Shari-dake (1,547 m) rises from the coastal plain near the town of Shari, at the base of the Shiretoko Peninsula in northeastern Hokkaido. It is lower than most Hyakumeizan peaks and less dramatic in shape than its neighbour Rausu-dake, but what it offers is unusual: a clear day view from the summit that sweeps from the Shiretoko Peninsula across the Sea of Okhotsk to Kunashir Island, with Lake Tofutsu — a large lagoon — spread out below like a mirror. The mountain earns its place in Fukada's list through scenery and position, not technical challenge.
Why Fukada Chose Shari-dake
Kyuya Fukada placed Shari-dake at #3 in Nihon Hyakumeizan, completing the opening Shiretoko group with Rishiri-dake and Rausu-dake. He wrote that the three peaks form a natural trilogy: the island peak (Rishiri), the deep-forest peak (Rausu), and the coastal peak (Shari). Shari-dake, he noted, appears modest from the plains but rewards those who reach its summit with one of the broadest panoramas in Hokkaido.
The Mountain
| Elevation | 1,547 m (5,075 ft) |
| Prefecture | Hokkaido |
| Location | Base of Shiretoko Peninsula |
| Hyakumeizan rank | #3 |
| Typical season | June – October |
Shari-dake is a volcanic mountain with a complex summit ridge. The surrounding terrain is relatively gentle by Hokkaido standards, with accessible forested approaches.
The Route
Standard Route: Kiyosato Route
Grade: Moderate–Challenging
- Distance: ~9 km one way
- Elevation gain: ~1,300 m
- Time: 4–6 hours ascent, 3–4 hours descent
- Character: Forest throughout the lower section, transitioning to open ridge above. The summit area has some rocky scrambling.
Getting There
From Shari town: Shari is on the JR Senmo Main Line (from Kushiro ~2 hours, from Abashiri ~30 minutes). The trailhead is accessible by taxi or rental car from Shari (~30 minutes).
From Memanbetsu Airport: Rental car recommended (~1 hour to trailhead area).
Flora and Wildlife
Hokkaido brown bears (ヒグマ): Active population throughout the forested approaches. Bear spray and bell mandatory. The area around the Shiretoko Peninsula base has regular bear sightings.
Ezo deer: Abundant in forest sections; frequently seen near the trailhead.
Sea of Okhotsk birds: The coastal location makes Shari-dake an excellent spot for seeing sea birds — spectacled guillemots, common murres, and various gulls are visible from the summit on clear days.
Wildflowers: The open upper ridge has a good summer wildflower display, including species typical of the Okhotsk coast climate zone.
Seasonal Guide
June – July: Early season; some snowpatches possible. Views of drift ice in the Sea of Okhotsk linger into spring.
August: Best summer conditions. Clear days offer views to Kunashir Island.
September – October: Autumn colour on lower slopes. Early snowfall possible from October.
Gear List
Mandatory: Bear spray, bear bell, full waterproofs, trekking poles, headlamp, 1.5 litres water.
Practical Tips
Combine with Shiretoko: Shari-dake works well as part of a broader Shiretoko visit combining the Five Lakes, Utoro, and Rausu-dake. Base in Shari or Utoro for 3–4 days.
Drift ice: The Sea of Okhotsk off Shari freezes in winter and drift ice (ryūhyō) flows in January–March. The ice viewing season from Shari and Abashiri is one of Hokkaido's great winter experiences, though incompatible with mountain hiking.
This guide is part of the Japan's 100 Famous Mountains: Complete Hyakumeizan Guide series.
