Are there any guided tours available through the Shiretoko Nature Center?

Yes, the center offers various guided tours and nature walks that allow visitors to explore the park's unique landscapes and wildlife under the guidance of knowledgeable guides. These tours vary in difficulty and duration, catering to a wide range of interests and physical abilities.

What can visitors learn at the Shiretoko Nature Center?

Visitors can learn about the diverse ecosystems within Shiretoko National Park, including its flora and fauna. The center offers exhibits on the region's geography, climate, and the conservation efforts to preserve its natural beauty and biodiversity. Educational programs about the local wildlife, such as brown bears and various marine species, are also available.

Is there an admission fee to enter the Shiretoko Nature Center?

Generally, entry to the Shiretoko Nature Center itself is free, but some special exhibits or guided tours may require a fee.

Can visitors participate in any activities directly organized by the Shiretoko Nature Center?

Yes, apart from guided tours, the center organizes various seasonal activities and workshops related to nature observation, photography, and environmental education. The schedule of these activities can be found on their official website.

Hokkaido

Shiretoko Nature Center

4.2 (2139)Visitor CenterTourist Information CenterTour AgencyTravel AgencyServicePoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Jun 14, 2026

Shiretoko Nature Center is your gateway to the wonders of Shiretoko National Park, one of Japan's most pristine and awe-inspiring natural areas. Located at the entrance of this UNESCO World Heritage site, the center is not just a starting point for exploration but a treasure trove of information and insights into the park's diverse ecosystems and inhabitants.

Imagine stepping into a hub where the secrets of Shiretoko's wild terrain unfold before you through interactive exhibits, detailed models, and informative displays. The center offers a deep dive into the flora, fauna, and geological features of the region, providing a richer understanding of this unique environment.

Whether you're planning to trek the rugged trails, observe the local wildlife, or simply soak in the natural beauty, the Shiretoko Nature Center equips you with the knowledge and inspiration you need. It's a place where both avid nature enthusiasts and curious visitors can learn how to fully appreciate and responsibly explore the park's breathtaking landscapes.

Hours

Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Phone

+81 152-24-2114

Website

center.shiretoko.or.jp

Overview

Address

Japan, 〒099-4356 Hokkaido, Shari District, Shari, Onnebetsumura, ５３１字岩宇別５３１

Places & attractions near Shiretoko Nature Center

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Sapporo Teine

A large building with a red sign on the roof stands behind a well-kept lawn decorated with flower beds and stacked sake barrels under a blue sky with clouds.

Otokoyama Sake Brewery

A skier in a red jacket stands on a snowy slope with ski poles, while others ski nearby. In the background, a snow-covered mountain rises under a blue sky with scattered clouds.

Niseko Hanazono Resort

A vibrant landscape featuring a clear blue sky with fluffy clouds, a small lake reflecting the sky, and green hills covered with patches of red and yellow foliage, with distant mountains in the background.

Mount Asahidake

Places & attractions near Shiretoko Nature Center

Sapporo Teine

Otokoyama Sake Brewery

Niseko Hanazono Resort

Mount Asahidake

Frequently Asked Questions

Traveler reviews

I was at this Centre today before walking the Furepe Waterfall Trail. I was impressed by how the Centre not only catered to educating visitors to the Park on the do's and donts' - especially when encountering a bear thereat - but how it catered to the shopping and dining needs of visitors - and of course, providing the necessary public toilet amenities. I did buy a few things at the Centre today and I was impressed by how friendly and courteous the checkout staff were.

edtayjb

Jul 14, 2025

Nice hiking trail. Manage to see some deers roaming around.

Really helpful staff. We were a little confused about what was available in advance. We were able to rent rubber boots for 500 yen each which were really handy in the snow. The first walk to Furepe Falls was 2km, it was a nice walk, the snow looked impressive and we saw some deer along the way. The waterfall was a trickle so not that much to see but the cliffs were impressive and worth a look. The wind was a bit scary when we visited! Back at the centre we decided to do a second trail - we asked at the counter what's available and were given a map for another trail into woodland. It took us about an hour and a half on snow shoes (also rented for 500 yen each). Hard work for the legs but good fun! Some beautiful views of the trees in snow and the overlooking mountains, with an observation area at the halfway point. I wasn't that interested in the lectures/films at the centre itself but the staff were really friendly and helpful at setting us up for our walks. Definitely worth a visit if you're in the Shiretoko area

An educational center with outdoor gear shop. Information and videos about wildlife in this area and rental equipments are available for the hikes here. Its the starting point to furepe falls and some other trails as well. We came in early feb and got ourselves some snow shoes. The walk to furepe falls is about 20min one way not to bad a walk. There are some trails that are closed in winter. Overall the service staff is amazing in explaining some of the details. We got though some harder translations with google translate.

Excellent nature, we met with 4 bears just driving around 1 afternoon in mid july. Many deers & foxes too. Majestic setting & friendly rangers & patrols