Top Attractions in Rausu for Sightseeing
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Rausu is a remote destination that takes time to reach, but it offers experiences that are truly once-in-a-lifetime. Located within the UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site of Shiretoko, this coastal town is a rare gem for those exploring Hokkaido travel off the beaten path. In winter, wildlife cruises let you witness majestic Steller’s sea eagles and seals among the drifting sea ice. Summer brings whale watching opportunities, where you may spot orcas and sperm whales off the coast. Rausu is also known for its premium seafood, especially Rausu kelp, sea urchin, and crab, served fresh at local restaurants and markets. Hot springs and the peaceful fishing-town atmosphere offer a cultural escape as well. Although reaching Rausu takes time, the unforgettable wildlife encounters, pristine nature, and rich local flavors make it a rewarding addition to any Hokkaido itinerary.
Recommended Local Products and Traditional Crafts in Rausu
Rausu Kelp
Rausu, located on the eastern edge of Hokkaido’s Shiretoko Peninsula, is not only famous for its wildlife and rugged scenery—it’s also home to one of Japan’s most prized local specialties: Rausu Kelp. This thick, dark green seaweed grows in the cold, nutrient-rich waters off Rausu’s coast, absorbing the purity of the sea and the minerals from its rocky seabed. Its deep umami flavor and rich aroma make it a favorite ingredient for chefs preparing high-end dashi (soup stock), a fundamental part of Japanese cuisine. Harvested in the summer months, Rausu Kelp is carefully dried and aged to enhance its complexity. It’s not just a cooking ingredient; for locals, it represents a centuries-old connection to the sea and a key part of Rausu’s fishing heritage. Whether it’s simmered into broths, used in hot pots, or enjoyed as a seasoned snack, Rausu Kelp offers a taste of Hokkaido’s northern coast. If you’re exploring Hokkaido food culture or looking for meaningful local specialties in Rausu, this humble sea vegetable is a flavorful and authentic part of the journey.
Explore Rausu: Top Spots and Must-Know Topic
Shiretoko Pass
Shiretoko Pass is a mountain pass along National Route 334 that connects Rausu and Shari, Hokkaido, and is known for its particularly spectacular views. From an elevation of 738 meters, you can see Kunashiri Island and the Nemuro Strait on clear days, with a breathtaking display of natural beauty stretching out before you. The majestic scenery of the Shiretoko mountain range and encounters with alpine plants, wild birds, and wild animals like Ezo deer are some of the highlights of Rausu. The pass is a popular driving route from spring to autumn and is counted as one of the “Eight Views of Shiretoko.” It’s an essential spot for anyone talking about Rausu sightseeing. With seasonal attractions like walking alongside the towering walls of snow that remain after the thaw, Shiretoko Pass is a classic destination cherished by many for its immersive natural beauty.
Rausu Visitor Center
The Rausu Visitor Center is a facility where you can learn about the nature and wildlife of Shiretoko National Park, serving as a gateway to sightseeing in Rausu. Inside, you’ll find exhibits of stuffed animals like brown bears, orcas, and Steller’s sea eagles, along with panels and videos that introduce the seasonal changes in nature. This makes it a great place for all ages to learn about Rausu’s highlights. With the Shiretoko mountain range as a backdrop, the center also has walking paths and an observation deck where you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery. It’s a perfect spot for those who want to deepen their connection with and knowledge of nature while sightseeing in Rausu.
Roadside Station Shiretoko Rausu
Shiretoko Rausu is a popular roadside rest area located at the gateway to the Shiretoko Peninsula in Rausu. It’s a great place to stop during a drive or sightseeing trip. The market sells a wide variety of local specialties and souvenirs, with a focus on fresh seafood. You can also enjoy seasonal seafood dishes at the on-site restaurant. One of the main attractions is the magnificent view of Kunashiri Island from inside the facility, which captivates visitors. As a hub for Shiretoko tourism, the station provides a lot of local information, making it the perfect place to stop before exploring other Rausu attractions.
Rausu Kunashiri Observatory Tower
The Rausu Kunashiri Observatory Tower is a well-known tourist spot in Rausu, famous for its magnificent view of Kunashiri Island. Located on a hill at an altitude of 167 meters, on a clear day you can get a crisp, powerful view of the Northern Territories’ Kunashiri Island. Telescopes are available in the observation room for viewing sea ice and wildlife. The building also has exhibits on the history and nature of the Northern Territories, making it a great place to experience both learning and wonder. As one of the highlights of sightseeing in Shiretoko and Rausu, it’s a must-visit spot to experience the charm of both nature and history.
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Kuma-no-Yu Onsen
Kuma-no-Yu Onsen is a secluded hot spring surrounded by nature in Rausu, Hokkaido. It’s an outdoor bath with a rustic charm that’s beloved by locals. The hot, free-flowing spring water is a key feature, and its sulfurous scent and warmth will heat you from the inside out. The onsen is surrounded by lush trees, making it a great place to enjoy the seasonal scenery of Rausu. Located on the Shiretoko Peninsula, it’s a convenient and relaxing spot to stop at while sightseeing in the area. Simple yet authentic, it’s a popular Rausu attraction where you can truly feel at one with Hokkaido’s nature.
Rausu Onsen
Rausu Onsen is a must-visit, relaxing destination located at the gateway to the Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. This hot spring resort is surrounded by nature, with a rustic open-air bath that offers a magnificent view of the Shiretoko mountain range. The free-flowing spring water warms you to the core, helping to soothe the fatigue from hiking or driving. The scenery, which changes with the seasons—from fresh greenery in summer to vibrant autumn leaves and snowy landscapes in winter—is one of Rausu’s key highlights. As a popular tourist spot, it’s beloved by locals and offers a peaceful moment to connect with nature.
Whale, Dolphin, and Bird Watching Tours
Whale, Dolphin, and Bird Watching tours are a popular way to experience the rich sea and sky of Shiretoko, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in Rausu. From spring to autumn, you can get a close-up look at the dynamism of nature by observing a wide variety of wildlife, including sperm whales, dolphins, white-tailed eagles, and spectacled guillemots. One of the highlights of Rausu is the magnificent view of the Shiretoko mountain range from the cruise boat. A professional guide provides commentary, making it easy for even beginners to enjoy. As a classic activity for sightseeing in Rausu, these tours attract many repeat visitors. It’s one of the key tourist spots in Rausu where a magnificent encounter with nature awaits.
Shiretoko Rausu Cruise (Sightseeing Ship Hamanasu)
The tourist boat “Hamanasu” in Rausu is a popular activity that lets you experience the great nature of Shiretoko, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, from the sea. From spring to autumn, you might encounter marine life like whales, orcas, and dolphins. With a bit of luck, you can watch them swim gracefully up close. In winter, the boat offers drift ice cruises, which is another of its great appeals, as it shows a different side of Shiretoko in each season. This experience, which allows you to view Rausu’s highlights from the sea, is sure to be one of the most memorable parts of your trip. As a tourist spot in Rausu for communing with nature, the Hamanasu boat is highly recommended.
Aidomari Hot Spring
Aidomari Onsen is an outdoor seaside bath located at the northeasternmost tip of Rausu, Hokkaido, offering a soothing experience surrounded by the majestic nature unique to the Shiretoko Peninsula. Situated right on the Sea of Okhotsk, it provides a luxurious chance to soak in the hot spring while feeling the sea breeze. The onsen is only open for a limited time from spring to autumn, which adds to its special appeal. Its simple, rustic atmosphere is a big draw, attracting not only locals but also hot spring enthusiasts from all over Japan. It’s known as one of Rausu’s highlights, popular as a tourist spot where you can truly feel at one with nature.
Seseki Hot Spring
Seseki Onsen is a natural open-air hot spring that wells up along the coastline of Rausu in Hokkaido, and it is known as a spot in the Shiretoko area where you can especially feel the overwhelming power of nature. At high tide, seawater mixes with the hot spring water, causing the temperature and the scenery to change from moment to moment. Unusually for a sightseeing spot in Rausu, you can only bathe here during low tide, so part of the experience is timing your visit just right.
With very few man-made structures in the vicinity, soaking in the hot water with the majestic Shiretoko Peninsula as a backdrop is an exceptional experience. As one of the highlights of sightseeing in Rausu, it offers a rare opportunity to enjoy both tranquility and a sense of unspoiled wilderness.
The bathing season is roughly from early July to late September.
There are no changing rooms, privacy screens, or streetlights on site.
The hot spring is managed by the staff of the nearby kelp hut, so be sure to greet them and bathe with proper manners.
List of Local Products and Traditional Crafts from Rausu
Hokke (Atka mackerel) from Rausu
Hokke (Atka mackerel) from Rausu is a local specialty of Rausu, nurtured by the cold ocean currents and rich fishing grounds. It is known for being fatty, with a rich flavor that gushes from the plump flesh when grilled. Locally, it’s a popular dish prepared as a dried, butterflied fillet and is a common sight on dinner tables. Among all of Hokkaido’s Atka mackerel, Rausu’s is said to have a particularly good flavor and is served as a local delicacy in restaurants. Its simple yet profound flavor is loved by many.
Salmon and Salmon Roe from Rausu
Rausu is a fishing town blessed with the abundant nature of the Shiretoko Peninsula and cold ocean currents. The salmon caught here in the fall are particularly rich in fat and have a firm texture. The salmon roe (ikura) carefully processed from these fish is also a local favorite, known for its burst-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor. Locally, these are often served grilled with salt, in a dish called *chanchan-yaki*, or as *ikura-don* (a rice bowl topped with salmon roe), and are a cherished seasonal delicacy. They are a true taste of Rausu, where you can feel the bounty of nature.
Ezo Bafun Sea Urchin
Ezo Bafun Sea Urchin is a type of high-quality sea urchin known to thrive in the cold waters of Rausu, Hokkaido. It’s famous for its rich, sweet flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Locals enjoy it fresh, often served in a bowl over rice or as sushi. During the summer fishing season, many people visit Rausu specifically for the freshly harvested sea urchin. The rich nature of Rausu and the highly nutritious kelp feed the urchins, giving them their exquisite flavor. This local delicacy is a cherished part of the town’s food culture, where you can truly experience the bounty of the sea.