Hokkaido Bus Adventures: Exploring Cape Shakotan's Splendors

Tour Details

Operation Period: May 8 - Sept. 30, 2023 (N/S on May 20, 21, Aug. 2)

Duration: 9 hours and 30 min

Distance: 216km

Dep: 9:10 Arr. 18:40 (Arr.18:50 Sapporo, and 17:40 at Otaru Station if passengers are getting off at Otaru)

Meal included: Lunch
Price: Adult 8,900 yen, Child 6,000 yen

Tour Type: Bus Tour/ Full Day

Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of Shakotan Peninsula with a memorable day tour to Cape Kamui. As we meander down Route 229, nature’s canvas paints a picturesque scene of towering cliffs juxtaposed with peculiarly sculpted rocks – each telling silent tales of eons gone by. Your senses will be further enthralled when we arrive at the renowned Shimamui Coast. Here, endless expanses of crystalline emerald waters greet your eyes, a testament to why this spot is celebrated among the best coasts in Japan.

But Shakotan's allure isn't just confined to its land. In the quaint town of Bikuni, we'll board the "New Shakotan," a unique glass-bottom boat. This vessel reveals the Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Marine Park's underwater treasures right beneath your feet. Be it the delicate dance of fish or the curious sight of sea urchins, the aquatic world has its own tales to share. And as we cruise, playful seagulls might swoop close, hoping for a snack from the passengers. Along the way, you might hear whispered stories of Cape Kamui’s mysterious legend, hinting at days when women were forbidden from its shores. And, as a day of exploration tends to kindle hunger, we’ve arranged a delightful local lunch for you to savor.

This isn’t just a tour; it’s a journey through time, nature, and local legends. So, why wait? Dive into the heart of Hokkaido’s beauty and mysteries. Book your seat today, and let’s make memories together!

Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Sapporo Station

• 9:10 AM: All aboard! We embark on our day's journey from the bustling Sapporo Station Bus Terminal, heading towards our picturesque destinations.

Space Apple Yoichi: A Quick Break

• 10:30 – 10:45 AM: We take our first breather at the uniquely named Space Apple Yoichi. Stretch, grab a snack, or simply enjoy the atmosphere.

Shimamui Coast: Nature’s Canvas

• 11:40 – 12:05 PM: Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the Shimamui Coast. A panorama of azure waters and serene coastlines awaits.

Yobetsu Hamazushi: Culinary Delight

• 12:20 – 13:30 PM: Experience local gastronomy at Yobetsu Hamazushi. Relish the delicious meals and recharge for the rest of the day.

Cape Kamui: The Crown Jewel

• 13:10 – 14:20 PM: Wander around Cape Kamui. Its spectacular views make it a highlight of the peninsula.

Glass Bottom Boat Cruise at Bikuni Shakotan (Optional)

• 15:00 – 16:00 PM: Dive into an underwater spectacle with the Bikuni Shakotan Glass Bottom Boat Cruise. A realm of vibrant marine life awaits below.

Tanaka Sake Brewery: Tradition in a Sip

• 17:00 – 17:25 PM: Conclude the day at Tanaka Sake Brewery. Sample the age-old tradition of sake brewing, perhaps even take home a souvenir.

Returning to Sapporo

From 18:05 PM onwards: We trace our steps back to the city, making sure to enjoy every bit of the ride back.

(For Travelers Choosing to Stop at Otaru)

Lunch at Yobetsu Hamazushi

• 12:20 – 13:00 PM: A slightly shorter lunch break, but the flavors are as rich and memorable as Yobetsu Hamazushi.

Otaru Station Stop

• 17:40 PM: For those opting to disembark at Otaru, this is your stop. Explore Otaru at your own pace and soak in its beauty.

Return to Sapporo

• By 18:40 PM: The day concludes as we reach Sapporo Station Bus Terminal, marking the end of an unforgettable journey.

Every corner of the Shakotan Peninsula holds a story. Are you ready to be a part of it? Book your spot, and let's craft memories together!

Tour Highlights and Recommendations

Taste Delights:

• Indulge in our scrumptious apple pie at just ¥350 per piece. But be quick, as they're a crowd favorite and might sell out!

• For those craving a cold treat, our gelato is available for ¥370 per cone.

• For a local delicacy, try the soft serve ice cream.

Guided Explorations:

• A seasoned tour guide will be by your side during the Shimamui Coast Observation.

• Experience traditional tatami mat seating during your lunch. Quench your thirst with self-serve barley tea. If you're visiting between mid-June to late August, you might want to try the Sea Urchin, priced according to its market value.

Nature Walks:

• Brave the paths leading to Cape Kamuy's tip. However, in gusty winds, the journey is limited to the historical gate.

Shakotan Glass Bottom Boat Adventures:

• Optional and payable on site:

• Adults: ¥1,750

• Children & those with disabilities: ¥850

• Children with disabilities (at a discount): ¥450

• Do note, the boat operation might be halted if winds in Bikuni Port surpass 8 meters/hr, waves rise over 0.5 meters, or visibility drops below 300 meters.

• A unique highlight: feed the seagulls at no additional cost.

• While the snow melt can sometimes make the water seem cloudy, it doesn't hinder the joy of feeding the seagulls.

• Set aside around 40 minutes for this mesmerizing boat cruise.

Culinary Experience at the Brewery:

• Delight in tastings ranging from Japanese sake and amazake to black-bean tea, complemented by an informative guided tour of the brewery's inner workings.

Please Note: Any updates or changes regarding the Shakotan Glass-bottom Boat Cruise will be promptly shared on our official website.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Starting April 1, you might occasionally share tables with other travelers.

• The time we spend at each attraction can fluctuate because of traffic or the size of our group.

• Sometimes, we might arrive a bit earlier, especially on holidays or due to venue restrictions.

• Traffic jams or bad weather might delay our buses, so give yourself some wiggle room if you're transferring afterward.

• Extreme weather might prompt us to cancel a tour; don’t hesitate to check in with us if the weather looks dicey.

• Remember, the Shakotan Glass Boat Cruise isn't a given; its availability depends on Mother Nature's mood.

Related Read: 7 Things To Do in Japan's Demon Town, Noboribetsu