Lakeside Villa Suimeikaku Opens Private Pier Terrace on Lake Shikotsu

Lakeside Villa Suimeikaku has unveiled “Shikotsuko Terrace by Suimeikaku,” a new guest-only space designed to offer an immersive experience of Lake Shikotsu’s natural beauty. Built on the site of a former pier, the terrace provides an unobstructed view of the water and the surrounding Shikotsu Three Mountains. Guests are invited to observe the shifting light and seasonal colors of one of Japan’s clearest lakes while enjoying a complimentary glass of sparkling wine as a pre-dinner aperitivo.

Sunset view from the private pier terrace — Sunset views over Lake Shikotsu from the private pier.

A Private Pier Reimagined: Shikotsuko Terrace by Suimeikaku

The new terrace serves as a dedicated vantage point for guests to engage with the environment. By repurposing a historical pier, the property emphasizes its direct connection to the lake. This open-air setting is intended for quiet reflection, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of the region before transitioning to the hotel’s dining and wellness offerings.

Guests enjoying drinks on the lakeside terrace — Guests enjoying an evening aperitivo on the new terrace.

Luxury Accommodations with Private Onsen and Lake Views

The hotel maintains a limited inventory of just eight guest rooms, each configured to function as a private lakeside villa. Every room offers a direct orientation toward the water and includes its own private onsen (hot spring) bath. The waters of Shikotsu Onsen are noted for their “weak alkaline” quality, characterized by a smooth texture intended for deep wellness and retreat. This small-scale approach ensures a quiet atmosphere for travelers seeking silence and privacy away from urban centers.

Guest room interior overlooking the lake — A guest room featuring a large window with views of the lake.

Private circular wooden onsen bath — A private wooden onsen bath with a view of the water.

Hokkaido Gastronomy: A Lakeside Dining Experience

Dining at the on-site Restaurant Azzurro focuses on “Hokkaido Gastronomy,” a concept that utilizes seasonal local ingredients to create refined Italian-inspired dishes. Guests can pair these meals with Hokkaido wines while overlooking the sunset on the lake. The restaurant’s design emphasizes the scenery, with large windows that integrate the dining experience with the surrounding landscape.

Interior of Restaurant Azzurro at sunset — Dining at Restaurant Azzurro with views of the setting sun.

Originally established in the early Showa era to welcome VIP guests, Suimeikaku is the oldest tourism operation in the area. Now managed by Marukoma Onsen, the property retains its historical significance while offering modern amenities. It is located approximately 40 minutes by car from New Chitose Airport, providing a secluded escape within reach of Hokkaido’s primary transport hub.