Shiretoko Goko consists of five finger-like lakes that preside within the Shiretoko National Park, covering most of its peninsula at the northeastern tip of Hokkaido. The Shiretoko Goko offers pure, untouched nature to visitors enhanced by the bordering mountains and wilderness. The five lakes were formed after the eruption of Mount Iwo followed by the rise of underground springs.
An elevated wooden walkway and corresponding ground pathway combine the allure of woodland hiking and mountainside lake scenery including views of bears, deer, and foxes. The boardwalk is safe to use freely by visitors due to electric barriers but the ground trails have regulations based on the seasonal presence of bears. Nature guides and temporary area closures are utilised to maintain visitor safety.
Access to the Shiretoko Goko is restricted in winter from late November to April. The location is most easily reached by a 20-minute car ride from Utoro but there are also regularly scheduled buses available.
The construction of the elevated boardwalk completed in 2010 allowed for increased tourist access including wheelchairs. The five lakes, known historically as ‘God’s five fingerprints’, represent the last frontier of pristine Hokkaido wilderness.