Shiretoko was registered as a World Heritage site in 2005. When people think of Shiretoko, many might picture the Shiretoko Peninsula jutting out into the eastern part of Hokkaido. However, access is highly restricted, and general tourists cannot travel to the tip of the peninsula. "So, let's see it from the sea!" This idea was brought to life by a company called Godzilla Rock Sightseeing, which offers cruises. So, what kind of tour is it?

First, it's important to know that the Shiretoko Peninsula has Utoro in Shari Town on the west side and Rausu Town on the east side, each with a different atmosphere and highlights. Godzilla Rock Sightseeing offers cruises departing from both Utoro and Rausu, and the content of each tour differs. This time, I joined the "Shiretoko Peninsula Utoro Cruise," which departed from Utoro and ran until October 15th!
First, along with the other participants, we walked from the meeting point to the port. On the way, I was surprised to see the "Godzilla Rock," which is the origin of the company's name! Finally, we arrived at the port. Seeing the cruise ship we were about to board and the vast ocean before us, the excitement was palpable.
The ship moved at a comfortable speed along the steep cliffs of the Shiretoko Peninsula. After a while, we encountered a brown bear searching for fish on the shore. The guide exclaimed, "You're all very lucky!" which sent our excitement soaring once again!
The cruise continued as we witnessed various natural wonders, such as rock faces with columnar joints, numerous waterfalls, and seabirds resting their wings on jutting rocks.
The peak of our ever-growing excitement came when we encountered a large pod of dolphins! Dozens of them were leaping out of the water, as if inviting us to play.
The tour takes about 3 to 3.5 hours. In addition, various other cruises and activities are available depending on the season.

For example, on the Utoro side, there's the "Drift Ice Walk" held for a short period in February and March. From Rausu, there's the "Whale, Dolphin, and Bird Watching Cruise" (April 28 - October 15) and the "Nemuro Strait Cruise" (February 1 - end of March).

(Photo courtesy of Godzilla Rock Sightseeing)

Why not choose a tour based on the time of your visit and your interests? A cruise that lets you fully enjoy a World Heritage site from the sea is sure to become an unforgettable memory.

It's a great idea to start considering it now as a candidate for next year's trip.

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Godzilla Rock Sightseeing
【Utoro Office】
Address: Utoro Higashi 51, Shari-cho, Shari-gun, Hokkaido
Phone: 0152-24-3060
【Rausu Office】
Address: Honcho 30-2, Rausu-cho, Menashi-gun, Hokkaido
Phone: 0153-85-7575
Official Website: https://kamuiwakka.jp