Shiretoko Five Lakes: Wild Lakes in Bear Country
How to visit the Shiretoko Five Lakes in Hokkaido: the free elevated boardwalk, the ground paths and bear-season rules, the best time and getting there.
Quick answer
- What it is: five small lakes in the forest of the Shiretoko Peninsula, in far eastern Hokkaido.
- Status: part of the Shiretoko UNESCO World Heritage Site, listed in 2005.
- Elevated boardwalk: about 800 metres long, free and open throughout the season.
- Ground paths: need a lecture and fee, or a guided tour from May 10 to July 31.
- Season: usually from mid April to mid November, when the access road is open.
Shiretoko means the end of the earth in the Ainu language. On its wild peninsula, five calm lakes reflect the mountains, while brown bears, deer and foxes roam the surrounding forest.
Why the Five Lakes are a wonder
Shiretoko is one of the most untouched places in Japan. It was listed as a World Heritage Site for the way its sea ice, rivers and forests support an unusually rich food chain, from plankton to bears and sea eagles.
The Five Lakes give visitors a safe way to see this wilderness. The lakes were formed by volcanic activity and are fed by underground springs.
Two ways to explore
The elevated boardwalk runs about 800 metres to the edge of the first lake. It has an electric fence to keep bears away, and it is free and suitable for wheelchairs.
The ground paths loop past all five lakes. Outside bear season you can walk them after a short lecture. From May 10 to July 31, when bears are most active, they can only be visited on guided tours.
Routes and options
| Route | What you see | Time (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Elevated boardwalk | The first lake and the mountain view | 40 minutes round trip |
| Short loop | Lakes one and two on foot | 1.5 hours |
| Long loop | All five lakes through the forest | 3 hours |
| Furepe Falls | A waterfall dropping from cliffs into the sea | 1 hour walk |
| Utoro boat cruise | Cliffs, waterfalls and sometimes bears from the sea | 1.5 to 3 hours |
When to go
- Late April to early May: the season opens, with snow still on the peaks.
- May 10 to July 31: bear season, when the ground paths need a guided tour.
- August to October: the ground paths reopen to independent walkers after the lecture.
- Early October: autumn colours in the forest.
Our tip: If you only have time for one thing, walk the free elevated boardwalk on a clear morning. The view of the first lake with the mountains behind is the classic Shiretoko scene.
Getting there
- To Shiretoko: fly to Memanbetsu or Nakashibetsu airport, or take a train to Shiretoko-Shari Station.
- To Utoro: buses from Shari Station reach Utoro, the main town, in about 50 minutes.
- To the lakes: seasonal buses run from Utoro to the Five Lakes Field House, or you can drive.
Bear country rules
- Never feed wildlife, and keep food sealed on the paths.
- Stay on the marked paths at all times.
- Ground paths can close at any time if bears are seen.
- Drones and pets are not allowed.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Shiretoko Five Lakes boardwalk free?
Yes. The elevated boardwalk to the first lake is free and open throughout the season.
Do you need a guide for the Five Lakes?
Only for the ground paths from May 10 to July 31. At other times you can walk them after a short lecture.
When are the Shiretoko Five Lakes open?
Usually from mid April to mid November, when the access road is open.
Will I see a bear?
Possibly. Bears live in the area, which is why the paths have strict rules and the boardwalk has an electric fence.
Oirase Gorge
A clear stream rushing past mossy rocks and waterfalls through deep forest.
We check this guide regularly. Prices, hours and rules in Japan can change, so confirm with the official sources below before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.