Kayaking on Shikotsu Lake: Japan's Clearest Water

You can see 25 meters down into the water while you paddle.

Kayaking on Shikotsu Lake is a 6-hour activity in Hokkaido's Shikotsu-Toya National Park where you paddle across Japan's clearest lake with visibility that reaches over 25 meters, surrounded by mountain views. The lake never freezes, making it paddleable year-round. An English-speaking guide leads the outing. Pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle and life jacket rental are included.

The experience

You arrive at Shikotsu Lake, a volcanic crater lake formed over 40,000 years ago, and step into the water with your guide. The clarity is immediate. You can look down and see the lake floor far below you as you paddle. Most lakes in Japan freeze in winter, but Shikotsu stays open, so this is one of the few places where you can kayak through the season. Your guide handles the route and timing. You focus on the paddle and the mountain views that ring the water.

The 6-hour outing covers hidden spots around the lake and gives you time to move at your own pace, whether you're paddling for the first time or you've done this before. The guide speaks English and watches the group throughout. You'll encounter the local wildlife that lives around the water and feel the mountain air as you work. The deep blue water and the quiet make the experience feel remote, even though you're inside a national park with infrastructure nearby.

Private vehicle pickup is included, so you don't arrange your own transport to the lake. The life jacket and kayak rental are part of the booking. Bring water and snacks. Lunch and dinner are not included, though public food options exist near the lake. The minimum age is 18, and the activity suits all fitness levels, though it's not recommended for people with spinal injuries, cardiovascular concerns or pregnancy.

What’s included

• Air-conditioned vehicle pickup.
• kayak and life jacket rental.
• English-speaking guide for the full 6-hour outing.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 5 Apr 2027

AgesAdult (18 to 69 years) · Under 18: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 3 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsNo refund if you cancel.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 28 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Sapporosightseeing Ambasador Special Travel Package

Is this one for you?The 6-hour paddle is steady-paced rather than intense, so it suits anyone comfortable spending the morning or afternoon on the water. Beginners and experienced kayakers paddle together with the same guide, so you move at a group pace rather than solo.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. No refund if you cancel.

Can I kayak on Shikotsu Lake in winter?

Yes. Shikotsu Lake never freezes, which is rare in Japan, so kayaking is possible year-round. Most other lakes in the region freeze solid in winter.

What's the visibility like underwater on Shikotsu Lake?

Visibility reaches over 25 meters, making Shikotsu Lake Japan's clearest lake. You can see the lake floor and the underwater landscape as you paddle across the surface.

How long is the kayaking activity?

The outing lasts 6 hours total, including time on the water and the pace your guide sets for exploring different spots on the lake.

Is transportation to the lake included?

Yes. Private pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle is included in the booking, so you don't need to arrange your own way to Shikotsu Lake.

What do I need to bring, and what's provided?

The kayak, life jacket and all paddling gear are provided. Bring water, snacks and any personal items you need for 6 hours on the water. Lunch and dinner are not included.

Do I need kayaking experience to join?

No. The activity suits beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Your English-speaking guide ensures a safe outing regardless of your skill level, and the minimum age is 18.