Shiretoko

What to know

Shiretoko National Park (知床国立公園, Shiretoko Kokuritsu Kōen) covers the Shiretoko Peninsula in eastern Hokkaido, offering some of Japan's most pristine and scenic wilderness. Roads only extend about three-quarters up the peninsula; the northern tip is accessible only by boat or on multi-day treks.

The peninsula teems with wildlife, including brown bears, deer, and foxes. In winter, the Sea of Okhotsk coast sees drift ice, one of the southernmost spots in the northern hemisphere. In 2005, Shiretoko was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional ecosystem and biodiversity.

Activities and attractions

Kamuiwakka RiverHot river with waterfalls in the midst of natureShiretoko Drift Ice (Ryuhyo)Floating in the Okhotsk Sea during winterSightseeing Boat CruisesCruises along the peninsula’s western coastShiretoko Five LakesFive lakes in beautiful surroundingsFurepe WaterfallWaterfall fed by ground waterEastern CoastRausu Town and hot spring pools at the beachShiretoko PassMountain pass with views of Mount RausuOshinkoshin FallsWaterfall at the national park’s entranceUtoroHot spring town on the western coast