Shakotan
Shakotan: Shakotan Blue Sea and Sea Urchin
Jutting out into the Sea of Japan, the Shakotan Peninsula is known for its clear, deep-blue water, called "Shakotan Blue," and its dramatic clifftop capes.
In summer the sea urchin season opens, and many visitors come for fresh uni that can only be enjoyed at this time of year.
Highlights of Shakotan
Sightseeing in Shakotan centers on its seaside capes. Cape Kamui, Shimamui Coast and Cape Ogon are often called the three great capes of Shakotan, and each offers a different view of the Shakotan Blue sea.
Cape Kamui (Kamui Misaki)
Shakotan's signature scenic spot. A walking trail called the Charenka Path leads to the tip of the cape, about 20 minutes on foot each way. Walking along the ridge with the sea on both sides is an experience unique to Shakotan.
The gate at the trail entrance, known as the "No Women Allowed Gate" from its history, is closed in strong winds and other bad weather, so on some days you cannot walk to the tip. Check the latest opening information before you go.
Shimamui Coast
A coast near Cape Shakotan and, alongside Cape Kamui, one of the best places to see Shakotan Blue. Visiting both lets you enjoy the different faces of Shakotan's sea.
Cape Ogon (Ogon Misaki)
A cape in the Bikuni district. As one of the three great capes of Shakotan, many visitors combine it with Cape Kamui and Shimamui Coast.
Shakotan Sea Urchin (Uni)
Sea urchin is Shakotan's summer specialty. The fishing season usually opens in early June and runs until around the end of August. The opening date and catch vary with the year and sea conditions.
Most sea urchin caught in Shakotan is the cream-colored purple sea urchin (murasaki uni). The reddish-orange bafun uni is caught in small quantities and is considered a treat.
Popular uni-don (sea urchin rice bowl) restaurants may require reservations or close early once they sell out. In season, we recommend a schedule that gets you to Shakotan in the morning.
Best Season
Shakotan Blue is at its most vivid from late June through August. This overlaps with the sea urchin season, making it the best time to enjoy everything Shakotan has to offer. To avoid crowds, June or September onward is also a good option.
Getting to Shakotan
Shakotan is about 2 hours by car from Sapporo. The route follows the Sea of Japan coast, passing Otaru and Yoichi on the way.
Taxi: Shakotan's capes and restaurants are spread across the peninsula, which makes it hard to get around efficiently by public transport alone. With a private charter taxi to Shakotan, you can plan your day freely around your walk at Cape Kamui and your uni-don lunch.
Nearby areas that combine well with Shakotan: Yoichi / Otaru
Shakotan with MUTO TAXI
Leave Sapporo in the morning, take in the Shakotan Blue sea at Cape Kamui, have seasonal uni-don for lunch, and stop in Yoichi or Otaru on the way back. With a private charter, you can enjoy a full day like this without worrying about getting around.
Our vehicle is a Toyota Alphard Executive Lounge (up to 6 passengers). Fares to the Shakotan area vary with route and duration, so please contact us for a quote.
FAQ
Q. When can I eat sea urchin in Shakotan?
A. The sea urchin season usually runs from early June to around the end of August. The opening date changes each year, so please check the latest information before your visit.
Q. Can I always walk to the tip of Cape Kamui?
A. No. The trail gate is closed in strong winds and other bad weather, so on some days you cannot walk to the tip.
Q. How long does it take to get from Sapporo to Shakotan?
A. About 2 hours by car.
Q. Can I go to Shakotan by taxi?
A. Yes. MUTO TAXI offers private charters to Shakotan from Sapporo and New Chitose Airport. Please contact us for fares.