Detailed Explanation of Shiretoko National Park: History and Overview

 

　Table of Contents

1. Overview of Shiretoko National Park
2. History of Shiretoko National Park
3. Highlights of Shiretoko National Park
   
4. Wildlife in Shiretoko National Park
5. Activities in Shiretoko National Park

Introduction

Shiretoko National Park is located in the eastern part of Hokkaido, Japan, and is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. This park, which retains some of Japan's most untouched natural environments, was designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 2005. Characterized by rugged mountainous terrain, expansive virgin forests, and rich marine ecosystems, this region showcases different landscapes throughout the year, attracting many tourists.

In this article, we will provide a detailed overview of Shiretoko National Park, including its history, highlights, wildlife, and activities.

1. Overview of Shiretoko National Park 

Shiretoko National Park (Shiretoko Kokuritsu Kōen) is a national park located on the Shiretoko Peninsula in eastern Hokkaido, Japan. This area is one of the most untouched natural environments in Japan and is known for its stunning landscapes and rich ecosystems. The park covers approximately 386 square kilometers of land and about 220 square kilometers of surrounding marine areas, and it was designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 2005.

The Shiretoko Peninsula features the rugged Shiretoko Mountain Range running through its center, with steep cliffs descending into the sea on the western side and gentler slopes leading to the sea on the eastern side. Within the park, diverse volcanic terrain, rivers, forests, and marine ecosystems can be found, offering different landscapes to enjoy each season. In winter, the Sea of Okhotsk along the coast becomes a spectacle of drift ice, making it one of the southernmost locations in the Northern Hemisphere to observe drift ice.

The park is also renowned as a habitat for a wide variety of flora and fauna. It is home to 36 species of terrestrial mammals, 22 species of marine mammals, and 285 species of birds, including notable sightings of brown bears, Steller's sea eagles, and orcas. The coastal areas are influenced significantly by the drift ice, impacting the marine ecosystem. Historically, the area has been revered for its natural abundance by the indigenous Ainu people, who referred to it as "the place where the earth protrudes."

Shiretoko National Park boasts diverse ecosystems, with mixed forests of Sakhalin fir, Erman's birch, and Mongolian oak on land, and thickets of Siberian dwarf pine at higher elevations. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, such as hiking and boat tours in the summer and snowshoeing and drift ice walks in the winter. The Shiretoko Five Lakes are particularly popular, featuring well-maintained trails and elevated boardwalks that allow visitors to explore the beautiful lakes and surrounding forests.

2. History of Shiretoko National Park 

■ Ainu Culture and Nature Conservation

The Shiretoko Peninsula has been inhabited by the Ainu people for centuries, and the name "Shiretoko" comes from the Ainu language, meaning "the place where the earth protrudes." The Ainu revered nature, worshipping bears as "gods of the mountains" and orcas as "gods of the sea." This spirit of coexistence with nature laid the foundation for later conservation efforts in Shiretoko.​

■ Early 20th Century Development and the Beginning of Tourism

In the early 20th century, as the Japanese government advanced the development of Hokkaido, the Shiretoko Peninsula became a target for exploration and tourism. Explorers and tourists began visiting the area, with natural attractions like the Shiretoko Five Lakes and Kamuiwakka Hot Falls gaining attention as tourist resources. The untouched, beautiful landscapes and rich ecosystems drew many visitors. From the 1920s to the 1930s, the construction of roads and lodging facilities progressed, establishing the region as a tourist destination.

■ 1964年: Designation as a National Park

On June 1, 1964, Shiretoko National Park was officially established to protect the rich natural environment of the Shiretoko Peninsula. This designation strengthened the protection of the park's flora and fauna and improved the management of tourists. The primary aim was to preserve the unique ecosystems and landscapes of the region. The Shiretoko Peninsula is characterized by its rugged mountain terrain, coastal cliffs, and rich forests, home to diverse wildlife including large animals like brown bears and Steller's sea eagles, as well as many endangered species that needed urgent protection.

■ 1980s: Strengthened Ecosystem Protection

In the 1980s, efforts to protect the ecosystems within Shiretoko National Park were further strengthened. The park is known for its rare flora and fauna, particularly brown bears, Steller's sea eagles, and the world's largest owl, the Blakiston's fish owl. These animals are crucial apex predators, and their protection is essential for maintaining the overall ecosystem of the region.

■ 2005年: UNESCO World Natural Heritage Registration

In July 2005, Shiretoko National Park was recognized for its unique ecosystems and natural landscapes and was designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. This recognition brought international attention to Shiretoko's natural environment and further bolstered conservation efforts. Shiretoko is an important habitat for many seabirds, migratory birds, salmon species, and marine mammals like sea lions and whales.

■ Present: Sustainable Tourism and Conservation Activities

Today, Shiretoko National Park continues to promote sustainable tourism while maintaining conservation activities. Educational programs and guided tours encourage tourists to act with environmental consideration, and the local community collaborates to protect the natural environment. Research activities are also actively conducted, collecting data on Shiretoko's ecosystems and the impacts of climate change.

3. Highlights of Shiretoko National Park 

Shiretoko National Park, located on the Shiretoko Peninsula in eastern Hokkaido, is a nature-rich national park and a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. Below are the main highlights of Shiretoko National Park.

■ Shiretoko Five Lakes

The Shiretoko Five Lakes are a beautiful set of five lakes located in the central part of the Shiretoko Peninsula, each offering unique landscapes. Elevated wooden pathways allow visitors to safely observe the varying scenery depending on the season and weather. From spring to autumn, the area is a haven for nature enthusiasts, as many wild animals and birds can be observed.

■ Kamuiwakka Hot Falls

Kamuiwakka Hot Falls is a natural hot spring waterfall located within Shiretoko National Park, known for its unique natural phenomenon. The falls originate from the hot springs of the active volcano Mount Io (Iozan), with warm water flowing down the river and cascading over the falls. Visitors can soak in the warm spring water at the base of the falls, enjoying a relaxing experience. The falls have multiple tiers, each with different temperatures and scenic views.​

■ Furepe Falls

Furepe Falls, located on the western coast of the Shiretoko Peninsula, is a waterfall that plunges approximately 100 meters directly into the Sea of Okhotsk. Unlike typical waterfalls, Furepe Falls is fed by groundwater that emerges before reaching the surface, creating a unique flow without a visible river source, hence the nickname "Maiden's Tears." The falls offer different vistas with each season, with clear water flows in the summer and stunning ice formations in the winter.

■ Shiretoko Pass

Shiretoko Pass, situated at the highest point of Route 334 connecting the eastern and western coasts of the Shiretoko Peninsula, stands at an elevation of 738 meters. It is a highlight for travelers between Utoro and Rausu and a must-visit location in Shiretoko National Park. From Shiretoko Pass, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Mount Rausu (elevation 1,661 meters), Kunashiri Island, and the Sea of Okhotsk. On clear days, the views extend to the Northern Territories, and the autumn foliage and spring greenery are particularly breathtaking.

■ Rausu Visitor Center

The Rausu Visitor Center, located in Rausu Town on the eastern side of the Shiretoko Peninsula, is an invaluable resource for learning about Shiretoko's nature and history. Established by the Ministry of the Environment, the center provides visitors with information to understand and appreciate Shiretoko National Park's natural environment. Exhibits include displays on the region's ecosystem, history, and culture, featuring taxidermy of local wildlife such as brown bears, Blakiston's fish owls, and Steller's sea eagles. Additionally, a seven-meter orca skeleton is on display, which was prepared from an orca stranded off the coast of Rausu.

4. Wildlife in Shiretoko National Park 

Shiretoko National Park is renowned for its rich natural environment and diverse ecosystems, home to many rare species of flora and fauna. Below is a detailed introduction to some of the key wildlife and plants found in Shiretoko National Park.

■ Ezo Brown Bear

Shiretoko National Park is one of the regions in Japan with the highest population of brown bears. These bears are often seen in mountainous areas and along rivers, especially during the salmon run when sightings along the rivers increase. The brown bear is a symbolic animal of Shiretoko and plays a crucial role in the park's ecosystem.​

■ Steller's Sea Eagle

The Steller's sea eagle, a large raptor, migrates from Siberia to the Shiretoko Peninsula during the winter. They are particularly common along the coastlines with drift ice from January to February. Shiretoko is an important wintering ground for these majestic birds, and they can be observed up close in their natural habitat.​​

■ Orca (Killer Whale)

Orcas appear along the coast of the Shiretoko Peninsula from spring to early summer. These marine mammals travel in pods and primarily feed on fish and squid. Whale watching tours are a popular activity, allowing visitors to observe these impressive creatures from the sea.

■ Shiretoko Violet

The Shiretoko violet is an alpine plant endemic to the Shiretoko Peninsula, blooming with white flowers from June to July. It is mainly found in the gravelly areas of Mount Io (Iozan) and Mount Rausu, and its beautiful blossoms are a symbol of Shiretoko's natural beauty.

■ Mixed Forests of Conifers and Broadleaf Trees

Shiretoko National Park features mixed forests of conifers and broadleaf trees that support a rich ecosystem. These forests serve as habitats for various wildlife, particularly in the pristine primary forests. The mixed forests include species such as Sakhalin fir, Yezo spruce, Mongolian oak, and Japanese katsura. These trees are adapted to different environments from lowlands to highlands, forming diverse ecosystems. The Sakhalin fir and Yezo spruce are especially notable for their resilience to the cold climate, enduring Shiretoko's harsh winters.​​  

5. Activities in Shiretoko National Park 

Shiretoko National Park offers a variety of activities to enjoy its natural beauty and rich ecosystems. Here are some of the main activities you can experience in the park.

■ Hiking the Shiretoko Five Lakes

The Shiretoko Five Lakes are one of the most popular attractions within Shiretoko National Park. Each of the five lakes offers unique scenery, and their beauty changes with the seasons and weather. The elevated wooden walkway extends about 800 meters to the first lake, and is wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to safely hike without disturbing the surrounding nature.

There is also a ground trail approximately 3 kilometers long that circles all five lakes. This trail can be walked in about 90 minutes and passes through forests where you can observe a variety of wildlife and plants. From spring to autumn, you might see animals such as Ezo deer, foxes, and bears.

■ Cruise Tours

Cruise tours departing from Utoro Port provide an excellent opportunity to explore the coastline of the Shiretoko Peninsula and observe the cliffs and marine life. In the summer, you can spot whales, orcas, and seals. Various cruise options are available, including the "Aurora" and the "Godzilla Rock Sightseeing Boat."​

■ Winter Drift Ice Walk

In winter, drift ice from the Sea of Okhotsk covers the coastline of the Shiretoko Peninsula. Drift ice walk tours offer a unique experience available only during this season. Participants wear special gear to walk on the drift ice and enjoy this one-of-a-kind activity.

The tours are held around the Utoro area, where participants wear dry suits that provide warmth and buoyancy. These suits allow you to stay warm and safely walk on the ice. In addition to walking on the ice, you can lie on floating ice or immerse yourself in the icy waters.

★ Introduction to Our Tourism Website ★

We introduce carefully selected tourist destinations in Japan, like the ones in this article. By bookmarking this site, you can stay informed about essential tourist information. We are constantly updating the site to provide an exciting experience in finding new travel destinations.

↓↓Click the image if you're interested↓↓

 Conclusion 

Shiretoko National Park, located in eastern Hokkaido, Japan, boasts untouched natural landscapes and rich ecosystems. The park was designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 2005, gaining international recognition for its value. Efforts to protect Shiretoko's natural environment continue through collaboration with local residents and researchers.

We hope this article has given you a glimpse of its charm. We encourage you to visit and see the beautiful landscapes for yourself.

If you have any further questions or need additional information, feel free to ask!