Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.
A celestial lake nestled in majestic nature, the highest-altitude lake in Hokkaido.
Lake Shikaribetsu, located at an elevation of approximately 810 meters, is Hokkaido’s highest-altitude lake and the only natural lake within Daisetsuzan National Park. Formed around 30,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption that dammed a river, it is known as the “Celestial Lake” and is surrounded by small volcanic peaks like Mount Tenbo and Mount Hakuun. The pristine landscape, featuring untouched forests of Sakhalin fir, Yezo spruce, and birch trees, is a stunning highlight.
The area is home to unique wildlife, including the pika—often called a living fossil from the Ice Age—as well as white-tailed eagles and grey herons. On the northern side of the lake lies Benten Island, while on the eastern shore, Mount Tenbo is affectionately nicknamed “Lip Mountain” because its reflection in the lake resembles a pair of lips, making it a symbolic feature of the area.
Outdoor activities are abundant, including kayaking, canoeing, and ziplining (Air Trip). In winter, the frozen lake transforms into the enchanting Shikaribetsu Kotan, a snow and ice village where visitors can enjoy activities like ice fishing for char through holes drilled into the ice.
A lake embraced by majestic nature.
Enjoy stunning scenery that changes with the seasons.
Offers a variety of activities on the lake.
Home to the pika, often called a living fossil.
Also inhabited by Miyabe char, known as the "jewel of the lake."
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?)
Sorry, we don’t.
Q
Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
Yes, it is.
Q
Are coin lockers available?
Not available.
Q
Are there restrooms available?
Yes, restrooms for visitors are available.
Q
Are there any smoking areas?
Smoking is permitted only inside Hotel Fusui.
Some reviews are AI-translated.
“Lake Shikaribetsu Ice Village Volunteer Activity”
The early morning sunlight falls across the endless white snow. Walking on the frozen Lake Shikaribetsu feels like being in a fairy-tale wonderland.
I met many friendly staff members and fellow volunteers here, all working toward one goal: the ice village.
The ice chapel, where lovers who have walked hand in hand for 10 years make promises for their future. One home, two people, three meals, four seasons—the ice in winter and the lake in summer. The one thing that never changes is our love for this place.
The ice hot spring, with its piping-hot water and warm friendships. One person asks, “Would you climb the mountain and stack ice blocks with me?” “Sure.”
Supporting your dreams and making your wishes come true. A friendship that feels even more like family than family. After returning home, where there’s no snow to build an ice hut, I think back on everything that felt like a dream—and on the friend willing to go all out with me.
The ice bar, where you carve an ice block into a cup. The owner said, “However big you want your cup, carve it yourself.”
A cup you make yourself has the most warmth. Although you can’t take it down the mountain, the warmth of the alcohol remains deep in your heart.
The “Lake Shikaribetsu sake” that belongs up here in the mountains is irreplaceable.
It tastes better than down below!
It’s okay if you don’t understand. Say it a few more times and you will. Language begins with listening, speaking, reading, and writing, but body language begins with a smile.
Conversations that feel like dancing, and the knowing smiles when you understand each other’s language, are truly moving.
The power of nature is irreplaceable. My body, mind, and spirit were filled with energy here.
It turns out snowflakes really are flat, just like in animated movies—only even more beautiful.
This place is seriously so cool. Seeing the whole village made of ice in person felt totally unreal.
The winter-only ice village is seriously cool—just pure limited-time romance. Every building is made of ice, and seeing it in person feels even more magical than I expected.
Not many people, which is a huge plus.
Zero pressure of being surrounded by tourists.
Compared to other popular spots, Lake Shikaribetsu has fewer visitors, so the whole area stays really peaceful. Walking by the lake or just sitting and enjoying the view brings a real sense of calm.
