[autumn][ Hokkaido Shari Town]Shiretoko Five Lakes: Autumn Lakes and Fall Foliage
The Shiretoko Five Lakes are located in Shari, Hokkaido, and are a tourist spot that symbolizes the rich nature of the Shiretoko Peninsula, which is also registered as a World Natural Heritage Site. This area is filled with tranquil virgin forests and five lakes, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of Japan's four seasons. In particular, in autumn, trees such as silver maples, sugar maples, and rowan trees turn bright red and yellow, and the sight reflected on the lake surface is breathtakingly beautiful. These autumn leaves are at their best from late September to mid-October, and just walking through the quiet forest provides a soothing experience. The Shiretoko Five Lakes have well-maintained walking trails, so anyone from beginners to nature lovers can easily enjoy them. The "elevated boardwalk" is particularly popular with many tourists because it is barrier-free, easy to access, and can be enjoyed safely even when bears are present. In addition, when you step into the virgin forest, you will feel the cool air and forest scent unique to autumn, and you can experience the richness of nature through your five senses.
Overview of the Shiretoko Five Lakes and Autumn Attractions
The Shiretoko Five Lakes are located in Shari, Hokkaido, and are a tourist spot that symbolizes the rich nature of the Shiretoko Peninsula, which is also registered as a World Natural Heritage Site. This area is filled with tranquil virgin forests and five lakes, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of Japan's four seasons. In particular, in autumn, trees such as silver maples, sugar maples, and rowan trees turn bright red and yellow, and the sight reflected on the lake surface is breathtakingly beautiful. These autumn leaves are at their best from late September to mid-October, and just walking through the quiet forest provides a soothing experience. The Shiretoko Five Lakes have well-maintained walking trails, so anyone from beginners to nature lovers can easily enjoy them. The "elevated boardwalk" is particularly popular with many tourists because it is barrier-free, easy to access, and can be enjoyed safely even when bears are present. In addition, when you step into the virgin forest, you will feel the cool air and forest scent unique to autumn, and you can experience the richness of nature through your five senses.
Important points to note when visiting the Shiretoko Five Lakes in autumn
When visiting the Shiretoko Five Lakes in autumn, it is important to know some points and precautions. First of all, the best time to see the autumn leaves is from late September to mid-October, but there are some fluctuations depending on the weather and temperature. Therefore, we recommend that you check the progress of the autumn leaves in advance. In addition, the Shiretoko Five Lakes are designated as a nature conservation area, and there are some rules for use from the perspective of environmental conservation. For example, it is prohibited to stray from the walking trails, and you must observe manners to avoid damaging the natural environment. In addition, brown bears live in this area, and they are particularly active in autumn. For that reason, it is recommended that you check bear sightings at the local field house and carry a bear bell. In addition, Hokkaido in autumn is very cold in the mornings and evenings, so warm clothes and cold weather measures are essential. Rental guided tours are also available at the Shiretoko Five Lakes, and by walking with a local guide, you can not only enjoy the area safely, but also receive detailed explanations about the nature, flora and fauna. By taking these preparations and considerations into consideration, you will be able to enjoy the autumn leaves of the Shiretoko Five Lakes to the fullest.
How to enjoy the Shiretoko Five Lakes and the surrounding area
After visiting the Shiretoko Five Lakes, you can further increase your satisfaction with your trip by enjoying the tourist spots in the surrounding area. Shiretoko Pass, located about 30 minutes by car from the Shiretoko Five Lakes, is a scenic spot where you can see the entire Shiretoko Peninsula, and in the autumn season, the autumn leaves of the mountains create a beautiful contrast. Oshinkoshin Falls is also a representative tourist spot in Shiretoko, and in the autumn season, you can enjoy the scenery of the colored trees against the backdrop of the waterfall. In addition, in the center of Shari Town, you can enjoy gourmet food made with local ingredients. In particular, the dishes made with fresh seafood such as salmon and scallops are worth visiting. At the Shiretoko Nature Center near the Shiretoko Five Lakes, you can see exhibits about the nature and history of the region and purchase limited souvenirs. Hot springs are also indispensable for autumn travel. The Shiretoko Peninsula is home to famous hot springs such as Utoro Onsen and Rausu Onsen, where you can spend a luxurious time soaking in the hot springs while watching the autumn leaves. In this way, by creating a sightseeing plan centered around the Shiretoko Five Lakes, you can fully enjoy the nature and culture that is unique to Hokkaido.
[ Autumn leaf viewing]Other recommended spots
Jozankei Onsen: Spectacular views of the valley and autumn leaves
Hokkaido Sapporo City
It's about an hour by bus from central Sapporo. Buses to the autumn foliage spots also run from the Jozankei Tourist Information Center.
Shiretoko Five Lakes: Autumn Lakes and Fall Foliage
Hokkaido Shari Town
Take a bus from JR Senmo Main Line "Shiretoko Shari Station" and get off at "Shiretoko Goko Bus Stop"
Cape Erimo: Contrast of the sea and autumn leaves
Hokkaido Erimo Town
Approximately 4 hours by highway bus from Sapporo
Onuma Park: A stroll and enjoy the autumn leaves by the lake
Hokkaido Nanae Town
About 5 minutes walk from JR Onuma Koen Station
Lake Mashu: Contrast of the lake surface and autumn leaves in autumn
Hokkaido Teshikaga Town
From Kushiro Station, take the JR Senmo Line for about 90 minutes, then get off at Mashu Station and take a bus to Lake Mashu.
Koshimizu Primeval Flower Garden: Autumn alpine plants and autumn leaves
Hokkaido Koshimizu Town
A short walk from "Gensei-kaen Station" on the JR Senmo Main Line
Sounkyo: A dynamic canyon of autumn leaves
Hokkaido Kamikawa Town
About 35 minutes from Kamikawa to Sounkyo (Dohoku Bus)
Hakodate Mountain: Autumn leaves and city views
Hokkaido Hakodate City
The summit can be reached in about 3 minutes by using the Mount Hakodate Ropeway.
Mt. Niseko Annupuri: Autumn foliage and hiking
Hokkaido Niseko Town
Take the Niseko Bus "Niseko Line" from JR Hakodate Main Line "Niseko" Station and get off at the "Goshiki Onsenkyo" bus stop.