Best Rivers, Lakes & Canyons around Hokkaido Spot List

Five lakes surrounded by forest in Shiretoko. Feel at one with nature as you stroll along pathways in this World Natural Heritage Site.

A caldera lake formed by an eruption from Mt Oakan, Lake Akan rests among a rich natural environment and is famous for the marimo growing in it.

The Otaru Canal is a sightseeing spot emblematic of Otaru. About 1.1 km long, old warehouses stand side by side along one edge; along the other runs a promenade ideal for a pleasant stroll.

Lake Toya is the second largest caldera lake in Japan, having a circumference of about 40 km. Enjoy a walk along the lakeside or take a cruise on one of the pleasure boats.

Experience the earth's energy in the remains of a volcanic crater

A snow-white curtain of water falls into a blue river

Picked as one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls

Plumes of steam and the scent of sulfur rise from this hot spring pond

Withered trees stand in a mystical pond

Both selected as part of Japan's 100 best waterfalls

Aptly named, this mysterious hot spring transforms an entire river

Overwhelming in scale

Japan's northernmost ice-free lake

Discover the famous ”Mashu blue”

Keep an eye out for plentiful wildlife