Shiretoko & Akan-Mashu Summer Itineraries

Shiretoko & Akan-Mashu Summer Itineraries

🌼 Why Visit Shiretoko & Akan-Mashu in Summer?

Eastern Hokkaido is known for its untouched nature, national parks, wildlife encounters, and crystal-clear caldera lakes. The region covers Shiretoko, Akan, Mashu, and Kussharo, making it one of Japan’s richest nature destinations — perfect for summer explorers, couples, photographers, and adventure travelers.

Best weather for outdoor sightseeing; Highest chance of wildlife sightings; Lush forests & clear water; Accessible viewpoints and short walking trails

If you need help arranging private tour in Hokkaido, you can use our trip planner! or contact us directly. Feel free to ask us any question, specially if it is your first time visiting Hokkaido.

🌄 2-Day Eastern Hokkaido Nature Highlights

Perfect for: A great option for travelers who want a compact but scenic nature trip.

Day 1 – Akan & Mashu Crater Lakes

Lake Mashu Viewpoints

One of the clearest lakes in the world, famous for its deep blue color. DETAIL

Things to do: sightseeing

Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours

Lake Akan

Clear freshwater lake inside the crater of an active volcano. DETAIL

Things to do: sightseeing

Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours

 Ainu Kotan Village

A cultural village where visitors can learn about Ainu traditions, crafts, and performances. DETAIL

Things to do: sightseeing, shopping

Recommended stay: 2 – 3 hours

Lake Onneto

A small, quiet lake known for its ever-changing water colors — beautiful in summer light. DETAIL

Things to do: sightseeing

Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours

Day 2 – Shiretoko Peninsula

A UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site known for wildlife and rugged coastlines.

Shiretoko Five Lakes

A famous walking route through lakes and forest. DETAIL

Things to do: sightseeing

Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours

Oshinkoshin Waterfall

A large, powerful waterfall just off the main road — a popular photo location. DETAIL

Things to do: sightseeing

Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours

🌲 3-Day Shiretoko & Akan-Mashu Explorer Route

Perfect for: Ideal for travelers who want a balanced trip with lakes, forests, and wildlife. Best for: travelers wanting a full national park experience.

Day 1 – Akan-Mashu National Park

Lake Mashu Viewpoints

One of the clearest lakes in the world, famous for its deep blue color. DETAIL

Things to do: sightseeing

Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours

Lake Kussharo

Lake famous for its footbath areas, lakeside spots. DETAIL

Things to do: sightseeing

Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours

 Ainu Kotan Village

A cultural village where visitors can learn about Ainu traditions, crafts, and performances. DETAIL

Things to do: sightseeing, shopping

Recommended stay: 2 – 3 hours

Bihoro Pass

A pass famous for its panoramic view over Kussharo. DETAIL

Things to do: sightseeing

Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours

Day 2 – Shiretoko National Park

A UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site known for wildlife and rugged coastlines.

Shiretoko National Park

A famous walking route through lakes and forest. DETAIL

Things to do: sightseeing

Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours

Oshinkoshin Waterfall

A large, powerful waterfall just off the main road — a popular photo location. DETAIL

Things to do: sightseeing

Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours

Day 3 – Wildlife & Coastal Exploration

Cape Puyuni

Famous for its stunning view of Sea of Okhotsk. DETAIL

Things to do: sightseeing

Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours

Furepe Waterfall

Mountain, sea, wildlife, this place has them all. DETAIL

Things to do: sightseeing

Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours

If you need help arranging private tour in Hokkaido, you can use our trip planner! or contact us directly. Feel free to ask us any question, specially if it is your first time visiting Hokkaido.