DAISETSUZAN & SHIRETOKO
This region is Hokkaido’s untamed heart, combining Daisetsuzan’s majestic alpine peaks—the “Roof of Hokkaido”—with Shiretoko’s coastal wilderness, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as “the end of the earth.”
A land of extreme seasonal contrasts, it offers Japan’s earliest autumn foliage and longest ski season. Visitors can explore volcanic hot springs, see brown bears, and walk on miraculous winter drift ice.
Most Popular Attractions
Mountain Peaks & Alpine Trails:
Mount Asahidake: Hokkaido’s highest peak (2,291m), an active volcano and the centerpiece of Daisetsuzan, accessed via the Asahidake Ropeway.
Mount Kurodake: A major Daisetsuzan peak, easily climbed from Sounkyo Onsen after taking the Kurodake Ropeway and lift.
Sugatami-no-Ike Pond: A beautiful volcanic pond near the Asahidake summit trail, famous for its reflective waters and fumaroles.
Ohachidaira Caldera: A massive, 2-km diameter volcanic crater depression at the center of the Daisetsuzan range.
Mount Rausu: Shiretoko’s tallest and most prominent mountain, offering challenging multi-day treks.
Shiretoko Pass: A scenic mountain road (closed in winter) connecting Utoro and Rausu, with breathtaking views of Mount Rausu and the sea.
Mount Tokachi: An active volcano in the southern part of Daisetsuzan, surrounded by numerous hot spring resorts.
Ginsendai: A high-altitude trailhead in Daisetsuzan famous for exhibiting Japan’s earliest and most vivid autumn colors in early September.
Waterfalls & Gorges:
Sounkyo Gorge: A 24-kilometer-long canyon lined with dramatic columnar jointed cliffs, a striking example of volcanic geology.
Ryusei Falls & Ginga Falls: A spectacular pair of waterfalls in Sounkyo Gorge, known as the “Shooting Star” and “Galaxy” falls.
Frepe-no-Taki Falls: Known as the “Maiden’s Tears,” a coastal waterfall in Shiretoko where underground water sprays directly from a cliff face into the sea.
Oshinkoshin Falls: A majestic, two-pronged waterfall near the entrance to Shiretoko National Park, designated as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls.
Lakes, Hot Springs & Volcanic Sites:
Shiretoko Goko Lakes (Five Lakes): Five mystical lakes/marshes created by volcanic eruption, surrounded by primeval forest, accessible by an elevated boardwalk.
Kamuiwakka Hot Falls: A highly unique, seasonal river and waterfall whose waters are naturally heated by a hot spring source flowing down the rock.
Lake Shikaribetsu: Hokkaido’s only natural lake within Daisetsuzan, famous for its clear water and the unique winter Shikaribetsu Kotan (ice village).
Asahidake Onsen: A hot spring resort village and the primary base for exploring the Omote-Daisetsu area.
Sounkyo Onsen: The largest hot spring resort area in northern Hokkaido, nestled in the scenic Sounkyo Gorge.
Coastal & Wildlife Experiences:
Drift Ice (Ryuhyo): A unique winter phenomenon (late Jan-Mar) on the Shiretoko coast, allowing for guided Drift Ice Walk tours over the frozen sea.
Shiretoko Coastline Cruises: Boat tours departing from Utoro or Rausu to view the remote, rugged coastline, Cape Shiretoko, and spot wildlife.
Brown Bear Spotting: Shiretoko has Japan’s densest brown bear population, often spotted safely from sightseeing boats along the coast.
Oronko Rock: A dramatic, 60-meter high rock formation next to Utoro Harbor, offering a scenic climb and views of the Sea of Okhotsk.
Sea Eagle Watching: Winter viewing from Rausu is popular for observing large birds of prey like the endangered Steller’s Sea Eagle and White-tailed Sea Eagle.
Ezo Deer & Pika: Spotting the native Ezo Sika Deer in the forests of Shiretoko and the tiny, glacial-age Ezo Pika in the rocky areas of Daisetsuzan.
Activities & Experiences
Hike the Daisetsuzan Grand Traverse: For expert trekkers, tackle the multi-day route across Hokkaido’s “Roof” (Daisetsuzan), experiencing the earliest autumn colors in all of Japan.
Take a Scenic Ropeway Ride: Use the Asahidake Ropeway or Kurodake Ropeway to quickly gain elevation for shorter, accessible alpine hikes and stunning panoramic views.
Walk the Shiretoko Goko (Five Lakes): Explore the pristine surroundings of the five lakes via the elevated wooden boardwalk or the ground walking path (reservations and guide often required during brown bear season).
Soak in a Volcanic Onsen (Hot Spring): Rejuvenate in the therapeutic waters of resorts like Asahidake Onsen, Sounkyo Onsen, or the remote, natural Fukiage Onsen (often mixed-gender and undeveloped).
Go Wildlife Watching by Boat: Take a sightseeing cruise from Utoro or Rausu along the dramatic Shiretoko coast to spot brown bears, sea eagles, dolphins, or even whales (Orcas) in the Okhotsk Sea.
Hike to Furepe-no-Taki Falls: Take the easy 2 km loop trail from the Shiretoko Nature Center to view this beautiful waterfall (known as “Maiden’s Tears”) cascading over the cliff face into the sea.
Experience Winter Drift Ice Walking (Ryuhyo): From late January to early April, join a guided tour out of Utoro to walk directly on the massive drift ice formations that cover the Sea of Okhotsk, wearing a dry suit.
Explore the Frozen Waterfalls of Sounkyo Gorge: In winter, visit the Sounkyo Ice Festival or go snowshoeing along trails like the 8 Waterfalls Trail to see impressive frozen cascades.
Search for the Northern Pika (Nakiusagi): Hike in the rocky summits of Daisetsuzan, like around Mt. Hakuunzan, to try and spot this rare, small “living fossil” from the glacial age.
Drive the Scenic Shiretoko Pass: Traverse the mountain pass (Route 334) between Utoro and Rausu for breathtaking views of the Shiretoko Peninsula, including Mount Rausu.
Enjoy Winter Snowsports: Ski, snowboard, or cross-country ski in the region’s renowned powder, especially at areas like Daisetsuzan Kurodake Ski Resort.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Highly Recommended: Due to the vast distances and infrequent public transportation, especially outside of peak summer season, a rental car is the most flexible and recommended way to explore both parks and the connecting areas.
Public Bus Service: Buses connect major hubs like Asahikawa with Daisetsuzan’s onsen towns (Asahidake, Sounkyo) and connect Shiretoko-Shari Station with the Utoro area. Always check seasonal timetables as services are drastically reduced or non-existent in winter.
Connecting the Parks: The drive between the two parks is approximately 3-4 hours. Direct public transport is complex and time-consuming, often requiring multiple train and bus changes through towns like Kitami or Abashiri. Driving remains the easiest link.
Seasonal Road Closures: Many roads, including the scenic routes like Shiretoko Pass and the unpaved access road to Kamuiwakka Falls, are closed from late November to late April/early May due to heavy snow. Plan your itinerary accordingly.
Brown Bear (Higuma) Safety: Both parks, especially Shiretoko, have a dense population of brown bears. Take all warnings seriously: attend bear safety briefings, carry a bear bell, and travel in groups. In some areas, guided tours are mandatory.
Embrace the Ainu Culture: The indigenous Ainu people refer to Daisetsuzan as Kamui Mintara (“Playground of the Gods”) and the Blakiston’s Fish Owl (Kotan Kor Kamuy) as a protective deity. Visit local visitor centers to learn about their deep spiritual connection to the land.
Seasonal Extremes: The parks experience a very short summer (July-August) and a very long, intense winter. Autumn colors are the earliest in Japan (starting in mid-September), followed quickly by the first snowfall in October. Plan activities based on the season you visit.
Thermal Layering: The weather is highly unpredictable, even in summer. Always pack multiple layers, waterproof/windproof outer gear, and sturdy hiking boots, as conditions can change rapidly from sun to fog, rain, or snow.
Hidden Gems:
- Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan: A temporary village built entirely of snow and ice on the frozen Lake Shikaribetsu, appearing only from late January to late March, complete with an ice bar and ice onsen.
- Kamuiwakka Yu-no-Taki Falls: A waterfall fed by a natural hot spring in Shiretoko. The water temperature is mild, and visitors used to climb the falls; however, access is now highly restricted or closed due to bear activity and environmental protection. Check current status with a Visitor Center.
- Ginsendai: A high-altitude viewing spot in Daisetsuzan famous for its spectacular autumn foliage, attracting many hikers in September.
Top Restaurants
Shiretoko Shokudo [$15-$30] – A popular, no-frills local spot near the Shiretoko Nature Center known for its extremely fresh seafood, especially its delectable uni (sea urchin) and kaisen-don (seafood rice bowls).
Maruko Suisan [$15-$30] – Located in the Utoro area of Shiretoko, this restaurant is highly recommended for its large portions of fresh-caught seafood, including grilled fish and tempura set meals.
Daisetsuzan Shokudo [$10-$20] – Found in the Sounkyo Onsen area of Daisetsuzan, this is a classic shokudo (diner) known for hearty Hokkaido-style ramen, often featuring local ingredients and generous helpings of meat or seafood.
BON’S HOME [$15-$25] – A unique and cozy spot in Utoro, Shiretoko that specializes in dishes centered around their naturally sweet Shiretoko-grown potatoes, such as creamy gratins and their signature 7-day aged curry.
Namishibuki [$15-$25] – Located in Utoro, Shiretoko, this is a must-visit for lovers of traditional Japanese noodles, specializing in handmade soba (buckwheat) noodles, often served simply to highlight the quality of the Hokkaido-grown buckwheat.
Yakiniku Restaurant Kirin [$20-$35] – A straightforward and popular yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) spot in the Shiretoko-Shari area, perfect for grilling local Hokkaido beef and pork, including the famous buta-don (pork bowl) style.
Ramen House Tozanken [$10-$20] – A highly-recommended ramen shop in the Sounkyo Onsen area (Daisetsuzan), known for serving hot, satisfying bowls of classic Hokkaido ramen, a perfect meal after a day of hiking.
Onodera Shokudo [$15-$25] – A friendly, local establishment in the Shari-cho area, offering set meals (teishoku) and comfort food, often with fresh, regional vegetables and seafood.
Shiretoko Kaigan Shokudo [$20-$35] – Located in Utoro, Shiretoko, this seasonal restaurant offers fantastic views of the Okhotsk Sea and serves fresh, local seafood donburi (rice bowls), including unique items like bear-meat rice bowl (kumadon).
Shourakutei [$15-$25] – A well-regarded casual spot in the Furano area (near Daisetsuzan) serving popular Japanese comfort foods like curry rice and omu-rice (omelet rice), made with local ingredients.
Marumiya Omiya Shoten Ezogashima [$15-$25] – A casual eatery in Shiretoko that is a great place to try the local dish chan chan yaki (grilled salmon and vegetables with miso sauce), sometimes served inside a steamed bun.
Tenninkyo Onsen Dining [$25-$40] – Many of the onsen hotels in the Daisetsuzan area (like the historical ones in Tenninkyo Onsen) offer excellent dinner buffets or multi-course meals focused on a wide array of high-quality local ingredients, from venison to seasonal vegetables.
Restaurant STELLA MONTE [$40-$70] – Located at the Higashikawa Asahidake Onsen (Daisetsuzan), this restaurant within a hotel offers a generous buffet and plated dinners with a focus on creative, hand-crafted dishes using seasonal Hokkaido and local East Hokkaido ingredients.
Deervalley Dining [$40-$70] – Situated in a high-quality hotel near Mt. Asahidake (Daisetsuzan), this spot provides a multi-course dinner with an emphasis on homemade, high-quality cuisine, local game meat, and fresh ingredients grown with Daisetsuzan’s underground water.
Kitakobushi Shiretoko Hotel & Resort Dining [$50-$80] – A large resort hotel in Utoro, Shiretoko, which offers a sophisticated, extensive buffet that artfully blends Japanese and Western styles, with a heavy focus on vibrant, fresh Okhotsk seafood and local produce.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
THE EARTH (Abashiri): Located in central Abashiri, this well-established bar has been a local favorite for decades, boasting an impressive collection of over 500 whiskies, a selection of international beers, and a colorful array of cocktails.
Guinness Bar Islay (Abashiri): Found in the Minami 3 jo Nishi area of Abashiri, this cozy spot embraces the concept of ‘Bars are fun!’ and offers a relaxed atmosphere, specializing in Irish whiskey and draft Guinness, as well as a selection of wines.
The Nikka Bar (Asahikawa): A refined bar in the major hub city near Daisetsuzan, focused on celebrating Japanese whisky, particularly the renowned Nikka varieties distilled in Hokkaido. It’s an ideal spot for a sophisticated evening.
Ikoma (Asahikawa): A small, welcoming counter bar in Asahikawa known for specializing in local Hokkaido sake (Japanese rice wine) and offering an opportunity to interact with locals. They also serve small food pairings.
Café Bar En (Abashiri): A local bar and café in Abashiri, perfect for a casual drink. These types of venues are typically small and welcoming, focusing on a local, friendly atmosphere.
Bar MARBLE (Abashiri): Located in Abashiri, this is one of the smaller, local bars that dot the town’s nightlife area, offering a relaxed environment for enjoying simple drinks.
Beer & Scotch Bar THE EARTH (Abashiri): A variation of The Earth, emphasizing their deep stock of both Scottish and worldwide whiskies and beers, making it a diverse spot in central Abashiri.
Suntory Club (Kitami): Found in the nearby regional city of Kitami, this bar would typically feature a wide selection of Suntory spirits, from classic highballs to Japanese whiskies and often simple cocktails.
Main Bar – Obrist (Rusutsu Resort, near Shiretoko/Daisetsuzan region): While a resort spot, this main bar offers a comfortable, modern setting for classic alcoholic tipples and non-alcoholic cocktails, common in the larger accommodation near the parks.
Pub Cricket (Rusutsu Resort, near Shiretoko/Daisetsuzan region): A pub-style venue, often featuring a wider selection of beers and possibly pub-style cocktails in a more casual, lively atmosphere within the large Rusutsu resort area.
Lobby Lounge Atrium (Westin Rusutsu Resort, near Shiretoko/Daisetsuzan region): Located in the grand lobby of the Westin, this lounge offers an elegant, calm setting for enjoying fine drinks and engaging in conversation after a day of hiking.
Bar in Kitakobushi Shiretoko Hotel & Resort (Shari/Utoro): Situated directly in the gateway town of Shari to Shiretoko, this hotel bar provides a comfortable, convenient option for guests to unwind with a drink after exploring the peninsula.
Periodist (Abashiri): Another of Abashiri’s local establishments in the Minami San Jonishi area, offering a more intimate drinking experience typical of small Japanese city bars.
Izakaya & Bar Kakashi (Rusutsu Resort, near Shiretoko/Daisetsuzan region): A venue that combines the local Japanese food and drink style (izakaya) with a more western bar approach, popular in resort areas for its dual offering.
Yakiniku Beer-kan (Abashiri): Though a Yakiniku restaurant, this spot is famous for being next to the Abashiri Brewery and serving a selection of its unique Colored Beers, like the blue Ryuhyo Draft, which functions as a local specialty drink spot.