The itinerary in this self-drive tour allows you to cruise along central Hokkaido highway towards the coast of Pacific ocean and simultaneously pass through several well-known scenic spots. You can learn about the traditional arts and crafts of Hokkaido’s Indigenous Peoples, the Ainu, at Poroto Kotan and drop by the nearby Noboribetsu Onsen (hot spring) to stroll along a walkway into the famous ‘Hell’s Valley’. Thereafter, have fun at the exciting aquarium and drop by Chikyu-Misaki, where the extreme beauty of sheer cliffs at southern tip of Etomo Peninsula takes your breath away. This is a recommended itinerary for visitors looking for a leisurely drive along the coastal line, passing by sleepy fishing villages, and various attractions in Shiraoi, Noboribetsu, Muroran and Da-te city in Uchiura-wan (Uchiura Bay). Conveniently, the return route from Da-te city back to Sapporo takes less than 2 hours along the central Hokkaido highway.
The recommended menu for lunch will be Shiraoi’s specialty, Shiraoi beef. The bagel burger with high quality Black Wagyu beef is highly popular. Get to sample tarako (salted roe) and hairy crabs too. Don’t forget to try the well-known cheese and ice-cream made in the farms of Da-te city. Discover a variety of delectable food made in this sleepy little town.
Lake Utonai
One of the leading sanctuaries for wild birds and waterfowl
Located in the northwestern region of the Yufutsu Plains, this inland sea-lake has a circumference of 9 kilometers. The surrounding wetlands, a natural habitat for some 260 species of wild birds, were designated as Japan’s very first bird sanctuary in 1981. In 1991, Lake Utonai became the fourth wetland in Japan to be registered under the Ramsar Convention (Convention on Wetlands of International Importance).
Porotokotan
Come experience the Ainu way of life
In an effort to preserve the unique culture and customs of the Ainu, an ethnic group indigenous to Hokkaido, an Ainu settlement has been re-created near the shores of Lake Porotan. In addition to a museum showcasing exhibits about the Ainu, visitors can learn to play the mukkuri, a traditional Ainu jaw harp and even try their hand at making their very own instrument. In summer, enjoy performances of Ainu prayer songs and dances while tucking into Ainu cuisine set in an almost dream-like atmosphere. Do contact the Porokotan for more information.
Jigokudani (Hell Valley)
The largest hot spring source in Noboribetsu
Measuring some 450 meters across, Jigokudani is a volcanic crater site spread across an area of 11 hectares. The vast expanse of Jigokudani hosts Ojigoku at the foot of its valley, in addition to 15 other hot spring sites that include Showa Jigoku and Tsurugi-yama Jigoku. These sulfuric hot water sites churn out a total of 3000 liters of hot water every minute. Hop on the ten-minute walking trail and experience the eruptions of volcanic gas and hot spring water for yourself.
Oyunuma
Sulfuric hot-spring water at 130 degree Celsius
15 minutes on the walking trail from Jigokudani is an observation platform that boasts a commanding view of Oyunuma. Originally a sulfur quarry, this hot water marsh has a circumference of 1km and is the source of sulfuric hot spring water that can reach temperatures of 130 degree Celsius. Surface temperatures of 40-50 degree Celsius often cause Oyunuma to be shrouded in white mist.
Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe
Don’t miss the ever-popular penguin parade!
Modeled after a medieval Renaissance castle, the Nixe castle is a four-storey marine aquarium boasting some 400 species of marine life and 10,000 live exhibits. In addition to exciting dolphin and sea lion shows, the adorable penguins in the penguin parade are bound to make your day and create lasting holiday memories. The Aqua Tunnel, which features marine life from both the cold and warm ocean currents, makes for an extremely interesting attraction where visitors may imagine themselves underwater, watching stingrays and sharks glide effortlessly in the ocean.
Cape Chikyu (The Earth Cape)
Cape offering majestic and commanding views of the ocean
The winner of “Hokkaido’s Best 100 Nature Spots” and “Top 100 New Japanese Tourist Attractions”, Cape Chikyu boasts breathtaking scenery that is simply not to be missed. Situated at the southernmost tip of Etomo Peninsula, Cape Chikyu stretches into the Pacific Ocean and commands spectacular vistas from its observation platform 147 meters above sea-level. An extremely popular site for visitors viewing the first sunrise of the year.
Swan Bay Observation Point
Spectacular views of Hakucho Bridge and Mount Komagadake
Conveniently located near Route 37, visitors to this observatory will be rewarded with an arresting view of Hakucho Bridge set against Swan Bay, Etomo Peninsula, Okuro Island and Mount Komagadake. At night, twinkling harbor lights and illumination from factories lend a completely different atmosphere to this observation point, making it a perfect viewing spot for both day and night.
Michi no Eki (Roadside Station), Date-rekishi no Mori (Date City)
Rest station steep in history and culture
In addition to being the only place in Hokkaido that produces indigo dye, Date City is also home to many blacksmiths trained in the art of sword-making, an increasingly rare profession in Japan today. Drawing from the unique characteristics of Date City, this rest stop offers indigo-dyeing and has a blacksmith workshop where visitors can observe the art of sword forging. There are also souvenir shops and a memorial museum dedicated to prominent female author Miyao Tomiko and her works. A one-stop center that provides a wealth of information on the history and culture of Date City, this rest stop is a must-see.
