- Plan Overview
- Price
- Access
Salmon Run Watching Tour
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1.5 hours
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1 person(s) or more
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7 yrs or older
Plan Overview
In autumn, salmon and trout return to the rivers where they were born after completing their long migration through the northern seas.
Born in rivers, salmon grow in the vast ocean before returning to Shiretoko once again, heading back toward the rivers where they were born. The sight of them moving upstream against the strong current offers a powerful glimpse into the strength of life.
A Drama of Life Unfolding in Shiretoko's Rivers
Salmon swimming upstream to spawn continue their journey despite the wounds they have suffered from their long migration and harsh conditions, striving to fulfill their role in carrying on the next generation. Their struggle is a moving part of nature's cycle that can only be experienced in autumn.
On the tour, we provide easy-to-understand explanations not only about the ecology of salmon and trout, but also about the role of the rivers that sustain them and the rich natural environment of Shiretoko that connects the sea and the forests. We observe the fish while taking care not to disturb their behavior, allowing you to discover the connections of life that support Shiretoko's natural environment.
Salmon that risk their lives to fulfill their role in carrying on the next generation. This spectacle is a moving drama of life that we hope you will experience in Shiretoko in autumn.
• From Sep. 24 to Oct. 31, the 7:30 AM departure includes both salmon run watching and salmon landing observation at Utoro Salmon Terrace.
(Not available on Sundays. If fishing is suspended due to rough weather or other conditions, the tour content will be changed to salmon run watching on the day.)
About the Walking Route
This program does not involve walking through the forest. We walk along the river and visit places where we can observe the salmon, making the tour enjoyable even for those who are not confident in their physical fitness.
Tour Start Times
Sep. 1–Nov. 20: 9:00 / 14:00
Sep. 24–Oct. 31: 7:30* / 9:00 / 14:00
*The 7:30 departure is not available on Sundays.
- Start Time
- 07:30 / 09:00 / 14:00
- What to bring
- 【Items to Bring】
- Rain gear
【Clothing】
- Top: Cold winds can blow along the river and coast, so please bring warm clothing appropriate for the temperature.
- Bottoms: Long pants are required. (Skirts and shorts are not permitted.)
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers. (Sandals are not permitted.)
- Accessories: Warm items such as a knit hat and gloves, depending on the temperature. - Participation Requirements
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◯Age 7+
Able to walk 1 km+ on hilly or uneven terrain
Able to participate in group activities without difficulty - Min. Persons to Book
- From 1 person(s)
- Regarding the operating of the activity
- ●The tour operates with a minimum of 2 participants.
* If the minimum number of participants is not met, the tour will be canceled 7 days in advance. Your reservation will be canceled, and you will receive a full refund.
●The tour operates rain or shine.
●Please be sure to check the reminder email sent 2 days before the tour for the final meeting time and other details.
●Please note that the tour may not be available on certain days depending on the salmon run conditions and river conditions, such as high water levels or muddy water.The number of migrating salmon also varies from day to day.
Price
Base Cost
Cancellation Policy
Please be aware that the following cancellation fees will apply if you cancel due to your own circumstances.
Please contact us immediately by phone (0152-22-5522) if you wish to cancel.
*Cancellations made after business hours (cancellations after 19:00) will be processed the following day.
7 to 4 days before the meeting: 30% of the fee
3 days to the day before: 50% of the fee
On the day of the tour: 100% of the fee
*Similarly, 100% of the tour fee will be charged for no-shows without prior notice.
No cancellation fee will be charged if you are unable to attend due to transportation disruptions or road closures caused by bad weather, or if the tour is cancelled before it begins due to typhoon or heavy rain/flood warnings.
No refunds will be given for tour cancellations after the start due to natural conditions such as bear sightings or severe weather. Please be aware of this in advance.
Payment Method
Pay on arrival: Cash only
Online Payment: Any of the following credit cards or pay later services
Access
- Meeting Point
- Please choose from the designated locations below.
・KITAKOBUSHI SHIRETOKO Hotel & Resort
・KIKI SHIRETOKO NATURAL RESORT
・Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel
・Hotel Shiretoko
・Onsen Guesthouse The SUNSET Shiretoko
・Hotel Kifuu Club Shiretoko
・SHIRETOKO VILLAGE
・Kokun Kekun
・PRIVATE COTTAGE Lantern SHIRETOKO
・Guest House TANPOPO
・REMBRANDT RESORT SHIRETOKO
・Guest House ISHIYAMA
・Michi-no-Eki (Roadside Rest Area) “Utoro/Shirietoku”
・Utoro Onsen Bus Terminal
- About Meeting Point
- ■Pick-up from designated accommodations: 0–15 minutes before the tour start time
■If your accommodation is not one of our designated pickup locations, please choose one of the following meeting points:
① Michi-no-Eki (Roadside Rest Area) “Utoro/Shirietoku”
② Utoro Onsen Bus Terminal *No parking available
Time Schedule
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◯Example
If the tour starts at 9:00
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◯8:45-9:00
Pick-up at each designated meeting point in sequence (at 5-minute intervals)
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◯9:00-10:30
Salmon Run Watching Tour
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◯10:40頃
Drop-off at each designated meeting point in sequence
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