Shari, Hokkaido, is the gateway to the Shiretoko World Natural Heritage site. If you're visiting for sightseeing, you'll want to know not just the classic spots, but also the places that locals truly frequent. In this article, Jun Hatsuumi, a creative director involved in Shiretoko's regional branding, shares his handpicked selection of 'special spots' in Shari that will make you want to visit again and again. From community hubs perfect for a stopover during your travels to places brimming with local charm, here are three spots that will make your trip to Shiretoko even more exciting.

Jun Hatsuumi

A town creative director and copywriter who works between Shiretoko and Yokohama. Resident DJ at Shiretoko-Shari Station's CLUB STATION "Shudenmae/Shudengo." Representative of Namiuchigiwa wo Arukou LLC. He is in charge of Shiretoko branding for Shari, Hokkaido, and serves as a regional project manager. He is the one who named "Shiretoko Toko-san." As a child, he often visited Sapporo due to his parents' work. The Kitajizo coffee shop behind the Clock Tower is a cherished memory.

Stay as long as you like. Or just for a little while.

Special Spot #1: Nakashari Shatran

This is a welcoming community space for children and adults, local residents and tourists alike. You can stay as long as you want, and if there's something you want to do, just raise your hand and everyone will support you. It is located in the Nakashari district, a short distance from the urban center of Shari.

No longer a secret, it's Shiretoko's secret base!

Special Spot #2: Himitsukichi Kohitsuji

Known for its bread from Me-Me Bakery, this old-house cafe transforms depending on the day of the week—sometimes a coffee shop, sometimes a dessert parlor, and even a venue for talk events. It's a community hub and art space in Shiretoko, Shari.

The COBAKO Blend from Marufu Coffee is also delicious.

Special Spot #3: COBAKO Shari

This is the "Shiretoko Sustainable Station" operated by the Shiretoko Shari General Incorporated Association, a town development company that works alongside Shiretoko branding. Here you can find not only "Shiretoko Toko-san" goods, but also a curated selection of works by artists connected to Shiretoko and unique souvenirs known only to a few.

What makes Shari Town so charming, according to Jun Hatsuumi?

In Shari, home to Shiretoko, you can see many brand symbols like "Shiretoko Toko-san" that introduce the town's charm. There are also many memorable taglines like "DO-CO COCO? SHIRETOKO!" (Where is this? Shiretoko!), "The town of sea, forest, and people," and "The unknown, Shiretoko." Please come to Shari and discover them for yourself!

Domingo presents: That Person's Special Notebook

"That Person's Special Notebook" can also be found in "HAC MAGAZINE," the in-flight magazine published bimonthly by Hokkaido Air System (HAC), the "Wings of the People of Hokkaido." It introduces the "special picks" of wonderful people from Hokkaido, including local food, places, and souvenirs.

Hokkaido Air System Official Website