10 Best hikes and trails in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park

Best trails in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park

4.3(155 reviews)

Hokkaido
:
#1 of 3 quasi national parks

Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park is mainly composed of the Niseko area, the Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan area, and the marine park area, and each area is home to a valuable ecosystem.

A variety of alpine plants can be seen in the Niseko area, centered around the Niseko Mountains, which belong to the Chokai Volcanic Zone, such as Niseko Annupuri, Iwaonupuri, and Nitonupuri. Plant communities such as iris iris, tachigiboshi, and skunk cabbage are distributed in wetlands of various sizes in the mountains, and the cliffs of Raiden Coast facing the Sea of Japan create a magnificent landscape.

In the Shakotan/Otaru Coastal District, the foothills of the volcanic mountains on the Shakotan Peninsula are washed by rough waves, creating an impressive landscape of rugged cliffs that rise more than 100 meters above sea level.

The Shakotan Peninsula Marine Park area has a wonderful ecosystem of sea cliffs and reefs, and many invertebrates, such as stony corals, live in the reefs. Tourist boats operate in this area and offer stunning views of the sea and cliffs.

Check out the various natural activities in each area. In the mountains of Motoyama, there are many bases for mountain climbing, camping, and trekking, as well as various hot springs! The local ski resorts are also famous nationwide, offering not only magnificent scenery but also the opportunity to experience the vast nature of Hokkaido.

Top trails

#1 - Mount Iwaonupuri

Mount Iwaonupur (イワオヌプリ) is part of the Niseko Mountain Range and located in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park, where you can see the magnificent landscapes of Hokkaido's nature. This trail commences from Goshiki Onsen to the summit of the mountain.

#2 - Mount Niseko Annupuri

Mount Niseko Annupuri (ニセコアンヌプリ) is the main peak of the Niseko volcanic group, and also known as a ski resort. This trail departs from Goshiki Onsen to the summit of the mountain, which offers you magnificent views of the nature of Hokkaido from the path and the summit.

#3 - Akaiwa-Otamoi Nature Trail

Akaiwa-Otamoi Nature Trail (赤岩オタモイ線歩道)

#4 - Mount Shioyamaruyama

Mount Shioyamaruyama (塩谷丸山) Hike up Mount Shioyamaruyama from the parking lot near the trailhead. The first half of the trail is gently sloping and covered with trees. The path is almost a straight line towards the summit, and from the summit, you can enjoy spectacular views of the blue Japan Sea and the surrounding area.

#5 - Mount Otaru Tengu

Mount Otaru Tengu (小樽天狗山) Mount Otaru Tengu is a low elevation mountain, loved by the locals of Otaru. It is a mountain for easy climbing and is also accessible by ropeway. Although there is no view at the top, there are many observation points and a terrace, where you can see the city of Otaru and Ishikari Bay, so you will never get bored. There is also Tenguyama Shop and cafe on the mountain.

#6 - Goshiki Onsen - Onuma Marsh

Goshiki Onsen - Onuma Marsh (五色温泉 - 大沼) This trail is located in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park. This trail starts from Goshiki Onsen and heads to Onuma Marsh which offers you beautiful scenery and the opportunity to see wildlife of the area.

#7 - Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck

Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck (祝津パノラマ展望台) The Shukutsu Panorama Observatory is a popular viewing spot located on the north side of Otaru City. It is a spectacular spot for its panoramic views of the Sea of Japan and the gorgeous sunset.

#8 - Mount Otaru Tengu Loop

Mount Otaru Tengu Loop (小樽天狗山ループ) Mount Otaru Tengu is a low elevation mountain, loved by the locals of Otaru. It is a mountain for easy climbing and is also accessible by ropeway. Although there is no view at the top, there are many observation points and a terrace, where you can see the city of Otaru and Ishikari Bay, so you will never get bored. There is also Tenguyama Shop and cafe on the mountain.

#9 - Mount Shioyamaruyama - Mount Okobachi - Otaru Station

Mount Shioyamaruyama - Mount Okobachi - Otaru Station (塩谷丸山 - 於古発山 - 小樽駅) This trek leads you from Shioya Station to Mount Shioyamaruyama and Mount Okobachi, then ends at Otaru Station. Both mountains are blessed with lush nature, and Mount Shioyamaruyama offers panoramic views of the blue Japan Sea and the surrounding area.

#10 - Otamoi Karamon Gate - Mount Akaiwa

Otamoi Karamon Gate - Mount Akaiwa (オタモイ唐門 - 赤岩山) From the trailhead in the Otamoi Karamon Gate side, this hike leads you to Mount Akaiwa. In the middle of the trail, there is the Dewa Sanzan Shrine, and near the top of the mountain, you can view the beautiful Sea of Japan.

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Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to hike in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park?

According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park is Mount Iwaonupuri, which has a 4.7 star rating from 54 reviews. This trail is 2.7 mi long with an elevation gain of 1,148 ft.

What is the longest trail in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park is Mount Shioyamaruyama - Mount Okobachi Loop. This trail is estimated to be 10.4 mi long.

How many trails are in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park?

There are 12 trails in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park. These trails have an average 4.3-star rating from 155 AllTrails community reviews.

Which trail has the most elevation gain in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park?

If you're looking for elevation gain, Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park has you covered. Mount Shioyamaruyama - Mount Okobachi - Otaru Station boasts the most elevation gain with 3,179 ft of total ascent. The park's runner-up is Mount Shioyamaruyama - Mount Okobachi Loop, which will get you 3,041 ft of elevation gain.

Are there camping trails available in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there are 2 camping trails in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park and the most popular is Mount Iwaonupuri with an average 4.7 star rating from 54 community reviews.

Are there running trails available in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there are 2 running trails in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park and the most popular is Mount Otaru Tengu with an average 4.4 star rating from 9 community reviews.