- Shiretoko in Summer:
Incredible Nature and Wildlife Encounters - Hokkaido, Japan
- Experience rich nature of Shiretoko National Park &
two boat cruises for marine wildlife in Nemuro strait
- Price
- from JPY 165,000
- Duration
- 3nights 4days
- Season
- May to September
Tour Concept
This tour is designed for travelers who wish to enjoy the natural beauty and observe the wildlife of Shiretoko National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—despite having limited time.
Though a guide is not included, a private vehicle with driver ensures smooth and comfortable transportation.
An ideal choice for those who feel uneasy about driving a rental car yourself or want to make the most of your precious holiday time without any hassle.
Highlights
The tour includes two wildlife observation boat cruises on the waters of Shiretoko
Orcas (killer whales) begin appearing in the Nemuro Strait from late April to mid-July, with multiple pods confirmed in the area each year. Short-tailed shearwaters migrate from Tasmania in the Southern Hemisphere, arriving in flocks that sometimes number over a thousand. These birds rest on the sea after their long journey, creating breathtaking scenes. Following the Orca season, Sperm whales are frequently observed from mid-July to September, offering continued opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts.
Enjoy the rich nature of Shiretoko National Park in the comfort of a private vehicle
Discover the highlights of national park, including Shiretoko Pass, the Shiretoko Goko Lakes and Furepe water falls, where you can enjoy breathtaking natural landscapes. While sightseeing is self-guided, the tour offers peace of mind for those unfamiliar with the area, allowing you to travel with comfort and confidence.
The itinerary also includes a visit by private vehicle to Notsuke Peninsula, a location renowned for frequent sightings of wild Ezo sika deer and Red foxes.
Blakiston's Fish Owl observation
Rausu is renowned as one of the best places to observe and photograph the elusive Blakiston’s fish owl. At night, you'll visit a observation hide for a rare opportunity to capture images of this endangered species as it approaches the river.
Itinerary
01
Memmambetsu – Rausu
Meet with your driver at Memanbetsu airport at 13:30 and transfer to the guest house in Rausu. Enjoy local seafood dinner at guest house. After dinner, visit an observation hide of the endangered Blakiston’s fish owl—considered the largest and rarest owl in the world.
02
Rausu
After breakfast, walk to the port and embark on a two-and-a-half-hour wildlife viewing cruise in the Nemuro Strait.
From May to early July, there are opportunities to spot Orcas (Killer whales) and Minke whales, while Sperm whales are commonly seen from July to September. Dall’s porpoises can be observed throughout the summer.
Birdwatchers will enjoy sightings of seabirds such as Short-tailed shearwaters (May–June) and Black-footed albatrosses (June–August).
In the afternoon, take a private vehicle to Notsuke Peninsula, known for its high chance of encountering wild Ezo sika deer and Red foxes.
June and July are also prime months to see vibrant wildflowers in full bloom.
Return to the hotel by 17:30.
03
Rausu
In the morning, walk to the port and enjoy another opportunity for wildlife viewing on a boat cruise in the Nemuro Strait.
In the afternoon, travel by private vehicle to Shiretoko Pass and the Shiretoko Goko Lakes as well as Furepe water falls, where you can experience the pristine nature of the Shiretoko Peninsula. There is a chance of encountering brown bears while driving, particularly around Shiretoko Pass.
Return to the hotel by 18:00.
04
Rausu – Memmanbetsu
After breakfast, private transfer to Memanbetsu Airport. You will arrive at the airport around 11:30 AM, marking the conclusion of the tour.
Price
| Price per person | |
|---|---|
| Tour cost for 2025/2026 3nights 4days |
JPY200,000 Group of 2 people |
| JPY175,000 Group of 3 people |
|
| JPY165,000 Group of 4-5 people |
|
| Single room supplement | JPY18,000 |
**Prices are for reference only. Final costs may vary depending on actual travel dates, accommodations, and other factors. Please contact us for a customized quote.
** This itinerary serves as a general guideline for the tour. We are happy to customize the content—including activity types, tour duration, and accommodation upgrades—based on your preferences.
Payment:
We require booking fee of JPY50,000 per person to hold the space at time of booking and the final payment is due 45days prior to departure.Form of payment :
Bank transfer or credit card (Visa or Master)Inclusions:
3nights accommodations
Private vehicle with Japanese speaking driver mentioned on above itinerary
-Toyota Prius α or similar for the group of two & three people
-Toyota Alphard/High Ace or similar size vehicle for the group of four and above
3 Breakfasts and 3 dinners
All entry fees to sites, activities listed in the itinerary
Exclusive of:
International Airfares
Meals that are not included in the itinerary
Guide services
Travel Insurance
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
Personal expenses such as laundry bills, luggage delivery service etc.
Climate
During the boat cruises, temperatures can be extremely cold, so please bring warm layers such as sweaters and fleece, along with waterproof outerwear that provides wind protection.To prepare for rain, be sure to bring a two-piece waterproof rain suit. Waterproof hiking boots or trekking shoes are ideal for footwear.Dietary Restriction
Hotels in remote area such as Eastern Hokkaido may only accept requests for special meals to medical (such as allergy) and religious needs.Note
** According to weather conditions and local information, we may be forced to adjust or change tour schedule as needed. Please note that any supplementary costs incurred in such cases will need to be covered by the guest.** There is no guarantee of being able to see everything listed wildlife species in the itinerary.
** In the event of bad sea/weather conditions, the cruise tour may be canceled. Should this occur, the cruise fee will be refunded following the conclusion of the tour.
Contact us about this tour
3rd floor, Kyodo Bldg. Jimbocho, 2-2, Kanda-Jimbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0051, Japan ｜Travel Agency Registration No. 607
