Japans No. 1 Water Quality National Lake Shikotsu, Hokkaidos First Landing Clear Kayak Tour Difficulty Level (Medium)

Japan’s Lake Shikotsu is known for its exceptional water quality, earning it the title of the country’s top national lake. Hokkaido’s First Landing Clear Kayak Tour offers adventurers a chance to experience this natural wonder up close. With a medium difficulty level, the tour is suitable for a range of skill sets, providing essential gear and guiding participants through the lake’s crystal-clear waters and breathtaking mountain scenery. But what makes this kayaking experience truly unique? Let’s dive in and find out.

Key Points

• The tour takes place at Lake Shikotsu, considered Japan’s No. 1 national lake for water quality, located in Hokkaido.
• The clear kayak tour allows participants to experience the stunning underwater landscapes of the lake.
• The difficulty level of the tour is rated as medium, requiring reasonable fitness and comfort on the water.
• The tour includes necessary equipment like life jackets, winter gear, and dry suits to ensure participant comfort.
• The tour is suitable for a wide range of skill levels, with a capacity of up to 40 participants.

Overview of the Lake Shikotsu Clear Kayak Tour

The clear kayak tour at Lake Shikotsu in Chitose, Hokkaido, Japan, offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the serene waters of this picturesque lake.

Rated as a medium difficulty level, the tour can accommodate up to 40 participants and is priced from $59.45 per person.

Included in the tour are guide fees, life jackets, winter dry suits, and complimentary photos.

The meeting point is at Ocean Days, a short walk from the parking lot at Lake Shikotsu National Park.

While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, excluding those with certain medical conditions.

Highlights of the Tour

One of the main highlights of the Lake Shikotsu clear kayak tour is the opportunity to glide across the crystal-clear waters of this picturesque lake.

Participants will be amazed by the stunning transparency of the water, allowing them to see the underwater landscape in vivid detail.

The tour guides provide dry suits, gloves, and other necessary equipment to ensure a comfortable and safe experience, even in the colder months.

Guests can capture breathtaking photos throughout the tour, which are included as part of the package.

The medium difficulty level makes this activity suitable for a wide range of skill levels.

What to Expect During the Tour

Participants begin their Lake Shikotsu clear kayak tour by meeting at the designated Ocean Days location.

They’ll get outfitted with winter dry suits, gloves, and life jackets, including rentals for dogs. After a safety briefing, they’ll hit the water and paddle through the crystal-clear lake, surrounded by the stunning mountain scenery of Hokkaido.

The guide shares insights about the lake’s unique ecosystem and wildlife. Along the way, they’ll stop for photos and enjoy the serene, tranquil atmosphere.

At the end, participants return to the starting point, having experienced Japan’s natural wonders from a unique perspective.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

As part of the clear kayak tour, participants receive a comprehensive package of inclusions. This covers guide fees, life jackets including those for dogs, and all the necessary winter gear like dry suits, gloves, and knits.

Photos taken during the tour are also provided. The parking fee at Lake Shikotsu National Park, which is typically 500 yen from April to November, is also included.

However, the tour doesn’t include transportation to the meeting point. Travelers should plan their own way to the starting location at Ocean Days in Chitose, Hokkaido.

Meeting Point and Transportation

To begin the tour, travelers should make their way to the meeting point at Ocean Days in Chitose, Hokkaido.

The meeting point is located in the shopping street, just two steps down from the parking lot at Lake Shikotsu National Park. Travelers should look for the clear kayak climbing flag in yellow and blue.

At the end of the tour, you will return to the same meeting point. The tour is conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Participant Considerations

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or individuals with heart problems or serious medical conditions.

Most travelers can participate, but those with physical limitations should consider their ability to get in and out of the kayak.

The dry suits, gloves, and knits provided help maintain warmth, but some participants may find the gear constraining.

Plus, the medium difficulty level requires a reasonable level of fitness and comfort on the water.

Participants should be prepared for the tour’s physical demands and environmental conditions to ensure an enjoyable and safe experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can reserve their spot on the Clear Kayak Tour at Lake Shikotsu by paying in advance, allowing them to secure their participation while maintaining flexibility.

The booking process is straightforward:

1. Customers can reserve their spot online or by contacting the tour operator.
2. Payment is required to confirm the booking, but it can be made later, up to 24 hours before the experience.
3. Cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours prior to the tour, with a full refund provided.
4. The tour is subject to availability, and confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking.

The Sum Up

The First Landing Clear Kayak Tour on Japan’s Lake Shikotsu offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the pristine natural beauty of this national lake. With its crystal-clear waters, stunning mountain scenery, and a range of safety equipment provided, this medium-difficulty adventure is suitable for participants of various skill levels. It’s a must-do activity for anyone seeking to enjoy Hokkaido’s captivating ecosystem.