Hokkaido - Japanese Prefectures Part 43 - 3 Eastern Hokkaido
Following our introduction to Sapporo and Central Hokkaido, this time we will explore Eastern Hokkaido!
Eastern Hokkaido is a vast region on the eastern side of the island, known for its untouched and spectacular natural landscapes. From the World Heritage Site of Shiretoko to Kushiro Marsh, Lake Akan, and Lake Mashu, the region is home to some of Hokkaido’s most breathtaking scenery. It is also a great place to encounter wildlife and experience the wild beauty of Hokkaido.
In this article, we will introduce some of the best places to visit in Eastern Hokkaido.
Recommended Location
Shiretoko
Shiretoko is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in eastern Hokkaido, known for its untouched wilderness and spectacular natural landscapes. Its forests and surrounding waters are home to a variety of wildlife, including brown bears, Ezo deer, and Ezo red foxes. At the Shiretoko Five Lakes, visitors can enjoy beautiful lakes surrounded by primeval forests with views of the Shiretoko Mountain Range. Boat cruises along the coast also offer spectacular views of dramatic cliffs and the region’s pristine nature.
Shiretoko is one of the best places in Hokkaido to experience the beauty of untouched nature and observe wildlife in its natural environment.
Kushiro Marsh
Kushiro Marsh is the largest wetland in Japan, stretching across eastern Hokkaido. This vast natural area is home to a wide variety of plants and wildlife, including the iconic red-crowned crane, one of Hokkaido’s most famous birds. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the marsh from several observation decks or explore its waterways by canoe. The peaceful and expansive landscape offers a chance to experience the untouched beauty of Hokkaido away from the cities.Lake Akan & Lake Mashu
Lake Akan and Lake Mashu are two of Eastern Hokkaido’s most beautiful lakes. Lake Akan is famous for marimo, a rare type of spherical green algae designated as a Special Natural Monument of Japan. The area is also a great place to experience Ainu culture and traditions. Lake Mashu is a volcanic caldera lake known for its exceptionally clear, deep-blue waters, often referred to as “Mashu Blue.” Surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests, both lakes offer spectacular scenery and a chance to experience the natural beauty of Hokkaido.Abashiri
Abashiri is a city on the northeastern coast of Hokkaido, facing the Sea of Okhotsk. In winter, drift ice arrives along the coast, creating a spectacular landscape of endless white ice stretching across the sea. Visitors can take a drift ice sightseeing cruise and experience the ice up close, with opportunities to spot wildlife resting on the ice. Abashiri is one of the best places to experience the unique beauty of Hokkaido’s northern winter.Obihiro and the Tokachi region
Obihiro and the Tokachi region are known as one of Hokkaido’s leading agricultural areas, offering vast landscapes and delicious local food. Wide fields and farms stretch across the region, creating the quintessential scenery of Hokkaido’s countryside. Obihiro is famous for its pork rice bowls, while the region is also known for high-quality dairy products, sweets, wheat, beans, and other locally grown ingredients. Visitors can also relax at hot spring resorts such as Tokachigawa Onsen. For anyone who wants to experience Hokkaido through its food, nature, and rural landscapes, Obihiro and Tokachi are well worth a visit.
Nemuro
Nemuro is a coastal city located at the eastern tip of Hokkaido, known for its spectacular nature and fresh seafood. At Cape Nosappu, the easternmost point of Japan’s main islands, visitors can look out across the vast Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Okhotsk. The area is also known for its beautiful sunrises, with the sun appearing over the horizon earlier than in many other parts of Japan. Nemuro is famous for local specialties such as Hanasaki crab and fresh seafood. It is a unique destination where visitors can experience the vast landscapes of Hokkaido’s eastern frontier.
