Shiretoko Peninsula
Great Nature at the End of the Earth
Shiretoko area was formed by volcanic activity and lava flows has a richly diverse wildlife that link between ocean, river, and forest ecosystems. Mt. Rausu peers above dramatic cliffs and waterfalls that flow down to the icy coast.
Discover Shiretoko Peninsula
On the most northeastern point of Hokkaido find what the Ainu called “Siretok” or the “End of the Earth”. In July 2005, Shiretoko was designated a World Natural Heritage site. Discover creatures at the top of the ecological chain, brown bear, birds of prey and killer whales. Hundreds of sea eagles fly overhead and in the sea killer whales and other whales swim sedately with seals and Steller’s sea lions. One of the densest populations of brown bears in the world, and their footprints and claw marks can be seen on trees all around the forest. As salmon runs bring blessings from the drift ice to the land.
Shiretoko peninsula is a long, narrow peninsula of approximately 70 km long and 25 km wide. The main peak on the peninsula is Mt. Rausu 1,200 m to 1,600 m in height rising in rows on both sides. Here a vegetation change can be observed at different altitudes in a shorter distance. Alpine plants and a rare Viola kitamiana can be found here.
Connecting people and nature, Rausu Visitor Center is a facility with the latest information and a skeletal presentation of an eight-meter-long killer whale. The largest male of a pod of killer whales that ran aground off the coast of Rausu in February 2005. The word “Rausu” originates from the Ainu word Raushi, roughly meaning “Low-land” or “Place of men with beast-like spirit”. Avail of the bear spray and boots are available for rent at the museum to walk five minutes to a geyser, a designated natural monument of Hokkaido.
