Learn about the Lake Shikotsu ecosystem and experience the lake in all seasons

Visit the Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center to obtain detailed information on Lake Shikotsu and to see exhibits on the local ecosystem. Taxidermy mounts of two brown bears greet visitors near the entrance and nature exhibits cover three different ecosystems: forest, mountain, and lake. Each exhibit introduces the ecosystem's flora and fauna through displays with recordings of bird calls, dioramas, an aquarium with kokanee salmon, and photography.

You can watch a 15-minute video on the four seasons and natural splendor of Lake Shikotsu on the large screen in the visitor center's theater. The video has narration in six different languages.

The visitor center offers many seasonal activities that give visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of Lake Shikotsu, such as birdwatching walks, family snowshoeing, children's nature hikes, and guided tours of the surrounding forests and valley. Fees for these events vary, and the latest tour and guided walk information is often posted on the official website or at the center, with programs tailored to age and experience.

The Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center building was constructed with sustainability in mind. The foundation was made using natural materials found around Lake Shikotsu, and the building has heating pipes that extract heat from the earth and electricity generated by solar panels.