Best trails in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park
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
- (57)•Hard•3.3 mi•Est. 3–3.5 hrMount 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.
- (11)•Hard•3.9 mi•Est. 3–3.5 hrMount 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.
- (10)•Hard•3.1 mi•Est. 2–2.5 hrMount 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.
- (3)•Moderate•2.1 mi•Est. 1.5–2 hrMount 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.
- (3)•Hard•10.3 mi•Est. 6.5–7.5 hrMount 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.
- (2)•Moderate•3.1 mi•Est. 2–2.5 hrOtamoi 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.
