Lake Kuttara 倶多楽湖

Located in the caldera of a volcano, Lake Kuttara can be found in Shikotsu Toya National Park . If you are visiting nearby Upopoy , Lake Poroto, Noboribetsu Onsen , Noboribetsu Bear Park, or Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe, Lake Kuttara is worth a visit. The lake is home to freshwater crayfish and salamanders. These can be easily spotted due to the remarkable clarity of the lake's water.

Reach Lake Kuttara via train, bus, or rental car.

The closest train station to the lake is Noboribetsu Station on the Muroran Main Line, which connects to other train lines going to Hakodate, Chitose, and Sapporo. To reach the lake, catch a bus bound for Noboribetsu Onsen and disembark at the last stop. Walking to the lake from here will take you roughly 40 minutes.

Rental car or taxi is the most convenient way to reach the lake, which is only 15-minutes drive from the center of Noboribetsu Onsen. Note that some roads close during the winter months, and it is not possible to reach the lake. The Shiraoi Tourist Association near Upopoy, can provide up-to-date information on access.

Despite being one of the many caldera crater lakes in this volcanic and geothermal area, Lake Kuttara is unusual in that it is perfectly round. Because the colors of the trees and landscape change throughout the year, any pictures taken at Lake Kuttara will be unique.

Various animals can be seen in and around the lake. Local Hokkaido foxes, squirrels, tanuki and deer are common. Thrushes can be seen during the day, and nightjars and owls at night, so the area is recommended for bird watchers.