Stand Where Sea Meets Sky and History
Shiretoko Rausu, located along National Route 335 in the fishing town of Rausu, offers a rare vantage point where the vastness of the Sea of Okhotsk meets the distant silhouette of Kunashiri Island—the closest mainland Japanese roadside station to the disputed Northern Territories. Framed by the towering peak of Mount Rausu, a Japan Hundred Famous Mountain, and bordered by the wild beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Shiretoko, this roadside station is a gateway to some of Hokkaido’s most pristine landscapes.
Here, travelers discover more than just a pit stop. The station serves as a central hub for adventure, offering real-time information on whale and birdwatching tours, hiking trails, and seasonal seafood excursions. With a range of local seafood specialties—from Hokkaido sea urchin and kingfish to seasonal salmon and abalone—visitors can sample the freshest catch at the on-site restaurant or purchase premium products from local cooperatives and specialty shops. Whether planning a coastal journey or seeking authentic regional flavors, Shiretoko Rausu is the perfect starting point for an unforgettable journey into northern wilderness.
Why Visit
Shiretoko Rausu is the closest roadside station in Japan to the disputed Kuril Island of Kunashir, offering a rare, unobstructed view of its forested shores on clear days. Unlike any other roadside station, it serves as the gateway to the world-class whale and birdwatching in the Bering Sea, where visitors can spot orcas, sperm whales, and rare seabirds from scheduled tours. At the on-site seafood shop, you can purchase freshly caught Rausu-style sea urchin and local sea cucumber—delicacies only available here, directly from the fishing cooperative.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh seafood and local flavors at Shiretoko Rausu roadside station.
Rausu Sea Taste - Shiretoko Dining Hall
羅臼の海味 知床食堂
Specialty
Local seafood cuisine with a focus on fresh catches from Rausu
A dining hall located in the Rausu Deep Hall, offering traditional seafood meals made from locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for travelers seeking authentic regional flavors.
Shopping Highlights
Discover premium local goods and ocean treasures at Shiretoko Rausu roadside station.
Rausu Fisheries Cooperative Direct Store - Seafood Workshop
羅臼漁業協同組合直営店・海鮮工房
A direct store operated by the Rausu Fisheries Cooperative, specializing in fresh seafood and local marine products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Rausu-Style Sea Urchin
Marudai Abe Store
(有)丸大阿部商店
A general store offering a variety of local products and regional specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Rausu Kombu
Funaki Store
(有)舟木商店
A general store selling local goods and regional specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Rausu Kombu
Featured Products
Taste signature specialties like Hokkaido sea urchin and Rausu kelp at Shiretoko Rausu roadside station.
Rausu Kombu
羅臼昆布
High-quality kelp harvested from the pristine waters of Rausu, known for its rich flavor and texture.
Rausu-Style Sea Urchin
羅臼産エゾバフンウニ
Fresh sea urchin harvested from the cold waters of Rausu, prized for its creamy texture and rich taste.
Rausu Grouper (Menme)
めんめ（キンキ）
Fresh grouper from Rausu waters, known for its delicate flavor and firm texture.
Rausu Squid
ブドウエビ
Fresh squid caught in the rich waters of Rausu, ideal for grilling or sashimi.
Rausu Salmon (Keiji)
鮭児（ケイジ）
Autumn salmon from Rausu, known for its high fat content and rich flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including Wi-Fi, restrooms, and a scenic viewing platform at Shiretoko Rausu roadside station.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking lot with space for 5 large vehicles and 90 regular cars.
Adjacent to the roadside station entrance
Restroom
The restroom includes a warm water washlet and diaper changing station, and is accessible for people with disabilities.
Inside the roadside station
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available at the roadside station for visitors.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The roadside station features a dedicated information center called 'Chitose-Rausu Tourist Information Center' on the first floor, staffed with guides who provide information on attractions, accommodations, dining, whale and bird watching, and seasonal activities.
First floor
Play Area
The station includes a play area for children, suitable for family visits.
Near the main entrance
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities are available at the roadside station.
Near the parking lot
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors' convenience.
Near the entrance
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is available for mothers with infants, equipped with changing facilities.
Inside the restroom area
Pet Area
A designated area for pets is available, allowing visitors to bring their animals.
Outside near the entrance
Activities & Experiences
Explore seasonal adventures and hands-on experiences from whale watching to nature walks at Shiretoko Rausu roadside station.
Whale and Bird Watching
ホエール・バードウォッチング
Take a sightseeing boat tour to observe whales and birds in the Nemuro Strait. In summer, you can see sperm whales, orcas, minke whales, bottlenose dolphins, and Japanese night herons. In winter, you can spot eagles, sea lions, and seals.
Duration
150 min
Weather-dependent; tours may be canceled in rough seas or poor visibility.
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around seasonal highlights and check real-time updates at Shiretoko Rausu roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM during April to October to catch the morning shift at the Roosu Fisheries Cooperative Direct Store, where fresh daily catches like Hokkai sea urchin and seasonal fish are displayed first and often sell out by noon.
- Hidden Gems: Check the information bulletin board at the Roosu Tourism Information Center (on the first floor) before 11:00 AM to see the latest whale and birdwatching boat departure schedules, as this information is updated daily and not posted online.
- Local Food Special: Order the mename (kinke) set at Roosu no Umi, Michi-no-Eki Restaurant (located in the Rausu Shinsenkan) before 1:00 PM, as this dish is prepared fresh each day and is often sold out by early afternoon.
- Best Photo Spot: Stand on the roadside station’s outdoor viewing platform just after 10:00 AM in clear weather to capture the best view of Kunashir Island (Kunashiri-shima) across the Nemuro Strait, when visibility is at its peak due to morning light and low haze.
- Shopping Tip: Visit the Rausu Fisheries Cooperative Direct Store (right side of the entrance) between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to find the day’s best selection of dried sea cucumbers and smoked fish, which are restocked daily and sold in limited quantities.
- Seasonal Insight: In winter (November to March), arrive between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM to speak with the staff at the Roosu Tourism Information Center about the winter birdwatching tour to see Steller’s sea eagles and spectacled eiders, as these tours are only offered during the winter months and reservations are limited.
- Logistics Reminder: Confirm with the roadside station staff before traveling to the Shiretoko Pass (Route 334) during winter months (November to April), as this route is closed and signs are posted at the station’s information board—do not attempt to drive through without checking first.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Spring brings time-salmon (tokishirazu) fishing season and the start of whale and bird watching cruises from late April.
Summer (June-August): Summer offers peak whale watching with minke whales, orcas, and seabirds, plus access to the open road via the Shiretoko Pass.
Autumn (September-November): Autumn features abundant koi salmon (keiji) and squid catches, with prime birdwatching for migratory species.
Winter (December-February): Winter is ideal for observing sea birds and seals, with the Shiretoko Pass closed but the roadside station open.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a child-friendly environment with a changing table, accessible restrooms, and stroller-friendly paths. The viewing platform and nearby natural attractions provide engaging experiences. While no dedicated play area exists, the scenic views and wildlife opportunities are highly appealing to children.
Food Lover Review
Features multiple seafood-focused restaurants and shops, including a direct fishery cooperative store. Offers local specialties like Hokke, menme (red snapper), and seasonal seafood. The presence of fresh, regionally sourced ingredients and a dedicated dining area enhances the food experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides ample parking for 90 regular vehicles and basic facilities including restrooms with warm water and washroom amenities. However, no overnight parking policy is stated, and the site lacks designated quiet zones or camping amenities, limiting its suitability for extended stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Boasts exceptional views of the Nemuro Strait and the Kuril Islands, especially on clear days. The backdrop of Mount Raushu, a Japan Hundred Famous Mountain, enhances the landscape. Seasonal changes and natural wildlife sightings contribute to a striking, immersive atmosphere.