Matsumae Castle is a rare Japanese-style castle built near a port, prioritizing trade. It can be seen from National Route 228 along the coast, and the area is known as the "Town of Cherry Blossoms," boasting the largest variety of cherry trees in Japan and the highest number of cherry trees in Hokkaido.

This Route's Coordinator

Donan-Oiwake Scenic Byway Route Coordinator Yoshiko Sato

This Drive's Route

Donan-Oiwake Scenic Byway Route

This route is rich in nature, history, culture, and culinary resources, and new collaborative initiatives have begun in each area. With the opening of the Hokkaido Shinkansen expected to expand the exchange population, we will challenge ourselves to revitalize the region by better reflecting the connection between "people" and "roads" in our activities. By linking existing local treasures, we will add value and turn them into tourism resources, taking pride in our efforts.

Let's Start the Drive!

1,2 Blue Cave Cruise (between Yagoshi and Iwabe)

Cruises to the untouched natural wonders of Southern Hokkaido's hidden gems depart from two locations: Yagoshi in Shiriuchi Town and Iwabe in Fukushima Town. Departing from both the east and west towards the same area reveals different, captivating sights.
Enjoy a 75-80 minute cruising tour as you are moved by the mysterious and fantastical sea, including the "Blue Cave," and listen to the historical legends of the area.

854CRUISE (Yagoshi Cruise) IWABE CRUISE (Iwabe Cruise)

3 Cape Shirakami & Cape Shirakami Observation Area (Viewpoint Parking)

It's not widely known that Cape Shirakami is the southernmost point of Hokkaido and is located further south than the northernmost tip of Honshu.
The Cape Shirakami Observation Area, 1.5 km west of the cape, is a designated Viewpoint Parking area and a scenic spot where you can sometimes see not only the Tsugaru Peninsula but also Kojima and Oshima islands.
Beneath the Tsugaru Strait lies the world-renowned Seikan Tunnel, and the sea route above it, National Route 280, continues to Aomori.

What is Viewpoint Parking?

4 Esashi Kamome Island

When viewed from above, the island looks like a "kamome" (seagull) and is designated as a special area of the Hiyama Prefectural Natural Park.
The beautiful view of the Sea of Japan overlooking Okushiri Island is highly recommended, especially the sunset. It is a symbolic island of Esashi Town, now connected to the mainland, and can be reached on foot from the town. You can enjoy walking paths and footpaths, and it is becoming a promising location for future development with outdoor facilities like campsites and fishing spots.

Esashi Town Tourism Information Portal Site

5 Ino Tadataka Hokkaido Survey Commencement Memorial Park (Viewpoint Parking)

In the 1800s, the great man "Ino Tadataka," who created a map of Japan with no discrepancies from modern ones, began his survey from this very spot in Yoshioka, Fukushima Town, Hokkaido. Based on this historical fact, a statue depicting him surveying towards Hakodate was erected in 2018, and a memorial park was established.
The area is located within the Matsumae Yagoshi Prefectural Natural Park and is a scenic spot overlooking the Tsugaru Strait. Experience the romance of maps and the history of roads.

What is Viewpoint Parking?

Fukushima Town

6 Michi-no-Eki Kitamaebune Matsumae (Scenic Deck) (Viewpoint Parking)

"Michi-no-Eki Kitamaebune Matsumae" in Hokkaido's southernmost town, Matsumae, is located within the Matsumae Yagoshi Prefectural Natural Park and consistently ranks high among Hokkaido's roadside stations for its scenic views.
The proud "Umikaze Terrace," which offers a spectacular view of the Tsugaru Strait, is also registered as a Scenic Deck. At the adjacent "Umikaze Shokudo," you can savor seasonal seafood like locally caught bluefin tuna and sea urchin, making it a spot that soothes all five senses.

What is Viewpoint Parking?

Michi-no-Eki Kitamaebune Matsumae

Summary

What did you think?
This route was one where you could enjoy the blue of the sky and sea, along with a pleasant sea breeze. It makes you want to drive while learning about history and enjoying the scenery.

Please continue to enjoy your drive while taking thorough precautions against infectious diseases.