Shari Travel Guide

This travel guide provides a comprehensive tour of Shari, including the best places to visit, activities to do, food and drink scene, and transportation options.


Shari Travel Guide

Located in the Eastern Circuit region of Hokkaido, Japan, Shari is a small town surrounded by mountains, forests, and beautiful countryside landscapes. It’s a hidden gem for travelers seeking a peaceful and tranquil experience away from crowded cities.

In this travel guide, we will provide a comprehensive tour of Shari, including the best places to visit, activities to do, food and drink scene, and transportation options.

List of Places to Visit in Shari

There are many culturally important and natural attractions to explore in Shari.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Shiretoko Museum: This museum showcases the nature and history of the Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Oshinkoshin Falls: A beautiful waterfall located in the middle of the forest, where visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk along the river.
  • Kiyosato Museum of Photographic Arts: A museum that showcases contemporary photography exhibitions.

Natural Attractions of Shari: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Shiretoko National Park: This national park features unique rock formations, hot springs, and an abundance of wildlife.
  • Furepe Waterfall: A beautiful 24-meter high waterfall surrounded by picturesque natural scenery.
  • Lake Kussharo: A large volcanic caldera lake surrounded by hot springs, a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the view.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shari

For adventure enthusiasts, Shari offers many options to explore the area’s beautiful nature.

  • Shiretoko Five Lakes Trail: A beautiful hiking trail that takes visitors through the heart of Shiretoko National Park.
  • Shiretoko Pass: A challenging biking route that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Shari: Activities and Tours

  • Whale Watching Tour: Take a boat ride and explore the amazing marine wildlife found in this area.
  • Hot Springs Tour: Relax and rejuvenate in one of the many hot springs found in and around Shari.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shari

To get the most out of Shari, we recommend the following week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Explore the Shiretoko Museum and Oshinkoshin Falls
2 Hike the Shiretoko Five Lakes Trail
3 Visit Furepe Waterfall and relax in a nearby hot spring
4 Take a whale watching tour
5 Explore the Kiyosato Museum of Photographic Arts and relax in a nearby hot spring
6 Bike the Shiretoko Pass
7 Relax and enjoy Lake Kussharo

Food and Drink Scene of Shari

Shari is known for its fresh seafood and delicious local cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kaisendon: A bowl of rice topped with fresh seafood.
  • Basashi: A dish made with thinly sliced horse meat.
  • Hokkaido Ramen: A hearty noodle dish made with pork broth.

Local Beverages

  • Shari Sake: A locally brewed sake made with clear water from the Shiretoko Mountains.
  • Hokkaido Beer: A craft beer made with the finest ingredients from Hokkaido.

Where to Stay in Shari: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Shari Central Hotel: A comfortable hotel located in the heart of the town.
  • Shiretoko Prince Hotel: A luxurious hotel with an amazing view of the Shiretoko Mountains.
  • Rausu Onsen: A traditional Japanese inn with relaxing hot spring baths.

What to Buy in Shari: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Shiretoko Soba: Soba noodles made with buckwheat flour grown in the Shiretoko Mountains.
  • Shiretoko Shortbread: A delicious shortbread cookie made with butter from Hokkaido.
  • Shari Sake: A locally brewed sake made with clear water from the Shiretoko Mountains.

Local Culture and Customs of Shari

  • Etiquette: Visitors should remove their shoes before entering homes and many traditional Japanese inns and hotels.
  • Respect for nature: Shari is a haven for nature lovers, therefore, visitors should respect the environment and not litter.

Best Time to Visit Shari

The best time to visit Shari is during the summer (June-August) when the weather is mild and nature is in full bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shari

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and culture.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Enjoy the natural beauty of Shari.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disrespect the environment.
  • Ignore local customs or traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shari

Shari is generally a safe town, but visitors should still exercise caution and be aware of surroundings while exploring.

Health in Shari

There are no major health concerns in Shari, but visitors should still take precautions and protect themselves from mosquito bites during the summer months.

Getting to Shari: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Shari

  • Memanbetsu Airport: Located approximately 100 km from Shari.

Bus Stations Near Shari

  • Shari Bus Station: A central bus station with frequent bus services to major cities and towns in Hokkaido.

Other Options

  • Car rental: A convenient option for those who want to explore the area at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Shari

There is no public transportation within the town of Shari, but taxis are available and affordable.

Where to Go Next from Shari: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Rausu: A small town located on the eastern coast of Hokkaido, known for its hot springs and beautiful coastal scenery.
  • Kushiro: A major city in Hokkaido known for its nature reserves, wetlands, and birdwatching opportunities.

Conclusion

Shari is a small town that offers a unique and peaceful experience for travelers seeking to explore the natural beauty of Hokkaido. With its stunning natural scenery, mouth-watering local cuisine, and warm hospitality, it’s an excellent destination for those looking for an enriching and fulfilling travel experience.