Lake Shikotsu is a caldera lake in southwestern Hokkaido, within the Ishikari Subprefecture and close to Sapporo. Famous for its outstanding clarity, it’s known as one of the most beautiful lakes in Japan. With a maximum depth of over 360 meters, it’s the second-deepest lake in the country after Lake Tazawa in Akita Prefecture.

Another remarkable feature is that its surface doesn’t freeze even in the depths of winter. Thanks to its great depth and the influence of geothermal heat, the water stays above a certain temperature, making it a rare lake that stays ice-free despite Hokkaido’s harsh cold. The surrounding area is part of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, rich in unspoiled nature.

📍 About 45 minutes by car from New Chitose Airport, about 1 hour from central Sapporo

“Clear SUP” (stand-up paddleboarding) lets you experience Lake Shikotsu’s clarity not just from the surface but beneath it too. Using a special board with a transparent bottom, you’ll feel as if you’re floating on the water while gazing down at the lakebed and schools of fish up close. On sunny days, sunlight reaches deep into the water, so you can enjoy the emerald-green surface and the crystal-clear underwater world at the same time.

Recommended for

• Travelers looking for a photogenic activity
• First-timers who want a worry-free experience (with instructor support)
• Families with young children and couples

After checking in and changing at the meeting point, you’ll start with an on-land lesson from the staff. Once you’re comfortable, you can explore the lake at your own pace. Course details may change depending on weather and water levels, so it’s a good idea to confirm when you book.

Book the Lake Shikotsu Clear SUP Experience

※This section uses affiliate advertising (A8.net). The booking pages are in Japanese. Prices and plan details are subject to change, so please check the booking page for the latest information.

The lakeshore is home to a hot spring town with plenty of day-trip baths and places to stay (Japanese page). After working up a sweat on a SUP or canoe, soaking in a hot spring while gazing out over the lake is one of the special pleasures of Lake Shikotsu.

📍 Central Lake Shikotsu lakeside area

Campgrounds dot the lakeshore, and the area offers plenty of outdoor activities such as fishing, canoeing, and hiking. It’s also known as a trailhead for climbing Mt. Eniwa and Mt. Tarumae, making it a popular area for anyone who wants to fully immerse themselves in nature.

📍 Around the Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center