HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Legends of the Shiretoko Five Lakes
Five lakes amid unspoiled nature, formed by the fingertips of a god!
Hokkaido Tourism Organization
Legend has it that the Shiretoko Five Lakes were formed when a god dug their fingertips into the ground of the Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage region blessed with idyllic natural beauty. Each year, Hokkaido sees the autumn colors before anywhere else in Japan, and if you visit the Shiretoko Five Lakes from around late September to mid-October, you can expect to find yourself surrounded by the rich reds, yellows, and golds of autumnal foliage, undisturbed by human hands. Venture out across the elevated wooden walkways and forest trails for stunning views of the vivid autumnal scenery reflected in the mirror-like surfaces of the lakes. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of some of the local wildlife, such as squirrels and deer.
How to get there
From Haneda Airport, take a flight to Memanbetsu Airport (about 1 hour 45 minutes). From Memanbetsu Airport, take the bus to Shiretoko Five Lakes (about 2 hours).
Note: The bus only runs in season.
549 Iwaobetsu, Onnebetsu, Shari-cho, Shari-gun, Hokkaido
