Things to do in Chitose：Lake Okotanpe

Lake Okotanpe, one of the three secret lakes on the Kaido: A mysterious lake that changes color

Lake Okotanpe is a beautiful lake that spreads out at the western foot of Mt. Eniwa, and is considered one of Hokkaido’s three great secret lakes, along with Onneto near Lake Akan and Lake Shinonome near Lake Shikaribetsu. Located in the northwest of Lake Shikotsu, it is a dammed lake with a circumference of 5km and a maximum depth of 21.2m, which was created when it was dammed by volcanic ejecta. The name comes from the Ainu word “o kotan un pe” (there is a village downstream), and it is said that there was once a hot spring and a village on the shore of the lake.

 

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M spot(@representative_skb)がシェアした投稿

The color of the lake changes depending on the season and angle

One of the charms of Lake Okotanpe is that the color of the water changes from emerald green to cobalt blue depending on the viewing angle, weather, and time of day. The position of sunlight, its reflection on the water surface, and the reflections of the surrounding trees are intricately intertwined, creating a fantastic beauty. This mysterious change in color fascinates visitors, offering a mystical experience that can’t be found at other lakes.

 

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@yama_meshi_minoがシェアした投稿

An unexplored area surrounded by a lush virgin forest

The area around Lake Okotanpe is a primeval forest surrounded by mixed forests of Scots fir, Sakhalin fir, and Japanese rowan, creating the atmosphere of an alpine lake. In order to protect this rich natural environment, entry to the lakeshore is prohibited and it has been designated as a special protection area of ​​Shikotsu-Toya National Park. To protect the natural ecosystem, you cannot go down to the lakeside, but this only emphasizes the mystique of the lake.

 

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@mjhicoがシェアした投稿

Access and view from the observation deck

The general route to visit Lake Okotanpe is to take National Route 453 from the north shore of Lake Shikotsu and then take Prefectural Route 78. There is an observation deck on the lakeside side of Prefectural Route 78, from which you can see part of the lake. Although it is difficult to get a panoramic view of the lake, you can see the beautiful colors of the lake surface surrounded by virgin forest, and it is a spot where you can immerse yourself in nature in a quiet atmosphere. From the observation deck, you can enjoy the view of Lake Okotanpe, which is located about 324 meters higher than Lake Shikotsu.Especially during the autumn foliage season, the vivid colors reflected on the lake surface create a spectacular view.

 

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北海道 VR(@hokkaidovr)がシェアした投稿

Seasonal expressions and consideration for nature conservation

Lake Okotanpe is a spot where you can enjoy the beauty of nature, which shows different expressions depending on the season. From spring to summer, greenery is reflected on the surface of the lake, and in autumn, autumn leaves decorate the lake. When visiting, please act in an environmentally friendly manner to protect nature. Also, to enjoy the quiet and mysterious environment, please observe the manners at the observation deck and enjoy sightseeing.

 

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SANO(@msyk.sn)がシェアした投稿

Lake Okotanpe, where you can experience Hokkaido’s rich nature, maintains a tranquil atmosphere and beauty that cannot be found anywhere else due to limited access. Please enjoy the spectacular view typical of Hokkaido, created by the mysterious surface of the lake and the deep forest, from the observation deck.

 

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えみ(@emicamgolsnow)がシェアした投稿

Link：Hokkaido official tourism website