HokkaidoTravel

Free Preparation on the Value of World Natural Heritage Shiretoko and Field Rules

About this spot

An Environment Ministry facility located next to Michi no Eki Utoro Shirieto Station (道の駅うとろ・シリエトク) at the entrance to the Utoro hot spring district, where you can freely learn about the value of the world natural heritage site Shiretoko and how to explore it properly. Life-size photographs of Shiretoko's representative animals—brown bears, blakiston's eagle owls, and white-tailed eagles—line the halls, and you'll be amazed by their sheer size. Touchable exhibits of fur and footprint models, plus explanations of Shiretoko's ecosystem where sea, river, and forest connect through drift ice, will build your anticipation for the field you're about to explore. Information on behavior rules to avoid bear encounters and the latest status of open walking trails is also provided, so preparing here before heading to Shiretoko Five Lakes will make your afternoon hike many times safer and more enriching.

Tips

Located next to Michi no Eki Utoro Shirieto Station (道の駅うとろ・シリエトク), sharing parking facilities makes it easy to visit both. Admission is free. Opening hours and closure days vary by season, so confirm in advance. Check here for the latest information on Shiretoko Five Lakes' ground walking trail conditions and bear sightings.