shiretoko Five Lakes, a group of five small lakes scattered amongst a virgin forest. After exploring Lakes 1 and 2, we will walk through the hot spring river to Kamuiwakka Hot Spring Waterfall, famous for its hot spring water, and climb three waterfalls to reach Waterfall 4. Kamuiwakka no longer allows people to freely enter the river. You must apply in advance, attend a lecture, wear a helmet, and wear mountain stream shoes.
[Hokkaido, Shiretoko] Shiretoko Full-Day Tour Departing from JR Shiretoko Shari Station
Connected to JR Shiretoko Shari Station! Now you can travel to Shiretoko conveniently and without any hassle! Covering the popular spots of Shiretoko World Natural Heritage Area/Kiyosato Town of Shiretoko! This is a one-day Shiretoko experience plan recommended for customers coming to Shiretoko by JR. In the morning, enjoy the inland spots of Kiyosato Town overlooking the famous Mount Sharidake, then have lunch. In the afternoon, you will travel from Shari Town to the World Natural Heritage Area.
Enjoy sightseeing at the Shiretoko Five Lakes to the fullest on a guided tour!

Hokkaido of Shiretoko Five Lakes teeth, A popular tourist spot where you can fully enjoy the powerful nature .
for a walk An elevated boardwalk that can be enjoyed for free and easily When, A more authentic ground walking path of Two routes there is Lake I and Lake II only mosquito Five lakes tour You can also choose one of the courses Therefore, when you go out, it is a good idea to choose one that suits your situation and schedule.
Brown bear activity season for Guided tour participation is required However, if you are planning to visit the Shiretoko Five Lakes, Regardless of the duration, our licensed and knowledgeable guides will provide safe guidance and commentary. We recommend joining a guided tour .
By all means, why not experience the great nature of Shiretoko deeply?
*The content of this article is current as of May 2024.