Shiretoko Five Lakes are a group of five volcanic barrier lakes scattered at the foot of the Shiretoko Mountain Range on the Shiretoko Peninsula in eastern Hokkaido. Surrounded by dense primeval forest, the lakes form one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the Shiretoko region, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.
The five lakes are known simply as Lake One, Lake Two, Lake Three, Lake Four, and Lake Five. Each has its own character, while the surrounding forest, wetlands, and mountains create a unified wilderness landscape. On calm days, the surfaces of the lakes reflect the surrounding trees and mountains, creating beautiful scenes that change with the seasons.
The lakes were formed through volcanic activity in the Shiretoko mountain region. Their waters lie within a pristine natural environment where forests and wetlands provide habitats for a wide variety of plants and animals.
The dense primeval forest is one of the defining features of Shiretoko Five Lakes. Depending on the season, visitors can see fresh spring greenery, lush summer forests, colorful autumn foliage, and snow-covered winter landscapes. The contrast between the quiet lakes, forest, and surrounding mountains gives the area its mysterious atmosphere.
Visitors can explore the area using walking trails and an elevated wooden boardwalk. The walking routes lead through the natural environment and provide opportunities to view the individual lakes and surrounding scenery.
Use of the walking trails varies depending on the season and current conditions, so visitors should check the latest rules before setting out. During winter, the trails are closed to regular visitors.
The elevated boardwalk provides a more accessible way to experience the landscape while helping protect the fragile natural environment. Walking through the forest and looking across the lakes offers an intimate encounter with the wilderness of the Shiretoko Peninsula.
The rich ecosystem around Shiretoko Five Lakes supports numerous species of birds, plants, and other wildlife. Seasonal changes bring different plants and scenery, making the area rewarding for nature lovers and photographers throughout the accessible period.
Ezo deer and brown bears also inhabit the wider area, and visitors may occasionally encounter wildlife. Because these are wild animals, it is essential to maintain a safe distance and follow all local wildlife-safety rules. The Shiretoko landscape is their natural habitat, and visitors should observe animals without approaching or disturbing them.
Spring brings fresh greenery and the awakening of the forest, while summer fills the landscape with deep green foliage. Autumn transforms the trees into vivid shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating striking reflections on the lake surfaces.
Winter brings heavy snow and a completely different landscape. Although the regular walking trails are closed during the winter period, the snowy scenery illustrates the harsh northern environment that helps shape Shiretoko’s unique ecosystem.
Shiretoko Five Lakes is a protected wilderness area, so visitors are expected to help preserve its natural environment. Stay on designated paths, take all garbage with you, and avoid disturbing plants and wildlife.
Weather and temperatures can change quickly, so layered clothing is recommended. Comfortable walking shoes and rain gear are also useful, particularly when exploring the trails in changeable weather.
Shiretoko Five Lakes offers an unforgettable encounter with the untouched landscapes of eastern Hokkaido. Five tranquil lakes, primeval forest, wetlands, and mountains come together to create scenery that feels far removed from everyday life.
For travelers exploring the Shiretoko Peninsula, walking among the five lakes is an opportunity to experience the region’s remarkable biodiversity and seasonal beauty at close range. The reflections on the water, the changing colors of the forest, and the possibility of encountering wildlife all contribute to the sense of adventure that makes this destination so special.
By car: From Shari Town or Rausu Town, take Route 334, Hokkaido Road No. 93 Shiretoko Park Route, or a town road to the Shiretoko Goko parking lot.
Bus:Take the Shari Bus bound for Shiretoko Utoro Onsen from JR Shiretoko Shari Station (55 minutes), get off at the last stop, and transfer to the Shari Bus bound for Shiretoko Goko or Shiretoko Ohashi (25 minutes).