Explore the Northernmost Secret of Japan! Wakkanai 3D2N Guide
📍At the edge of Japan, there is a secluded town called Wakkanai. It is the end of Japan's mainland, a pure land forgotten by the world.
❄️In winter, it transforms into a dreamland of drifting ice and blue ice, with a touch of blue that seems like the aurora falling to the earth;
🌊In summer, it becomes a refreshing place where the TV series "Amachan" was filmed, with blue sea and sky, full of comfort.
🚢Follow this guide to unlock the ultimate experience of "the northernmost tip of Japan" and discover the breathtaking scenery that 99% of tourists miss. It's definitely worth saving!
Top 5 Must-Visit Attractions
Cape Soya, Japan's Northernmost Landmark: The triangular pyramid monument stands tall, side by side with the Peace Memorial Statue, solemn and sacred. For 500 yen, you can get a "45°31'N" certificate. When evening comes, the sunset slowly falls into the Sea of Okhotsk, and the orange-red afterglow dyes the sea golden red, extremely romantic.
Cape Noshappu, First Stop for Drift Ice Observation: Every February, take an icebreaker to travel through the drift ice and meet cute seals up close (remember to book in advance). Looking around, the white ice field is endless, and the red lighthouse stands out in the distance. A casual shot can be a Japanese-style blockbuster that goes viral on social media.
Rishiri and Rebun Islands, Sea Fuji Secret: Board a ship from Wakkanai Port and sail for 2 hours to reach this sea paradise. From June to August, alpine flower fields bloom wildly, covering the mountains and plains with splendor. Don't forget to try the local specialty "Rishiri Kombu" ramen, with rich broth and tender kombu, every bite is a gift from the sea.
Wakkanai Park, Frozen Reality: The winter-exclusive "Ice Gate" installation is like the entrance to a fairy tale world. When night falls, colorful lights illuminate the entire park, making it dreamy and breathtakingly beautiful.
North Breakwater, Showa-Style Architectural Miracle: A sea corridor composed of 73 columns extends into the depths of the sea. It is a filming location for many TV series and movies, such as "Yae no Sakura". Walking here feels like traveling back to the Showa era.
Local Food Map
🦀 Seafood Market:
- Asaichi Shokudo: Freshly opened sea urchin rice bowl, with sweet and rich sea urchin covering the rice, starts a culinary journey of the ocean.
- Kita no Yatai: Snow crab miso soup, only available in winter, with delicious broth that warms both body and heart.
🥩 Specialty Cuisine:
- Genghis Khan BBQ "Yanyangtei": Tender lamb sizzling on the iron plate, paired with special sauce, fills your mouth with meaty aroma.
- Soya Black Beef Sukiyaki "Ajidokoro Ichicha": High-quality Soya black beef rolling in sweet sukiyaki broth, wrapped in egg liquid, melts in your mouth.
🥛 Dessert Lovers Must Try:
- Wakkanai Farm Ice Cream: Rich and creamy milk flavor, every bite tastes like nature.
- Shiroi Koibito Raw Material Factory Limited Edition: Unique and unforgettable sweetness, only available here.
Transportation and Accommodation Guide
✈️ Major Transportation:
- Sapporo→Wakkanai: Take JR, about 5 hours, with picturesque scenery along the way. It's recommended to buy a Hokkaido Rail Pass for more cost-effective travel.
- Asahikawa→Wakkanai: Take a highway bus, 4 hours to arrive, comfortable and convenient.
🚗 Local Transportation: Renting a car is the best choice. Toyota Rent a Car is near JR, making travel convenient. In winter, roads are prone to icing, so remember to prepare snow chains.
🏨 Accommodation Recommendations:
- High-End Choice: ANA Crowne Plaza Wakkanai, with luxurious facilities and a top-floor hot spring offering stunning night views.
- Cost-Effective Choice: Wakkanai Youth Hostel, affordable and includes breakfast, very considerate.
Practical Tips
Don't miss the "Snow Festival" every February, where you can have a drink in an ice bar and experience the unique winter atmosphere.
If you plan to climb Mount Rishiri, you need to report in advance. The open season is from June to September.
There are few convenience stores in Wakkanai, so it's recommended to prepare some snacks before traveling, just in case.
In winter, the temperature is often below -10°C, so be sure to bring windproof and warm coats to resist the cold.
Wakkanai is a treasure hidden by nature, a last love letter to the sea💌 When the train slowly passes through the northernmost Soya Main Line, listen to the sound of snow falling at the end of the world.