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Guide to the facility

When you arrive at Lake Shikotsu, head to the visitor center first.

写真The Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center offers an engaging and approachable look at the natural environment of Lake Shikotsu.
　The building is constructed using natural materials sourced from the surrounding area and utilizes natural energy sources such as solar power and geothermal heat tubes, making it an environmentally friendly facility.
　The exhibits within the building, under the theme "To the Forest, to the Mountains, to the Lake: A Journey to Another Lake Shikotsu," offer a fascinating introduction to Lake Shikotsu's natural environment through models and large-scale photographs, showcasing the still-active volcano, the ecology of the creatures living around Lake Shikotsu, and the world beneath the surface of the lake. After enjoying the Visitor Center's exhibits, why not use the knowledge gained there to dive into nature? There, you'll encounter living nature await.
The shores of Lake Shikotsu also feature a walking path called the Wild Bird Forest, where visitors can enjoy nature.

* Reservations are not required for group tours.

Exhibitions inside the museum

Information Corner
Three stuffed brown bears welcome you at the entrance.
In addition to information about the national park and maps of the Lake Shikotsu area, the visitor center staff also post seasonal nature information.

Lecture Room
On a large screen, an easy-to-understand video (about 15 minutes) is shown about the attractions of Lake Shikotsu, including its natural environment and geological history.
In addition to Japanese, the video is available in English, Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese), Korean, and Thai.

Kokanee fish tank
The fish, the kokanee salmon, a specialty of Lake Shikotsu, is on display and can be observed up close.
Depending on the season, you can see newly hatched fry and the fish that have turned red in their mating season.

Nature Exploration Terminal
The history of Lake Shikotsu and its highlights are introduced through videos and photos. There is also a 3D model in the center, allowing you to see the topography of Lake Shikotsu in a clear and natural way.

Moss Cave life-size panel
This is a nearly life-size panel of the Moss Cave at the foot of Mt. Tarumae. It is 9 meters tall.

Forest World
It introduces animals, trees, insects, etc. that live in the forest. In Bird Voices, you can enjoy the songs of 18 types of wild birds.
Mountain World
We introduce alpine plants and volcanic rocks that have adapted to the harsh weather conditions of the active volcano, Mt. Tarumae.


Lake World
In addition to the fish and aquatic plants that live in Lake Shikotsu, the museum also introduces the mysterious topography and columnar joints that can be seen on the lake bottom.
The relationship between nature and people
The museum introduces the relationship between Lake Shikotsu and people, including the explorer Takeshiro Matsuura, the downhill course of the Sapporo Olympics, and the former railway and mines.

Lounge
You can relax and read, take a break, chat, or do whatever you like while looking out at Lake Shikotsu.
Multipurpose room
It hosts photography and painting exhibitions and events.

Bicycle rental

　　The Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center offers bicycle rentals.
　Rental Period：April 25th (Friday) to November 3rd (Monday, public holiday).
　Rental Hours : 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (until 4:30 PM from October onwards).
　　　　　　　　　Last reservations accepted at 3:30 PM
　　　　　　　　　(3:00 PM from October to November)

　■Standard Bicycle: Rental fee:1,000 yen/day, deposit: 2,000 yen/ride.
　■Electric Bicycle: Rental fee: 3,000 yen/day, deposit: 3,000 yen/ride.
　　※* A copy of your ID will be taken
　★Optional: Helmet (free rental) and protector set: 500 yen

　*Please note that reservations are not accepted.
　* Under the Road Traffic Act, wearing a helmet and purchasing bicycle liability insurance are mandatory. Bicycle rentals at this center are limited to those who will wear a helmet when riding.
　
　* We may refuse to rent a bicycle 　to anyone wearing clothing that is inappropriate for cycling, such as skirts, sandals, or high heels, as this may lead to accidents .

others

The Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center lends out wheelchairs, which can be used not only inside the center but also on the paths outside.
If you would like one, please ask the counter staff.
However, numbers are limited, so please contact us for more information.
The visitor center also has a multi-purpose toilet that can be

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