Shibetsu (Nemuro) Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Shibetsu (Nemuro) with this comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from local culture and customs to must-try dishes and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Shibetsu (Nemuro)

Shibetsu (Nemuro) is a beautiful town located in the Eastern Circuit of Hokkaido, Japan. Known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage, the town is a popular destination among tourists. Shibetsu (Nemuro) is home to several museums and historical landmarks, along with scenic hiking and biking routes. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a peaceful retreat, Shibetsu (Nemuro) has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Shibetsu (Nemuro)

Here is a list of some of the top attractions in Shibetsu (Nemuro):

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Nemuro Historical Museum - This museum offers a glimpse into the town’s history and cultural heritage, with exhibits on local fishing traditions, Ainu culture, and more.
  • Nemuro City Memorial Museum - This museum is dedicated to the history of the Russo-Japanese War, which took place from 1904 to 1905, with a focus on the Battle of Tsushima.
  • Kanehama Old Residence - This historical residence is a well-preserved example of a traditional Japanese home from the Meiji era, featuring tatami mats and a beautiful garden.

Natural Attractions of Shibetsu (Nemuro): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cape Ochiishi - This scenic cape offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, with hiking trails and photo opportunities aplenty.
  • Shibetsu River - The river is a popular spot for fishing and rafting, especially during the salmon season from September to November.
  • Shizunai Nijukken Road - A scenic route that takes you through lush forests and past stunning waterfalls.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shibetsu (Nemuro)

Shibetsu (Nemuro) is a hiker and biker’s paradise, with several well-maintained trails that offer stunning views of the town’s natural beauty. Here are some of the top routes:

  • Shibetsu Nature Trail - This 8-km trail takes you through a beautiful forested area and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Lake Kutcharo Course - This 30-km course takes you around Lake Kutcharo and allows you to soak in the natural beauty of the area, which is particularly famous for its migratory birds.
  • Roadside Station Amamisan Shibetsu Cycling Course - This 30-km cycling course takes you past several scenic spots, including the Amamisan Shibetsu Onsen hot springs.

Best Things to Do in Shibetsu (Nemuro): Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities and tours to enjoy while visiting Shibetsu (Nemuro):

  • Salmon Fishing - Experience the thrill of catching salmon at the Shibetsu River during the salmon season.
  • Boat Tours of Cape Ochiishi - Take a boat tour around Cape Ochiishi to enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and take photos of the surrounding cliffs.
  • Horseback Riding - Enjoy a leisurely horseback ride through the town’s beautiful countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shibetsu (Nemuro)

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for visiting Shibetsu (Nemuro):

Day Activity
1 Visit the Nemuro Historical Museum and Kanehama Old Residence
2 Hike the Shibetsu Nature Trail and enjoy the scenic views
3 Take a boat tour around Cape Ochiishi and try some salmon fishing
4 Visit the Nemuro City Memorial Museum and enjoy a horseback ride
5 Cycle around the scenic Lake Kutcharo course
6 Visit the Roadside Station Amamisan Shibetsu and relax in the hot springs
7 Explore the town’s local markets and purchase souvenirs to bring home

Food and Drink Scene of Shibetsu (Nemuro)

Shibetsu (Nemuro) is known for its delicious seafood and local beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kaisen-don - A delicious seafood rice bowl, featuring the freshest fish caught in the surrounding waters.
  • Okhotsk Lover - A local specialty made with Hokkaido’s famous dairy cream, butter, and other dairy products.
  • Iburi-gakko - A traditional pickled carrot dish that is smoked to add a unique flavor.

Local Beverages

  • Shiretoko Beer - A local beer made with the pure water of Shiretoko and Hokkaido-grown hops.
  • Nemuro Wine - Made with locally grown grapes, this wine has a unique flavor with hints of Hokkaido’s natural sweetness.
  • Nemuro Sake - Made with rice grown in the surrounding area, this sake has a smooth and flavorful taste.

Where to Stay in Shibetsu (Nemuro): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Shibetsu (Nemuro) has several accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best places to stay in Shibetsu (Nemuro):

  • Hotel Nemuro Kaiyoutei - A luxury hotel that offers gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean and top-notch amenities.
  • Shibetsu Inn Suigetsu - An affordable hotel that is perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
  • Nemuro Yakusha Onsen Hanatsubaki - A traditional Japanese guesthouse that offers a unique cultural experience.

What to Buy in Shibetsu (Nemuro): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Shibetsu (Nemuro) is famous for its locally made products, including handicrafts, sake, and seafood products. Here are some of the top souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Nemuro Salmon - A popular souvenir, Nemuro salmon can be purchased fresh or dried.
  • Nemuro Sake - Bring home a bottle or two of this locally made sake as a delicious reminder of your trip.
  • Ainu Crafts - These traditional handicrafts, made by the Ainu people, include unique items like woven baskets and embroidered jackets.

Local Culture and Customs of Shibetsu (Nemuro)

Shibetsu (Nemuro) has a rich cultural heritage, with traditions that are influenced by the Ainu people and the town’s fishing history. The town hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, including a fireworks festival in the summer and a seafood festival in the fall.

Best Time to Visit Shibetsu (Nemuro)

The best time to visit Shibetsu (Nemuro) is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. However, the town’s fall season (September to November) is also popular, as it is the salmon season and the town hosts several seafood festivals during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shibetsu (Nemuro)

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Shibetsu (Nemuro):

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and buy souvenirs from local shops.
  • Follow the rules and regulations while hiking or biking.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places or disrespect the environment.
  • Disrespect the cultural traditions and practices of the Ainu people.
  • Take photos with flash in museums or historical places.

Safety and Health

Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind during your visit to Shibetsu (Nemuro):

Safety in Shibetsu (Nemuro)

  • Take precautions while hiking or biking on mountainous trails, and make sure to carry enough food, water, and medical supplies.
  • Be aware of potential natural disasters, including earthquakes and typhoons.

Health in Shibetsu (Nemuro)

  • Make sure to carry any necessary medications with you, especially if you have any chronic health conditions.
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies while abroad.

Getting to Shibetsu (Nemuro): Transportation Options and Logistics

Shibetsu (Nemuro) is easily accessible by air, train, or bus. Here are some of the transportation options to consider:

  • By Air - The closest airport to Shibetsu (Nemuro) is the Memanbetsu Airport, which is located about 70 km from the town.
  • By Train - Take the JR Senmo Line from Sapporo to Nemuro Station, and then take a bus to Shibetsu (Nemuro).
  • By Bus - Shibetsu (Nemuro) is well-connected by bus to several cities in Hokkaido, including Sapporo, Kushiro, and Abashiri.

How to Get Around in Shibetsu (Nemuro)

The best way to get around Shibetsu (Nemuro) is by car or by bicycle. There are several car rental agencies in the town, and bicycles can be rented from most hotels and guesthouses. Taxis are also available but can be expensive for longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Shibetsu (Nemuro): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore Hokkaido, here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you can consider:

  • Shiretoko Peninsula - A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is famous for its stunning natural beauty and wildlife.
  • Kushiro Marshland - A beautiful wetland area that is home to several rare species of birds and plants.
  • Lake Akan - A serene volcanic lake that offers hiking trails and hot springs.

Conclusion

Shibetsu (Nemuro) is a beautiful town in Hokkaido that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From its museums and historical landmarks to its outdoor activities and delicious cuisine, the town has something for everyone. Plan your trip to Shibetsu (Nemuro) using this comprehensive travel guide, and experience the best that the town has to offer.

Location of Shibetsu Location of Shibetsu