Eastern Hokkaido Green-Season Itinerary: Okhotsk Coast, Shiretoko, Notsuke Peninsula, and Volcanic Lakes

This itinerary follows a scenic green-season route through Eastern Hokkaido, beginning along the Okhotsk coast and heading through the dramatic landscapes of Utoro and Rausu in Shiretoko. From there, the journey turns south to Odaito and the unique Notsuke Peninsula before heading inland to the volcanic caldera lakes of Mashu, Kussharo, and Akan, finally concluding in Kushiro.

The beauty of this route lies in its natural flow from sea to lakes to wetlands. You will experience the maritime atmosphere of the Okhotsk coast, explore Shiretoko’s wilderness from both land and sea, and witness the vast, open horizons of the Notsuke sand spit. The trip then shifts to the powerful geothermal energy of the caldera lakes before ending with the serene vistas of the Kushiro Marshland—a perfect finale to an unforgettable coastal and inland adventure.

Day 1: Arrive in Abashiri | Gateway to the Okhotsk Sea

Begin with a few key stops that provide context for the region without requiring long treks, keeping you fresh for Shiretoko tomorrow.

Stay: Abashiri

Recommended Stops:

Okhotsk Ryu-hyo Museum (Mt. Tento) — Gain an introduction to the Okhotsk region, its marine ecology, and the phenomenon of drift ice. The highlight is the cold-experience room, where you can see and touch real drift ice even in summer.
Abashiri Prison Museum — A well-preserved historical site featuring original structures. A self-paced walk through the grounds offers a fascinating look into the modern history and development of the region.

Day 2: Utoro | Waterfalls and Shiretoko’s Coastal Scenery

This day focuses on Shiretoko’s powerful natural beauty: soaring cliffs, crashing waterfalls, and accessible trails that offer classic wilderness views.

Stay: Utoro

Recommended Stops:

Oshinkoshin Falls — A dramatic waterfall located right along the coastal road. A short climb takes you close enough to feel the refreshing mist.
Furepe Falls — A gentle nature walk through forests and grasslands leading to a cliffside where the waterfall, often called Maiden’s Tears, seeps directly into the Sea of Okhotsk.
Shiretoko Five Lakes (Elevated Boardwalk) — This easy-to-navigate wooden path offers stunning views of the lakes and mountains, providing a sense of Shiretoko’s grand scale within a short walk.

Day 3: Rausu | Wildlife Cruising

This day centers on a wildlife cruise. It is best to keep the rest of your schedule flexible to accommodate boat departure times. Best months are late April to mid-October.

Stay: Rausu

Recommended Stops:

Shiretoko Pass — Stop here for panoramic views of Mt. Rausu and Kunashiri Island as you cross the mountain range from Utoro to Rausu.
Whale, Dolphin, and Bird Watching Cruise — A roughly 2.5-hour expedition into the deep waters of the Nemuro Strait. While sightings depend on the season and daily conditions, it offers a fantastic opportunity to encounter the area’s rich marine life.

Day 4: The Unique Landscapes of Notsuke Peninsula

Transition from Shiretoko’s rugged cliffs to the wide-open geometry of a 26-km sand spit. The highlight here is the drive itself, with water stretching to the horizon on both sides.

Stay: Odaito / Notsuke Peninsula area

Recommended Stops:

Notsuke Peninsula Drive — Follow the narrow road along the spit, stopping at various viewpoints to appreciate the shifting light and the feeling of being on the edge of the world.
Narawara — A hauntingly beautiful landscape of withered oak and birch trees standing amidst inland wetlands. It offers a quiet, remote atmosphere.
Todowara — The peninsula’s most iconic site. A walk along the boardwalk reveals a stark, photogenic forest transformed by salt and wind.

Day 5: Odaito | Morning Sightseeing Boat and Inland Transfer

The morning is centered around the 8:30 a.m. boat schedule. Best months are mainly May to October.

Stay: Lake Mashu / Lake Kussharo area (Kawayu Onsen)

Recommended Stops:

Betsukai Sightseeing Boat — This 90-minute cruise offers a different perspective of the Notsuke Peninsula from the water, with a good chance of spotting seals resting on the sandbars.
Inland Transfer — After returning to port, drive toward the caldera lakes. Use the afternoon for a relaxed transfer and check-in so you can start the next day refreshed.

Day 6: Lake Mashu & Lake Kussharo | Caldera Views and Volcanic Steam

Explore the volcano and lakes region, starting with grand viewpoints followed by close-up encounters with geothermal activity.

Stay: Lake Mashu / Lake Kussharo area

Recommended Stops:

Lake Mashu Viewpoints — Visit the rim for a look at one of the world’s clearest lakes. The atmosphere can shift from a brilliant blue to a mysterious mist in moments.
Mt. Io (Iozan) — Walk among active steam vents and yellow sulfur deposits at the base of this raw, volcanic mountain to feel the earth’s inner energy.
Sunayu (Lake Kussharo) — A unique lakeside spot where you can dig into the sand to create your own natural footbath with warm geothermal water and a view of the lake.

Day 7: Lake Akan | Marimo, Boat Cruises, and Ainu Culture

Slow the pace today and immerse yourself in the lakeside atmosphere and local indigenous culture.

Stay: Lake Akan area

Recommended Stops:

Akan Sightseeing Cruise — A classic boat tour that includes a visit to the Marimo Exhibition Center. It is the best way to appreciate the lake’s forested shoreline and volcanic backdrop.
Lake Akan Lakeside Stroll — Enjoy a relaxed walk along the wooded trails near the town to take in the cool lake air.
Akanko Ainu Kotan — Explore this cultural district to see traditional woodcarvings and learn about Ainu heritage. Check the local schedule for evening performances.

Day 8: Kushiro | Wetland Boardwalks and Marshland Vistas

Conclude your journey with the vast scale of Japan’s largest wetland. If time allows, a canoe trip offers a more intimate look at the ecosystem.

Stay: Kushiro (or departure)

Recommended Stops:

Onnenai Visitor Center — An accessible boardwalk trail that winds through the heart of the marshland, perfect for birdwatching and enjoying the wetland flora on your final day.
Guided Canoeing (Optional) — Consider a calm canoe trip through the marsh’s winding channels for an eye-level view of the reeds, alder forests, and resident wildlife.
Kushiro Marsh Observatory — Walk the surrounding boardwalks and visit the observatory to grasp the immense scale of the wetlands before heading to your departure point.

Conclusion: A Journey Through the Untamed East

This itinerary offers more than just a sightseeing tour; it is a deep immersion into the diverse ecosystems of Eastern Hokkaido. From the dramatic sea cliffs of Shiretoko and the haunting beauty of the Notsuke sand spit to the mystical caldera lakes and the vast, silent reaches of the Kushiro Marshland, you will witness the raw power and serene beauty of Japan’s last frontier. The landscapes of the east leave a lasting impression of a world where nature still reigns supreme.