The Okhotsk region is full of beautiful, photogenic spots set against the backdrop of the clear "Okhotsk Blue" sky! Come visit on a warm, sunny day to experience a wonderful sense of freedom!

This Route's Coordinator

This Drive's Route

Eastern Okhotsk Scenic Byway

This is a land of national parks like Shiretoko and Akan-Mashu, vast farmlands, wild mountain landscapes, lakes where swans migrate, primeval flower gardens, and drift ice. It's a region rich in seasonal colors, where local residents have carefully protected and nurtured nature, including two national parks, Abashiri Quasi-National Park, and Sharidake Prefectural Natural Park. The beautiful scenery of farming and fishing villages, and lovely towns full of flowers and greenery, are complemented by the north's abundant culinary delights. These one-of-a-kind tourism resources, which soothe the soul and inspire awe, are condensed into this route that captures the essence of Hokkaido sightseeing.

Let's Head Out on the Drive!

1 Meruhen no Oka (Fairy Tale Hill) (Ozora Town)

This is a beautiful farmland view with seven larch trees standing on a gentle hill. It became famous as a photo spot after being used as a filming location for Akira Kurosawa's movie "Dreams." It shows various expressions throughout the seasons, with potato flowers, budding wheat, and scenes of combine harvesters. There is a parking area and a wooden deck (scenic deck), allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.

2 Bihoro Pass (Bihoro Town)

Located within Akan-Mashu National Park, this is a spectacular viewpoint offering a panorama of Lake Kussharo, Japan's largest caldera lake, below, as well as a sweeping view of the Akan mountains.
At the pass, there is an observation deck and the roadside station "Gurutto Panorama Bihoro Pass." You can enjoy the famous age-imo (deep-fried potato) and kumazasa (Sasa bamboo) soft-serve ice cream while taking in the magnificent view, or wake up early to be moved by the sea of clouds.

3 Ozora Town's Nagaimo Dishes

"Nagaimo" (Japanese mountain yam) is a specialty of Higashimokoto in Ozora Town. Its pure white color and crisp texture are irresistible. It's delicious simply grated and served over rice.
At the roadside station "Nonky Land Higashimokoto," the lunch menu is packed with various dishes featuring nagaimo prepared in different ways, such as steak and tempura. Be sure to also try the shijimi soy sauce, made with freshwater clams from Lake Abashiri. It's a healthy choice.

4 Mount Shari (Kiyosato Town)

Along Hokkaido Prefectural Road 1115 (Cosmos Road), there is a scenic deck that serves as a photogenic point for viewing Mount Shari, one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains.
From summer to autumn, you can enjoy the contrast between the view of Mount Shari, the rural landscape, and seasonal flowers like cosmos and field mustard. It's a pleasant spot with a gentle breeze and the scent of the earth, perfect for taking photos.

5 Road to Heaven

Located at the base of the Shiretoko Peninsula at the foot of Mount Unabetsu, the "Road to Heaven" (Ten ni Tsuzuku Michi) creates a landscape where a straight road seems to stretch endlessly into the sky. It's a viewpoint that makes you feel, "This is Hokkaido!"
From the highlands in this area, you can get a panoramic view of the Sea of Okhotsk, and the sunsets are beautiful. The unique scenery of land and sea in Eastern Okhotsk is truly worth seeing.

Recommended Road

View of Utoro town and Oronko Rock from Puyuni Cape

Conclusion

What did you think?
This route was a classic Hokkaido experience, with the beautiful contrast of the wide sky and the magnificent land. It's a journey to be enjoyed while stopping by each town's delicious food and wonderful spots!

Enjoy a drive in the warm, sunny weather, and please be sure to travel safely.