Lake Shikaribetsu — Hokkaido's Highest Lake (810m) with Pitch-Black Starry Skies

Overview

Lake Shikaribetsu, in Shikaoibetsu, Kato County, Hokkaido, is Japan's highest natural lake at 810 meters elevation—earning its "Heavenly Lake" nickname. Protected within Daisetsuzan National Park and surrounded by virgin forest, it contains virtually no artificial light sources, presenting one of the world's finest natural stargazing environments.

Observation Environment

Shikaribetsu's defining feature is the absence of nearby light sources. The main town center lies ~30km away; the lake itself remains pristine darkness. At 810 meters, atmosphere thickness decreases, delivering star light with brilliant clarity. Bortle Class 1 darkness allows Milky Way lake-reflection imagery—ethereal and breathtaking. Summer offers comfortable observing conditions; winter's "Shikaribetsu Kotan" ice-sculpture festival enables frozen-lake observation, though temperatures plummet below -20°C.

Recommended Observation Times

Summer (July–September) provides ideal comfort and overhead Milky Way spans. Winter offers the "Kotan" event on frozen lakes—special but demands arctic preparation.

Access and Information

About 45 minutes from Tokachi Expressway's Memuro IC. Lakeside "Shikaribetsu Lake Shore Onsen Hotel Fuusui" offers hot-spring lodging and uninterrupted nighttime observation. Shikaribetsu Lake Nature Center conducts summer-focused nighttime-watching tours with guide narration—ideal for newcomers.

Stargazing Tips

The lake shores have open parking, especially North Shore. Tripod-mounted celestial photography exploiting lake-reflection compositions is popular. However, bear presence occurs; avoid solo nighttime strolls, carrying bells or flashlights.