Lake Shikotsu Cherry Blossom Hanami (支笏湖の桜)
Experience Cherry Blossom Spring · Late April to Mid May

Lake Shikotsu Cherry Blossom Hanami (支笏湖の桜)

Chitose · Hokkaido · Hokkaido

Lake Shikotsu, a caldera lake renowned for some of Japan's clearest water, gains an extra layer of beauty each spring when cherry trees along its shores burst into flower. The Shikotsu-Toya National Park setting means visitors enjoy hanami in pristine wilderness rather than an urban park, with forested volcanic peaks rising on all sides. Kayaking on the cobalt-blue lake beneath falling cherry petals is a highlight offered by local outdoor operators. The combination of wild nature, clean mountain air, and blossom scenery makes this one of Hokkaido's most distinctive spring experiences.

Type
Experience
Category
Cherry Blossom
Season
Spring
Month
Late April to Mid May
Region
Hokkaido
Prefecture
Hokkaido
City
Chitose

Highlights

  • Cherry blossoms beside one of Japan's clearest caldera lakes
  • Kayaking under falling sakura petals on offer
  • Shikotsu-Toya National Park wilderness backdrop
  • Far fewer crowds than urban Sapporo hanami spots
  • Approachable as a day trip from New Chitose Airport