The Charms of Shiretoko Pass Through the Four Seasons

 The Charms of Shiretoko Pass Through the Four Seasons

Located on the ridge of Hokkaido’s Mount Shiretoko, at an elevation of 738 meters, is “Shiretoko Pass,” connecting the towns of Shari, Utoro, and Rausu. Mount Rausu, where snow can be seen even in late July, and famous for its autumn foliage, can be viewed from Shiretoko Pass. It is also popular as a driving course, and if the weather is clear, you just may be able to spot the faraway Kunashir Island.

Beautiful Scenery from the Peak Shiretoko Pass

 The Charms of Shiretoko Pass Through the Four Seasons

Shiretoko Pass is located at the top of the Shiretoko National Highway between Shiretoko and Rausu, crossing the mountain range 738 meters above sea level. It crosses Rausu and Shari in the Shiretoko Peninsula, and there is a view spot at the top of the highway, "Shiretoko Crossroad," with a total length of about 27 kilometers, followed by a winding curve connecting Rausu and Utoro. The Shiretoko Crossroad is popular with tourists driving in the summer, and the snowy scenery that remains at the end of July is impressive. Wild bird observation and photography are also popular, and you can see people taking snapshots from early morning. Meeting wild animals such as rare birds and the Ezo Red Fox are among the highlights.

How About Going to the Top of Shiretoko Pass?

From the observation deck at the top you can see the beautiful Mount Rausu and the Pacific Ocean. The view of Rausu from Shiretoko is magnificent, and when the weather is nice, you can also see Kunashir Island, which is one of the four islands in eastern Hokkaido. If it is sunny, you can see beautiful scenery spread far into the distance, but there are times when there will not be a clear view due to fog.

There are observation spaces, toilets, and parking lots on site at the top of Shiretoko Pass. The parking lot is also used by mountaineers heading for Lake Rausu, and it takes about 30 minutes on foot to the entrance to Lake Rausu. Entry and parking are free.

Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter at Shiretoko Cape

 The Charms of Shiretoko Pass Through the Four Seasons

Spring

There is an opening ceremony of Shiretoko Crossroad, the "Shiretoko Snow Wall Walk," where visitors can take a walk along the high snow wall of 3 to 4 meters. People also enjoy snowboarding and skiing in the spring.

Summer

Fresh greenery and and the fantastic Sea of Clouds are beautiful, and in the evening you can enjoy the sky full of stars. Even in July the weather remains cool.

 The Charms of Shiretoko Pass Through the Four Seasons

Autumn

You can enjoy the scenery of autumnal leaves. It is also known as a famous landmark of Hokkaido's autumn leaves, and Shiretoko Crossroad is a popular driving route during this season. Many people also cross the pass with bicycle or on foot or to enjoy the autumn foliage.

 The Charms of Shiretoko Pass Through the Four Seasons

Winter

It is closed to traffic from early November to late April.

Why not visit Shiretoko Pass and witness Hokkaido’s magnificent nature and animals for yourself?

Spot information

  • Spot name: Shiretoko Pass (Shiretoko Observation Deck)
  • Street address: Yunosawa-cho, Rausu-cho, Megashi-gun, Hokkaido
  • Access: There is no train passing near Shiretoko Pass. The closest station will be JR Shiretoko Shari station. From Shiretoko railway station take the Shiretoko Shiretoko line to "Utoro Hot Spring Bus Terminal" or "Shiretoko Nature Center", change to the Rausu line and get off at "Shiretoko Pass".T

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