“Shiretoko in winter sounds amazing, but what can we do there? Is it safe and fun, even for first-time snow travelers?”

If those questions sound familiar, you’re not alone. Winter travel in Shiretoko can feel intimidating at first. In this travel report, we share our real experience traveling from Sapporo by overnight highway bus, joining a guided nature tour, enjoying winter-only activities, and finding the best places to relax and shop.

If you’re curious about visiting Shiretoko in winter for the first time, this guide is for you. Some photos in this article were taken on different dates.  

▼ Trip Overview (as of December 2025)

 

What Is Shiretoko？

Shiretoko is located in eastern Hokkaido and is one of Japan’s most untouched natural areas. In 2005, it was recognized as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site thanks to its incredibly rich and well-preserved ecosystem.

Drift ice from the scenic Cape Puyuni (Image provided by Shiretoko Tokobozu)

In winter, drift ice flows down from the north and reaches the Shiretoko coast. This ice brings nutrients that support marine life, which then feeds animals on land. It’s a rare place where you can clearly see how nature connects sea, land, and wildlife.

Siberian flying squirrel (Image provided by Shiretoko Tokobouzu)

Often called “Japan’s last wilderness,” Shiretoko is home to dense forests, dramatic coastlines, and animals like brown bears and Ezo deer. In winter, the scenery becomes even more striking and surprisingly peaceful.

Why Visit Shiretoko in Winter？

Winter is when Shiretoko truly feels magical. The ocean turns white with drift ice, forests fall silent under deep snow, and animal footprints appear everywhere. 

 Instead of just looking at nature, you walk through it, listen to it, and feel it under your feet. This isn’t a destination where you rush from spot to spot. Winter Shiretoko is about slowing down and experiencing nature in a very real, physical way and that’s exactly why so many travelers fall in love with the place.  

Utoro or Rausu: Where Should First-Time Visitors Go?

“Shiretoko” refers to the entire peninsula, but it’s mainly divided into two areas: Utoro and Rausu. For first-time visitors, Utoro is the clear choice. It has more accommodation options, hot springs, and winter activities like snowshoeing and drift ice tours. Transportation and tour support are also much better here.

Rausu is known for incredible wildlife encounters, but winter conditions are harsher and more challenging.

Roads over Shiretoko Pass are closed in winter, so you cannot travel between Utoro and Rausu at that time of year. Rausu is better suited for experienced travelers.  

Traveling from Sapporo by Overnight Highway Bus

We traveled from Sapporo to Utoro by overnight highway bus, Eagle Liner run by Shari Bus. It’s an easy and surprisingly comfortable way to reach such a remote destination.

Riding the Eagle Liner to Shiretoko

At 11:15 p.m., we boarded the Eagle Liner operated by Shari Bus at the Chuo Bus Sapporo Terminal. The Sapporo terminal is located near the Sapporo TV Tower, a short distance from Sapporo Station.

Each seat comes with a large blanket, which makes a huge difference on a winter night in Hokkaido. You can stay warm, relax, and sleep until morning. Around 6:30 a.m., we arrived at “Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel” in Utoro.  

Bus reservations can be made here: https://www.japanbusonline.com/en/CourseSearch/10100070001?AreaCd=101  

Start the Day Right with an Early Morning Hot Spring

The bus arrives early, before most places open, but there’s a great solution.

Eagle Liner passengers can book a special early-morning hot spring and breakfast plan at a local hotel (for an additional fee).

After a long ride, soaking in a natural hot spring and enjoying a full breakfast feels incredible. It’s the perfect way to reset before heading out into the snow.  

Exploring with a Local Nature Guide

After breakfast, we met our pre-booked nature guide.

Our guide, Ms. Masako Sato from “Shiretoko Tokobozu,” has lived in Shiretoko for decades. Her deep knowledge and love for the area made the experience feel personal and safe.

In winter, exploring on your own is not recommended. There are no local buses, taxis are extremely limited, and wildlife including bears still roam the area. Joining a guided tour is the best and safest way to enjoy winter Shiretoko.  

Walking the Furepe Falls Trail

We joined a guided walk along the Furepe Falls Trail, also known as “Maiden’s Tears.” The trail is mostly flat and suitable for beginners. 

Starting from the Shiretoko Nature Center, we walked through snowy forests toward the falls.

Along the way, we spotted deer, animal tracks, and even bear claw marks on trees. These small discoveries make the walk incredibly engaging.

Even though the weather wasn’t perfect that day, being surrounded by snow-covered trees and signs of wildlife was unforgettable. 

On clear days, the trail offers wide-open views of the Shiretoko mountain range.

◎ “Shiretoko Tokobozu”– Basic Information

Guide time	Various plans are available, such as morning-only courses, afternoon-only courses, and full-day courses.
Regular holidays	Depending on reservation status (published on the website as needed)
Google Maps	ー
Phone	090-2059-2362 ※For inquiries please email（tokoboz2023@gmail.com ）
Official website	https://www.tokoboz.com/

 

Relaxing at the Shiretoko Nature Center

The Shiretoko Nature Center is a hub for winter activities. Inside, you’ll find a cozy café, outdoor gear, original souvenirs, and rental equipment.

The center is also a great place to learn more about Shiretoko’s environment before or after your tour.

◎Shiretoko Nature Center – Basic Information

Opening Hours:	[Winter] October 21st – April 19th 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM [Summer] April 20th – October 20th 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Closed:	New Year’s holiday and every Wednesday in December
Google Maps	https://maps.app.goo.gl/T7vZwmYYjZ7Gf5Wc6
Phone	0152-24-2114
Official website	https://center.shiretoko.or.jp/

More Winter Activities to Try

If you have more time, Shiretoko offers several winter-only experiences. In January, the Shiretoko Five Lakes Eco Tour allows visitors to walk across frozen lakes during a limited period. 

(Photo provided by Shiretoko Shari Town Tourism Association)

From February to early March, Drift Ice Walks and Drift Ice Trekking let you walk on or even float among the ice. Many tour operators offer English-speaking guides, so it’s worth checking official tourism websites before your trip.  

Learning More at the Shiretoko World Heritage Centre

After enjoying the activities, why not stop by a facility where you can learn about Shiretoko’s nature and history?

The Shiretoko World Heritage Center where you can check your experience

After outdoor activities, we visited the Shiretoko World Heritage Centre in Utoro.

This free facility offers clear, easy-to-understand exhibits about local wildlife, ecosystems, and why Shiretoko is so special. Learning more here makes everything you experienced outdoors feel even more meaningful. The souvenir shop is also stylish and well curated.

I picked up a traditional Japanese tenugui towel to use at hot springs which is simple, practical, and a great souvenir.

◎Shiretoko World Heritage Centre – Basic Information

Opening Hours:	Winter season (Oct 21 – Apr 19) 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Summer season (Apr 20 – Oct 20) 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Closed:	Every Tuesday during the winter season December 29 – January 3
Google Maps	https://maps.app.goo.gl/aVNZqZSCSxyiSMieA
Phone	0152-24-3255
Official website	https://policies.env.go.jp/park/shiretoko/whcc/

 

Wrap Up Your Shiretoko Trip at Roadside Station Utoro Shirietoku

Located at the entrance to Utoro, Roadside Station Utoro Shirietoku is right next to the Shiretoko World Heritage Centre, making it easy to visit.

Inside, you’ll find a tourist information desk where you can get details on local activities, transportation, and bus schedules.

The station offers a wide selection of local seafood, mountain produce, and regional specialties. You can also find popular “Shiretoko Toko-san” character goods here.With Shiretoko-exclusive souvenirs and local ingredients all in one place, this roadside station is the perfect spot to end your journey.

Here are two souvenirs we especially recommend.

The first is a limited-edition pair of socks made by YAMAtune, a Hokkaido-based outdoor sock brand, created exclusively for Roadside Station Utoro Shirietoku. 

They’re perfect for moments when snow sneaks into your shoes after a day of winter activities. Warm, comfortable, and made in Japan, they make a great practical souvenir.

The second is Shiretoko Salmon Soy Sauce, available only here. Produced by a soy sauce manufacturer in Asahikawa, this special sauce concentrates the rich flavor of salmon. Utoro is Japan’s top salmon landing area, and this unique seasoning truly reflects the local taste.

Choosing Shiretoko-style souvenirs lets you enjoy the memories of your trip long after you return home.

◎Roadside Station Utoro Shirietoku – Basic Information

Opening Hours:	9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Restaurant: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Closed:	Every Thursday in December December 29 – January 3
Google Maps	https://maps.app.goo.gl/6E4mZmp7L5joFhs27
Phone	0152-22-5000
Official website	https://hokkaido-michinoeki.jp/michinoeki/2884/

 

Plan with Extra Time for Winter Travel in Shiretoko

Winter travel in Hokkaido is heavily affected by weather conditions. The eastern Okhotsk region, including Shiretoko, is known for particularly harsh winter weather.

For safety reasons, transportation services including the Eagle Liner may occasionally be suspended due to severe conditions. We strongly recommend adding at least one extra day to your itinerary to allow for flexibility.

That extra time often pays off. On clear days, Hokkaido’s winter scenery is truly breathtaking and well worth the wait.

Enjoy Winter Shiretoko with the Eagle Liner

With no transfers required, the Eagle Liner takes you directly from Sapporo to Utoro in Shari Town. The journey takes about 7.5 hours, but since it’s an overnight bus, you’ll arrive in the morning ready to explore.

The return trip to Sapporo is just as comfortable, with well-equipped seating and rest stops along the way. Why not experience winter Shiretoko with the Eagle Liner? Just ¥8,900 one way, making it an excellent deal!

Direct Access with No Transfers from Sapporo to the World Natural Heritage Site of Shiretoko.

Bus reservations can be made here: https://www.japanbusonline.com/en/CourseSearch/10100070001?AreaCd=101