Shiretoko Five Lakes and Forest Hiking Tour

Important activity information

• This activity is open to participants from elementary school age up to approximately 75 years old, who can go up and down stairs without difficulty and are able to walk at least 3 km on their own.
• Basically, the meeting point is on site (Shiretoko Goko Field House), but pickup and drop-off service is also available within the Utoro area. Please note that this service may not be available depending on the guide’s schedule.
• Participants with serious pre-existing conditions related to the cardiovascular, respiratory, or nervous systems must declare their diagnosis and any medications they are currently taking in advance, and must bring their medication with them on the day of the tour. Depending on the medical condition and the participant’s physical condition on the day, participation may be declined.
  Pregnant participants and those who have consumed alcohol are not permitted to join.
• Please note that if such conditions are discovered on the day of the tour without prior declaration, participation will be denied and the standard cancellation fee will apply.
• During the period from May 10 to July 31 (brown bear active season), access to the ground-level walking trails at the Shiretoko Five Lakes is permitted only as part of a guided tour led by a certified nature guide.

• 【Clothing】
  ・Hat / long pants
  ・Please wear comfortable, well-broken-in athletic shoes or trekking shoes.
  ・To prevent attracting hornets, please avoid dark-colored clothing, perfume, and hair products.
  ・Gaiters and shorts are not recommended, as they make you more susceptible to mosquito and tick bites.
• ・In spring and autumn, a lightweight down jacket, fleece, gloves, a hat that covers the ears, and thermal innerwear may be necessary on some days. Please check the weekly weather forecast and prepare accordingly.
• 【What to Bring】
  ・Towel / hat / insect repellent / sunscreen / camera / personal medications / backpack (to keep your hands free) / drinks (water or tea with no sugar)
  ・As this is a brown bear habitat, bringing food is not permitted.
• In the event of rain or muddy conditions, rubber boots (free of charge) and rainwear (¥500) are available for rental.
  If you wish to use this service, please specify your size (e.g., ○○ cm, women’s M size) in the booking form.

• The standard meeting time is 15 minutes before the tour start time. The time stated in the email sent by VELTRA the day before is only a guideline.
  Further details will be provided directly by the guide via mobile phone after the evening of the day before the tour. (For guests using the pickup service, the confirmed pickup time will be communicated.)

• The activity schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or traffic conditions.
• ・Free binoculars are available for rental (excluding rainy or dense fog conditions; no reservation required).
  ・The tour will operate in light rain; however, it will be canceled in severe weather if safety cannot be ensured. If the tour is canceled before the start, no fee will be charged. Please note that no refunds will be given if the tour is discontinued after it has started due to sudden weather changes.
• In the event that the walking trails are closed due to snow accumulation or brown bear activity, the tour may be canceled or an alternative plan will be offered, depending on the guide’s schedule.
• We kindly ask for your cooperation to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone. Please note that we cannot be held responsible for any accidents caused by a participant’s intentional actions or negligence.