Eastern Hokkaido boasts many attractive tourist spots and attractions, including the Shiretoko Peninsula, Kushiro Marsh, and Abashiri.
This time, we'll introduce some of the must-see sights and tourist spots in eastern Hokkaido that are known only to locals.

We will also share information about gourmet food and events that can only be enjoyed in eastern Hokkaido.

The eastern Hokkaido area is a place you should definitely visit at least once. Before you go to eastern Hokkaido, please read this article. I hope you'll fully experience and enjoy the unique charms that can only be found in eastern Hokkaido, blessed with abundant nature.

Table of contents
1. What is Eastern Hokkaido?
2. Tourist spots in Eastern Hokkaido
3. Winter attractions in Eastern Hokkaido
4. Access to Eastern Hokkaido
Final thoughts

First of all, do you know where Eastern Hokkaido is located?
The Eastern Hokkaido area refers to the Abashiri, Tokachi, Kushiro, and Nemuro regions, located in the eastern part of Hokkaido.

In this article, we will introduce the area east of Tokachi and Obihiro.
The eastern Hokkaido area boasts numerous spots where you can fully experience abundant lakes and nature, offering a charm not found in central Hokkaido, such as Sapporo.

2-1. Shiretoko Peninsula

First, let me introduce you to the Shiretoko Peninsula.
Shiretoko, registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2005, is a spot that is attracting more and more attention. The Shiretoko Five Lakes are a place where you can experience this World Heritage Site firsthand.

These Shiretoko Five Lakes are located at the foot of the mountains known as the Shiretoko mountain range on the Shiretoko Peninsula.

There are two routes to enjoy the Shiretoko Five Lakes: the elevated boardwalk and the ground-level walking trail.
The elevated wooden walkway is 800 meters long. It's free to use, so you can easily experience the magnificent Shiretoko Five Lakes.

On the other hand, there are two ground-level walking trails: one 3 km long and another 1.6 km long. Usage varies depending on the time of year, such as the brown bear activity season. If you are considering using the ground-level walking trails, please check the website or other resources for usage instructions.

Depending on your travel time and physical condition, we recommend experiencing the Shiretoko Five Lakes in one of the following ways.

Utoro is the base for sightseeing in Shiretoko.
There are sightseeing boats that allow you to fully enjoy the Shiretoko Peninsula, as well as various accommodations.

On a sightseeing boat, you can experience Shiretoko in ways you can only see from a cruise, such as spotting brown bears.

Utoro also boasts Kamuiwakka Hot Spring Waterfall, a river fed by hot springs that gush from the middle of Mount Shiretoko Iwo.
We experience falls and accidents here every year.

It's a pleasant experience to stroll along a warm river, but please be careful and enjoy yourself.

Image courtesy of:知床ネイチャークルーズ

On the eastern coast of the Shiretoko Peninsula lies Rausu.

One thing I would recommend about Rausu is encountering wild animals.
You can take a sightseeing boat and see sperm whales, orcas, Dall's porpoises, and in winter, drift ice and Steller's sea eagles and white-tailed eagles (depending on the season).

Spending time surrounded by the beautiful nature of the Shiretoko Peninsula and encountering wild animals is an invaluable experience.
Furthermore, Rausu offers a wide variety of fish catches throughout the year, allowing you to enjoy delicious seafood.

2-2. Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo

The second lakes I'd like to introduce are Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo. First, let me tell you about Lake Mashu.

Lake Mashu is a caldera lake with a circumference of approximately 20 km and an area of ​​approximately 19 km². It boasts high water clarity. It is often shrouded in fog and is also known as "Misty Lake Mashu."

There are three viewpoints for Lake Mashu: Mashu First Observatory, Mashu Third Observatory, and Ura-Mashu Observatory.

The most popular spot is the Mashu First Observatory. From there, you can see the beautiful lake surface, as well as Mount Mashu and Kamuy-shu Island.

At Lake Mashu, if the season and conditions are right, you can witness a magnificent sea of ​​clouds and a starry night sky.
Looking up at the sky above the quiet Lake Mashu at night, the world of countless stars is truly breathtaking. For the best view of the sea of ​​clouds, sunrise is recommended.

To see the sea of ​​clouds and stars, I think staying at the nearby Kawayu Onsen would allow you to enjoy your trip to the fullest with an efficient schedule.
Kawayu Onsen is a hot spring resort town that proudly proclaims its "100% natural hot spring water flowing directly from the source."

There's also a footbath, so you can easily enjoy the natural hot spring water flowing directly from the source.
If time permits, enjoy the beautiful scenery, stay at Kawayu Onsen, soak in the hot springs to relax and refresh yourself.

There is also a small pond called "Kami-no-ko-ike" (Child of God Pond) located on a mountain where groundwater from Lake Mashu springs forth.
Located about 1 hour and 20 minutes by taxi from JR Mashu Lake Station, it is gaining popularity as a power spot.

Lake Kussharo has a circumference of approximately 57 km and an area of ​​approximately 79 km². There is an island floating in the center of the lake.

This island has a circumference of 12 km and is said to be the largest island in a freshwater lake in Japan.
For a panoramic view of Lake Kussharo, Bihoro Pass and Tsubetsu Pass are recommended.

Recently, the dynamic "sea of ​​clouds" that can be seen in the early morning (weather conditions permitting) has also been attracting attention.
The photo below shows a sea of ​​clouds taken at Tsubetsu Pass.

*The road from Lake Kussharo to Tsubetsu Pass had been closed since September 2016 due to typhoon damage, but repair work has been completed and it will be open to traffic from May 25, 2018.

2-3. Lake Akan

The third place I'd like to introduce is Lake Akan.
Lake Akan has a circumference of 30 km and an area of ​​13.28 km², and is located in Kushiro City.
To fully enjoy Lake Akan, I recommend taking a ride on the Akan Sightseeing Ferry.

While touring Lake Akan, you can see sights such as Mount Oakan, Mount Meakan, Kojima Island, and Oshima Island.

Lake Akan is famous for its marimo, which are designated as a special natural monument.

According to years of research, the only places where spherical marimo grow in clusters are Lake Akan and Lake Mývatn (Iceland).
On Chuurui Island, there is a "Marimo Exhibition and Observation Center" where you can learn about marimo (a type of algae).

There is a hot spring resort town on the shores of Lake Akan. The water quality of the Lake Akan hot springs is said to be good for neuralgia and rheumatism.
Enjoy a relaxing time while soaking up the hot springs.

On the western foot of Mount Oakan, located east of Lake Akan, lies a lake called "Onneto."
Because the lake's color changes depending on the season, it is also known as Goshikinuma (Five-Colored Lake). When you go to Lake Akan, why not stop by Onneto as well?

2-4. Kushiro Marshland, Kushiro City

The fourth place I'd like to introduce is the Kushiro Marsh. It is the largest marsh in Japan and is home to many animals, including the Japanese crane.
It is also Japan's first site registered under the Ramsar Convention.

In the Kushiro Marshland, there are walking trails that allow you to explore the marshland on foot. The loop is 2.5 km long and can be completed in about an hour.
You can enjoy the natural beauty of the wetlands up close.

There is also the "Kushiro Marshland Observation Deck," which features a diorama recreating the Kushiro Marshland and allows visitors to learn about the marshland's appearance throughout the four seasons.
From the rooftop, you can enjoy views not only of the wetlands but also of Kushiro city.

Other spots where you can enjoy views of the Kushiro Marsh include Sarubo Observatory, Kottaro Marsh Observatory, and Hosooka Observatory.

Among these, the Hosooka Observatory is considered to offer the best view.

Located on the eastern side of the Kushiro Marsh, it offers views of the meandering Kushiro River, the Kushiro Marsh, Mount Oakan, and Mount Meakan.
It is also known as an observation deck where you can witness beautiful sunsets.

Kushiro City, home to the Kushiro Marsh, is the largest city in eastern Hokkaido. It boasts abundant marine resources and is one of Japan's leading fishing communities in terms of fish catch volume.

When it comes to enjoying fresh seafood in Kushiro City, robatayaki (charcoal-grilled food) and kattedon (a type of rice bowl dish) are the must-try dishes.
Robatayaki, where seasonal seafood is grilled over charcoal, allows you to enjoy the natural flavor of the fish.
Freshly grilled, piping hot fish is juicy and delicious.

Another dish you can enjoy at the Washo Market in Kushiro City is the Kattedon. You buy white rice, choose your favorite seafood at the counter, and the staff will put it on top of the rice for you.

You can enjoy as much of your favorite seafood as you like, so try making your own custom seafood rice bowl.

Washo Market was established in 1954 and is the oldest market in Kushiro. With nearly 60 shops lining the streets, it's fun to stroll around the market after enjoying a katte-don (a rice bowl dish where you choose your own toppings).

2-5. Abashiri

The fifth place I'd like to introduce is Abashiri City. Abashiri is a place where you can enjoy each of the four seasons. In the summer, you can enjoy activities such as horseback riding, nature cruises, and canoeing.

When it comes to winter sightseeing, drift ice is a must. Taking a cruise on the "Aurora" icebreaker is also a fun option. Even outside of drift ice season, you can enjoy drift ice at the "Okhotsk Drift Ice Museum."

In addition to displaying real drift ice, visitors can also see animals found in the Sea of ​​Okhotsk, such as sea angels (Clione).
The view from the observation deck is also highly recommended. You can enjoy a magnificent landscape.

Furthermore, Cape Notoro is a scenic spot that is popular in both summer and winter. It is located about 15 minutes by car from Abashiri city center.

You can enjoy magnificent scenery such as Lake Notoro, the Sea of ​​Okhotsk, and the Shiretoko mountain range. In winter, you can also see drift ice.
It seems that this location was also used as a filming site for the movie "The Chef of South Polar," in which Masato Sakai starred.

Adjacent to Cape Notoro is the Abashiri City-run Misaki Ranch, where horses and cows graze freely.
When you think of Abashiri City, the Abashiri Prison Museum, which houses the relocated and restored buildings of the former Abashiri Prison, comes to mind.

The site covers an area equivalent to about 3.5 Tokyo Domes. Visitors can walk around the museum and learn about life during that time.

In addition, there is a museum shop and a space where you can eat prison food.

2-6. Lake Saroma, Monbetsu

The sixth place I'd like to introduce is Lake Saroma and Monbetsu City.
Lake Saroma is said to be the third largest lake in Japan.

The Lake Saroma Observatory offers a panoramic view of Lake Saroma. It is located near the summit of Mt. Horoiwayama, which is 376 meters above sea level.
The view from here is magnificent.

For panoramic views of Lake Saroma, the Piraoro Observatory is highly recommended. Also, to enjoy the sunset over Lake Saroma, a visit to Cape Kimaneppu is a good idea.

Scallops and oysters are farmed in Lake Saroma. Saroma scallops, in particular, are large and meaty.
They're so sweet you'll be surprised when you taste them. I highly recommend trying fresh scallops and oysters locally at least once.

Monbetsu City is located in the center of the Okhotsk Sea coast.
It is also famous for its abundant seafood, such as scallops and hairy crabs.

At the Okhotsk Tokkari Center in Monbetsu City, you can see seals up close. "Tokkari" means "seal" in the Ainu language.

When it comes to Monbetsu City, the main attraction is undoubtedly the drift ice. You can enjoy the spectacular sight of drift ice by taking a ride on the "Garinko II" icebreaker.

While it's often thought that drift ice can only be enjoyed in winter, the Hokkaido Prefectural Okhotsk Drift Ice Science Center "GIZA" offers opportunities to learn about drift ice regardless of the season. Be sure to visit!

2-7. Kitami

The seventh place I'd like to introduce is Kitami City.

Kitami City has an area of ​​approximately 1,428 square kilometers, making it the largest city in Hokkaido and the fourth largest city in Japan.
Some of the flowers that represent Kitami City include the dogtooth violet, the Ezo lily, and the chrysanthemum.

Among them, the largest chrysanthemum festival in Hokkaido will be held in Kitami City. In 2018, it will be held from October 19th (Friday) to 28th (Monday). The venues will be the Kitami Station South Multipurpose Plaza and Mint Road.

There was a time when Kitami City produced approximately 70% of the world's mint. The Kitami Mint Memorial Museum allows visitors to learn about that history.

After a day of fun in Kitami City, relax and unwind in a hot spring. Onneyu Onsenkyo is a renowned hot spring resort with a rich history, having opened in 1899 (Meiji 32).

"Onne" means "large hot spring" in the Ainu language. Onneyu Onsen is a popular hot spring among locals, known for its skin-beautifying properties.

Also, Bihoro Pass can be reached in about an hour by car from Kitami Station. It is located within Akan National Park on National Route 243, which connects Kushiro and Kitami.
This is one of Japan's most spectacular panoramic views, so I highly recommend visiting it at least once.

Image courtesy of:Hokkaido Free Photo Stock Photos do photo

 

2-8. Tokachi/Obihiro

The eighth place I'd like to introduce is Tokachi-Obihiro.
Obihiro City is located in the center of the Tokachi Plain.

This region is known for its thriving agriculture and dairy farming, and just a 15-minute drive from Obihiro city center, you'll find yourself surrounded by a picturesque rural landscape.

If you're visiting Hokkaido and want to fully enjoy the flowers and greenery, I recommend visiting the "Hokkaido Garden Road."
This road, stretching approximately 250 km from Daisetsuzan to Furano and Tokachi, is known as the "Hokkaido Garden Road" because of the many gardens located along its route.

It is gaining popularity as a beautiful tourist route in the northern region.

In Tokachi and Obihiro, you can find gardens such as Manabe Garden and Shichiku Garden. Enjoy the unique gardens of Hokkaido. The fresh air and lush greenery will surely soothe your soul.

Also located at the foot of Mt. Poroshiri in Tokachi is Yachiyo Ranch. Horses and cattle graze freely on a vast plot of land equivalent to approximately 210 Tokyo Domes.
There are also restaurants like "Cowbell House" that use local ingredients, and a park golf course.

In addition to these, there are other ranches where you can fully enjoy nature, such as Tokachi Ranch and Hanabatake Ranch.

Obihiro is famous for its pork rice bowls and sweets.
The pork bowl has a simple seasoning with a sweet and savory sauce, allowing you to fully appreciate the sweetness of the pork.

The meat is so juicy, so if you ever visit Obihiro, you should definitely try the pork rice bowl.

Tokachi is also home to some of Hokkaido's most famous sweets shops, such as Rokkatei. Personally, I recommend the cranberry sweet potato.
It has a strong sweet potato flavor and is delicious.

Obihiro has many hotels with hot springs. Enjoy delicious food, soak in the hot springs, and relax to soothe away your travel fatigue.

2-9. Nakashibetsu/Betsukai

The ninth place we'll introduce is Nakashibetsu Town and Betsukai Town.

First, let me introduce Kaiyodai in Nakashibetsu Town. It's about a 15-minute drive from Nakashibetsu Airport. Below you'll find a landscape unique to Hokkaido, including pastures and windbreak forests. I highly recommend you see the view from Kaiyodai.

Next, I'd like to introduce the Ura-Mashu Observatory. It's located about 50 km from Nakashibetsu Airport.
Normally, when we talk about Lake Mashu, we're referring to the view from the Teshikaga side, but this is a spot where you can see Lake Mashu from the back.

It seems that there is generally less fog here than in Teshikaga. Please enjoy a different side of Lake Mashu.

Image courtesy of:Hokkaido Free Photo Stock Photos do photo

A 20-minute drive from this Ura-Mashu Observatory will take you to Yoro-ushi Onsen. This quiet hot spring resort is nestled deep in the mountains, and the riverside open-air baths at "Yuyado Daiichi" and "Hotel Yoro-ushi" (pictured) are particularly popular.

Image provided by: Nakashibetsu Tourism Association

<PR>
Rent a car and get a great coupon worth 1,000 yen!
Shiretoko Nemuro Cheese Coupon Campaign
Rent or return a car at Nakashibetsu Airport (conditions apply) and get a delicious "Cheese Coupon" worth 1,000 yen! Offer valid until October 31st!
[Shiretoko Nemuro Cheese Coupon Campaign]For more information, click here

Next up is Betsukai Town. It has a total area of ​​1,320 square kilometers. Betsukai Town boasts the highest raw milk production volume in Japan.
In addition, the town is famous for its local specialties such as scallops and Hokkaido shrimp. The Notsuke Peninsula is located about an hour's drive from the center of Betsukai Town.

Image courtesy of:Hokkaido Free Photo Stock Photos do photo

The Notsuke Peninsula is approximately 26 km long and is located between the Shiretoko Peninsula and the Nemuro Peninsula.
Here, you can see the withered remains of fir trees eroded by seawater, giving you a sense of the powerful force of nature in the north.

From May to October, you can see a variety of flowers. Please consider visiting the Notsuke Peninsula sometime.

2-10. Nemuro and Akkeshi

Finally, I'd like to introduce Nemuro and Akkeshi. First, let me introduce Nemuro.
Nemuro is famous for its Pacific saury and Hanasaki crab.

There's also a local specialty called "Escalope," which consists of buttered rice with bamboo shoots, topped with a pork cutlet and demi-glace sauce.

Image courtesy of:Free stock photo collection: Travel photos

If you're in Nemuro, I recommend Cape Nosappu. It's the easternmost cape in Japan, located at 43 degrees 23 minutes north latitude and 145 degrees 49 minutes east longitude.
The observation deck at Nosappu Cape is the oldest in Hokkaido, having been lit in 1872 (Meiji 5). The sunrise and sunset views are beautiful.

Next up is Akkeshi. Facing the Pacific Ocean, it is blessed with abundant nature. Akkeshi is famous for its oysters.
The "Akkeshi Oyster Festival" is held every year in early October.

Akkeshi oysters are grown slowly in low-temperature water, making them rich in nutrients. Please try them!

Also located midway between Akkeshi and Nemuro is Cape Kiritappu, a cape jutting out from the Kiritappu Peninsula.
It's sometimes called Cape Tokkari because you can spot seals (tokkari) there. You can also experience powerful waves.

Next, let's talk about eastern Hokkaido in winter, a world of snow and ice.

The dynamic, snowy wilderness, natural phenomena, and unique charm of eastern Hokkaido await you there. We highly recommend you take full precautions against the cold before you venture out.

3-1. Winter drift ice

One of the must-see winter attractions in eastern Hokkaido is the drift ice.

Along the Okhotsk Sea coast, drift ice reaches the shore around the beginning of February.
The blue ocean transforms into a vast, white, icy world.

These drift ice formations can only be seen when various weather conditions align, and they appear in only a very limited number of areas worldwide. Abashiri City and Monbetsu City are places where you can witness these mystical drift ice formations.

In Abashiri City, be sure to take a ride on the "Aurora" icebreaker sightseeing ship. It's a large ship, so there's less rocking, and it's equipped with a shop and a coffee lounge.
You can enjoy the drift ice from the guest rooms on the first and second floors, as well as from the observation deck.

You might be able to see seals on the drift ice.

In Monbetsu City, you can take a drift ice cruise aboard the "Garinko II Icebreaker."
It's very thrilling to drive through the ice floes with a huge drill.

Whenever you experience an ice floe cruise, you feel as if you can hear the pulse of nature itself.
Just immersing yourself in the magnificent scenery is incredibly therapeutic.

When you visit eastern Hokkaido in winter, be sure to experience the awe-inspiring spectacle of drift ice. Just be sure to take thorough precautions against the cold.

3-2. Shiretoko in Winter

The second place I'd like to introduce is Shiretoko in winter.
Some people might think that Shiretoko, a World Natural Heritage site, can only be enjoyed during the seasons of fresh greenery and autumn leaves, but you can also fully experience the beauty of nature in winter.

First up is the Shiretoko Five Lakes Walk. You can walk around the five lakes of Shiretoko.
When you witness the Shiretoko mountain range, the animals, and the drift ice firsthand, you can experience the beauty and mystery of nature.

During the harsh winter months, access is restricted to guided tours led by certified instructors only. (The elevated boardwalk mentioned earlier is unavailable.)

In addition to ice floe cruises, another way to experience drift ice is through "ice floe walks," where you can explore the ice floes themselves.
Wearing a dry suit, you can explore the drift ice. Some even float on the sea alongside the ice floes.

Experiencing drift ice with your eyes and your body are both unique pleasures that can only be enjoyed at this time of year.

In Rausu Town, you can enjoy both drift ice and birdwatching.
Onboard the "Evergreen," you'll be guided by marine professionals, including a former fisherman who knows the Shiretoko seas inside and out.

You can see white-tailed eagles and Steller's sea eagles. This is the only place on the Shiretoko Peninsula where you can have such a precious experience by taking a drift ice sightseeing boat.

Image provided by: Shiretoko Nature Cruise

Step into the world of Shiretoko, a place you can only see in winter.
When experiencing winter in Shiretoko, please check the website for information on various events and activities.

3-3. Red-crowned cranes in Kushiro

When you think of Kushiro Marsh, you think of red-crowned cranes.

The Japanese crane, one of the largest wild birds in Japan, measures 1.4 meters in length. Its wingspan is said to reach 2.2 to 2.04 meters.
The red-crowned crane can be found not only in eastern Hokkaido, but also in Russia and northeastern China.

In kanji, it is written as 丹頂, where 丹 means red and 頂 means top.

At the Kushiro City Red-crowned Crane Nature Park, which was opened to protect and increase the population of red-crowned cranes, you can see them regardless of the season. In early summer, you can even see families together.

You can also see red-crowned cranes at the Tsurui-Ito Red-crowned Crane Sanctuary.
(Open from October 1st to March 31st; please inquire for closing days.)

While there are spots where you can observe Japanese cranes regardless of the season, we recommend seeing them in winter, especially around February when you can witness the courtship dances of males and females.

Many red-crowned cranes visit the Red-crowned Crane Observation Center in Akan Town during the winter.

When observing Japanese cranes, it is essential to always follow proper etiquette. We understand that you will be thrilled to encounter them, but please observe them with a gentle and warm attitude.

3-4. The "Ice Horizon" of Notsuke Peninsula

Image provided by: Betsukai Town Tourism Association

Jump across the pure white earth!

But actually, this isn't land; it's the sea.

Located at the easternmost tip of Hokkaido, the Notsuke Peninsula, famous for its Todowara (a type of volcanic rock formation), transforms into a vast white landscape as far as the eye can see in winter, with the adjacent Notsuke Bay freezing over completely.

This is the "ice horizon" of the Notsuke Peninsula, which is sometimes described as "Japan's Uyuni Salt Flats."

Image provided by: Betsukai Town Tourism Association *Image is for illustrative purposes only.

Guided tours are available at the Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center.
This is an experience you can only have here at this time of year.

Winter Todowara Round Trip Course (Ice Horizon Walk)
Season: January to March Duration: 2 hours Course start times: 9:3 AM to 1:13 PM
Price: 3,000 yen (minimum 2 people), snowshoe rental fee is separate.
*1.5 times for one person
For further information, please read CLICK HERE .

4-1. Airplane

First, let me explain how to travel to eastern Hokkaido by plane.

There are five airports in eastern Hokkaido, including Okhotsk Monbetsu Airport and Memanbetsu Airport. All of them have direct flights from Haneda Airport, and the journey takes less than two hours, making them very convenient. It's best to choose an airport based on which tourist destination you plan to use as your base.

In addition, there are several flights from Sapporo (New Chitose Airport and Okadama Airport in Sapporo City), excluding Okhotsk Monbetsu Airport, so connecting at New Chitose and heading to eastern Hokkaido is also recommended for those who prioritize time.

First, there's Okhotsk Monbetsu Airport. It's recommended to use this as your base when sightseeing around Monbetsu and Lake Saroma.

Next up is Memanbetsu Airport. There are shuttle buses from the airport to Abashiri and Kitami. If you're mainly sightseeing in the Abashiri and Kitami areas, or the Shiretoko area, this airport is a good choice.

The third airport we'll introduce is Nemuro Nakashibetsu Airport. It's located about a 10-minute drive from the town of Nakashibetsu. This airport is convenient when visiting Nakashibetsu and surrounding areas, as well as Shiretoko, Rausu, and the Nemuro region.

Nemuro Nakashibetsu Airport image

The fourth airport we'll introduce is Tancho Kushiro Airport. A shuttle bus will get you to JR Kushiro Station in about 45 minutes. The shuttle bus departs from the airport every 15-20 minutes after each flight's arrival, so you don't have to worry.

Lastly, we'd like to introduce Tokachi Obihiro Airport. If you're traveling from Obihiro, we recommend using this airport.

4-2. JR

Tourist train
Next, let me introduce JR. In the eastern Hokkaido area, there are trains that can be enjoyed depending on the season, such as the "Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko" which can be used from around June to October, and the "SL Fuyu no Shitsugen" which runs during the winter.

On the "Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko" train, you can enjoy scenery that can only be seen from the train, such as the Kushiro River and the Kushiro Marsh. Furthermore, the SL Winter Marsh train offers a unique steam locomotive experience, complete with a potbelly stove.

As the train passes between Kushiro and Shibecha, you can see the winter Kushiro Marsh from the train window.

Also, the "Ryuhyo Norokko" train, which ran between Abashiri and Shari from the end of January to the end of February each year, ceased operations in 2016. However, it was recently announced that the "Ryuhyo Monogatari" train will operate in 2017 with a similar route to the Ryuhyo Norokko. We're looking forward to it!

・Limited express train between Sapporo and Eastern Hokkaido
There are mainly two routes connecting Sapporo with the eastern Hokkaido area.
There are two routes: the Limited Express Okhotsk heading north towards Abashiri, and the Limited Express Super Ozora and Super Tokachi heading south towards Obihiro and Kushiro.

However, due to the damage caused by the recent typhoon, as of October 2016, it has been announced that it will be difficult to resume operations in the Obihiro and Kushiro areas until at least the end of November, and currently, substitute services by train and bus are being provided.

Due to the damage caused by the recent typhoon, trains on the Nemuro Line have been suspended.
Train operation status will be updated as needed.JR Hokkaido's websitePlease check

4-3. Intercity buses

Next, I'd like to introduce intercity buses.
Buses operate from Sapporo to various locations including Kushiro, Obihiro, Kitami, Abashiri, and Shiretoko.

If you're arriving at New Chitose Airport by plane and heading to eastern Hokkaido by intercity bus, I recommend traveling to Sapporo first before boarding the bus.

There are also overnight buses running between Sapporo and Kushiro, Abashiri, and Shiretoko, so if you leave Sapporo late at night, you'll arrive at your destination, such as Kushiro, the next morning. You can reach your destination while you're resting, so there's no wasted time.

If you're confident in your physical stamina, you might want to consider taking an overnight bus.

For the routes I just mentioned, advance reservations are required by Hokkaido Chuo Bus.
Due to the damage caused by the recent typhoon, many people are using the buses, resulting in overcrowding.

When planning a trip, it's best to book in advance. When taking a bus, it's a good idea to contact the bus company you plan to use beforehand.

4-4. Private car, rental car

Next, we'll explain how to get to the eastern Hokkaido area using your own car or a rental car.
In the vast Hokkaido region, using expressways to reach your destination is also a recommended option.

In April 2016, the Doto Expressway and the Kushiro Outer Ring Road opened, making it possible to travel between Kushiro and Sapporo in 4 hours and 27 minutes.

Furthermore, the Asahikawa-Monbetsu Expressway has made travel to the Okhotsk region much more convenient.
Driving across the vast landscape of Hokkaido is a wonderful experience, but please be sure not to speed, take breaks when you get tired, and prioritize safe driving.

4-5. Winter transportation

Finally, let's talk about eastern Hokkaido in winter.
Driving a rental car becomes difficult in the eastern Hokkaido region during winter. For a limited time, however, numerous winter-only buses operate, including the "Higashi Hokkaido Express Bus," which connects various locations and tourist spots in eastern Hokkaido.

Please try combining these ideas to create your own unique trip to eastern Hokkaido.

Eastern Hokkaido Sightseeing Bus
A sightseeing bus that takes you around tourist spots along the way.
There are two routes: Sapporo to Sounkyo to Shiretoko, and Sapporo to Tokachigawa to Shiretoko (the Sapporo to Tokachigawa route does not operate during winter).
Summer-Autumn Edition: August 20, 2016 - November 2, 2016 *The final day of operation varies depending on the route.
Winter Edition: December 23, 2016 - March 15, 2017 *The final day of operation varies depending on the route.
http://www.cool-star.jp/jp/eastern/

Higashi Hokkaido Express Bus
During the harsh winter months when driving a rental car is difficult, sightseeing buses connect various points of interest in eastern Hokkaido.
Operates from January 21st to February 28th, 2017
http://www.easthokkaido.com/bus_announce/

Final thoughts

How was it? We introduced tourist spots in eastern Hokkaido, such as the Shiretoko Peninsula, Lake Mashu, and Lake Kussharo, as well as winter attractions like drift ice and Shiretoko, and event information.

Just immersing yourself in the magnificent scenery of Hokkaido will surely bring you peace and healing.

I also highly recommend experiencing the thrilling winter activities, such as ice floe walks and ice floe cruises.
Winters are much colder than you might imagine, so please take thorough precautions against the cold. Regardless of the season, I highly recommend taking a trip to the eastern Hokkaido area at least once.

Please also check out these related articles.

• 

  You too can be moved by the breathtaking scenery! The complete guide to Otaru's night view, one of Hokkaido's three greatest night views!

• 

  Let's go for "tree healing"! | 7 recommended tree power spots in Hokkaido by a Hokkaido-born writer

• 

  Walking through a world of white snow on snowshoes! Winter at Kita-Nemuro Ranchway

• 

  Newly opened! I went to the roadside station "Nanairo Nanae"♪

• 

  Be moved by the mystical aurora! Highlights of Shiretoko Fantasia 2016

• 

  A breathtaking sea of ​​clouds spreads over Lake Kussharo, Japan's largest caldera [Tsubetsu Pass, Bihoro Pass, Lake Mashu Observatory, Mt. Mokoto]

• 

  A hot summer has arrived in Hakodate! Hakodate International Folk Arts Festival 2018

• 

  Four recommended Furano guesthouses where you can have heartwarming interactions!

Introducing our sister site (please check it out if you're interested)