Shiretoko National Park | (Official GANP Page)

About

Shiretoko National Park is located in one of the most northeastern parts of Japan making it one of the most remote nature experiences in the country. It sits atop the island of Hokkaido, Japan. The national park encompasses an area of 149.16 square miles (386.33 sq km).

The name is derived from combined words that affectionately mean, “the place where the earth protrudes.” The park is so remote and isolated that much of it can only be accessed by foot or by boat from the sea.

Kamuiwakka Falls, translated “water of the gods,” is a hot springs waterfall. Temperate and subalpine mixed forests blanket the park area. Some of the leading species of trees include Erman’s birch, Mongolian oak, Sakhalin fir, and the Siberian dwarf pine.

UNESCO envisions the national park as part of a joint effort along with Kuril Islands of Russia. The intent would be to have a transboundary “World Heritage Peace Park.” UNESCO has bestowed heritage status to Shiretoko with encouragement to partner with Russia and the joint effort.

Although not renowned for wildlife, Shiretoko is home to Japan’s largest population of brown bears.

Mount Rausu is the leading attraction of the park. It reaches a peak of 5,448 feet (1,660.4 m). It is located on the Peninsula between the towns of Shari and Rausu. It is a stratovolcano that has erupted three times over the past 2,000 years.

Mount Rausu is one of the “100 Famous Mountains of Japan.” Each year on July 3^rd, there is a festival named after the mountain. This day opens the climbing season which draws climbing enthusiasts from around the world.

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Mount Rausu is the pinnacle attraction and main highlight of Shiretoko National Park. Climbing the mountain is the leading activity of the park.

Shiretoko National Park Trails

Shiretoko is a great escape into nature with plenty of activities. Hiking and biking are both common ways to experience the trails and features of the park. The majority of the peninsula is more adventurous hiking and climbing.

The park represents one of Japan’s most rugged wilderness areas. This means the hiking trails are not developed in some areas requiring experienced hikers. The peninsula hiking, in particular, is rugged requiring climbing and remote camping.

Rausu-Dake

This trail up the tallest mountain in Shiretoko takes about four and a half hours. Once you reach the summit, you will have amazing views out over the peninsula. The trail is challenging requiring that hikers be in good physical health as well as experienced trekkers.

Io-Zan

A trail up an active volcano with a landscape that includes a hot springs waterfall. The trip takes about eight hours to complete.

Five Lakes

The loop trail around the first lake is rather easy and only takes about an hour to complete. Hikers can explore the other four lakes; however, a reservation and guide are required. The collective hike for the additional lakes takes about an hour and a half.

Shiretoko Five Lakes Trail

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 3 kilometers loop, with minimal elevation gain.

Description: This accessible boardwalk trail offers breathtaking views of the Shiretoko Five Lakes against a backdrop of dense forests and mountains.

The trail is famous for its scenery and wildlife, including deer and brown bears. An elevated wooden walkway protects visitors and the natural habitat, making it a safe option for all ages.

The clear waters and surrounding wilderness provide a serene hiking experience.

Furepe Waterfall Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: About 2 kilometers round trip, with minimal elevation gain.

Description: Leading to the beautiful Furepe Waterfall, also known as the “Maiden’s Tears,” this trail offers stunning views of the Sea of Okhotsk.

The path winds through lush forests, ending at a viewpoint overlooking the waterfall that cascades down the cliff directly into the ocean.

It’s a relatively easy hike, suitable for families and offering excellent opportunities for photography.

Kamuiwakka Hot Springs Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: About 5 kilometers round trip, with some steep and slippery sections.

Description: This unique trail leads to the Kamuiwakka Hot Springs, a series of warm waterfalls and pools.

The hike involves walking up the river and through warm waterfalls, which can be challenging but rewarding. Hikers should be prepared for wet conditions and bring appropriate footwear.

The natural hot springs offer a relaxing soak surrounded by Shiretoko’s wilderness.

Rausu Kunashiri Observatory Deck Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: About 3 kilometers round trip, with an elevation gain of about 300 meters.

Description: This trail leads to the Rausu Kunashiri Observatory Deck, offering panoramic views of the Nemuro Strait and Kunashiri Island.

The path is steep in places but well-maintained, winding through dense forests before opening up to spectacular vistas.

It’s a great spot for sunrise views and bird watching, with the possibility of spotting sea eagles and other wildlife.

Shiretoko Pass Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: About 8 kilometers one way, with an elevation gain of about 400 meters.

Description: Connecting Utoro and Rausu, the Shiretoko Pass Trail offers stunning views of the peninsula and the Sea of Okhotsk. The hike is characterized by alpine flora, wildlife sightings, and dramatic landscapes.

The trail can be challenging due to its length and elevation gain but is rewarding for the diverse scenery and potential to see wildlife such as deer, foxes, and brown bears from a safe distance.

Shiretoko Five Lakes Trail

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 3 kilometers loop, with minimal elevation gain.

Description: This accessible boardwalk trail offers breathtaking views of the Shiretoko Five Lakes against a backdrop of dense forests and mountains.

The trail is famous for its scenery and wildlife, including deer and brown bears. An elevated wooden walkway protects visitors and the natural habitat, making it a safe option for all ages.

The clear waters and surrounding wilderness provide a serene hiking experience.

Furepe Waterfall Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: About 2 kilometers round trip, with minimal elevation gain.

Description: Leading to the beautiful Furepe Waterfall, also known as the “Maiden’s Tears,” this trail offers stunning views of the Sea of Okhotsk.

The path winds through lush forests, ending at a viewpoint overlooking the waterfall that cascades down the cliff directly into the ocean.

It’s a relatively easy hike, suitable for families and offering excellent opportunities for photography.

Kamuiwakka Hot Springs Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: About 5 kilometers round trip, with some steep and slippery sections.

Description: This unique trail leads to the Kamuiwakka Hot Springs, a series of warm waterfalls and pools.

The hike involves walking up the river and through warm waterfalls, which can be challenging but rewarding. Hikers should be prepared for wet conditions and bring appropriate footwear.

The natural hot springs offer a relaxing soak surrounded by Shiretoko’s wilderness.

Rausu Kunashiri Observatory Deck Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: About 3 kilometers round trip, with an elevation gain of about 300 meters.

Description: This trail leads to the Rausu Kunashiri Observatory Deck, offering panoramic views of the Nemuro Strait and Kunashiri Island.

The path is steep in places but well-maintained, winding through dense forests before opening up to spectacular vistas.

It’s a great spot for sunrise views and bird watching, with the possibility of spotting sea eagles and other wildlife.

Shiretoko Pass Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: About 8 kilometers one way, with an elevation gain of about 400 meters.

The trail can be challenging due to its length and elevation gain but is rewarding for the diverse scenery and potential to see wildlife such as deer, foxes, and brown bears from a safe distance.

Sources

Japan Guide, Shiretoko, https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6850.html, retrieved December 2019.
Japan Talk, Shiretoko, https://www.japan-talk.com/jt/new/shiretoko-national-park, retrieved December 2019.
JNTO, Shiretoko National Park, https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/1851/, retrieved December 2019.
Ministry of the Environment, Shiretoko National Park, https://www.env.go.jp/en/nature/nps/park/shiretoko/index.html, retrieved December 2019.
Rough Guides, Hiking in the Shiretoko National Park, https://www.roughguides.com/destinations/asia/japan/hokkaido/eastern-hokkaido/shiretoko-national-park/hiking-shiretoko-national-park/, retrieved December 2019.
UNESCO, Shiretoko, https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1193/, retrieved December 2019.