Unlock the Hidden Coastal Gems of Shakotan Peninsula and Otaru in One Day

Looking to explore the lesser-known coastal treasures of Hokkaido? This route from Shakotan Peninsula to Otaru takes you through the "Shakotan Blue" sea, volcanic cliffs, and ends with the aroma of whiskey and the romantic charm of canals! 🌅 First Stop: Cape Kamui 📍 Address: 380-6 Funamimachi, Shakotan-cho, Shakotan-gun, Hokkaido 🚇 Transportation: ① Start at JR Yoichi Station 🚉 ② Take the Hokkaido Chuo Bus 🚌 heading to Cape Kamui, approximately 2 hours ③ Get off at the final stop 🚏 ④ Walk 770m from the parking lot 🚶 to the cape summit, about 20 minutes 🌊 Highlights: ✅ 360° Observation Deck: Witness the collision of "Shakotan Blue" waters and volcanic cliffs ✅ Legend of Kamui Rock: Ainu folklore of a maiden's tragic love story adds a mysterious aura to the giant rock ✅ Formerly a "No-Women Zone," now a romantic photo spot 🍴 Food: Try the sea urchin rice bowl (freshly cut sea urchin + rice) at nearby seafood stalls Tips: 👟 Wear a windproof jacket and hiking shoes; the coastal winds are strong, and the trail is rocky. Closed during winter (late October to late April). 🌋 Second Stop: Shimamui Coast 📍 Address: About 1 km east of Cape Kamui summit 🚇 Transportation: About 30 minutes by car from Cape Kamui, or take a local bus (limited service, check schedules in advance) 📸 Experiences: ✅ Mysterious Tunnel Adventure: Pass through a 50-meter tunnel from darkness to light, reaching an observation deck 83 meters above sea level with views of the "Glass Sea" ✅ High Water Transparency: Selected as one of "Japan's 100 Beautiful Seas," with exceptionally clear waters in summer ✅ Volcanic Rock Wonders: Sea caves, wave-cut platforms, and jagged reefs—a must-visit for geology enthusiasts! 🍎 Third Stop: Yoichi NITORI Tourist Orchard 📍 Address: Yoichi Town, Hokkaido 🚗 Transportation: About 1 hour by car from Shimamui Coast, or take a taxi from JR Yoichi Station 🍉 Seasonal Fruit Calendar: ✅ June-July: Cherries, Strawberries ✅ August-September: Apples, Plums, Pears, Peaches, Grapes, Blueberries ✅ October: Persimmons, Apples 🎫 Picking Fees: All-you-can-eat: Adults (middle school and above) 2,000 yen / Elementary school students 1,500 yen / Children (3-5 years old) 700 yen 🏮 Fourth Stop: Otaru ✅ Otaru Canal: A symbolic landmark of Otaru and Hokkaido, featuring oil lamps and retro warehouses. Also a filming location for the drama "Love Letter." 🍣 Food: ✅ Kita no Gyoba: Fresh sea urchin, botan shrimp sashimi, snow crab sashimi, and live abalone sashimi 💡 Tips: The interior is simple, but the ingredients and flavors are top-notch, perfect for those seeking authentic tastes. ✅ Otaru Canal Food Court: A collection of 10 diverse restaurants offering everything from Hokkaido miso ramen and crab dishes to Genghis Khan BBQ 💡 Tips: The seafood rice bowls here are hearty and delicious, ideal for a satisfying meal.