SHIRETOKO – SHARI – UTORODestinations
SHIRETOKO! SUSTAINABLE Sea, Forests, People
Shiretoko is a land of miracles. The cycle of life begins with drift ice. The 70km-long Shiretoko Peninsula is lined with 1,500m-class mountains in the center, and is enriched with diverse nature from the sea to the mountains.
Northern half of the peninsula is National Park, and you can enjoy special experiences such as forest walking, mountain climbing, cycling, sightseeing boat and encountering wildlife. The gate town of the national park is also a fishing town, so seafood, hot springs and various accommodation facilities is available.
In 2005, Shiretoko was registered as a World Natural Heritage Site in recognition of the ecosystem and the nature conservation efforts that preserve it.
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Drift ice
Shiretoko is the southern limit of drift ice in the northern hemisphere. One day in January, when the ice from Russia arrived at seashore, the turbulent sea suddenly turned into a white plain, the sound of the waves disappeared, and Shiretoko will have a dignified winter. Walking on a majestic drift ice field with a dry suit is a valuable experience that can only be found here in the world.
Drift ice is not only a source of majestic scenery, but also a source of rich marine ecosystems. Shiretoko is the largest marine World Heritage Site in Japan, 32% of the heritage site, 22,400ha is sea area.
Wildlife watching
Encountering wildlife is one of the charms of Shiretoko. Large brown bears and Ezo deer walk in the forest, marine mammals such as whales and killer whales jumping in front of sightseeing boat. Rare birds such as Steller’s sea eagles and Blakiston’s fish owls also inhabit here.
In particular, the population density of brown bears is one of the highest in the world, so it is essential to be prepared for bears when walking through the Shiretoko forest. The visitor center will give you the latest information and rules, and you can walk safely with a knowledgeable guide.
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