Top Hokkaido Bird Watching

Visit the Shikotsu Nature Information Center Start with an immersive introduction to the lake’s geology, wildlife, and seasons through interactive exhibits and large-scale caldera models. Explore one of Japan’s clearest, deepest lakes Lake Shikotsu is famous for its crystal‑clear, never‑freezing water — a rare phenomenon even in Hokkaido’s harsh winters. Wander quiet trails lined with fir, spruce, birch, and bamboo, learning how the ecosystem shifts through each season. Understand how the Shikotsu‑Toya caldera formed and how ongoing geothermal activity shapes the surrounding environment. Ezo deer, foxes, woodpeckers, and water birds are commonly seen along the shoreline and forest edges. A gentle, slow‑paced outing suitable for all ages — perfect for travelers who want nature immersion without strenuous hiking. Expert interpretation from a local guide Gain insights into ecology, geology, and seasonal changes that you won’t find on self-guided visits.

Despite being a beginner-friendly course, this activity leads you to the absolutely stunning scenery at the end. During winter, you can see frozen waterfalls from above, and if you shift your gaze toward the sea, you will be met with the vast and majestic Sea of Okhotsk. From February to March, you will also get the chance to see the sea covered with drift ice. If you are lucky, you could even encounter wild animals like deer along the way.

“Furepe Waterfall” is one of the attraction spots that represents the rich nature of the Shiretoko area. While walking along a kilometre track one way, we will observe the wildlife living there. It is an easy and entry level tour of the Shiretoko area that anyone from children to elderly people can enjoy.

The most unique aspect of this tour is that it takes you off the beaten path. These paths are originally created by wild animals, and following them gives us a true sense of the wilderness. There is a high likelihood of encountering wild animals along the way. If there is enough snow, we will use snowshoes, allowing us to walk anywhere on the snow. Sometimes, you can even spot the footprints of animals on the surface of the snow.

We have a multitude of different routes with different levels of fitness and distance depending on your preferences. We are happy to discuss the details to suit your needs and experience. There are many routes to choose from Including- Jozankei Tengu-dake. Distance: Approximately 9.2 kilometers. Highest Point: The summit of Jozankei Tengu-dake at 1145 meters. Difficulty- 7/10. Sapporo-dake: Views from the summit, enjoy vistas across Sapporo City, Mount Yotei, Muine-yama, and Jozankei-tengu. Diff-5/10. Soranuma-dake is a great option for a day hike, offering beautiful, forested trails and serene lake views. Diff-3/10. Tiene-dake:Location: Tiene-dake is west of Sapporo City with sweeping views of The Sea of Japan. Diff-5/10. Muine-yama-dake: A steady hike via a hut and small lakes. Diff-5/10. Contact us for more routes and details. Lunch will be provided. After the hike, we will travel to a local onsen to relax and enjoy. Return to meeting point by private van.