Scenic Spots
Lake Shikaribetsu
Scenes for every season
Enjoy views of Hokkaido’s highest lake from its shores, or the surrounding mountains, or paddle out onto the lake and experience it from the water. On clear, still days, the lakeside woodlands and nearby volcanic peaks are mirrored on the surface, including Mt. Tenbo, the reflection of which is said to resemble a pair of lips. In autumn, the yellow and red foliage of Erman’s birch and rowan trees brightens the shores, while in winter, the lake freezes over and snow blankets the landscape.
Ogigahara Observatory
Breathtaking views from a break in the road
Stop at the Ogigahara Observatory to take in sweeping views of the Tokachi Plain and the distant Hidaka Mountains. The lookout is situated along the scenic Route 85 which connects the towns of Shikaoi and Nukabira.
Lake Komadome
The heart of Shikaribetsu
This small lake south of Lake Shikaribetsu resembles a heart when seen from the surrounding mountains. A walking path that passes above affords glimpses of the lake, while off-trail snowshoe tours offer a chance to explore its shores in winter.
Lake Shinonome
A hidden lake in the mountains
Hike about two hours east from Lake Shikaribetsu through forests of Sakhalin fir, Ezo spruce, and Erman’s birch to reach this serene crater lake. It is only 1 kilometer in diameter and is surrounded by alpine plants and mosses.
Fukuhara Sanso Garden
Fall foliage in an exclusive setting
Experience autumn on the grounds of a private garden open to the public for only a month each year. Hundreds of maples are planted across the 8.5-hectare estate; their leaves turn shades of vibrant red and orange, carpeting the grounds and drifting across water features when they fall.
Garden Website
Shikaribetsu Riverside
1,500 cherry trees blossoming in spring
In mid-May, the pink blossoms of North Japanese hill cherry trees line the banks of the Shikaribetsu River for a stretch of 18 kilometers. Enjoy the scene on a riverside walk between the Tokachi Shikaoi Geopark Visitor Center, in the north of town, and the Shikaoi Bridge, in the south.
