Lake Shikaribetsu - Gazing at Celestial Stars from Japan's Highest-Elevation Lake in Hokkaido

Overview

Lake Shikaribetsu is a natural lake in Shikaoicho Town, Kato District, Hokkaido, positioned at Japan's highest lake elevation. At 810-meter elevation, it's also called "the lake in the sky." Located at Daisetsuzan National Park's southern edge, it's a pristine lake surrounded by virgin forest.

Observation Environment

Lake Shikaribetsu's defining characteristic is the near-total absence of artificial light sources. The nearest city center, Shikaoicho, lies approximately 30 kilometers distant, naturally maintaining minimal light-pollution effects.

The 810-meter elevation thins the atmospheric layer by one degree, delivering starlight more distinctly. On favorable nights, the Milky Way's reflection in the lake creates a fantastical scene. Sky darkness equals Bortle scale class 1—among Japan's limited locations achieving such darkness.

Recommended Observation Seasons

Summer (July-September) offers the most favorable conditions. Mild temperatures enable extended observations with the magnificent Milky Way crossing overhead.

Winter features the "Shikaribetsu Lake Kotan" event, offering the special experience of observing starry skies from the frozen lake. However, temperatures dropping below -20°C require serious cold-weather equipment.

Access and Usage Information

About 45 minutes by car from Memuro IC on the Doto Expressway. Lake Shikaribetsu Onsen Hotel Fuusui, a hot spring inn, allows overnight stays while enjoying starry skies.

Shikaribetsu Lake Nature Center operates nighttime watching tours mainly in summer. Guided constellation explanations make observation accessible to beginners.

Observation Tips

The shoreline has many open areas, with the north shore parking area particularly suited for observation. Tripod-mounted celestial photography using lake reflections is popular. However, bear-encounter information designates this region—avoid solo nighttime activities, carrying bells and lights.