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Shiretoko Goko (Five Lakes)

Name: Shiretoko Goko (Five Lakes)
Address: 531 Onnebetsumura, Shari, Shari District, Hokkaido 099-4356, Japan
Rating: 4.6

4.6 (200)・National Park・Tourist Attraction・Park・Point Of Interest・Establishment

Shiretoko Goko, a cluster of five mystic lakes nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Formed by the eruption of Mount Io, these lakes are cradled by ancient forests and the majestic Shiretoko Mountain Range, creating a scene so serene it feels like stepping into another world. The area is a sanctuary not just for humans seeking tranquility but also for diverse wildlife, including the elusive brown bear, making it an exciting intersection of beauty and wilderness.

Recognized as part of the Shiretoko National Park and inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Shiretoko Goko embodies the untouched splendor of nature. An 800-meter wooden walkway allows visitors to immerse themselves in this pristine environment safely, offering panoramic views that blend water, forest, and mountain into a breathtaking tableau. Whether you're an avid nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply in search of peace, Shiretoko Goko offers an unparalleled experience. It's not just a visit to a series of lakes; it's a journey into the heart of nature's untouched beauty, where every view is a reminder of the world's natural wonders.

Hours:

7:00 AM to 6:30 PM

Closed:

Closed during the winter period

Available:

Year-round, with seasonal limitations

Minimum Age:

All ages welcome

Fees:

Free for boardwalk

Guided tour fees vary

Hours

Monday: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Thursday: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Friday: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Saturday: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Sunday: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Website

www.goko.go.jp

The area

Address

531 Onnebetsumura, Shari, Shari District, Hokkaido 099-4356, Japan

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What other travelers are saying about Shiretoko Goko (Five Lakes)

Very beautiful natural lake scenery. A bit of a long walk to the innermost observation platform but is on flat level ground so not much effort. Go when it's early morning or late afternoon to avoid the sun as there is no shade available. Ground view of all 5 lakes at all of the viewing platforms is limited, but if you are outside and away from the park at higher elevation with a suitable tele-zoom lens, you can photograph all 5 lakes in one shot.

Router

Dec 26, 2024

A great way to experience nature and see the lakes. We would definitely recommend paying for the long walk as it is spectacular and not too difficult. The elevated walkway had no cover, you go in that at the end as it is the free section. In the heat it was quite tough so we just rushed through it and it was really busy with people. But the forest walk was really quiet and cool, each lake has some areas to stop and take photos. They give you a lot of warnings about bears, so be careful! They are prepared for them though which is reassuring.

Paul Foulkes

Oct 12, 2024

It has an amazing visitor centre with such friendly and helpful staff. We went in the shortest trail and saw deers along the way. The view at the end was pretty great. Covered shoes recommended. Summer is bear season but unfortunately (or fortunately??) we didn't come across any.

Kia Yi Ng

Jul 31, 2024

Went for 3km guided tour in mid June. Not much wild life to see on guided tour. Guided tour is a must during this period. But when driving up here, we saw a deer family, complete with baby deer. Someone in the guided tour saw a bear but the bear ran off before anyone else can see it.

Jul 15, 2024

This is a must go!!! This is one of our trio highlights. The boat ride to see whale and bear is a must. But do remember to book the longer hiking route. We had missed the timing thus only went for the short one.