Shari tours

Things to do in Shari

In Shari, the sea's rhythm leads you, as the salty air mingles with the aroma of pine forests. This coastal town, perched on the edge of Shiretoko Peninsula, is a haven where nature holds sway. With your local guide, Shari tours become a portal to Japan's untamed wilderness. Feel the thrill of a walking tour through the pristine beauty of Shiretoko National Park, where the calls of rare birds and the sight of wild deer awaken your senses. Private tours in Shari unveil hidden waterfalls and secluded shores, fostering a personal connection with this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Let your guide reveal Shari's secrets, rendering your journey uniquely personal and deeply memorable. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Shari. Explore Shari your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Shari tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Shari for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Explore the Shiretoko Five Lakes on the elevated boardwalk with a certified nature guide, watching for deer and fox while learning bear safety and ecology. In winter, join a drift-ice walk or a boat tour from Utoro or Rausu to photograph Steller’s sea eagles and seals on the Okhotsk Sea. Food and Drink tours: Visit a small harbour in Utoro to see the morning seafood landings, then sit down for a donburi piled with uni and ikura at a family-run diner. Drop by kelp-drying yards in Rausu to taste premium kombu, and cap it with creamy soft-serve at a dairy stand in nearby Kiyosato. History tours: Step into the Shiretoko Museum in Shari to see Ainu artefacts and exhibits on salmon fishing and pioneering life. Your guide can weave Ainu place names into a walk that includes a quiet stop at Shari Shrine. Transit: Local buses connect Shari, Utoro, and Rausu but run infrequently, and areas are spread out beyond easy walking. If you prefer, ask your local guide about chauffeured tours or private transportation for flexible timing. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Shari inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Discovering Shari is best done on foot, strolling through its vibrant neighborhoods with a local guide. Your guide will help you dive into the essence of Shari, showcasing the blend of culture, nature, and daily life. Here are a few neighborhoods to consider for your Shari tours: - Utoro: Perfect for nature enthusiasts and families, this coastal neighborhood offers breathtaking views of the Sea of Okhotsk and access to the Shiretoko National Park. Experience the local fishing culture and enjoy fresh seafood at charming local eateries. - Rausu: Ideal for those interested in wildlife and cultural connections. Known for its whale-watching and opportunities to see rare birds, Rausu also gives you a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the local communities. - Shiretoko Five Lakes Area: This area is a haven for multi-generational groups seeking outdoor adventures. It features scenic trails and pristine lakes, making it a great spot for hiking and learning about the region's unique ecosystem with your guide. Day trip ideas from Shari Use Shari as your base and branch out to nearby coasts, lakes, and small cities for simple day trips that fit what you like to see, taste, and photograph. Utoro and the Shiretoko Five Lakes: About an hour from town, the coastal views, waterfalls, and easy boardwalks deliver classic Shiretoko scenery with a good chance to spot deer, foxes, and, in season, brown bears from a safe distance. If you want more time outside, add the waterfall climb at Kamuiwakka or a short ridge walk for wide views, and your tour can focus on wildlife, photography, or relaxed nature stops. Rausu on the Pacific side: In summer, the Shiretoko Pass opens and the drive takes around 90 minutes, giving you a full day of sea cliffs, fishing ports, and wildlife boat tours for orcas, dolphins, and eagles. Winter shifts to drift ice scenery and sea eagles, and food fans can try fresh kelp, crab, and seafood at small local spots that keep it simple. Abashiri: About an hour southwest, this port city mixes Okhotsk Sea views with history and winter drift ice experiences, plus lakeside stops for birdwatching. It works well if you like light city exploring with nature close by, and your tour can weave in coastal lookouts, a local market, and seasonal activities without a long hike. Teshikaga for Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo: Plan 90 minutes each way for volcanic lakes with clear viewpoints that are easy to reach, short forest walks, and open-air footbaths along Kussharo’s shore. Photographers get moody blue water and morning mist, while onsen fans can add a soak, and families can keep it simple with scenic stops and picnic spots. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Shari most travellers miss.