World Heritage Site Shiretoko Peninsula! 11 wild animals living in Japan’s iconic great nature

The World Heritage Site "Shiretoko Peninsula" is a treasure trove of wild animals! Both on land and in the sea, you can encounter a wide variety of wildlife. Along the central axis of the peninsula, rugged mountains ranging from 1,200 to 1,600 meters tall extend like a backbone, offering dramatically different natural scenery with each season. Shiretoko's charm lies not only in its animals but also in its rare and diverse plant life. In lakes and wetlands, you’ll find cotton grass and Asian skunk cabbage in bloom, and alpine plants can be seen even in low-elevation areas. Furthermore, about 77 rivers connect the sea and land, supplying abundant nutrients to many living organisms. This time, we introduce representative wild animals of the Shiretoko Peninsula.

1. Brown Bear

When you think of animals unique to Hokkaido, many people think of the brown bear. They are well-known for their powerful image of catching and eating salmon and trout swimming upstream. The brown bear is the largest land mammal in Japan and is considered the largest among bear species.

In Shiretoko, encounters with wild brown bears on roads are not uncommon, and in recent years, they have often been spotted even in human settlements. Some tourists visiting Shiretoko try to photograph or approach them, but brown bears are said to run at speeds of over 50 km/h, making them extremely dangerous. If you encounter one, do not run—quietly retreat instead. Shouting or fleeing can provoke them to chase you.

Despite this, there are tours in Shiretoko where you can safely observe wild brown bears. On the "Brown Bear Watching Course" offered by the Shiretoko Peninsula Utoro Cruise, there is over a 95% chance of spotting them. Since you observe from a boat at sea, there is no danger of attack. Binoculars are available for rent, so you can join empty-handed.

2. Ezo Red Fox

The Ezo red fox is also one of Hokkaido’s iconic wild animals. It can be spotted almost anywhere on the Shiretoko Peninsula, making it one of the easiest wild animals to encounter. Especially in mountainous regions, it can be seen even from inside a moving car. On the other hand, many foxes also wander onto roads and are involved in traffic accidents, so please drive with caution.

Although its fluffy appearance is very cute, Ezo red foxes carry the risk of transmitting the parasite Echinococcus, so no matter how cute they look, do not touch them. Echinococcosis is a terrifying parasitic disease found almost exclusively in Hokkaido and can be fatal. It can also spread through water, so never drink untreated water in Hokkaido, including on the Shiretoko Peninsula.

If you're disappointed that you didn't get to see a wild Ezo red fox during your visit, head to the “Kita Kitsune Farm.” At the Kita Kitsune Farm, the foxes roam freely in a large enclosure, allowing visitors to observe their natural expressions. Although it's a bit far from the Shiretoko Peninsula, it's a great place to fully enjoy their charm. However, even at the farm, touching the foxes is strictly prohibited.

3. Ezo Sika Deer

The Ezo sika deer, found throughout Hokkaido, is perhaps the most commonly seen wild animal on the Shiretoko Peninsula. Due to the overpopulation of deer causing various damages, they are also hunted as game.

If you drive through the forests and mountains of the Shiretoko Peninsula, you’re likely to encounter wild Ezo sika deer. Various wild animals may dart out onto the roads in Shiretoko, so drive with extreme care.

As many people know, only male deer have antlers, which fall off and regrow every spring. Their mating season is from October to November, and females give birth around June to July. So if you visit outside of April to June, you may see males with magnificent antlers or females with adorable fawns.

You can also encounter many Ezo sika deer around the popular sightseeing spot “Shiretoko Goko (Five Lakes).” While touring this staple Shiretoko destination, take a moment to look around—you might just spot some unexpected wildlife.

4. Blakiston's Fish Owl

The Blakiston's fish owl that inhabits the Shiretoko Peninsula is the largest owl in the world. It is said that only around 140 remain in the wild, and it has been designated as an endangered species.

Among the Ainu people, the fish owl has long been revered as a guardian spirit of the village. Because it is such a rare and endangered species, even on the Shiretoko Peninsula it is not easy to find. That’s why many people choose to visit the "Kushiro City Zoo," the only facility in Japan that has successfully bred this owl in captivity.

However, on the Shiretoko Peninsula, there is also a facility called the “Blakiston's Fish Owl Observatory,” where you can see these owls at any time. This facility is operated by the guesthouse "Washi no Yado," located along a mountain stream. It has observation huts and owl-friendly lighting installed, allowing visitors to watch the owls hunt at night. The fee is included for overnight guests. Even if you’re not staying there, you can still visit the observatory for a fee, so do consider dropping by after sunset.

5. Red-crowned Crane

Designated as a Special Natural Monument, the red-crowned crane is the only crane that breeds in Japan. With wingspans reaching around 2.4 meters, it is also the largest crane species in Japan. Although it was once believed to be extinct, in 1924 it was discovered to still inhabit the Kushiro Wetlands, and now it can even be seen on the Shiretoko Peninsula.

In kanji, the red-crowned crane is written as "丹頂" — where "丹" means "red" and "頂" means "top" — referring to the red crown on its head. It is considered a symbol of Japan. Its breeding season is from late February to late April, during which it lays one or two eggs. The chicks grow large enough to fly in about 100 days.

Even now, the Kushiro Wetlands are regarded as the main habitat of the red-crowned crane, and there’s no guarantee of seeing one on the Shiretoko Peninsula. At the “Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary” in Tsurui Village, Akan District, northwest of the wetlands, feeding is conducted from November to March when food is scarce. The sanctuary also features a nature center where rangers carry out various conservation activities. If you visit during the right season, you can observe cranes gathering at the feeding site up close.

6. Orca

On the World Heritage-listed Shiretoko Peninsula, you can also observe a wide variety of marine wildlife. Offshore from Rausu in Shiretoko, wild dolphins, orcas, and sperm whales inhabit the area. Among them, the orca — also known as the gangster of the sea — is highly recommended! It preys on seals and penguins, and sometimes even hunts whales in groups, earning it the title of ruler of the ocean.

Shiretoko Nature Cruise uses years of experience to take tourists to areas with a high chance of sightings. However, since these are wild animals, sightings are not guaranteed. But because orcas are curious and intelligent, they often approach boats without fear. If you're really lucky, they may come right up next to the cruise ship, much to the delight of passengers. Generally, the highest chance of encountering wild orcas is from May to July.

Even in midsummer, temperatures on the Shiretoko Peninsula can remain below 20°C, and it feels even colder out at sea. Be sure to dress warmly if you join a cruise.

7. Ezo Squirrel

The Ezo squirrel is one of the wild animals that can only be seen in Hokkaido. Its body is about 25 cm long, with a tail around 20 cm, giving it a stuffed animal-like cuteness that will surely bring a smile to your face.

You may encounter one in the forests of the Shiretoko Peninsula, but since they’re small animals, they can be hard to spot with the naked eye. If you’re lucky, one might even appear right in front of you. Take your time and explore the rich natural surroundings of Shiretoko Peninsula, and your chances of seeing one will increase.

If you didn’t get to see a wild Ezo squirrel but still want to see a real one, consider visiting “momo cafe.” This popular café is known for wild Ezo squirrels that come tapping on the windows — a sight that draws many visitors. It’s located quite far from the Shiretoko Peninsula, near Tomakomai City, but is always bustling with tourists.

8. White-tailed Eagle

The migratory white-tailed eagle flies to northern Japan in winter, but some individuals remain in Hokkaido year-round. As a national natural monument and endangered species, the majestic sight of the white-tailed eagle can often be seen from cruise boats in Shiretoko.

If you want to observe white-tailed eagles on the Shiretoko Peninsula, the locally organized nature guide tour “Hoshi no Jikan” offers a program titled “Observe Steller’s Sea Eagles and White-tailed Eagles: Let’s Watch These National Monuments and Other Wildlife!” Instead of a boat, this tour travels by car along the coastline to search for white-tailed eagles. With binoculars and a field scope, you can look for them and even take photos if spotted.

Incidentally, Steller’s sea eagles can also be seen in Shiretoko during winter. Though similar, Steller’s sea eagles have striking black feathers, while white-tailed eagles have brown ones. The Steller’s sea eagle also has a thicker and brighter yellow beak. Since the differences are relative, it might be hard to distinguish between them for first-time observers. Don’t hesitate to ask your guide or a knowledgeable person if unsure.

9. Steller Sea Lion

The name “Todo” (Steller sea lion) comes from the Ainu word “tonto,” meaning tanned leather. However, in the Ainu language, the animal is called “Etashipe,” meaning “one who snores.” With a body length of 2–3 meters and a weight ranging from 240 kg to 1 ton, it is the largest species among sea lions. Steller sea lions are common wild animals on the Shiretoko Peninsula, inhabiting the coasts of the North Pacific and surrounding areas, feeding on squid, octopus, fish, and more. Because they sometimes tear fishermen’s nets to steal catches, they are disliked by people in the fishing industry.

Every year, many wild Steller sea lions arrive at the Shiretoko Peninsula. However, the observation period is short—mainly between December and January. By February, most of them head offshore. The “Shiretoko Marine Mammal Tour” is one wildlife-watching tour that lets you make the most of this brief opportunity. A small boat brings you close enough to feel their breath, right near a gathering spot of dozens of sea lions. Witnessing a group of sea lions up close is an awe-inspiring experience!

10. Sperm Whale

The sperm whale is the largest of the toothed whales and the largest toothed animal in the world. Its huge head makes up about one-third of its body length, and it primarily feeds on squid. It can dive to depths of over 3,000 meters and can stay underwater for up to 40 minutes. Just before diving deep, it lifts its tail high—this is your photo opportunity!

Although sperm whales inhabit oceans around the world, places where they can be regularly observed are extremely rare, even globally. The waters off Rausu on the Shiretoko Peninsula are one such valuable location. The “Shiretoko Peninsula Rausu Cruise,” which departs from Rausu Port, offers a high chance of seeing dozens of sperm whales up close during the July–September season.

11. Ezo Pine Marten

The Ezo pine marten might be unfamiliar outside of Hokkaido. It’s a cautious wild animal found only in Hokkaido, mainly in the eastern and northern regions like the Shiretoko Peninsula. It’s so charming that it was chosen as the mascot character of the 2010 Winter National Sports Festival.

Although it once lived throughout Hokkaido during the Meiji era, its population declined due to overhunting for fur, and it is now protected with a ban on hunting. The Ezo pine marten lives mainly in the treetops of forests and feeds on mice, insects, and fruit. Its round eyes are irresistibly cute, and it sometimes stands on its hind legs in an endearing pose.

It is active day and night all year round, but it's very fast, so encounters—let alone photos—are rare. If you do manage to spot one on the Shiretoko Peninsula, consider yourself very lucky! You can observe this adorable creature up close at the “Kushiro City Zoo.”

◎ Summary

On the World Natural Heritage-listed Shiretoko Peninsula, there are opportunities to encounter wildlife in a variety of environments—from sea to mountain. However, it’s important to observe quietly to avoid disrupting the precious local ecosystem. If wild animals become too accustomed to humans, they may approach without caution and be hit by vehicles. Never feed them, and remember that many carry bacteria or viruses, so avoid physical contact. Additionally, be mindful not to park in dangerous areas that may inconvenience other tourists. Do not use flash photography on wildlife at night. Consider joining a guided tour and follow instructions carefully. Let’s observe wildlife responsibly and enjoyably by respecting the rules.