Shiretoko | Snowshoe Through the Shiretoko Five Lakes – Frozen Lakes, Winter Wildlife & Pristine Wilderness
Itinerary Details
Walk Across a Frozen Lake in the Winter Wilderness
In winter, deep snow transforms the Shiretoko Five Lakes into a pristine white wilderness. With snowshoes, you can venture beyond the areas accessible during the warmer months and walk directly across the frozen lakes. Surrounded by the snow-covered peaks of Mount Rausu and the Shiretoko mountain range, experience the extraordinary stillness of one of Japan’s most untouched natural landscapes.
Discover Shiretoko’s Winter Wildlife with an Expert Guide
Your expert guide will help you search for tracks left by Ezo deer and red foxes, as well as signs of woodpeckers and other wildlife. Through engaging interpretation along the trail, discover how plants and animals survive the harsh winter and gain a deeper understanding of why this World Natural Heritage site is so carefully protected.
Itinerary
Into the World Natural Heritage of Shiretoko
Shuttle from the Utoro Area
Meet at your designated hotel in the Utoro area and travel by vehicle with your guide to the entrance of the Shiretoko Five Lakes area, which is closed to regular visitors during winter.
Get Equipped & Winter Safety Briefing
Receive your snowshoes and winter equipment, then learn how to put them on and use them properly. Your guide will also explain the safety precautions and rules for exploring the Shiretoko wilderness in winter.
Snowshoe Through the Forest & Discover the Five Lakes
Snowshoe Through the Primeval Forest
Begin your snowshoe adventure through the winter forest of Shiretoko Five Lakes. Walk through the snow-covered primeval forest, observe signs of winter wildlife, and enjoy sweeping views of the snow-capped peaks of the Shiretoko mountain range.
Walk Along the Frozen Lakes & Capture the Winter Landscape
Experience the rare sensation of walking across the solid surface of a frozen lake. Capture the striking contrast of snow-covered mountains, ice, snow, and weathered trees—a landscape that can only be experienced in the depths of winter.
Return & Warm Up in Utoro
Return to the Trailhead
After completing the approximately 3-kilometer snowshoe hike, return to the trailhead and return your equipment before preparing for the journey back to Utoro.
Return to Your Hotel
A private vehicle will take you back to the Utoro area. After your hike, unwind at one of the local hot spring hotels and enjoy a relaxing soak in the renowned Shiretoko Onsen.
Important Information & Cancellation Policy
Important
Information &
Cancellation Policy
Important Notes
- Please dress in layers, including a warm base layer and a waterproof outer layer.
- Littering is strictly prohibited. Please take all rubbish with you.
- Sugary drinks may be prohibited in certain areas of the park. Please follow your guide’s instructions.
- If the tour is cancelled due to severe weather conditions, a full refund will be provided.
