Lake Okotanpe

Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.

Lake Okotanpe

Lake Okotanpe, designated as a special protected area within a national park and listed as one of Hokkaido's three great mysterious lakes, is a mystical and serene destination.

4.07 2

Lake Okotanpe, nestled in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park in Hokkaido, lies about 7 kilometers northwest of Lake Shikotsu and at an elevation 300 meters higher, at 600 meters above sea level. This secluded mountain lake is cradled between Mount Eniwa (1,320 meters) and Mount Izari (1,318 meters), far removed from populated areas.

Lake Okotanpe is a natural dam lake formed by volcanic activities from Mount Eniwa. With a circumference of 5 kilometers and a maximum depth of 21.1 meters, it stands as one of the three great mysterious lakes of Hokkaido—alongside Lake Shinonome in Kamishihoro Town and Lake Onneto in Ashoro Town. It is celebrated for its mysterious charm, which manifests in the color of its waters shifting between emerald green and cobalt blue depending on the season, sunlight, and viewing angle.

The surrounding area is designated as a forest ecosystem protection zone, covered in pristine mixed forests of coniferous and deciduous trees. While there are no hiking trails leading to the lakeshore, there is an observation platform accessible from Route 78, offering splendid views of Lake Okotanpe’s stunning landscape.

Highlights

  • Recognized as one of Hokkaido's three great mysterious lakes.
  • Known for the enchanting variability of its water colors depending on the season, time of day, and perspective.
  • Its secluded mountain location enhances its serene allure.
  • Accessible via Route 78, with an observation platform available for viewing the lake’s scenery.

Photos

  • Recognized as one of the "Three Great Mysterious Lakes of Hokkaido," this lake is renowned for its enigmatic beauty.

    Recognized as one of the "Three Great Mysterious Lakes of Hokkaido," this lake is renowned for its enigmatic beauty.

  • Captivated by the lake's changing colors, influenced by the seasons and the angle of the sunlight.

    Captivated by the lake's changing colors, influenced by the seasons and the angle of the sunlight.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)

A

Sorry, we don’t.

Q

Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?

A

No free Wi-Fi available.

Q

Is parking available?

A

Yes.

Q

Are there restrooms nearby?

A

No, there are not.

Reviews

2
  • Ally Chu

    OKOTANPE湖是北海道東部一個迷人的自然景點,以其美麗的湖景和豐富的生態而聞名,夏天時,是水上活動的理想場所,包括划船、皮划艇、釣魚等,人們可以在湖上嬉戲,享受夏日清涼。

  • 雪兒

    OKOTANPE湖位於千歳支笏湖的北方~在翠綠樹林之間,可以感覺到湖水的清徹面貌哦,有種宛如被環山擁抱的珍珠呀。粉美~

Details

Name in Japanese
オコタンペ湖
Postal Code
066-0286
Address
Okotan, Chitose City, Hokkaido
Closed
Closed during the winter from late November to late April due to road closures.
Business Hours
Walk anytime
Admission
Free
Access
(1) Take a Hokkaido Chuo Bus towards Lake Shikotsu from JR Chitose Station, alight at 'Shikotsu Lake' bus stop, then approximately 25 minutes by car.
(2) About 1 hour and 10 minutes from Chitose IC on the Douou Expressway.