If it's your first visit to Shiretoko Rausu, then there are a few things you might want to know! Here are the answers to some of our frequently asked questions.

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Shiretoko Rausu Q&A

Geography
Sightseeing
Cuisine
Roadside Station Shiretoko Rausu
その他

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Geography
Is Rausu part of the World Natural Heritage Site of "Shiretoko"?
Yes, Rausu is also part of the "Shiretoko" area registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site! This is a common mistake that people make. "Shiretoko" is the name of the Shiretoko Peninsula area that is shared by both Rausu-cho in the Nemuro district, and Shari-cho in the Abashiri district.
So, please don't say "I'm going to Shiretoko tomorrow!" when you arrive in Rausu! You are already in Shiretoko!
When was Rausu registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site?
Shiretoko was registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in July, 2005.
Shiretoko received such high evaluation because of its unique ecosystem that is co-dependent on both the land and sea, and because it is the southernmost area in the world that drift ice travels to.
Is Rausu a national border town? Tell me more about Rausu!
95% of the total area of Rausu-cho is forest land. Temperatures in the area remain cool throughout the year, and the drift ice passes Rausu on its journey southwards on the Sea of Okhotsk. Shiretoko Peninsular, which is also known as "the last unexplored region of Japan", is a unique ecosystem that supports a wide range of precious flora and fauna, and was designated a National Park in 1964.
Shiretoko Peninsular contains the Chishima volcanic zone, which has the volcanic belt of Mt. Rausu-dake, Mt. Shiretoko-dake, and Mt. Iozan, and commands views of the Northern Territories and Kunashiri Island approximately 25km offshore which form the opposing side of the Nemuro Straits.

General Information on Rausu-cho

Area: 401.84ｋ㎡

East Longitude: 144°53´

West Longitude: 43°51´

Span: 80km North-South, 8km East-West

Where is Rausu located?
In the east of Hokkaido, there are the Shiretoko Peninsular and Nemuro Peninsular. The stretch of ocean sandwiched between this coastline and the Northern Territory island of Kunashiri is known as the Nemuro Straits. Shari-cho (Shari Town) lies on the north side of the Shiretoko Peninsular, whereas Rausu-cho (Rausu Town) lies on the south side, and Shibetsu-cho (Shibetsu Town) is located at the centre of the Nemuro Straits.
What is the population of Rausu?
Rausu is a small fishing village with a population of 6338 (as of October 2007).
What is the name of the ocean in front of the town?
Nemuro Straits. The Nemuro Straits are part of the Sea of Okhotsk.
What is the name of the island we can see from Rausu?
That is Kunashiri Island, part of the Northern Territories.
It is 122km long, and has a total area of approximately 1500km2. However, you cannot see the other islands of the Northern Territories (Etorofuto, Shikotanto, Habomai) from here.
Is it far to Kunashiri Island?
The closest part of the island from Rausu port is approximately 25km away.
However, the opening of the straits gets wider the further you go towards the tip of the Shiretoko peninsular.
What are the features of the Nemuro Straits?
The ocean bed at the northern part of the Nemuro Straits near Rausu has a precipitous drop (with some sections deeper than 1000m), and this coupled with the yearly visitation of the drift ice during the cold season along with upwelling currents means an abundance of marine life can thrive here. The southern part of the straits consists of a shallower channel, in which a vast amount of vegetative plankton grows, which again provides food for a huge amount of marine life.
Is the Shiretoko Mountain Pass (National Highway 334) open all year?
The Shiretoko Mountain Pass that joins Rausu-cho and Shari-cho Utoro is open from Late April to early November over year. However, the road is closed during the winter months due to dangers of icy roads and avalanches. It is also known as the least open road in Japan!
For up-to-date information, contact the Nakashibetsu Highway Office. 0153-72-3221
Please tell me how to get to Rausu from within Hokkaido
Click here for details

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Sightseeing
What is the best seasonal sightseeing course?
Find up-to-date local information on this webpage!
Click here for details
What is there to do in Rausu? What can I see here?
There are many things to see and do in Rausu! Browse through the categories on this webpage to find what you are looking for!
Click here for details
What can I see from the sightseeing boats in the summertime?
What is different to the sightseeing boats in Shari-cho Utoro?
The sights you can see from the sightseeing boats are completely different. Click here for details.
From Rausu, there are two courses you can take, the "Whale Watching Course" (which takes you to see various kinds of whale, dolphin, fish, and seabird), and the "Shiretoko Peninsular Course".
In particular, the "Whale Watching" course will take you farther offshore to the midpoint between Rausu and Kunashiri Island in search of the wildlife. (See below for details on the "Shiretoko Peninsular" course).
The cruises that depart fro Shari-cho Utoro take you close to the breathtaking precipitous cliffs, to see the dynamic waterfalls and famous places from the ocean. There are also courses that take you bear watching along the Shiretoko Peninsular.
What is the difference between the Rausu-cho "Shiretoko Peninsular Course" and Shari-cho Utoro "Shiretoko Peninsular Course" summertime sightseeing cruises?
On the Rausu-cho side "Shiretoko Peninsular Course" you can see the breathtaking views of the peninsular and how the traditional local fishing industry and Konbu (seaweed) industry coexist in the World Natural Heritage Site.
As the Shari-cho Utoro side has a far harsher geography, there are no places to build human dwellings. Instead, you can take the "Shiretoko Peninsular Course" to areas that are frequently visited by bears, for "bear watching".
What can I see from the winter sightseeing boats? Will there be drift ice?
Actually, the only sightseeing vessels operating during the winter time to the Shiretoko Peninsular operate from Rausu-cho. On winter sightseeing trips, you can see the protected Steller's sea eagles and White-tailed sea eagles from very close quarters. With a wing-span of over 2 meters, these majestic birds certainly deserve the name "king of the sky". You can also see seals, sea lions, ribbon seals, and many other ocean animals using the drift ice as a bed.
Does the drift ice come as far as Rausu?
Unfortunately, in recent years the amount of drift ice you can see from Rausu is declining. If you are lucky you may get to see it, but we cannot see as frequently as in the past. This may be an important chance to consider why the drift ice no longer comes to the World Natural Heritage Site of Shiretoko Rausu.
I want to see a bear, can I see them?
As bears are wild animals, there is no guarantee you will get to see them. The brown bear is the largest mammal in Japan, and with a proportion of 0.4 bears per square kilometre of land, Shiretoko is known as the most densely populated brown bear habitats in the world. However, startling a wild brown bear will almost certainly result in a serious incident, so the best defence against such problems is to take measures so that you don't encounter a bear at all.
I heard there are a lot of deer in Rausu?
Yes, you can see a lot of deer in and around Rausu. However, the deer in and around Rausu are completely wild, unlike those in Nara Park in Honshu, so we ask that you do not attempt to feed or approach the deer.
I want to go trekking around Rausu Lake, do I have to go with a guide?
Bears appear frequently around Rausu Lake. Also, as there is no parking around the entrance to the Rausu lake trailhead, it is better to arrange transport to and from the trailhead by the guide. Also, the guides have a wealth of information about the area, and can make your visit far more interesting! Click here for details.
Which season can we see the glowing moss?
Between March and October. There is a special way to look at the moss, click here for details.
When is the best time to see the autumn colours?
Early October. For details, contact the Shiretoko Rausu-cho Tourist Association on 0153-87-3360.
When is the spring bloom season?
June and July. For details, contact the Shiretoko Rausu-cho Tourist Association on 0153-87-3360.
When does the mist on the Shiretoko Toge (mountain pass) clear?
The mountain pass becomes misty frequently between April - June. For details, contact the Shiretoko Rausu-cho Tourist Association on 0153-87-3360.
Can I swim in the sea?
Sorry, but no. The seawater is extremely cold, and the sea is also extremely deep, and it is therefore not suitable for swimming.
I want to tour the location of "Kita no Kuni Kara" (TV Drama, "From the North Country").
The final episode of the hit television drama "Kita no Kuni Kara" was filmed both in Furano City and in Rausu town. You can tour the locations of this popular drama, click here for details.
Can I take a bath in one of the hot springs without staying for the night?
Rausu-cho is famous for its excellent hot spring water. The Shiretoko Toge (mountain pass) area is a natural hot spring area, which is why you can sometimes smell sulphur in the air.
Click here for details.
Can I rent a car in Rausu?
Unfortunately, no. The nearest places for car rentals are Nakashibetsu Airport, Memanbetsu Airport, or JR Shiretoko Shari Station.
Can I take a taxi to go sightseeing?
Please contact Rausu Hire (taxi company). 0153-87-2002
When can I see Rausu Konbu (seaweed) being collected?
From the end of July to the end of August. You can see many of the fisherman's houses along national highway 335 with seaweed drying outside, and the whole area carries the scent of drying seaweed.
When can I see the Pollack fishing?
From around the 6th of January until mid March.
When can I see the salmon catches?
Usually from late August until late November. In 2007, Rausu boasted the largest salmon catch in Japan for 7 years running. The best time to see the catches is from 5:30 to around 7:00 in the morning. (However, please understand that this is the main industry of Rausu and not a tourist show, so you need to watch out for forklift trucks and other heavy machinery operating in the port. Make sure you do not get in the way of the fishermen unloading their catches. Also, please note you are required to apply beforehand to take a tour of the Rausu fish market.)
When can I see the salmon running?
From the end of August until November. You can the salmon in Rausu River and in the other rivers around town. For details, contact the Shiretoko Rausu-cho Tourist Association on 0153-87-3360.
Is there a fishing tackle shop in Rausu?
Yes, you can purchase fishing tackle at Abe Sports Shop (0153-87-3515)
Is there a sports shop?
Please purchase at Murata Sports Shop.（0153-87-2003）
This is my first time to Rausu, what clothing should I take? Is it cold?
As a general rule, consider the temperature to be one month ahead of that of the mainland. So if you plan to visit Rausu in November, wear the same clothing that you would wear in the mainland in December. Mornings and evenings can get particularly cold, so it would be a very good idea to bring warm clothing. If you are unsure, contact the Shiretoko Rausu Tourist Association directly.
0153-87-3360

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Cuisine
Why is Rausu seafood so delicious?
Rausu seafood can be compared to organic vegetables.
One reason is, the Nemuro Straits. The distance between Shiretoko Peninsular and Kunashiri Island is just 25km. This creates a fast, deep flow of water, with a very varied topography. However, the fish.
What is the best seafood for this season?
Click here for details.
Can I eat sea lion meat and bear meat in Rausu?
Barbequed sea lion and bear meat is available at "Shiretoko" (0153-87-6433). You can sample sea lion meat ramen, bear meat ramen, sea lion sashimi, venison sashimi, barbequed sea lion and bear hotpot at "Kuma no Ana" (0153-89-2444). Contact the restaurants directly for more details.
When can I eat Rausu green sea urchin?
From late January until the end of June. Green sea urchin feeds on the delicious and healthy Rausu Konbu (seaweed), making it sweet and flavoursome.
When in Rausu, I want to eat "Kaisen-don" (fresh seafood on a bed of rice). Where can I eat it?
There are a number of restaurants in Rausu where you can eat delectable fresh "Kaisen-don".
For details, contact the Shiretoko Rausu-cho Tourist Association on 0153-87-3360.
When is rockfish in season? What is the best way to eat rockfish?
The rockfish season is April to December. All of the locals would agree that boiled rockfish is the best! Rausu people say that boiling rockfish in a broth of the local Konbu (seaweed) is the best way to bring out the delicate flavours, but it must be cooked when very very fresh! When cooked in this way, rockfish truly is a delicacy among delicacies.
When is the "grape" prawn (shrimp) season? What is the best way to eat local prawns?
July to August is the best time. And the best way to eat them is surely as sashimi! The plump, round grape coloured prawns are simply delightful eaten whole.
When is the salmon "Keiji" season, and what is the best way to eat it?
From September to November. Sashimi is the best way to eat "keiji". Even people who don’t like the characteristic oiliness of regular can enjoy the clean, elegant flavour of "Keiji". They may even become salmon fans after trying this superb high-class delicacy.
Tell me about any other rare delicacies that can only be found in Rausu!
There are so many! Shark-skin flounder, which is simply delectable as sashimi, Rausu squid that remains delicate and soft even when grilled, and "gasa" prawns salted and cooked over an open barbeque. With so much unique, fresh seafood, so close at hand, Rausu is a seafood lover's paradise!

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Roadside Station Shiretoko Rausu
What does "Roadside Station Shiretoko Rausu" have to offer?
Standing at the side of National Highway 335, roadside station "Shiretoko Rausu" is the closest roadside station in Japan to Kunashiri Island and the Northern Territories, at a mere 24km away. On a clear day, the roadside station provides an outstanding viewpoint of Kunashiri Island to the east side, and the 1661m high Mt. Rausu to the west, delivering the perfect blend of ocean and mountain views at the easternmost point of the Shiretoko Mountain Pass. Furthermore, with the "Rausu Shinsoukan" and "Kaisen Koubou" selling fresh seafood at super cheap prices very close by, its easy to see why Roadside Station Shiretoko Rausu has such a superb reputation! For more information, contact Roadside Station Shiretoko Rausu (0153-87-3330).
When was "Roadside Station Shiretoko Rausu" built?
In 1999.
What time is the tourist information desk open?
Opening times are:
9:00~17:00 daily between April and October
10:00~16:00 daily between November and March (excluding New Year Holidays)
When is the Roadside Station stamp available?
9:00~17:00 daily between April and October
10:00~16:00 daily between November and March (excluding New Year Holidays)
Please note that the stamp cannot be used outside these times.
Are the toilets open 24 hours?
Yes, toilets can be used 24 hours a day.
Can I buy Rausu specialties as souvenirs at "Roadside Station Shiretoko Rausu"?
There are 3 stores adjacent to the roadside station. You can purchase local produce and souvenirs at "Kaisen Koubou (0153-87-3542)" which is a direct sales store operated by Rausu Fisherman's Cooperative Association, "Rausu Shinsoukan (0153-87-5666)" which is operated by Funaki Shouten Store, and Abe Shouten Store (0153-87-5877).
Do the souvenir shops close for holidays?
Rausu Shinsoukan
Open 9:00~17:00 every day April to October
Open 10:00~16:00 every day November to March (closed Tuesdays)

Kaisen Koubou
Open 9:00~18:00 every day April to October
Open 9:00~18:00 every day November to March (closed Sundays)
Is the roadside station barrier free?
There is a slope for wheelchair access at the main entrance, and a specialised toilet for wheelchair users available next to the ladies toilets.
Is there an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) in the roadside station?
Yes, there is. It is located next to the television monitor (near the entrance to the ladies toilets) inside "Roadside Station Shiretoko Rausu".
Can goods be sent directly from the roadside station to other areas in Japan?
No, goods sold in the roadside station cannot be sent to other areas. All products sold here are intended to remind visitors of their visit to Rausu, and are therefore not distributed by post etc.
Is there a public telephone?
There is one public telephone on the ground floor (only accepts telephone cards. Telephone cards are sold in the information centre)
How big is the car park?
The car park can hold 25 regular cars, 2 disabled person's cars, and 3 buses. However, in busy periods such as the "golden week" or "obon" holiday periods, a temporary car park is also opened at the nearby "Rausu Shinsoukan".
What is a very Rausu-style present?
High quality Rausu Konbu (seaweed) and Rausu Hokke (Atka mackerel) are very popular. There are also many seasonal specialities on sale throughout the year, so why not ask the shop staff for their seasonal recommendation?
Is there an open resting space available?
Unfortunately, as the information centre interior is quite small, there is only a bench on the ground floor. The neighbouring Kaisen Koubou has chairs and tables.
Is there a special type of ice-cream that is only available here?
There are two unique types of ice cream. Kaisen Koubou offers a "Konbu (seaweed) ice cream (containing powdered Rausu konbu and a spoon made of Rausu konbu), and Rausu Shinsoukan offers "Rausu Ocean Deep Sea Water ice cream" (light blue colour, with a delicious sweet flavour mixed with a sprinkling of salted fish). For the not-so adventurous, regular flavours such as vanilla and chocolate are also available.
Can I camp in the parking area?
No, the roadside station is not to be used as an accommodation or campsite. Campsite and accommodation information is freely available in the roadside station, but the use of roadside station property for accommodation is strictly prohibited.
Is the water from the taps in the toilets drinkable?
We do not recommend drinking the water from the sinks in the toilets.
Do I need to separate rubbish?
At Roadside Station Shiretoko Rausu, we have a general take-home policy for rubbish, and therefore do not provide general waste bins. However, there are special recycling bins available for empty cans, bottles, and PET bottles. Please cooperate with our efforts for keeping Rausu clean. However, if you buy food etc. at Rausu Shinsoukan or Kaisen Koubou, the staff will gladly dispose of your used food containers etc. for you. Also, official rubbish bags are available for sale (100 yen per bag, burnable and non-burnable rubbish types are available).

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Other
Is there a bank or ATM machine?
There is the Daichi Shinyou Kinko (credit union), Kushiro Shinyou Kumiai (credit association) and post office.
The convenience stores (Seicomart) do not have ATM machines.
Is there somewhere I can use the Internet?
Internet access is available in Shiretoko Kurabu (Tea house/restaurant). 0153-87-5019

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