We will introduce a scenic driving route that you can only experience here, such as the superb Rishiri Fuji, Sarobetsu Marsh that stretches to the horizon, Rebun Island, Rishiri Island, and the Soya Hills with their magnificent periglacial terrain.

Route coordinator for this issue

This time's driving route

Soya Scenic Byway

We set out for a drive as soon as possible!

1White Road (Soya Hills )

The "White Road" in the Soya Hills is a 3-kilometer road paved with crushed scallop shells, a specialty of Wakkanai. The contrast between the blue sky and sea, the green grass and flowers, and the white road is beautiful, and the unique scenery has become a popular spot on SNS and other social networking sites in recent years.

Wakkanai Tourist Information

2Bukkai Line (Oloron Line)

This is the highlight of the Oloron Line, which runs from Otaru to Wakkanai. From the town of Toyotomi, where the road enters the Rishiri Rebun Sarobetsu National Park, man-made structures disappear from view, and the road offers a spectacular view that can only be enjoyed here. As you head north to Wakkanai, you can see the Sea of Japan and Mt. Rishiri on your left, and the sunset on Mt.

Wakkanai Tourist Information

3Esanuca Line

The Esanuka Line runs from Sarufutsu Village to Hamatombetsu Town. It is popular among riders and tourists for its straight road that is approximately 16 km long and seems to stretch to the horizon. There are no guardrails or utility poles along the entire route, and the plains on both sides provide a superb, ultra-open view.

Sarufutsu Village Tourist Association

4Large Grassland Ranch

With a total area of 1,500 ha, this large-scale grassland ranch is one of the largest in Japan. The European-like hilly terrain and idyllic scenery of grazing cows and grass rolls make for a great drive. It is also recommended for stargazing.
The road has many ups and downs, but it is easy to get around on an electric-assist bicycle. Please rent a bicycle.

Toyotomi Tourist Association

5 WakkanaiBrand

Products that make the most of agricultural, livestock, and marine products from the rich natural environment of the northernmost part of Wakkanai, as well as Wakkanai's proud culture, nature, and other local resources, are certified as "Wakkanai Brand" and widely disseminated both domestically and internationally. All of the certified products are highly recommended as souvenirs and other items that reflect the attractiveness of Wakkanai. As of June 2020, 7 raw materials, 25 processed products, and 4 local resources have been certified.

Wakkanai Brand

Summary

This time, the route made us want to drive through by car, bicycle, and foot, and the Domingo editorial staff also wanted to taste the clean air created by the mountains and sea in northern Hokkaido.
We hope you enjoy your drive through the autumn and winter in Hokkaido, making sure you are well prepared for infection and studless tires!