Shiretoko Five Lakes - Hokkaido

Shiretoko Five Lakes, also called Shiretoko Goko (知床五湖), are five lakes inside the Shiretoko National Park. It is located in the Shiretoko Peninsula, but all lakes are under the jurisdiction of the town of Shari, Shari District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Shiretoko Five Lakes

Shiretoko Five Lakes Details

The Shiretoko Five Lakes are one of the most iconic attractions in Hokkaido and a highlight of the UNESCO-listed Shiretoko National Park. Known as one of the celebrated "Shiretoko Eight Views," this scenic destination offers panoramic views of unspoiled wilderness, snow-capped peaks, and serene lake waters that reflect the surrounding beauty like a mirror.

Shiretoko Five Lakes - Shari town, Hokkaido Prefecture

Nature’s Fingerprints: A Landscape Shaped by Volcanoes

These five picturesque lakes were formed thousands of years ago by the eruption of nearby Mount Io, with underground springs feeding the tranquil waters year-round. Their unique placement across the forest floor has led many to describe the scene as if a divine hand pressed five fingertips into the earth. Surrounded by rich wildlife—including deer and Shiretoko’s famous brown bears—the area offers visitors an intimate glimpse into one of Japan’s last true wildernesses.

Shiretoko Five Lakes Route Map

Shiretoko Five Lakes Field House

Inside the Shiretoko Five Lakes Field House

We got a stamp from the Shiretoko Five Lakes Field House

Read this before exploring Shiretoko Five Lakes

Tips to avoid bear encounters... and also survive it when you encounter one

Shiretoko Five Lakes course and bear sightings

Photos around Shiretoko Five Lakes Walking Course

Shiretoko Five Lakes Elevated Boardwalk

The elevated wooden boardwalk stretches for 800 meters from the parking area to Lake Ichiko, the first and most accessible lake. Designed to preserve the delicate ecosystem beneath, the boardwalk allows visitors to admire stunning views of the Sea of Okhotsk, mountain ranges, and wildlife habitats—all while staying safely above ground. Open from mid-April to mid-November, the boardwalk is free of charge, wheelchair accessible, and a perfect option for families or visitors with limited mobility.

Team Nicerio visits Shiretoko Five Lakes

My family and I visited Shiretoko Five Lakes for the first time on September 17, 2023, during the second day of our “3-Day Respect for the Aged Road Trip.” This visit also marked my 685th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. This place was one of the highlights of our trip. Although we weren’t able to see any bears, we were in a way thankful as we were able to explore some parts of the national park safely.   I would definitely want to come back and visit this place again in the future.

Shiretoko Five Lakes Fees

Shiretoko Five Lakes Fee

Independent Access (Park Opening – May 9 & August 1 – Park Closure)

Admission Fee: 250 yen per person

Includes a mandatory short safety lecture

Boardwalk access to the first lake is free of charge

🐻 Guided Tours Only (May 10 – July 31)

Due to increased bear activity, all hikers must join a guided tour

Tour Fee: Approximately 5,000 yen per person

 

Shiretoko Five Lakes Operating Hours:

For those seeking a deeper nature experience, three kilometers of forest trails connect all five lakes. These scenic paths take approximately 90 minutes to complete and offer a peaceful walk through Shiretoko’s dense forests and marshes. However, due to the area's thriving bear population and to preserve the fragile environment, trail access is seasonally regulated:

May 10 – July 31 (Bear Season):

Only guided tours are allowed due to high bear activity

Tours are in Japanese and last about 3 hours

Depart every 10 minutes, max 10 people per group

Cost: Around 5,000 yen per person

Early Season (Park Opening – May 9) & Late Season (August 1 – Park Closure):

You can walk on your own

Must attend a short safety lecture and pay a 250 yen fee

Two course options:

Full Course: 3 km (90 minutes) to all five lakes

Short Course: 1.6 km (40 minutes) to the first two lakes

 

Why visit Shiretoko Five Lakes?

Shiretoko Five Lakes is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The area offers breathtaking scenery with crystal-clear lakes that perfectly reflect the surrounding majestic mountains and lush forests, making it a paradise for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can encounter unique wildlife such as deer, brown bears, and various bird species in their natural habitat, providing a rare opportunity to experience Japan’s rich biodiversity. 

The lakes are part of one of the country’s most pristine wilderness areas, where well-preserved ecosystems allow for an immersive nature experience. The elevated boardwalk makes exploring easy and accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities, while guided tours and visitor centers provide educational insights about local ecology, bear safety, and conservation efforts. With each season bringing its own charm—from vibrant spring blooms to stunning autumn foliage and peaceful winter landscapes—Shiretoko Five Lakes offers a memorable and rewarding journey into Japan’s wild beauty and natural heritage.

Getting to Shiretoko Five Lakes

 

From Shiretokoshari Station, head to the nearby Shari Bus Terminal and board the Shiretoko Line bound for Shiretoko Goko, operated by the Shari Bus Company.

Shiretoko Goko Bus Stop

Get off at the Shiretoko Goko bus stop.

Travel time: 1 hour 26 minutes 

Fare: 2,000 yen

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