The steep mountains of Shiretoko are a realm of cliffs and waterfalls, and a refuge for seabirds. The entire peninsula is a national park, and some of its forests are considered untouched primary forest. The site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.
What to see
Utoro
On the western coast of the Shiretoko Peninsula, Utoro is the ideal starting point for exploring wild sites such as the Kamuiwakka hot waterfalls or the Shiretoko Five Lakes. It’s a hot spring town with 25 inns, hotels and minshuku.
Kamuiwakka hot waterfalls
These falls are a natural hot spring, flowing from the heart of Mount Io. The pool at the base of the falls has been turned into an outdoor onsen.
Oshinkoshin Falls
At 80 m high, these are the largest falls in Shiretoko and rank among Japan’s 100 finest waterfalls.
“Aurora” boat along the Shiretoko coast
This boat offers a cruise along the cliffs from Utoro to Cape Shiretoko, revealing striking views that can only be seen from the sea.
Shiretoko Five Lakes
These five lakes lie within a protected primary forest. Hiking trails allow visitors to immerse themselves in landscapes that shift in character with the seasons.
Rausu
The port of Rausu is renowned for its edible seaweed. Visitors can also sample delicious seafood or the famous king crab. The cross-peninsula road linking Utoro and Rausu is closed in winter. Continuing on toward Cape Shiretoko, the road reaches Aidomari and Seseki, hot spring towns with open-air baths set in a very natural environment. Aidomari marks the end of the road running up the peninsula’s east coast.
Mount Rausu
The highest point on the Shiretoko Peninsula at 1,661 m, Mount Rausu is known as “the Mount Fuji of Shiretoko”. In late July, the mountain plants are in full bloom. From the summit, a 360° view extends all the way to Kunashir Island.
