Shiretoko Five Lakes, located within Shiretoko National Park in Hokkaido, is one of Japan’s most
breathtaking natural destinations. Surrounded by dense forests, volcanic mountains, and
untouched wilderness, the five crystal-clear lakes perfectly mirror the surrounding scenery. This
iconic location offers peaceful boardwalks, wildlife viewing, and some of the best nature
photography settings in Hokkaido.
- 🚶 Walk the safe 800m Elevated Boardwalk for a quick view of Lake Ichiko ⛰️ ✨
- 🐻 Explore all five lakes via the Ground Nature Trails (guided tours required in peak season) 🌲 🥾
- 📸 Capture the “Mirror Reflection” of the Shiretoko Mountains on the lake surfaces 🎞️ 🤳
- 🦌 Spot Ezo deer and red foxes grazing in the surrounding marshlands 🦊 🔭
- 🍂 Witness the vibrant seasonal shifts, from spring blooms to fiery autumn leaves 🍁 🎞️
- 🚌 Board a sightseeing bus from Utoro for a convenient 20-minute transit 🏁 📍
- 🚗 Drive 2 hours from Memanbetsu Airport or Abashiri via the coastal highway 🏁 🛣️
- 🅿️ Use the paid parking area (approx. 500 Yen) at the Five Lakes Field House 🏛️ 🗝️
- 👣 Arrive early to secure parking during the busy summer and October peak 🕙 ✅
- ⚠️ Check the bear activity calendar; guided tours are mandatory from May 10 to July 31 🗓️ 🛑
- 🧥 Wear long pants and sleeves to prevent insect bites and tick-borne illnesses 🕷️ ✅
- 💧 Carry only water or tea; sugary drinks and snacks are forbidden on ground trails 🛑 🥤
- 🌅 Visit before 9:00 AM for the best chance of clear mountain reflections 📸 🕊️
- 🎫 Book guided tours online in advance, especially during the Bear Active Period 🕙 ✨
- 8:00 AM – Arrive at the Shiretoko Five Lakes Field House and pay the entry/parking fee 🅿️ 🌅
- 8:30 AM – Walk the Elevated Boardwalk to see Lake Ichiko and capture mountain views ⛰️ 📸
- 10:00 AM – Join a guided “Large Loop” tour to visit all five lakes through the forest 🌲 🥾
- 12:00 PM – Head back to Utoro for a lunch of fresh kaisen-don (seafood bowl) 🍱 🕊️
