Japan’s No. 1 Water Quality National Lake Shikotsu, Hokkaido’s First Landing Clear Kayak Tour Difficulty Level (Medium)

Situated in the heart of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, Lake Shikotsu stands as a natural wonder. Boasting crystal-clear waters and a pristine ecosystem, this national lake now offers adventurous travelers a unique opportunity to explore its depths – through the lens of a clear kayak. Launched as the region’s first-ever landing clear kayak tour, this medium-difficulty excursion promises an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the lake’s captivating geological features and diverse wildlife. With guided services and essential equipment provided, the stage is set for an outdoor adventure that will leave participants in awe of Hokkaido’s natural beauty.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best Tours In Chitose.

Key Points

• The tour takes visitors to Lake Shikotsu, Japan’s number one water quality national lake, located in Hokkaido.
• It offers the first-ever landing clear kayak experience in the region, providing an immersive and adventurous outdoor experience.
• The tour is classified as medium difficulty, suitable for adventurous kayakers with prior experience, but not recommended for complete beginners.
• The tour includes guided services, essential equipment, and complimentary photos, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable kayaking experience.
• Lake Shikotsu is known for its crystal-clear waters, deep blue hues, and dramatic geological features, offering an exceptional outdoor experience.

Overview of the Tour

This tour takes visitors to Japan’s No. 1 water quality national lake, Shikotsu, located in Hokkaido, and offers the first-ever landing clear kayak experience in the region.

Classified as a medium difficulty level, the tour includes guided services, essential equipment like life jackets and dry suits, and complimentary photos.

Participants can expect to learn about the lake’s pristine environment and appreciate the stunning scenery from the clear kayaks.

The tour starts and ends at Ocean Days, a local hotel, and includes a stop at the Lake Shikotsu National Park.

With a maximum capacity of 40 travelers, this unique adventure promises an unforgettable outdoor experience in Hokkaido’s natural wonder.

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour package includes guided services, as well as essential equipment like life jackets, winter dry suits, gloves, and knits to ensure participants’ comfort and safety throughout the experience.

Photos taken during the tour are provided complimentary, and the parking fee within the Lake Shikotsu National Park (applicable from April to November) is also covered.

Plus, the tour offers a life jacket rental service for dogs at a cost of 500 yen.

These inclusions are designed to provide a seamless and enjoyable kayaking experience for visitors, allowing them to fully enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Shikotsu without having to worry about logistics or equipment.

Meeting Point and Pickup

Participants for the Lake Shikotsu clear kayak tour meet at the Ocean Days shop located in Oshankaidei, Chitose, Hokkaido.

From there, the group travels to the designated parking lot within the Lake Shikotsu National Park, situated just a short walk down the shopping street.

The end point of the tour is back at the original meeting point, Ocean Days.

The clear kayak tour is Hokkaido’s first of its kind, offering participants a unique opportunity to explore the pristine waters of Lake Shikotsu, which is renowned for having Japan’s top water quality.

With a medium difficulty level, the tour is suitable for adventurous travelers seeking an immersive experience in Hokkaido’s natural beauty.

Tour Confirmation and Accessibility

Confirmation for the Lake Shikotsu clear kayak tour is provided within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation.

Pregnant travelers aren’t recommended to join, and participants mustn’t have any heart problems or other serious medical conditions.

The tour has a maximum capacity of 40 travelers.

While the tour is accessible via public transportation, guests will need to stop at the parking lot at Lake Shikotsu National Park, in the shopping street 2 steps down the parking lot, before being transported to the meeting point at Ocean Days.

Cancellation Policy

Customers can cancel their Lake Shikotsu clear kayak tour up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, but any changes or cancellations made less than 24 hours before the experience won’t be accepted.

If the tour is canceled due to poor weather, customers will be offered a different date or a full refund.

This cancellation policy provides flexibility for customers, allowing them to plan their trip with confidence. The clear communication of the policy helps set appropriate expectations and ensures a smooth experience for all participants.

Additional Information

The tour includes life jackets, winter dry suits, gloves, and knits to ensure participants’ comfort and safety throughout the experience. Photographers will capture photographs during the tour, providing guests with lasting memories of their time on the serene waters of Lake Shikotsu.

Dogs are welcome, and life jackets for them are available for a rental fee of 500 yen. Parking is free from April to November, but a 500 yen fee applies during the rest of the year.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions. The group size is limited to a maximum of 40 travelers.

Difficulty Level and Experience

The tour’s difficulty level is rated as medium, making it suitable for adventurous kayakers with some prior experience.

Participants will navigate the crystal-clear waters of Lake Shikotsu, which is known for its exceptional water quality and stunning natural scenery.

During the tour, kayakers will need to maneuver their boats through various conditions, including open water and potential wind and waves.

While the tour isn’t recommended for complete beginners, it provides an exciting and manageable challenge for those with a moderate level of kayaking proficiency.

Guides will be on hand to provide instruction and support, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Highlights of the Lake Shikotsu

Situated within the picturesque Shikotsu-Tōya National Park, Lake Shikotsu is a stunning caldera lake renowned for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery.

Formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, this pristine lake is recognized as Japan’s number one water quality national lake.

Its deep blue hues and mirror-like surface reflect the surrounding mountains and forests, creating a serene and captivating landscape.

Visitors can explore the lake’s unique ecosystem by embarking on a clear kayak tour, providing an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of this remarkable destination.

With its pristine waters and dramatic geological features, Lake Shikotsu offers a truly exceptional outdoor experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Tour Duration?

The tour duration is not explicitly stated in the knowledge provided. However, it can be inferred that the tour takes place at Lake Shikotsu and includes kayaking activities, as well as transportation to and from the meeting point.

Are Dogs Allowed on the Tour?

Dogs are allowed on the tour, with a life jacket rental available for 500 yen. The tour provides the necessary gear, including life jackets, winter dry suits, gloves, and knits for the dogs to participate.

Is Food And/Or Drinks Provided During the Tour?

No, food and drinks are not provided during the tour. Participants are responsible for bringing their own sustenance and beverages. The tour focuses solely on the kayaking experience and does not include any meal or refreshment service.

Can I Bring My Own Kayak Equipment?

No, participants cannot bring their own kayak equipment on the tour. The tour provides all necessary kayaking gear, including life jackets, dry suits, gloves, and paddling equipment. This ensures the safety and comfort of all participants.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

There is no minimum age requirement explicitly stated for this kayak tour. However, participants must be able to safely enter and operate the kayak, and parents or guardians will be responsible for supervising any children in their group.

Recap

Exploring the pristine Shikotsu Lake by clear kayak offers an exceptional outdoor adventure. Navigating the crystal-clear waters, adventurous travelers can enjoy the unique ecosystem and dramatic geological features of the Shikotsu-Tōya National Park.

With guided services, essential equipment, and complimentary photos, this medium-difficulty tour provides a seamless and enjoyable experience to discover Japan’s premier water quality national lake.