Hello there!
We are Picchio, a nature tour provider based in Shiretoko, Hokkaido, where we offer various nature activities and experiences.
In this article, we will introduce the charm of Shiretoko, one of the best national park in Japan and also a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, and we hope to provide helpful information for those planning a trip to Shiretoko.

Shiretoko is one of Japan’s most pristine natural sanctuaries, renowned for its untouched wilderness. Since being designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 2005, Shiretoko has become famous for its rich ecosystem and stunning landscapes, attracting visitors from all over the world throughout the year.
Located in eastern Hokkaido, Japan’s one of the northern peninsula, Shiretoko is reachable from Memanbetsu Airport with a less-than-two-hour flight from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport.

While Shiretoko has unique attractions in every season, the winter season, in particular, offers a special experience with its breathtaking landscapes formed by drift ice, unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere in Japan.

Winter in Shiretoko is extremely harsh, with temperatures dropping as low as -20°C. However, this severe cold creates unparalleled beauty that is well worth witnessing. The drift ice covering the coastline of the Shiretoko Peninsula in winter is one of the few remaining natural phenomena of its kind in the world today, despite the challenges posed by global warming. This natural wonder supports the rich marine and terrestrial ecosystems that thrive in the cold sea and on the ice.

The nutrients carried by the drift ice enrich the marine and aerial ecosystems, attracting a wide variety of wildlife to Shiretoko in winter.

Shiretoko is not just a tourist destination; it’s a field of study for nature lovers and researchers from around the world. Among the most iconic wildlife species here are the magnificent Steller’s Sea Eagles and White-tailed Eagles. These large birds of prey migrate great distances to spend the winter in Shiretoko’s harsh, yet bountiful, sea-rich environment.
Watching these eagles soar over the ice-covered sea is an awe-inspiring experience that brings visitors face-to-face with the wonders of nature.

At Picchio Shiretoko, we offer eagle-watching tours that allow you to observe these majestic birds in their natural habitat. The eagles can often be spotted perched on tall trees along the coastline, scanning the sea for prey. On windy days, you may witness them gracefully soaring through the sky. Our tours involve traveling along the coastline in our vehicle, stopping at various observation points to view the eagles through scopes. This makes our tours suitable even for families with children (age 4+) or those who may not feel confident in their physical stamina.

For tour details and bookings, please click the link below:
https://shiretoko-picchio.com/en/distinations/eagle-and-wildlife-watching-tour/

The serene grandeur of this cold land, along with the majestic presence of the Steller’s Sea Eagles and White-tailed Eagles, will leave you with unforgettable memories. We invite you to experience the charm of Shiretoko in winter and witness the wonder of this UNESCO World Natural Heritage site for yourself.

We look forward to your participation!

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Check out our other popular posts!▼

• How to Access Shiretoko in Winter: A Guide to Reaching the Eagles’ Sanctuary
• Shiretoko’s Winter Wildlife: Steller’s and White-Tailed Eagles and Beyond

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