This road, tracing the edge of a deep, transparent lake, is enveloped by nature as far as the eye can see, making the drive itself a pure joy. Why not take a sublime drive around Lake Shikotsu?

This Route's Coordinator

This Drive's Route

Shikotsu-Toya-Niseko Route (Welcome Hokkaido Area)

The Shikotsu-Toya-Niseko Route, which runs through two national and quasi-national parks—Shikotsu-Toya National Park and Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park—is a region where you can encounter beautiful lakes, magnificent peaks, and volcanoes. In addition to this drive's "Welcome Hokkaido Area," the Shikotsu-Toya-Niseko Route is composed of three areas, including the "Niseko-Yotei Area" and the "Lake Toya Area."

Let's Start the Drive!

1 Shikotsu-Toya National Park Shikotsu-ko Visitor Center (Chitose City)

Once you arrive at Lake Shikotsu, first head to the Shikotsu-ko Visitor Center!
Here, you can enjoy learning about everything from the history of Lake Shikotsu's formation to the still-active volcanoes, the ecology of the creatures living around the lake, and the world beneath its surface. After learning all about Lake Shikotsu at the visitor center, it's time to dive into nature. You can also enjoy a short trip on a rental bicycle (available until early November in 2021).

Shikotsu-ko Visitor Center

2 Ocean Day's

Take a plunge into Lake Shikotsu! Why not find ultimate relaxation in the water?
At 'Ocean Day's,' you can enjoy introductory diving experiences in Lake Shikotsu all year round. Even if you're not a strong swimmer, it's okay—you'll practice slowly in a place where your feet can touch the bottom. The moving experience of breathing underwater is the ultimate form of healing♪ If you're not a fan of being underwater, you can explore waterfalls on a fat bike!

Ocean Day's

3 Shikotsu Guide House Canoa

Relax on the water. Head to the headwaters of the Chitose River by canoe.
At 'Shikotsu Guide House Canoa,' you can enjoy a program that lets you experience the seasonally changing forest and underwater life with all five senses as you gently paddle a canoe on the exceptionally clear water. How about the SOTO Cafe Canoe Tour, where you can take a relaxing break with some tea?

Shikotsu Guide House Canoa

4 Memere (Chitose City)

After enjoying the activities, take a break at a scenic cafe in the Lake Shikotsu onsen town.
The store's name means "grandma" in French. It embodies the desire to carry on the "spirit of hospitality" of the Marukoma grandma. We recommend the Chip Dog (*), a sandwich with Lake Shikotsu's famous himemasu salmon, and the "Marukoma Age-manju," a deep-fried onsen manju (steamed bun)!
*Chip is the local nickname for himemasu.

Memere (Chitose City)

＜Information provided by＞Lake Shikotsu Management Council

The fun at Lake Shikotsu doesn't stop here!! The 'Lake Shikotsu Tourist Information Site,' operated by the Lake Shikotsu Management Council, introduces unique ways to enjoy the lake from a local perspective, including nature, food, hot springs, activities, and more. Be sure to check it out.

Lake Shikotsu Management Council

Summary

How was it?
This route was one that makes you want to enjoy the deep, transparent lake with your whole body. The autumn foliage season is just reaching its peak in the Central Hokkaido area, so you can also enjoy the contrast between the blue of the lake and the vibrant reds and yellows of the autumn leaves!

Please continue to take precautions against infectious diseases and enjoy your drive.