Overview of Shakotan A scenic town facing a boundless expanse of sea

 

 

Shakotan is a town with a population of 2,100 and an area of 238.21 km2. It is located at the center of the west coast of Hokkaido, at the head of the Shakotan Peninsula protruding to the northwest. The development of the Shakotan Peninsula has a long history, initially growing as a major herring fishing area from the Meiji era to the Showa era, and banya (an accommodation facility and workshop for fishermen), tunnels and old roads from those days are preserved. Fishing is still the main industry of the town, which is especially known for sea urchin. Fishing thrives throughout the year, with catches including sea urchin in June, salmon in autumn and cod in winter.

The 42-km coastline of Shakotan Town features imposing cliffs and oddly-shaped rocks. Views from Cape Kamui, including those of the sea referred to as Shakotan Blue, are superb. The Shakotan Peninsula is part of Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-national Park, and the sea of Shakotan is designated as Hokkaido’s only marine park.
In 2004, the Shakotan Peninsula and Cape Kamui were collectively certified as one of the 52 Hokkaido Heritage sites and recognized as an important Hokkaido treasure to be preserved for the next generation.