Japans No. 1 Water Quality National Lake Shikotsu, Hokkaidos First Landing Clear Kayak Tour Difficulty Level (Medium)

Nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, lies Lake Shikotsu – a pristine natural wonder renowned for its exceptional water quality. This hidden gem now offers adventurous travelers the chance to experience its beauty firsthand through the First Landing Clear Kayak Tour. Brace yourself for a medium-difficulty journey that promises stunning underwater vistas and a chance to learn about the serene splendor of one of Hokkaido’s most picturesque locations. What secrets does the lake hold, just waiting to be uncovered?

Key Points

• Lake Shikotsu in Hokkaido, Japan is a national park with exceptional water quality, making it an ideal location for a clear kayak tour.
• The clear kayak tour at Lake Shikotsu is categorized as medium difficulty, suitable for most travelers with thorough safety instructions and support from guides.
• The tour provides essential gear, including life jackets, dry suits, and gloves, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for participants.
• Participants can enjoy the breathtaking underwater scenery of Lake Shikotsu during the clear kayak tour, which is included in the tour price.
• The tour offers flexible booking policies, including a "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Location and Tour Overview

The kayak tour takes place at the stunning Lake Shikotsu, situated in Chitose, Hokkaido, Japan.

This clear kayak tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the pristine waters of the lake. The tour is categorized as medium difficulty, suitable for most travelers.

Groups can be as large as 40 participants, and the price starts at $58.56 per person. Confirmation is provided within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

Participants will receive essential gear like life jackets, dry suits, and gloves to ensure a comfortable and safe experience on the water.

Inclusions and Amenities

Included in the price of the kayak tour are the guide fees, ensuring travelers have a knowledgeable and experienced leader to navigate the lake.

Plus, life jackets, winter dry suits, gloves, and knits are provided, keeping participants warm and safe.

Photos taken during the tour are also included, allowing guests to capture their adventure.

For those bringing furry companions, a dog life jacket rental is available for 500 yen.

Visitors can park at the Lake Shikotsu National Park, and the entrance fee is covered from April to November.

Meeting Point and Pickup

Travelers meet at the Ocean Days shop located at 番外地 Shikotsukoonsen, Chitose, Hokkaido 066-0281, Japan.

From there, the group will head to the nearby Lake Shikotsu National Park. The meeting location is marked by a clear kayak climbing flag in yellow and blue.

Participants should park at the national park and follow the flag to the launch site. The tour returns to the same meeting point at the end.

Some helpful details:

• Directions: Park at Lake Shikotsu National Park; follow the clear kayak climbing flag
• End Point: Returns to the meeting point
• Public Transportation: Nearby
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible

Tour Difficulty and Accessibility

Although the Lake Shikotsu kayak tour is rated as medium difficulty, it’s suitable for most travelers.

The guides provide thorough safety instructions and support, so even beginners can navigate the calm waters with confidence. The clear kayaks allow you to admire the lake’s stunning underwater scenery.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, there are nearby public transportation options. It’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions, but the guides can advise on any personal health concerns.

Booking Policies and Reservation Options

The tour operator, 株式会社オーシャンデイズ, offers flexible booking policies to accommodate travelers’ needs.

Guests can take advantage of the "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option, securing their spot while staying flexible. Plus, the tour provider offers a free cancellation policy, allowing travelers to cancel up to 24 hours before the experience starts without any penalties.

Some key booking policies include:

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
• "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option
• Confirmation received within 48 hours, subject to availability
• Reservations can be made directly through the tour operator’s website
• Payments accepted via major credit cards and PayPal

Supplier Information

株式会社オーシャンデイズ, the supplier of the Kayak Tour at Lake Shikotsu, is a reputable tour operator based in Chitose, Hokkaido, Japan.

They’ve been offering unique water-based experiences in the region for over a decade.

The company’s commitment to safety and environmental preservation is evident in their well-trained guides and the use of high-quality equipment.

Customers consistently praise the professionalism and attention to detail provided by the Ocean Days team.

As the exclusive provider of the clear kayak tour at Lake Shikotsu, they ensure guests enjoy a memorable and safe adventure in this stunning natural setting.

Water Quality and Natural Beauty of Lake Shikotsu

Regarded as one of Hokkaido’s most pristine and visually stunning lakes, Lake Shikotsu captivates visitors with its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking natural surroundings.

Fed by snowmelt from nearby volcanoes, the lake’s exceptional water quality is a result of:

• Minimal human activity and development along its shores
• Strict environmental protections enforced within the national park
• Lack of industrial or agricultural runoff
• Abundant aquatic plant life that filters the water
• Consistent water temperatures year-round

This exceptional clarity allows kayakers to peer deep into the lake, glimpsing the underwater world and marveling at the serene beauty above and below the surface.

Unique Experience of the Clear Kayak Tour

Gliding atop Lake Shikotsu’s crystal-clear waters in a transparent kayak, travelers embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure that fully immerses them in the lake’s breathtaking natural setting. The clear kayaks allow for an unobstructed view of the vibrant aquatic life below, revealing a mesmerizing underwater world. During the tour, a knowledgeable guide leads the way, sharing insights about the lake’s unique ecosystem. Paddlers may even spot local wildlife, such as waterfowl or deer, along the shoreline. This thrilling experience offers a truly immersive connection with Hokkaido’s pristine natural wonder.

Tour Overview	Inclusions	Meeting and Pickup
Location: Lake Shikotsu, Chitose, Hokkaido, Japan	Guide fees	Meeting Point: Ocean Days, Shikotsukoonsen, Chitose, Hokkaido
Tour Type: Clear kayak tour	Life jackets	Directions: Park at Lake Shikotsu National Park; clear kayak climbing flag marks the location
Difficulty Level: Medium	Winter dry suits, gloves, knits	End Point: Returns to the meeting point
Maximum Participants: 40 travelers	Photos taken during the tour
Price: From $58.56 per person	Parking fee (April to November: 500 yen)

Since You Asked

What Types of Wildlife Can Be Seen During the Tour?

Travelers may spot a variety of wildlife during the tour, including waterfowl like swans and ducks gliding across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Shikotsu. The calm lake also provides a peaceful habitat for fish and other aquatic creatures.

Are Photos and Videos Allowed During the Tour?

Photos and videos are allowed during the tour. The guide will take photographs of participants throughout the experience, which are included in the tour price. Travelers are welcome to capture their own memories as they kayak on the clear waters of Lake Shikotsu.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The tour has no minimum age requirement, though children must be accompanied by an adult. Participants should be comfortable in the water and able to follow the guide’s instructions. The tour is suitable for most travelers.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Requests?

The tour can likely be customized for special requests, though specific details are unclear. Customers should inquire with the supplier, Ocean Days, about any potential customization options prior to booking.

How Long Does the Entire Tour Experience Typically Last?

The entire clear kayak tour experience typically lasts around 1.5-2 hours, including the time for instruction, gearing up, and paddling on the lake. Travelers can expect to spend about an hour actively kayaking on the scenic Lake Shikotsu.

The Sum Up

The First Landing Clear Kayak Tour at Lake Shikotsu offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Hokkaido’s stunning natural beauty. With its exceptional water quality and guided exploration via clear kayaks, this medium-difficulty adventure allows travelers to connect intimately with the pristine lake’s underwater scenery. It’s a must-do experience for those seeking to truly appreciate Japan’s natural wonders.