otherworldly Shiretoko
Shiretoko is a land of adventure.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national park, this narrow 70km peninsula is home to about 15,000 people, 10,000 deer, and 500 bears. They coexist, clash, and most importantly, support each other, living in harmony. The rich natural environment is not only a field for physical adventure but also offers a journey for the soul, where the coexistence of diverse life forms in a bountiful yet confined space stimulates the senses.
feeling of "awe"
Understanding the feeling of 'awe' in nature is often difficult to explain. The English word "awe" is used to express deep respect or fear for an overwhelming presence. It refers to a complex emotion where one acutely feels small and powerless, yet simultaneously admires and is moved by the beauty of that existence. For instance, walking alone in the forest and encountering a bear can ignite your senses, filling your heart with a sense of 'awe.' It's a moment where, along with the tension, you touch the grandeur of nature.
wildlife:
the neighbors
In Shiretoko, wildlife faces a rich and harsh natural environment everyday, no matter the season. When we step away from our civilized lives and meet them in the forest, we are reminded that we too are part of this natural environment. Respecting nature, we keenly sense our surroundings, living in harmony with the natural world, like ancient times. Exploring the wilderness of Shiretoko allows us to immerse ourselves in a world where survival depends on adaptation and respecting ones environment. It is a humbling experience that reminds us of the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of preserving this delicate balance for future generations.
a peninsula
created by volcanoes
The Shiretoko Peninsula, stretching approximately 70km in length and 25km in width, is a very unique landform. Its geological foundation was formed by volcanic plate activity starting 8.6 million years ago and it continues to be uplifted by present day volcanic activities. Today, the central part of the peninsula boasts a range of mountains over 1500m in elevation, including Mount Rausu at 1661m. This narrow and steep terrain creates a dramatic elevation change from sea level, resulting in a highly varied and special environment. Wildlife thrives in the area by efficiently exploiting these diverse conditions for food, water and other resources. This unique geographical setting also allows Shiretoko to be one of the few places to enjoy cherry blossoms at the foot of the mountains in April and still find them blooming midway up the mountains in June.
human history with nature
Shiretoko has often been described as one of the last refuges of pristine nature in Japan. As pristine as the environment still is, traces of human settlements dating back 10,000 years have recently been discovered at Shiretoko Cape. This only further exemplifies the importance of the long-standing relationship humans have with the natural world. The history of Shiretoko demonstrates that this land has not only nurtured human communities but also supported diverse wildlife throughout the ages. The essence of Shiretoko's natural beauty stems from this innate connection between human life and the natural world.
The name Shiretoko comes from the Ainu language, meaning "the end of the earth". When you climb the Ridgeline of the Shiretoko Peninsula, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of Sea Okhotsk spanning both sides of the white mountain range. On the west side, you are able to see the famous Shiretoko drift ice, while the east side faces the Russian border. This view is said to rival that of the polar regions like the Arctic, with its cold climate and breathtaking abundance of snow and ice.
embark on a journey!
The guided experience you seek may vary depending on your interests, timeframe, and ability level, but rest assured, a unique experience awaits you at the Shiretoko and Hokkaido! Local experts well-versed in the areas unique terrain, are ready to assist you in crafting a personalized once in a lifetime experience. We are committed to supporting and catering to the unique needs of our customers in order to allow you to fully experience the wonders of Shiretoko. Together let’s plan the perfect adventure for you!