Morappu Camping Site — Hotel in Chitose

Amazingly beautiful sunset views!

The on-site store is open most days from 10–7 and has everything you might need.

The north side has a rocky (stony) shore with little sand, grass, or dirt—not ideal for sleeping, but we found a nice little patch over the bridge. The south side, on the other hand, is sandy and much more comfortable, which is why it fills up first.

We visited the first weekend of September, and the lake was still a great temperature—not too cold. If you're planning a weekend trip, reserve weeks in advance. That said, cancellations do pop up if you're willing to refresh the page a few times.

Not sure yet what time you need to arrive for a lakefront spot. We got there at 1:30 and had no luck—but, as mentioned, the north end is more secluded (and very stony). The grassy areas were fine.

Definitely worth a visit! The sunset alone makes it...

Campsite on beach at lovely Lake Shikotsu. We just came for day so can't vouch for overnight stays, but by all accounts looks fine. Grey/black sand beach with row boats, kayaks, paddleboards and swan pedalos for hire. Water's nice and clear and we had a good swim. Down by shoreline and for a few metres in it's stones and pebbles so not kind to feet. Best have crocs or those diving type shoes. Backdrop to beach is lots of green trees.. in fact the lake is surrounded by such greenery, so it's scenic. Very pleasant spot indeed. Loads of people there with tarps and tents, doing BBQs. There's a wash station, and toilets. Don't think there are showers and such, but that seems to be the case at campsites on Hokkaido. There were one or two low rise buildings but didn't check what they were (accommodation, office?). Anyway.....

At ¥1000 per night it's pricey, but you forget it as soon as you see the location - in good weather it is stunning. This place has magic to it. Just get there early for a good spot, and if possible avoid the droves from Sapporo that descend on weekends - if there's space for them to block your view of the lake, they will, with tents the size of small mansions. Recommend pitching up as far along the shore as you can and - common camping sense - keep your eyes peeled and food hidden from foxes in the night ;-)

Tip: if you want to do some canoeing or kayaking on the lake, this is the place to do it - rentals here were ¥2000 for an hour to just jump in and go, while down the road at Shikotsuko Onsen it's ¥6500 for 90mins and you have to...