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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Shakotan sharing quite a few of those!
Shakotan, a coastal town nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, is an adventurer’s dream.
With scenic cliffs that tower over crystal-clear waters and hidden caves waiting to be explored, there’s no shortage of things to do in this picturesque paradise.
Let’s dive into the top activities that will leave you in awe of Shakotan’s natural beauty.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Shakotan:
1. Cape Kamui
Cape Kamui is a scenic headland situated at the tip of the Shakotan Peninsula, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Marvel at the spectacular panoramic views of the cobalt-blue sea, rugged cliffs, and unique rock formations. You can also enjoy hiking along the trail that leads from the parking lot to the lighthouse.
Don’t miss: Do not miss the chance to explore the tide pools of Kamuiwa rock and see the sea creatures up close. You can also spot dolphins, whales, and sea otters if you are lucky.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking on a rocky terrain.
2. Shakotan Blue
Shakotan Blue is a scenic coastal route located in Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Drive or cycle along the coast and enjoy the stunning views of the Sea of Japan. You can also stop at various points to take photos of the dramatic cliff drops and crystal-clear waters.
Don’t miss: Stop by Shakotan Peninsula’s Cape Kamui, the northernmost point of the route, for panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding islands.
You can also hike down to the lighthouse for a closer look at the rugged coastline.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to rent a car or motorbike to fully appreciate the scenic drive and make stops along the way.
Be sure to plan your trip during the summer months (June to September) for the best weather conditions. Prior to visiting, check the weather forecast and the road conditions.
Some parts of the road may be closed due to heavy snowfall during winter months.
3. Shimamui Coast
Shimamui Coast is a scenic coastal area located in the Shakotan Peninsula of Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips:
4. Bikuni Port
Bikuni Port is a picturesque fishing village located in Shakotan, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the charming harbor lined with fishing boats and seafood restaurants serving fresh catches of the day.
Many visitors come to Bikuni Port specifically for the delicious seafood, including sea urchin, crab, and scallops.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a boat tour around the coast to see the stunning blue waters and rock formations, including the famous Shimamu-dai (Shark Point), a dramatic cliff that resembles a shark’s dorsal fin.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Bikuni Port is from May to October, when the weather is mild and the seafood is at its freshest.
5. Shimauta Blue Park
Shimauta Blue Park is a scenic park located in Shakotan, Japan. It is situated on a hill overlooking the beautiful cobalt blue sea.
What to see or do: Visitors can take in the stunning views of the Sea of Japan from the park’s observation deck and enjoy a leisurely stroll on the walking trails.
The park also features a musical instrument exhibit showcasing the traditional Okinawan instrument, the shimauta.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on the annual Shimauta Blue Park Festival, held every summer. The festival features live performances of traditional Okinawan music, as well as local food and crafts.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning for the best view of the sea, as the colors are more vibrant and the area is less crowded.
It’s also a good idea to bring a jacket or sweater as the temperature can be cooler at the top of the hill.
6. Tarumaesan Shrine
Tarumaesan Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the seaside town of Shakotan in Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Visit the main shrine building that dates back to the Edo period and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Take a walk around the peaceful grounds that are surrounded by beautiful forest and rocky coastlines.
Don’t miss: The view from the top of the hill where the shrine is located is absolutely breathtaking. Be sure to also check out the charming red torii gate that stands at the entrance of the shrine.
Insider travel tips: The shrine can be quite crowded during peak tourist seasons, so plan accordingly. It’s also recommended to wear sturdy shoes as the trail leading up to the shrine can be steep and rocky.
7. Kozanji Temple
Kozanji Temple is a peaceful and secluded Zen temple located in the picturesque coastal town of Shakotan, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the tranquil gardens and temple buildings, which date back to the 17th century. The temple houses a collection of cultural artifacts and artwork, including ancient Buddhist scroll paintings and calligraphy.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to experience a traditional tea ceremony in the temple’s serene tea house. It’s a unique and calming experience that will transport you back in time.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit in the fall to see the leaves change color and enjoy the stunning views of the Hokkaido mountains from the temple grounds.
8. Shakotan Onsen
A small hot spring town located in Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy the hot springs at one of the many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns), take a scenic drive along the coast, go fishing, or hike to enjoy the stunning views of the ocean.
Don’t miss: The sunset over the ocean is absolutely breathtaking and should not be missed. Sample the local seafood, particularly the fresh sea urchin and salmon.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring appropriate clothing for the weather, as Hokkaido can get incredibly cold in the winter.
Also, it is tradition to wash your body before getting into the hot springs, so be sure to take advantage of the public bathhouses available to visitors.
And while a car is not necessary to visit Shakotan, it is recommended to explore the surrounding areas.
9. Yoichi Space Museum
The Yoichi Space Museum located in Shakotan, Japan is a unique and fascinating museum dedicated to space exploration and astronomy.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a variety of exhibits that showcase the history of space exploration, satellite technology, and astronomy. Displays include a life-size Shuttle cockpit, mock-up of the International Space Station, and numerous interactive exhibits and simulations.
Visitors can also catch a planetarium show in the domed theater.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the outdoor observation deck, where visitors can view the Sea of Japan and take in breathtaking views of the night sky.
On clear nights, the observatory even offers views of the Milky Way.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Tuesdays and from December 29 to January 3.
10. Sakazuki Art Museum
Sakazuki Art Museum is a small yet charming art museum located in the scenic town of Shakotan, Hokkaido.
What to see or do: The museum is home to a diverse collection of contemporary and traditional Japanese art, including paintaings, ceramics, glassware, and more. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the well-curated galleries and taking in the various pieces on display.
Don’t miss: One exhibit that stands out is the museum’s collection of works by the late local artist Tatsuo Teramoto, whose paintings capture the natural beauty of Shakotan and its surrounding landscapes.
Insider travel tips: After exploring the museum, take a stroll along the nearby Shakotan Peninsula coastline. The views of the rugged cliffs and crystal-clear waters are simply stunning.
Also, be sure to try some of the town’s famous sea urchin dishes, which can be found at various restaurants in the area.
11. Shakotan Misaki Observatory
Shakotan Misaki Observatory is a popular vantage point located on top of a cliff on the Shakotan Peninsula in Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: From the observatory, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the crystal clear waters of the Sea of Japan and the rugged coastline of Shakotan Peninsula.
The area is also a popular spot for birdwatching.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a hike along the picturesque coastal trail to reach the observatory. On clear days, visitors can also see the distant peaks of the nearby Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit during sunset when the sky turns into various shades of orange and pink, making for a stunning backdrop as the sun slowly dips below the horizon.
It can get quite windy and chilly up on the cliff, so dress appropriately. Be mindful of the steep and narrow paths leading to the observatory.
12. Yoichi Fisherman’s Wharf
Yoichi Fisherman’s Wharf is a small fishing village located in Shakotan, Japan. It’s known for its beautiful scenery, fresh seafood, and peaceful atmosphere.
What to see or do: Take a stroll on the wharf and enjoy the stunning ocean views, or participate in one of the many outdoor activities available such as fishing, sea kayaking, and snorkeling.
Sample delicious seafood such as sea urchin, abalone, and Hokkaido’s famous king crab at one of the many seafood restaurants.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the Yoichi Whiskey Distillery, where you can learn about the process of making whiskey and sample some of the award-winning spirits.
Stop by the gift shop for souvenir bottles of their famous whiskey.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the early morning to see the fishing boats unload their catches for the day. Take a walk up to the nearby Shakotan Observatory for breathtaking views of the coastline.
Plan your visit in late June to early July for the Shakotan Hamanaka Sunflower Festival.
13. Yoichi Biei Farm
Yoichi Biei Farm is a dairy farm located in Shakotan, a rugged peninsula in western Hokkaido, known for its scenic coastline and fresh seafood.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a guided farm tour where they can learn about the milking process, try their hand at making butter, and even milk a cow.
The farm also has a restaurant that serves delicious dairy products like ice cream, cheese, and milk.
Don’t miss: Make sure to try the farm’s soft serve ice cream, which is made with fresh milk from the farm’s own cows.
The ice cream is creamy and rich, with a subtle sweetness that is perfect for a hot summer day.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to bring a jacket, as the farm can get chilly even during the summer months.
If you’re visiting on a weekend, be prepared for crowds, as the farm is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
Additionally, consider bringing cash, as the farm does not accept credit cards.
14. Ikarishika Park
Ikarishika Park is a scenic park located in Shakotan, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Take in stunning panoramic views of the Shakotan peninsula and the Sea of Japan from the top of the park’s observation deck.
Take a leisurely stroll along the walking paths lined with beautiful wildflowers and grasses.
Don’t miss: A visit to the park’s peony garden, which boasts a stunning array of colorful peonies in full bloom from late May to early June.
Insider travel tips: Take some snacks or a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park’s many picnic tables or benches while soaking up the park’s stunning views.
Plan to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the park’s peaceful atmosphere. Bring warm clothing, as it can get windy and chilly at the top of the observation deck.
15. Shakotan Kaiseikan Museum
The Shakotan Kaiseikan Museum is a small museum located in the Shakotan Peninsula of Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum features exhibits related to the marine life and the local fishing industry. Visitors can see various kinds of marine creatures including sea urchins, octopuses, crabs, and fishes in the aquarium area.
Moreover, the museum displays some fishing tools, traditional clothes, musical instruments, and other artifacts of the Ainu culture.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the tank that houses the rare “shakogai” giant scallop, a delicacy in the region which is said to have healing properties.
Insider travel tips: – The Shakotan Peninsula is a good place for sea urchin lovers, so try some when you visit.