Hokkaido's Summer: Shakotan Peninsula and Otaru Day Trip from Sapporo

Are you unfamiliar with Hokkaido in the summer? Perhaps you're not aware of it? Hokkaido's Shakotan Peninsula boasts breathtaking coastal scenery. The azure waters, the expansive coastline, and the endless blue skies and white clouds create a picturesque scene. The beauty of the Shakotan Peninsula rivals even that of tropical islands!!!

Unlike the snowy winter scenery, Hokkaido's summer climate is pleasantly cool, making it a great escape for travelers craving a summer escape! If you're planning a trip to Hokkaido this summer, why not follow Tripbaa's guide and head to the Shakotan Peninsula near Otaru for a vibrant summer getaway?

# Yoichi Distillery
Yoichi is a coastal town in northern Hokkaido, best known for the Yoichi Distillery located on the outskirts of town.
This whiskey distillery, owned by the Asahi Breweries Group, gained popularity thanks to the Japanese drama "Masashi and Ellie." Masataka Taketsuru, the father of Japanese whisky, is the character Masataka Taketsuru. His wife introduced the authentic Scottish "coal-fired distillation method" to Japan. Hokkaido's low temperatures create an ideal climate for whisky production, resulting in Japan's renowned "Nikka Whisky."

At the Yoichi Distillery, you can observe the "coal-fired distillation method," a rare technique even in whisky-producing Scotland. While this traditional brewing method is labor-intensive, it produces a rich, aromatic malt whisky. Why not give it a try?

# Shimabui Coast

Traveling northeast of Yoichi, you'll reach the Shimabui Coast, one of Japan's 100 Greatest Coasts. Standing in front of the tunnel at the entrance, you can hear the distant roar of waves. Passing through the pitch-black tunnel, the azure sea and blue sky greet you! The scenery is breathtaking. The clear sea reflects the shimmering water, and the jumble of massive rocks creates a tranquil, secluded wonderland.

For lunch, enjoy a seafood dish featuring carefully selected Hokkaido seafood at the renowned Irigata Rinkoso. Vegetarian options are unavailable.

(Please note: Lunch ingredients may be subject to availability and may require substitution. Please be aware of any changes.)

# Cape Kamui
Next stop: Get ready to enjoy the breathtaking 300-degree panoramic views of Cape Kamui!

Once upon a time, the daughter of an Ainu chieftain fell in love with Minamoto no Yoshitsune, a warlord who had fled to the cape after recovering from an injury. Upon returning to the cape, the chieftain's daughter, heartbroken to see her lover gone, committed suicide by drowning, becoming the "Kamui Rock." Located in the northwest of the Shakotan Peninsula, Cape Kamui juts into the Sea of Japan, offering incredibly wide-angle views of the ocean. Its vibrant blue waters, nicknamed "Shakotan Blue," highlight its vibrant colors!

Want to experience this vibrant ocean even more?
After walking around Cape Kamui, you can opt for the "Shakotan Underwater Glass Observation Boat" tour in America Town (the trip lasts approximately 40 minutes). The translucent glass boat weaves through the grotesque rocks, and as it reaches the center of the sea, you can see schools of fish and reefs swimming leisurely on the seabed. Seagulls circle the boat, and if you're lucky, you can even hand-feed them snacks!

Those not taking the observation boat are free to explore the local food and culture of America Town and Cape Kogane.