Eastern Hokkaido is an area surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Among its many attractions, the Shiretoko Peninsula—located at the far eastern tip—is renowned as one of the few remaining regions in the world with untouched nature. Shiretoko's rich ecosystems and spectacular landscapes earned it a place on the UNESCO World Natural Heritage list in 2005. With sea, mountains, and rivers all interwoven, it is a paradise for wildlife such as brown bears, Ezo deer, and white-tailed eagles.In this article, we present a 4-day model course covering Shiretoko and Utoro, extending to Rausu and Kushiro. In summer, enjoy lush primeval forests and stunning ocean views from cruises, while winter offers unique experiences like walking among the drift ice—each season revealing a different charm. This itinerary is packed with scenic encounters with wildlife, local gourmet food, rejuvenating hot springs, and more. All destinations are accessible by public transportation, so there’s no need to worry about driving. Embark on a journey that captures the essence of Shiretoko and discover all its wonders for yourself!

Your journey begins at Memanbetsu Airport. For convenient access to the Shiretoko and Utoro areas from the airport, we recommend using the "Shiretoko Airport Liner," jointly operated by Sharibus and Abashiri Bus. This bus offers a direct connection from the airport to the Utoro Onsen area, making your trip smooth and hassle-free. Please note that in Eastern Hokkaido, cashless payment is not yet widely available in some places. Therefore, we highly recommend purchasing your ticket online in advance. This allows you to avoid the need for ticket machines or cash payment on the day of travel, making your trip more comfortable. You can also buy your ticket after boarding, but if you do not purchase online, please remember to bring cash to pay the fare onboard.

・Fares
1.Departure: Memanbetsu Airport ⇒ Arrival: Abashiri – 1,050 yen
2.Departure: Memanbetsu Airport ⇒ Arrival: Shari Bus Terminal – 2,300 yen
3.Departure: Memanbetsu Airport ⇒ Arrival: Utoro – 3,500 yen
*Children: half price
・Service Period
June 1, 2025 – September 30, 2025
・ Timetable

When the Shiretoko Airport Liner is not in operation, you can reach Shiretoko and Utoro by transferring between Abashiri Bus’s “Memanbetsu Airport Line,” JR train, and Shari Bus’s Shiretoko Line. Please note that cashless payments may not be accepted on some routes, so be sure to prepare cash in advance. For detailed access information, see below!

Shiretoko is a nature-rich area along the Sea of Okhotsk. The name comes from the Ainu word meaning “the end of the earth,” fitting for this easternmost edge of Hokkaido. The region is known for its unspoiled wilderness, where many rare wild animals live, and was designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2005. Backed by the rugged Shiretoko Mountain Range, the five quiet lakes of Shiretoko lie hidden within ancient forests, creating a serene and timeless landscape. The area is also popular as a resort, home to several hot spring inns and renowned for its fresh seafood from the Sea of Okhotsk. Here, you can soak in warm, healing waters and enjoy the taste of nature’s bounty—an experience that brings together comfort and the wild beauty of Hokkaido.

One of the most popular activities in Shiretoko is the "Shiretoko Cruise." Board a sightseeing boat and enjoy breathtaking views of waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and the majestic mountain range from the sea. The entire Shiretoko community places a strong emphasis on safety, with established operational rules and safety measures for cruising. Whether you're on a large sightseeing vessel or a small cruiser, you may have the chance to spot wild animals such as brown bears, Ezo deer, and white-tailed eagles. Visitors can also marvel at unique sea caves and seasonal changes in the mountain landscapes, experiencing the untouched beauty that has earned Shiretoko the title of "Japan’s Last Secret Region." The boarding area is located in the Utoro town center, making it convenient and ideal for families and groups. Depending on the route, cruise fares range from about 3,000 to 10,000 yen, and the duration varies from 1 to 3.5 hours. You can choose your preferred course based on the scenery that interests you most.

In winter, the coastline completely covered with drift ice is another highlight of the area. Guided tours where you wear a special suit and walk on the drift ice are an extremely popular activity that can only be experienced here. At LANTOKO, the tour operator, you can safely enjoy a drift ice walk guided by local fishermen who know the sea inside out.

There are plenty of other exciting tours to explore! Be sure to check out these highlights as well

When you visit the Shiretoko and Utoro area, the first thing you’ll want to try is the fresh local seafood. Utoro is famous for its outstanding salmon and trout catches—the largest in Japan—and offers a variety of unforgettable flavors you won’t want to miss. One of the top recommendations is “Maruko Suisan,” a fisherman-owned restaurant. Here, you can enjoy an exceptional selection of seafood, personally selected and prepared by the fishermen themselves.

A must-try dish is the “Shiretoko Zuke-Don with Salmon and Salmon Roe.” This rice bowl features salmon marinated in a special sauce and prepared as “ruibe” (a traditional dish of frozen fish), topped generously with an abundance of salmon roe. The moment you taste it, the fish melts in your mouth—a truly addictive experience. Enjoy half of the bowl as it is, then pour hot dashi broth (served on the side) over the rice for an extra delight. If you’re lucky, you might also find their uni (sea urchin) rice bowl on offer! The uni—served fresh from a wooden box—covers the entire rice bowl, making for a truly luxurious treat. Due to its rarity, you’re very fortunate if you get to try it.

The restaurant is open not only before or after tours and strolls around Utoro, but also at times when you might have missed lunch, which is a real plus. They are also occasionally open in the evening, so be sure to check their official Instagram for the latest updates!

Maruko Suisan Official Instagram ｜Fresh from Shiretoko’s sea, delivered by fishermen🌊

There’s more to Utoro than just magnificent nature! It’s also a popular resort destination, known as a convenient base for exploring the region. The area features several hot spring inns, where visitors can soak in naturally cloudy, brown-colored alkaline water—famous as a “beautifying bath” that leaves the skin feeling smooth and refreshed. Here are some recommended hot spring accommodations you won’t want to miss!

On the second day, take the Shari Bus “Shiretoko Roman Fureai-go,” a sightseeing bus with a guide. There are three routes (A–C), each offering different highlights. Route A includes Oshinkoshin Falls, one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls, while Route C takes you along the “Road to the Sky,” which appears to stretch straight up into the clouds, on the way to the Shari Bus Center. This time, we chose Route B, which visits Cape Puyuni, Shiretoko Pass, and the Shiretoko Five Lakes. The bus can pick you up from any hotel in Utoro, making luggage transfers easy and convenient.

[Route / Schedule]
10:18~10:25 Shuttle service to each hotel in Utoro Onsen
1.Hotel Shiretoko — 10:18
2.Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel — 10:21
3.KIKI Shiretoko Natural Resort — 10:25
*Guests staying at Kitakobushi Resort should gather at Utoro Onsen Bus Terminal
10:30 Depart from Utoro Onsen Bus Terminal
10:40 Arrive / Depart at Cape Puyuni (view from the bus window)
10:55 Arrive / 11:05 Depart — Shiretoko Pass
11:20 Arrive / 12:50 Depart — Shiretoko Nature Center
13:05 Arrive / 13:55 Depart — Shiretoko Five Lakes
14:20 Arrive at Utoro Onsen Bus Terminal

【Price】
Adults: 3,300 yen　Children: 1,800 yen

【Sales Period】
April 28 – October 31 (as of August 2025)

【Book your seat here】

Shiretoko Pass is a scenic mountain road connecting the towns of Shari and Rausu on the Shiretoko Peninsula. Located at an elevation of 738 meters, it is one of Hokkaido’s most breathtaking viewpoints. Upon reaching the summit, you are rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the majestic Shiretoko mountain range and untouched primeval forests. The dramatic landscape—featuring sheer cliffs, dense woodlands, and the silhouettes of cloud-covered peaks—is truly spectacular. On clear days, you can even catch a distant glimpse of Kunashiri Island, part of the Northern Territories. From spring to autumn, the pass is a popular destination for drivers and sightseeing bus tours, and there are well-maintained observation areas near the top where you can park and take memorable photos. The vibrant contrast between the rich greens of early summer and the brilliant colors of autumn foliage creates stunning scenery that is perfect for social media posts.

The area around Shiretoko Pass is also known for its wildlife, and if you’re lucky, you might spot Ezo deer or red foxes along the roadside. Experiencing these untouched natural environments and their inhabitants provides a real sense of Shiretoko as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. Enveloped by rugged yet beautiful nature, the pass is one of the most relaxing and inspiring spots in all of Shiretoko. Please note that the road is closed in winter due to heavy snowfall.

At the Shiretoko Nature Center—a hub for both nature conservation and visitor information—you can learn about Shiretoko’s natural environment, history, and coexistence with wildlife through exhibits of rare plants and animals, as well as interactive visual content. A special highlight is “KINETOKO,” a MEGA screen over 100 inches in size that delivers powerful and immersive films. These dynamic screenings, held regularly every day, allow you to experience the harsh yet beautiful nature of Shiretoko, its wildlife, and the changing of the seasons in impressive detail. Another attraction is the “100 Square Meter House,” an exhibition space that vividly recreates the four seasons of Shiretoko. Step into this forest-like environment, and you can sense the landscapes, climate, and living creatures unique to each season. Both of these experiences are free of charge, making them particularly appealing for visitors. Beyond the exhibits, the center also offers nature observation events, guided tours, symposiums, and more, providing valuable opportunities to learn about environmental protection and actually explore the Shiretoko area firsthand.

Inside the center, you’ll also find a restaurant and a shop. These feature a wide range of goods perfect for hiking and trekking from famous outdoor brands, as well as unique Shiretoko-limited original items and souvenirs. Many attractive products are exclusive to the center, such as handmade crafts by local creators and animal-themed goods inspired by Shiretoko’s wildlife. It’s a must-visit spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The Shiretoko Five Lakes, a symbol of the Shiretoko World Natural Heritage Site, are five beautiful lakes nestled at the foot of the Shiretoko Mountain Range, scattered amid deep primeval forests. These tranquil lakes, untouched by development, offer a mystical and enchanting landscape. Shiretoko Five Lakes is often referred to as a “microcosm of Shiretoko,” as it allows visitors to experience its diverse natural features all at once: the sea, mountains, forests, and lakes. On clear days, the stunning views of the Shiretoko Range reflected perfectly on the lakes’ surfaces captivate all who visit, making it a highly popular photo spot.The area is also home to a wide variety of wildlife: visitors may notice Ezo deer tracks, bear claw marks, or trees that have been pecked by woodpeckers, providing an up-close look at the abundant animal life. With a bit of luck, you might even catch a glimpse of some wild animals during your visit. The Shiretoko Five Lakes area is carefully managed from both a conservation and tourism perspective, and offers two walking routes: an elevated boardwalk and a ground-level nature trail.

In the evening, you can take the Sharibus “Rausu Line” to travel to downtown Rausu. Please note that buses bound for Rausu are limited to only a few departures per day, so it is highly recommended to check the timetable in advance and allow plenty of time to avoid missing your bus. Especially in winter (approximately late November to mid-April), the Shiretoko Pass will be closed, so extra caution is needed.

[Access / Fare]
Board the Sharibus “Rausu Line” from Utoro Onsen Bus Terminal and get off at Rausu: 1,380 yen

[Timetable / Service Period]
Please check the official website for the latest timetable

After arriving in the Rausu area, relax and spend the night at your accommodation. Here are some recommended hot spring inns!

The Rausu area, located on the southeastern side of the Shiretoko Peninsula facing the Sea of Okhotsk and opposite to Utoro, offers a completely different side of Shiretoko. The name "Rausu" comes from the Ainu word "ra-us," which means "the place where animal bones are found," reflecting its long history of close connection with wildlife. To this day, untouched nature thrives here, home to a great diversity of wild animals, making it a truly precious place where you can experience “living nature” up close. One of Rausu’s greatest attractions is the nature cruise. Renowned nationwide as a top destination for whale and bird watching, this is where visitors are treated to spectacular natural scenes that can only be witnessed here. In particular, the whale, dolphin, and orca-watching cruises held from spring to summer attract nature enthusiasts and photographers from all over Japan.

In winter, the Shiretoko Peninsula becomes blanketed in drift ice, transforming the region into a paradise for raptors like white-tailed and Steller’s sea eagles. From mid-January to March, during the drift ice season, you can witness flocks of eagles resting on the ice, the striking contrast of blue sea and white ice, and the stunning backdrop of the snow-capped Shiretoko mountain range. One of Rausu’s unique features is that, compared to the Utoro side, the sea ice is less dense, making it easier for wildlife to move about. As a result, this area is a hidden gem where you have a high chance of encountering a variety of wild animals.

From the marine blue seas of summer to the pure white ice of winter, Rausu offers the unique opportunity to experience the changing faces of nature up close throughout the seasons. In particular, the winter drift ice sightseeing cruise is a rare activity you can only enjoy in Rausu, even within the Shiretoko Peninsula. Even in summer, the wind over the sea can be chilly, so don’t forget to bring a jacket.

[Operation Schedule / Fee]
Adults: 2,190 yen / Children: 1,100 yen

[Book Online Here]

After enjoying your sightseeing, head to downtown Kushiro from the Rausu office by taking the Akan Bus “Kushiro–Rausu Line.” This scenic route travels through the mountains and out to the Pacific coast, with spectacular views from the bus window as one of its highlights. The journey takes about four hours, so it’s recommended to allow plenty of time for your trip. By purchasing your ticket online in advance, you can enjoy a cashless and smooth boarding experience—no need to worry about buying tickets or paying cash on the day, making your journey stress-free.

[Purchase tickets online here!] Once you arrive in Kushiro, be sure to soak up the unique atmosphere of this port town. Kushiro is renowned as one of the world’s top three sunset spots, so if you’re there at the right time, don’t miss the breathtaking view of the sun setting over the ocean. Kushiro is also known as the birthplace of “Robata-yaki” (charcoal grilled seafood), making it the perfect place to enjoy fresh seasonal seafood grilled right before your eyes—a wonderful way to end your journey. If you’re wondering where to stroll or find the best local cuisine, be sure to check out this article and make the most of your night in Kushiro!

[How to Enjoy All the Charms of Kushiro! Sightseeing Spots & Local Cuisine]

On your final day in Eastern Hokkaido, getting from central Kushiro to Kushiro Airport is smooth and worry-free with the Akan Bus Airport Shuttle. This direct bus route is especially convenient for travelers with large luggage, offering a comfortable ride all the way to the terminal—no transfers needed, no stress. The bus departs from three easy-to-access locations: Kushiro Station Bus Terminal, Kushiro Fisherman’s Wharf MOO, and in front of the Kushiro City Hall (near the Prince Hotel). You can purchase your ticket in advance online, with cashless payment available. There’s no need to queue at the machine or carry change—your journey stays seamless, right up to the very end.

[Fare]
Adults: ¥950 / Children: ¥480

If you realize you’ve forgotten to buy souvenirs after arriving at the airport, there’s no need to worry. Inside Kushiro Airport’s terminal building, you’ll find shops selling a range of local specialties, famous sweets, and various goods from the Eastern Hokkaido area. Popular items such as “Kushiro Ramen,” “Salmon Jerky,” and other local-only sweets can be purchased here. The airport also features cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a light meal and relax before your flight—making it the perfect place to spend some time while waiting to board.