Shiretoko Pass
知床峠
The highest point of National Route 334, which crosses the Shiretoko Peninsula. At 738 meters, it faces Mount Rausu, and on clear days you can see Kunashiri Island.
Shiretoko Pass is the highest point on the Shiretoko cross-peninsula road connecting Utoro and Rausu, at about 738 meters. The observation deck faces the majestic Mount Rausu, and to the east, across the sea, you can see Kunashiri Island, which Russia controls. Snow patches remain on the slopes in June, and in early October the dwarf pines and birches on the hillsides turn red and yellow. The road is usually open from late April to early November. It closes at night in spring and autumn and may also close temporarily in bad weather. Dense fog often covers the summit, so the view depends on luck. The drive from Utoro takes about 25 minutes, and there are summer routes by bus.
Opening hours
Approx. late April–early November (closed overnight in spring and autumn)
Nearby sights
- Mount Rausu
- Lake Rausu
- Kuma no Yu Hot Spring
- Iwaobetsu Onsen
- Shiretoko Five Lakes
- Rausu Kunashiri Observatory
- Furepe Falls (Shiretoko Nature Center)
- Kamuiwakka Hot Falls