Access to Abashiri from Tokyo/Nagoya:

1h 40 min from Haneda Airport to Memanbetsu Airport
1h 50 min from Chubu Airport to Memambetsu Airport

Access to Kushiro from Tokyo:

(Air) 1h 45 min from Haneda to Kushiro Airport

Access to Nemuro from Tokyo:

1h 45 min from Haneda to Kushiro Airport, 55 min to Nemuro by Nemuro Kotsu Bus
1h 55 min from Haneda to Nakashibetsu Airport, 1h 35 min to Nemuro by Nemuro Kotsu Bus

Though the Yamato people are most common in Japan, the Ainu people have a culturally important place in Japanese history. Showcasing the history and lives of the Northern people, including the Ainu, Inuit, Sami, and Siberians, this museum exhibits clothing, housing, and spiritual way of life that the northern people preserve. From hunting tools and sleds to spiritual amulets and totem poles, this museum offers insight on the similarities and differences of these culturally rich tribal groups.

Covering about 32 acres of land, the Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary continues the efforts of both protection and conservation of the endangered Red-crowned Cranes. Though once thought to be extinct due to overhunting, a group of 20 cranes was found, which have since grown back to around 1000. The grounds are breathtakingly gorgeous, with foliage by the riverside that can be admired by anybody. Focusing on the sustainability of the endangered birds, Ornithologists and volunteers carefully engineer the habitat to be ideal for the cranes.

Breathtaking nature and crystal clear lakes springs make Akan National Park an ideal place for a nature retreat. From camping in the summer to skiing in the winter, Akan National Park is full of adventure for all nature lovers. The volcanic nature of the terrain provides hot springs with bath houses and hotels with grand spas, drawing naturally mineral rich water from the source. Lake Akan is home to the rare Marimo, a type of algae that forms in a spherical shape; only found in few places in the world, the Marimo are celebrated by the indigenous Ainu people.

Drift ice is formed from the Amur River in northeastern Russia, floating across the sea of Okhotsk, appearing along the Shiretoko Peninsula. The steep cliffs of Shiretoko are said to have been naturally formed by the erosion of drift ice. While the drift ice is still floating, it is possible to stand on it as it passes by. Participants are given wetsuits to walk on and swim with drift ice, but may also get the opportunity to dive underneath it as well.

The five lakes of Shiretoko are a World Natural Heritage Site, distinguished for being one of eight sceneries of Shiretoko. During the winter, tours offered by guides offer the opportunity for participants to cross over clear frozen lakes embraced by the Shiretoko mountains. Showshoe walking creates a quietly serene environment ideal for nature watching to spot wild animals. Whether the day is sunny or snowy, showshoe walking creates an atmosphere of serenity in nature.

Dubbed “The Wetland of Flowers,” Kiritappu Wetland is the third largest wetland area in Japan. This bog includes five rivers and over 30 ponds; during high tide, seawater flows into the central parts of the wetland. The foliage of the Kiritappu Wetland spans about 7830 acres, blooming with a diverse variety of seasonal flowers between June and September. Though the summers in Hokkaido are short, the flowers of Kiritappu are a spectacular display of nature.

Starting from Ochiishi Port, visiting Yururi Island and Moyururi Island, the Ochiishi Nature Cruise gives opportunities to see rare birds in their natural habitat. Yururi Island is a designated National Treasure, named after cormorants by the Ainu people. Moyururi Island is home to a diverse ecosystem of rare sea birds. Though the cruise will not disembark on the islands, the natural habitat of the avian creatures can be seen clearly from the ship. One of the most popular birds is the Tufted Puffin, known as “Etupirka” in the Ainu language.

Nemuro footpath was created for the sake of walking through seamless scenery in fields under the broad horizon. The Nemuro Footpath was created by founder Yasumichi Ito, who also established the local dairy farm, allowing traversal through the scenic and private farm. Free of vehicles, bicycles, and horses, the only way to go on this path is by foot. A hidden gem of rare plants and animals, including the rare and endangered Red-crowned Cranes along the pastoral scenery await at the three immaculate and unique pathways. Along the path, the local dairy farm offers fresh ingredients from homegrown beef and milk along with a variety of other local Hokkaido ingredients.

Formally known as Cape Yufutsu, Cape Kiritappu is also known as Cape Tokkari, named after the earless seals in that are seen dwelling around the area. The unique topography has been carved by strong winds and powerful waves of the north. Splendid views can be found during any season. Tracing the coastline, the path of Cape Kiritappu leads to a picture-esque lighthouse. Ideal for a nature walk along an unspoiled coast, Cape Kiritappu is perfect for isolated sightseeing in the face of nature.