Kunashir Travel Guide

Discover the remote island of Kunashir in the Kuril Islands with our comprehensive travel guide. From natural attractions to cultural must-sees, here's everything you need to know before visiting Kunashir.


Introduction to Kunashir

Kunashir is a picturesque island located in the Kuril Island chain in Russia’s Far East. The island is blessed with natural beauty, including majestic mountains, pristine beaches, hot springs, and breathtaking hiking trails. The Japanese once called this island “Kunashiri,” but today the island’s inhabitants are predominantly Russian.

List of Places to Visit in Kunashir

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kunashir is a place of unique cultural significance. A few must-visit museums and historical sites are:

  • Kunashir Museum of Local Lore: This museum showcases the island’s distinctive culture and history through its vast collection of artifacts and exhibits.
  • Yuzhno-Kurilsk Local Lore Museum: This museum displays the history and culture of the Kuril Islands, including the traditional Ainu and Russian influences.
  • Lopatka Cape: It is a historical landmark on the island, signifying the end of World War II.

Natural Attractions of Kunashir: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kunashir boasts of magical natural landscapes surrounded by the Pacific Ocean. Here are some to add to your list:

  • Mount Ilyinsky: This active volcano is the highest point on the island and offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Golovnin Volcano: Another volcanic wonder to add to your itinerary. It is accessible via a hike that takes about 4-5 hours.
  • Goryachy Klyuch: It is a hot spring and spa that visitors can enjoy a much-needed thermal soak in the mineral-rich pools.
  • Peschanaya Bay: This is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, with soft sands and turquoise clear waters.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kunashir

Kunashir has many scenic hiking trails and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. Some popular trails include:

  • Kunashir Ring: It’s a circular road that circles the island and covers some of the best scenic marvels. A definitive must-try if you’re short on time.
  • Volcano trek to the Mount Ilyinsky summit: A steep climb that takes almost 6 hours but rewards you with unsurpassable views of the Kuril Islands and a sense of accomplishment.
  • Golovnin volcano climb: This trek takes you to the summit of the Golovnin Volcano, which offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.

Best Things to Do in Kunashir: Activities and Tours

Kunashir offers a variety of activities and tours that suit all interests. Here are some experiences that visitors shouldn’t miss:

  • Fishing: Kunashir is famous for salmon and trout fishing in its rivers and streams.
  • Whale watching tour: Take a boat tour to get a glimpse of these gentle giants that frequent the waters surrounding the island.
  • Ainu culture tour: Learn about the indigenous Ainu community and their unique traditions that exist on the island.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kunashir

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay on the island:

Day 1: Arrive in Yuzhno-Kurilsk, the main town, and explore the local landmarks.

Day 2 - 3: Hike to Mount Ilyinsky or Golovnin, take a dip in Goryachy Klyuch, visit Peschanaya Bay, and take in the scenery.

Day 4: Go on a fishing trip and spend the day with local fishermen.

Day 5: Hire a car and tour the Kunashir Ring road, stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way.

Day 6: Take a whale-watching tour.

Day 7: Spend the last day of your trip visiting local museums and art galleries.

Food and Drink Scene of Kunashir

Must-Try Dishes

Kunashir serves up some unique culinary experiences for travellers such as:

  • Kuril-style Kelp: This dish is made with seaweed and serves as a traditional delicacy.
  • Smelt fish snack: A small smoked fish that is a nostalgic snack to locals here.
  • Seafood platter: The Kuril Islands are a paradise for seafood lovers, and numerous restaurants serve delectable seafood platters, including squid, clams, and trout.

Local Beverages

Unlike other Russian regions, Kunashir has beer brewed locally, which is called Kurilsky Krai. It is a refreshing beverage that complements the seafood- and meat-based dishes that are prevalent in the island’s cuisine.

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

Kunashir has a wide range of accommodation options to cater to all budgets and preferences. Here are some popular options:

  • Kunashirskaya Rostia: This hotel is located near the city center, providing visitors with a comfortable stay and easy access to downtown Yuzno-Kurilsk.
  • Enchanting Kunashir: This guesthouse is the perfect choice for travellers who want to immerse themselves in the island’s beauty. It is located near Mount Ilyinsky, making it an ideal base camp for trekking enthusiasts.
  • Hostel Kurilskaya: Visitors looking for a budget stay can choose Hostel Kurilskaya, which offers basic but comfortable rooms.

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

Kunashir is known for its indigenous Ainu crafts, including silver jewelry, wooden carvings, and traditional woven garments. Visitors can also buy seal and sea lion fur mats, and crockery made from volcanic clay.

Local Culture and Customs of Kunashir

Kunashir’s culture is a perfect blend of Japanese and Russian influences. The Ainu community is the island’s indigenous group, and their customs and traditions remain a vibrant and integral part of Kunashir’s cultural heritage.

Best Time to Visit Kunashir

The best time to visit Kunashir is from late spring (April-May) to early autumn (August-September) when the weather is mild and pleasant, and most tourist activities are open.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kunashir

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions, including the Ainu culture.
  • Carry cash with you, as credit facilities are not prevalent on the island.
  • Try the local seafood delicacies.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter or damage the island’s sensitive environment.
  • Do not attempt to climb the volcanoes on your own without a licensed guide.
  • Do not touch the wildlife, including seals and sea lions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kunashir

Kunashir is a safe place to visit, with low crime rates. Visitors should take necessary precautions while exploring the island’s natural landscapes and adhere to instructions given by guides or locals.

Health in Kunashir

Kunashir’s medical resources are limited, and visitors should ensure that they have comprehensive medical insurance that covers all possible events.

Getting to Kunashir: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kunashir

Yuzhno-Kurilsk Airport is the only airport on the island, serving daily flights to and from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Khabarovsk, and Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk.

Bus Stations Near Kunashir

There are no bus services on the island.

Other Options

Visitors can take a ferry from Korsakov port in Sakhalin to reach Kunashir, although this option is infrequent and not very reliable.

How to Get Around in Kunashir

The best way to explore Kunashir’s beauty is by renting a car locally. Otherwise, visitors have the option of taking a regulated taxi or hiring a bicycle for short distances.

Where to Go Next from Kunashir: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore the neighboring Islands of Iturup, Shikotan with daily boat connections.

Conclusion

Kunashir offers visitors a unique experience that combines the island’s natural beauty, culture, and heritage. With the right preparations, visitors can spend a perfect and unforgettable vacation on Kunashir, a hidden gem in the Kuril Islands.



    Yuzhno-Kurilsk