If you go to Shiretoko, why not try an unique experience to enjoy the spectacular views from another side as well? Sea kayak in the Shiretoko Peninsula, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a great way to immerse yourself in nature of Hokkaido.
The kayaking tour we took started at a beach in Utoro area with safety briefing on how to paddle a tandem kayak. The tour was quite beginner-friendly; if you are not so confident in paddling in the sea, a guide could be your partner (they are pro, so you can be lazy on the kayak!).
We paddled along the cliffs over 100 m high to see two beautiful waterfalls. After taking a rest in a bay near one of the waterfalls, we headed back to the beach where we started. Great views and great exercise!
This guide shop offers summer and winter kayak tours. The summer tour is what we did, while the winter one takes a shorter route but paddles with drift ice all around! It must be a cool experience. I would love to try it when I go back to Shiretoko in winter!
Kayak tour, Shiretoko Outdoor Guide Center
Season: May to October for summer tours, the beginning and end of drift ice season for winter tours (check with the guide.)
Tour schedule: twice a day (8:30 - 11:30, 13:00 - 16:00)
Access: Meeting point in Utoro will be informed upon reservation. Transpiration service available upon request.
