Shikaribetsu Lakebed Railway - Hokkaido

Shikaribetsu Lakebed Railway (然別湖湖底線路) is a modest boat ramp that has gained attention for its resemblance to the submerged railway scene in Studio Ghibli’s famous film Spirited Away. Located near Hakuunbashi (Hakuunzan Trailhead) in Kita-Urimaku, Shikaoi Town, Kato District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Shikaribetsu Lakebed Railway

Lake Shikaribetsu Lakebed Railway Details

Lake Shikaribetsu is often called the “Lake in the Sky” because it sits at the highest altitude of any lake in Hokkaido. This natural alpine lake is celebrated for its crystal-clear waters and mystical scenery, offering visitors a chance to experience the untouched beauty of Hokkaido’s wilderness. Surrounded by lush forests and majestic mountains, Lake Shikaribetsu is a destination that captivates travelers throughout the year.

Shikaribetsu Lakebed Railway - Shikaoi town, Hokkaido Prefecture

The Mystical Underwater Railway Tracks

One of the most intriguing sights at Lake Shikaribetsu is the Underwater Railway Tracks, which also goes by many names depending on who you ask, like Spirited Away Railway Track, Submerged Railway, and the most common, which is the Shikaribetsu Lakebed Railway, which is a spot that has become a sensation on social media. From the lake’s edge, you can see railway tracks disappearing beneath the water, sinking into the lake’s depths. With Lake Shikaribetsu known as one of the clearest lakes in Japan, the sight of tracks vanishing into the water, framed by Hokkaido’s stunning natural landscapes, creates a magical and surreal view.

Photos of Shikaribetsu Lakebed Railway

Many visitors have compared the scene to a moment from an animated movie, and it has gained popularity for its striking resemblance to the submerged railway in Studio Ghibli’s classic film Spirited Away. This unique location is found near Hakuunbashi (Hakuunzan Trailhead) in Kita-Urimaku, Shikaoi Town, Kato District, Hokkaido, making it an easy stop for those exploring the Shikaoi area.

The Submerged Railway scene from Spirited Away

The Real Story Behind the Tracks

Although the scene feels otherworldly, the railway tracks serve a practical purpose. They are used to pull sightseeing boats out of the lake before winter sets in. Since Lake Shikaribetsu completely freezes over in winter, boats must be removed in advance. As a result, the best time to see the submerged railway tracks is between spring and autumn, particularly on clear and sunny days when the waters are at their most transparent.

Mt. Hakuun Trailhead (Shikaribetsu Recreation Forest)

You have to register here first before you hike

A Must-Visit Spot in Shikaoi

For nature lovers, photographers, and anime fans alike, the Lake Shikaribetsu Underwater Railway Tracks offer a one-of-a-kind experience that blends natural wonder with cultural charm. Combined with the breathtaking scenery of Daisetsuzan National Park, this hidden gem has quickly become one of the most photogenic spots in Hokkaido.

If you are planning a trip to Hokkaido, be sure to include Lake Shikaribetsu in your itinerary. From its mystical alpine setting to the fascinating underwater railway, this is a destination where the magic of nature and imagination truly come alive.

Team Nicerio visits Shikaribetsu Lakebed Railway

My family and I visited Shikaribetsu Lakebed Railway for the first time on November 3, 2023, during the first day of our three-day Culture Day Road Trip. It also happened to be my 732nd day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme, which made the visit even more memorable. I specifically included this spot in our itinerary because I am a big fan of Spirited Away, and I had recently seen it featured on a Facebook page I follow. Visiting the lakebed railway in person, with its striking resemblance to the submerged railway scene in the film, was a highlight of our trip.

Shikaribetsu Lakebed Railway Admission Fee

Entry to the Shikaribetsu Lakebed Railway grounds is completely FREE, but parking is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that visitors are not allowed to enter the water.

Shikaribetsu Lakebed Railway Operating Hours

Shikaribetsu Lakebed Railway is open 24/7. However, the place is not well-lit, so it’s better if you visit only in the morning. 

Why visit Shikaribetsu Lakebed Railway?

The Shikaribetsu Lakebed Railway is a unique and photogenic destination that captures the imagination of travelers and anime fans alike. Its submerged railway tracks, visible through the crystal-clear waters of Lake Shikaribetsu, create a scene that looks like it came straight out of Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away. 

Located amidst the stunning natural scenery of Daisetsuzan National Park, the spot offers a rare combination of mystical beauty, peaceful surroundings, and iconic cultural reference. It is perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a memorable and off-the-beaten-path experience in Hokkaido. Visiting on a sunny day between spring and autumn allows you to see the lake’s waters at their clearest, making the submerged tracks even more striking.

Getting to Shikaribetsu Lakebed Railway

 

By Car: From Obihiro City, Lake Shikaribetsu is about a 1-hour drive (roughly 40 kilometers). From Sapporo, the drive takes around 3.5 to 4 hours. Parking is available near the lake and trailheads.

By Public Transportation: From Obihiro Station, take a Tokachi Bus bound for Lake Shikaribetsu. The ride takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Bus services may be limited during certain seasons, so it is best to check schedules in advance.

By Tour: Seasonal sightseeing tours and guided trips are sometimes available from Obihiro or Sapporo, often including nearby attractions such as Shikaribetsu Onsen or Lake Shikaribetsu’s winter “Ice Village.”

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