Ultimate Guide to Shiretoko

At a height of70m, this is the premier waterfall on the Shiretoko Peninsula. From the top, it splits into two beautiful falls and has been selected as one of the Shiretoko Hakkei and as one of Japan’s 100 Great Waterfalls.

Panels and photographs give a detailed explanation of the nature of Shiretoko which was registered as a World Heritage site in 2005. Visitors can also learn about the rules and manners while within the natural environment. Drop by and pick up pertinent information before your tour.

Another beautiful spot that has been selected as one of the Shiretoko Hakkei. It’s located on a slope on the way to the Shiretoko Five Lakes, and from there, you can view the grand Sea of Okhotsk. Because there are no observation platforms on the road, park your car on the side of the road and view the sight for a short while.

Furepe Waterfall is located on a nature trail about 1km away from the Shiretoko Nature Center. The quietly waterfall flowing from the 100m sheer cliff is called “Otome no Namida” (The Maiden’s Tears), and you can see the view of the great waterfall going into the Sea of Okhotsk from the observation platform. Drop by the Shiretoko Nature Center which is also an information center for the area and get the latest news on Shiretoko.

This is a restaurant boasting terrace seating in front of the Sea of Okhotsk. You can dine on dishes made from the fresh seafood harvested from Utoro Port as well as meat dishes using local ingredients. Enjoy lunch while leisurely taking in the nature of Shiretoko. Every year from August 1st-25th, there is no automobile access to Kamuiwakkayu Falls. There are shuttle buses from the Shiretoko Nature Center to the falls during this time so it’s advised to use the bus in tandem with a tour of the Shiretoko Five Lakes area.（Parking is available at the Shiretoko Nature Center） ＊Operating times of the shuttle bus may change. Please consult the Shiretoko Nature Center for information.

A highlight of the tour of Shiretoko. With plenty of nature at the wetlands created from the five lakes, Shiretoko flora and fauna thrive here. On this itinerary, you will make a round trip on the 800m elevated wooden trail up to the banks of one of the lakes. Because the above-ground walking course touring all five lakes will take approximately 3 hours, the necessary time will need to be taken. ＊Only open between late April and late November since the area is closed for the winter

Kamuiwakkayu Falls is also known as the “Onsen Falls” due to the natural hot water flowing from the mountain. You can experience the onsen flowing like a river amid the nature of Shiretoko. ＊Only open between late April and late October since the area is closed for the winter

Head for the onsen village at the end of your day. Choosing a hot spring on the high ground, you will be able to enjoy a relaxing bath while getting that sunset view of the Sea of Okhotsk. Because there are also many facilities for a day-trip onsen, you can easily drop in without any reservations.