Located in the heart of Eastern Hokkaido, Nakashibetsu Town and Shibetsu Town are considered the true soul of Hokkaido by seasoned travelers. Nakashibetsu is home to the spectacular Kaiyodai Observatory, where you can witness the curvature of the Earth. Shibetsu, known as the “Hometown of Salmon,” showcases the rich blessings of the Sea of Okhotsk.
Because this vast region is sparsely populated, most hidden scenic spots like Kaiyodai and Notsuke Peninsula are not accessible by public transport from Nakashibetsu Airport. This is why the Nakashibetsu Kaiyodai Secret Private Tour has become the smoothest and most popular way to begin your Eastern Hokkaido adventure right after landing.
Nakashibetsu Attractions: Standing at the Edge of the Earth
Kaiyodai Observatory: 330° View of the Earth’s Curve
Perched at 270 meters above sea level, the circular Kaiyodai Observatory offers a stunning panoramic view of the vast Konshun Plain. The highlight is the dramatic 330° curved horizon — a powerful reminder of nature’s grandeur and humanity’s smallness.
- Must-Try: The signature honey ice cream sold inside the observatory is a must. Enjoy this sweet treat while soaking in the unbeatable scenery.
Route 19 Straight Road: The Road to the Sky
This incredibly straight road stretches toward the horizon with dramatic undulations, earning it the nickname “Rollercoaster Road.” With our private driver, you can stop safely at the best photo spots to capture magical images that public transport simply cannot offer.
Yorooi Onsen: Mysterious Forest Hot Spring
Tucked away upstream of the Shibetsu River, Yorooi Onsen has over 100 years of history. The famous open-air mixed bath “Karamatsu no Yu” offers the purest hot spring experience surrounded by forest and flowing streams — a true healing destination for deep travelers.
Shibetsu Attractions: Gifts of Salmon and Wetlands
Shibetsu Salmon Science Museum
A rare museum dedicated entirely to salmon, it features dozens of salmon species and their ecology. In autumn, witness the spectacular sight of thousands of salmon swimming upstream — a powerful display of life’s strength and cycle.
Notsuke Peninsula & Tatase Boat: Wilderness on the Sea
Although Notsuke Peninsula spans several towns, it is most conveniently accessed from Shibetsu. This 26-kilometer sand spit features a mysterious forest of withered fir trees. In summer, ride the traditional flat-bottomed Tatase boat across the calm sea, spot seals, and experience the ethereal “End of the World” landscape.
Start Your Eastern Hokkaido Adventure
Nakashibetsu and Shibetsu are among Hokkaido’s most hidden treasures. There are no crowded shopping streets here — only endless horizons and the pulse of nature.
Book a Nakashibetsu Kaiyodai Secret Private Tour and let our professional driver handle all the logistics. All you need is an open heart and a good camera to stand on top of Kaiyodai and experience a view that will forever change your perspective of the world.
Four Seasons Clothing Recommendations for Nakashibetsu & Shibetsu
| Season | Months | Essential Clothing & Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Apr – May | Thermal base layers, fleece jackets, windproof outer shells, comfortable walking shoes. Layering is essential. Mornings and evenings remain cold. |
| Summer | Jun – Aug | Light quick-dry clothing, windbreaker jacket, insect repellent. Temperatures can drop sharply at night and on the plateau. |
| Autumn | Sep – Oct | Down jackets, scarves, gloves, waterproof hiking boots. Best season for scenery, but nights are cold. |
| Winter | Nov – Mar | Heavy down parka (-20°C rated), thermal underwear, snow boots, balaclava, hand warmers. Full winter gear is required due to extreme cold. |
Why Choose Our Nakashibetsu Kaiyodai Private Car Tour?
Nakashibetsu Airport is a convenient gateway to Shiretoko and Nemuro, but transportation is very limited once you leave the airport. Our private car service solves all pain points — from luggage handling to flexible photo stops and access to hidden locations like Route 19 (Rollercoaster Road) and secret waters near the border of Kiyosato and Shibetsu.
Perfect for photography enthusiasts and travelers seeking the most authentic and breathtaking Eastern Hokkaido experience.
✨ Exclusive Bonus for Your Private Tour:
The beauty of Hokkaido goes beyond the famous landmarks. To make your journey more heartfelt, we’ve prepared a list of “Hidden Gems” tucked away within our classic itineraries.
🔒 How to Unlock Your Secret Map?
Simply complete your booking to instantly unlock these hidden spots. We will send you a personalized custom itinerary, ensuring your Hokkaido memories are truly one-of-a-kind.