Shiretoko Goko is the most visited site on the peninsula — five small, deep-blue lakes connected by an elevated boardwalk loop through old-growth forest. The lakes reflect the volcanic peaks of the Shiretoko range and in autumn the surrounding trees turn vivid reds and yellows. Brown bears are regularly spotted near the lakes, and the rules governing access reflect this: all visitors must watch a bear awareness video before entering.
There are two access options. The elevated wooden boardwalk (Kosho kaido) loops around the first lake — flat, fully accessible, and open all year. The ground-level trail connecting all five lakes is seasonal and requires a certified guide when brown bears are active (roughly May to mid-July); after mid-July, independent walking is allowed with a registration fee. The inner trail is wilder and better, but both circuits are worth doing. The facility has a cafe and car park; the site fills quickly in peak season.