1. The Breathtaking "Shakotan Blue" View from the Observatory at Cape Ogon (Shakotan Town)

Cape Ogon, in the Bikuni area of Shakotan Town, is an ocean view spot on the Sea of Japan offering a stunning vista that shines like gold, as its name suggests. The dazzlingly clear, cobalt blue sea, known as "Shakotan Blue," captivates all who visit. A 410-meter promenade from Bikuni Port leads to an observatory jutting out into the sea. From there, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the transparent blue sea, rugged cliffs, and the town of Bikuni, making it one of the most scenic spots in the Yoichi and Shakotan area.

2. Free Whisky Tasting After the Tour at Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery (Yoichi Town)

This distillery was founded in 1934 by Masataka Taketsuru, known as the father of Japanese whisky. Amidst nature and buildings reminiscent of Scotland, you can learn about the whisky manufacturing methods and processes. The museum features exhibits on the history of whisky and the origins of Nikka. You can also see a part of the private residence where Taketsuru and his wife, Rita, lived, who were the models for the main characters in the NHK morning drama series "Massan."

3. The Dynamic Cape Kamui and Kamui Rock Jutting into the Open Sea (Shakotan Town)

You can walk to the tip of Cape Kamui, which juts out into the open sea. Following the "Charenka's Path" promenade, which offers a magnificent view of the Sea of Japan, you'll be greeted by a 300-degree rounded horizon. Its vividly blue and transparent beauty is also called "Shakotan Blue." In early summer, the Ezo-kanzo daylilies bloom beautifully, delighting visitors.

4. Enjoy a Superb View of the Sea of Japan and a Hot Spring at Misaki no Yu Shakotan (Shakotan Town)

This hot spring facility, located at the tip of the Shakotan Peninsula, offers panoramic views of Cape Kamui, Cape Shakotan, and the beautiful Sea of Japan, known as "Shakotan Blue," from its open-air bath and large-windowed indoor bath. At dusk, the sunset over the sea is beautiful, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing bath while gazing at the stunning scenery. It also features a botanical sauna and a restaurant, making it a perfect stop during a drive.

5. A Trip Back in Time at a Former Herring Fishery Guardhouse, the Herring Museum Yamashime Banya (Shakotan Town)

The Herring Museum Yamashime Banya is a cultural heritage facility that preserves and utilizes the Yamashime Fukui residence, which prospered as a herring fishery guardhouse (banya). It conveys the history of Shakotan, which flourished as a leading herring fishing ground from the Meiji to the Showa periods. There is also a cafe, so you can relax and feel as if you've traveled back in time.

6. Watch the Stunning Sunset at Cape Ryujin (Kamoenai Village)

This cape is colored by the village's legend of a dragon god who lived in Tomaru Pond and ascended to the heavens from Cape Ryujin. Then and now, it has served as a navigational landmark, saving the lives of sailors. On a clear evening, you can watch the breathtaking view of the sun setting beyond the horizon.

7. Fugoppe Cave, with Rock Carvings from the Post-Jomon Period (Yoichi Town)

This cave contains over 800 rock carvings believed to have been made by ancient people during the late Post-Jomon period, about 1,300 to 1,600 years ago. The carvings on the rock walls depict figures that look like costumed people, as well as boats, fish, sea creatures, and four-legged animals. The cave also contains pottery, bone and antler tools, and hearth remains discovered from the sedimentary layers, making it a nationally designated historic site of global importance.

8. Full of Space-Related Exhibits for the Whole Family to Enjoy at Yoichi Space Museum - Space Dome (Yoichi Town)

Built to commemorate the achievement of Mamoru Mohri, a native of Yoichi Town, who became the first Japanese scientist to fly into space in 1992. Inside the museum's "Space Station," you can learn about the mysteries of the universe and the latest information on space development. It's a particularly recommended spot for children who love space.

9. Learn About Trade with the Matsumae Clan at the Former Shimoyoichi Unjoya (Yoichi Town)

During the Edo period, this building served as a base for merchants who undertook trade with the Ainu people on behalf of the Matsumae clan to manage the Ezochi (Hokkaido) region. Unjoya (trading posts) were built in various parts of Ezochi at the time, but the Former Shimoyoichi Unjoya is the only one still existing in Hokkaido today. The interior space is expansive, and the pillars and beams seen from the wooden floor are thick, with many of the original materials still intact.

10. The Former Yoichi Fukuhara Fishery, Conveying the Prosperity of the Herring Fishing Heyday (Yoichi Town)

This nationally designated cultural property conveys the prosperity of the herring fishing heyday. It also served as the model for the interior of the "Herring Mansion" that appeared in the NHK morning drama series "Massan." On the spacious grounds, you can learn about the layout and roles of each building, giving you a sense of the bustling activity of the time. In spring, it is also famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot.

Choose by Purpose! How to Enjoy a Drive in the Yoichi & Shakotan Area