Shiretoko | Official Guided Tour of the World Natural Heritage Site: Shiretoko Five Lakes Primeval Forest & Brown Bear Tracks (3-Hour In-Depth Tour) 097
| Departure / Meeting Point: | 知床五湖野外小屋前 |
|---|---|
| Duration | Half-day experience (approximately 3 hours) |
| Operating Period | 2026-05-10 ~ 2026-07-31 |
| Minimum Number of Participants | 1 ~ 10 people |
| Price (per person) |
Adult: ¥7,500 Child: ¥7,500 |
| Age Restriction | 小學生以上（需家長陪同） |
Itinerary Details
Animal habitats: Approaching them with a "visiting" mindset
In the Shiretoko Five Lakes, brown bears, Ezo deer, and wild birds are the true inhabitants, while we are merely travelers visiting with reverence. Officially certified guides will lead you to observe bear paw prints on tree trunks, identify fresh footprints, and learn how to establish the deepest connection with this World Natural Heritage site without disturbing the ecosystem. This is not just ordinary sightseeing, but a sensory awakening journey that allows you to rediscover the relationship between humanity and nature—many travelers say that these are the most unforgettable three hours of their Hokkaido trip.
Ultimate security protection: Why is an officially certified guide needed?
May to July is the peak season for brown bear activity, and the Ministry of the Environment mandates that all visitors to the ground-level trails must be accompanied by a professional guide. These guides provide daily updates on brown bear activity to the Ministry of the Environment and possess comprehensive knowledge of prevention and emergency response. Ensuring your absolute safety, they guide you to see natural details that are often missed by ordinary visitors. It is thanks to this highly professional protection that you can confidently enter this pristine wild world and fully experience the true vitality of Shiretoko.
Itinerary
Combined lectures and explorations of the five lakes
Safety training and pre-departure guidance
Meet at Field House for registration, watch a video, and listen to the guide explain the safety regulations during brown bear activity, trail features, and today’s key points. This is a necessary procedure before entering the core area and the most important starting point of this adventure.
Venturing into the Primeval Forest: An Exploration from the Five Lakes to the Three Lakes
Embark on a large loop trail, wander through ancient forests, listen to the guide explain the vegetation and terrain, search for traces of wild birds and wildlife, and feel the unique air and atmosphere of Shiretoko by the tranquil lake.
The stunning scenery reflected in the water and the elevated wooden walkway
From the Second Lake to the First Lake: The mirror-like reflection of the Shiretoko Mountains
Arrive at the most popular lakes, the Second Lake and the First Lake. On a clear, calm day, the magnificent Shiretoko mountain range will be perfectly reflected on the mirror-like lake surface—this is the most representative and breathtaking view of the entire trip, and you won’t be able to stop taking pictures at this moment.
Panoramic view and composition of the elevated wooden walkway
From the lake exit, the elevated wooden walkway allows for unobstructed panoramic views. After completing the approximately 3-kilometer excursion, participants disband at the exit, deeply moved by the experience.
Important Information & Cancellation Policy
Precautions
Brown Bear Risk Management
- The trail is located in the heart of brown bear habitat. Guides are constantly checking for fresh tracks, and if they determine there is a safety risk, they have the right to immediately change the route, shorten the trip, or decide to turn back and stop.
- If the Ministry of the Environment or the Shiretoko Foundation detects frequent brown bear sightings in specific areas, the trail will be completely closed, and tours will be cancelled accordingly.
Diet and odor restrictions (important)
- Bringing any food (including candy, chewing gum, sealed snacks, etc.) onto the ground-level walking trails is strictly prohibited to prevent brown bears from being attracted by the smell.
- Beverages are limited to plain water or unsweetened tea; sugary drinks, fruit juices, or sports drinks are prohibited.
- Please avoid wearing perfume or using cosmetics with strong fragrances.
Clothing and Equipment Recommendations
- It is recommended to wear long sleeves and trousers, as there are mosquitoes and thorny plants in the forest.
- Please wear non-slip sports shoes or hiking boots. Long boots can be rented at the Shiretoko Nature Center if the road is muddy.
- Mountain weather is unpredictable, so please bring your own raincoat (umbrellas are inconvenient and dangerous when walking in the forest).
Environmental protection rules
- Strictly follow the guide and walk on the designated path; do not step onto the grass or off the trail.
- When entering the forest, please speak in hushed tones and avoid loud noises or playing music to prevent disturbing wild animals.
sanitary facilities
- There are no restrooms on the ground-level walking trails, so please make sure to use the restroom at the Field House before setting off.
Cancellation policy
- Once a reservation is made, a 5% system cancellation fee will be charged if the reservation is cancelled due to personal reasons.
- Cancellation 7 days before departure date: 30%
- Cancellation 3 days before departure date: 50%
- Cancelled on the same day: 100%
