How long does it take to walk the trail at Cape Kamui Misaki to the end and back, and what should I prepare?

The trail along the ridge of Cape Kamui Misaki takes about 30-40 minutes round trip to the tip of the cape. The path is narrow and steep, and puddles can form when it rains, so wearing athletic shoes is essential.

How do I get from Otaru Canal to the Music Box Museum, and what are its features?

It takes about 10 minutes to walk from Otaru Canal to the Music Box Museum. The Music Box Museum is Japan's largest specialty store for music boxes, where you can browse a wide variety of designs and even customize your own music box.

What is the most convenient public transport from Sapporo Station to Otaru, and what are the travel time and fare?

The most convenient public transport from Sapporo Station to Otaru is the JR Rapid Airport train. It takes about 32 minutes, and a one-way fare is approximately ~$5. The frequent service makes it a more convenient option for travelers.

How can guests of Jozankei View Hotel use the free shuttle bus from Sapporo Station North Exit?

Guests of Jozankei View Hotel can use the free shuttle bus departing from Sapporo Station North Exit. This shuttle bus operates by reservation only, and for those visiting without a rental car, advance phone reservations are almost always required and can be made up to a week in advance.

What are the weekday operating hours for the main bath and open-air bath at Jozankei View Hotel?

On weekdays, the main bath at Jozankei View Hotel operates from 5:00 AM to 9:30 AM and from 2:00 PM to 12:00 AM. The open-air bath is available from 5:00 AM to 9:30 AM and from 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

Discovering Shakotan Blue at Hokkaido's Cape Kamui

Day 2 of the Package Tour

On the way to Cape Kamui,

we briefly stopped for a restroom break and

ended up visiting a souvenir shop.

They sold ice cream and souvenirs,

but here's what was really unique!!!

An aquarium, inside a souvenir shop???

Full of giant oysters and scallops!!

Cape Kamui

Where you can witness the Shakotan Blue at Cape Kamui

The Shakotan Peninsula is located in Hokkaido's

northwestern region,

and it once thrived on herring fishing.

The Shakotan Peninsula is situated within a national park,

and the Shakotan Sea is designated as the only marine park

of its kind.

Today, we visited Cape Kamui, one of the Shakotan Peninsula's most spectacular scenic spots.

Cape Kamui

Following the ridge of the cape

along the walking trail,

a walk of about 30 minutes

will take you all the way to the tip of the cape.

There, you'll be greeted by sheer cliffs and

the emerald blue sea, famously known as the 'Shakotan Blue',

stretching out before your eyes.

Kamui Restaurant, Restrooms, Parking Lot

The free parking lot and restrooms are

clean, spacious,

and well-maintained.

From Sapporo Station,

since there's no longer a direct express bus,

you can come by rental car,

day tour bus,

take a bus from Otaru Station.

The path is quite narrow and steep,

and puddles can form when it rains,

so sneakers are a must!

The round trip takes about 30-40 minutes.

If strong winds blow or bears appear,

entry is prohibited.

On cloudy or rainy days,

you can't see the Shakotan Blue,

but luckily for us,

there wasn't a single breeze,

and the weather was so perfect,

that we were able to witness the stunning emerald sea!

Isn't it absolutely breathtaking!

You can also explore

on the Shakotan Underwater Observation Boat, the New Shakotan-go.

The path is quite narrow.

If someone comes from the opposite direction,

you'll have to make way for them...

Shimamui Coast

Once you step into the tunnel...

The emerald-hued sea unfolds before your eyes!

Cape Kamui

Nearby,

the Shimamui Kaihan Coast

is one of Japan's Top 100 Beautiful Coasts.

Beyond a narrow tunnel,

the turquoise sea

and impressive rock formations are truly captivating,

making it a popular course

to combine with

Cape Kamui.

Getting there

is almost the same as for Cape Kamui.

If you're using a rental car,

it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Sapporo.

You can just take a quick look and then move on.

Otaru

Lunch, Otaru Music Box Museum, Otaru Canal, Sakaimachi Street

We've arrived in Otaru!

We came for lunch,

and they had Hokke (Okhotsk Atka Mackerel) set meal, grilled Atka mackerel set meal,

and grilled scallop miso soup.

The scallops were out of this world!

They tasted even better than the Atka mackerel in the Hokke set meal.

Not fishy at all, and so tender.

The Atka mackerel was a bit chewier.

Otaru, a Canal City Full of Romance

Otaru Canal

Otaru is the most accessible

day trip destination

from Sapporo.

From JR Sapporo Station,

if you take the Rapid Airport Express,

it takes about 32 minutes.

On a local train,

it takes about 50 minutes,

and the fare is around 800 JPY one way.

By bus,

Chuo Bus operates a service

which takes about 50 minutes

to 1 hour.

850 JPY.

However, with more frequent services, the JR line is often

the more convenient option for travelers.

Otaru Canal, a prominent landmark of Otaru,

is where the warehouse district from the Taisho era

has been perfectly preserved.

As you stroll along the canal,

you'll also discover cafes and restaurants

that have been renovated from

red brick warehouses.

Music Box Museum

The Otaru Music Box Museum,

a 10-minute walk from the canal,

is considered one of Japan's largest music box specialty stores.

With a wide variety of music box designs on display,

you can even customize your own unique music box.

The steam clock in front of the building

is also a popular photo spot.

Directly connected to this,

Sakaimachi Street

is Otaru's famous shopping and sweets street.

Here you'll find not only the Music Box Museum but also

glass art shops,

cheesecake specialty stores,

like LeTAO.

This street, lined with all sorts of souvenir shops,

is perfect for strolling and enjoying snacks.

It's also the part of the Otaru travel itinerary

where you'll likely spend

the most time.

The Otaru glass workshops found on this street

have a fascinating history,

tracing their glass-making techniques

all the way back to Hokkaido's pioneering era

when they created buoys for the fishing industry.

Beyond just admiring

the finished glass products,

there are also many experiential workshops

where you can try glassblowing yourself

to make cups or accessories,

making them very popular

with couples and families alike.

There were also many restaurants

specializing in Hokkaido's local seafood bowls.

I also had a cup of Yubari melon for ~$6.

It was delicious,

but not quite as sweet as the Yubari melon

sold at Lawson.

Then, at the famous Kitakaro,

I indulged in an ice cream and a cream puff ice cream.

On our way to Jozankei,

we spotted

the 'Mini Mt. Fuji' -

a misty Mount Yotei.

For our accommodation,

we headed to Jozankei View Hotel,

nestled in the Jozankei Onsen village.

Jozankei View Hotel

Jozankei is an onsen (hot spring) village

located approximately 26 km south of Sapporo city center,

about an hour's drive away.

It sits within the Shikotsu-Toya National Park,

nestled in a nature-rich valley,

and attracts around

2.4 million visitors annually.

The hot spring waters gushing forth from Jozankei Onsen

are characterized as colorless, transparent,

and slightly salty sodium chloride springs.

They are described as neutral, hypotonic, high-temperature springs.

They are said to be beneficial for fatigue recovery,

improving sensitivity to cold,

moisturizing and soothing skin,

alleviating muscle pain, joint pain, and neuralgia,

and improving blood circulation.

・By car:

Approximately 80 minutes from New Chitose Airport

If departing from Sapporo Station or Susukino:

・By bus:

Sapporo Station → Bus (Sightseeing Express Kappa Liner 60 min, Local bus 80 min) → Jozankei Onsen

・By car:

Approximately 50 minutes from Sapporo city center

For staying guests,

a free shuttle bus service is also available by reservation,

departing from Sapporo Station's North Exit.

So even if you don't have a rental car...

Heads up, explorers!

It seems they mostly accept reservations via phone in advance!

You can make your reservations up to a week beforehand.

Imagine soaking in the grand bath on the hotel's top floor,

gazing out at the breathtaking four-season tapestry of Jozankei Valley!

Plus, with an indoor water park and a fantastic buffet restaurant,

it's a huge hit with families looking for a complete getaway...

Now, everything else was great, but I have to be honest –

there was quite a strong smell from the bathroom in the tatami room I stayed in... just a heads-up!

The Room

Tatami Room

Time to slip into a cozy yukata, grab your onsen bag, and wander around!

Dinner & Breakfast

The view? Absolutely stunning!

The sushi was definitely the highlight – so fresh and delicious!

And the beer hit just right!

Though I'm not sure if all the other dishes were equally outstanding.

Be warned though, the lines were incredibly long!

Seriously, there were so many people.

It was quite a challenge to get through the meal.

A little frustrating, to be honest...

The views are simply spectacular,

and there's a wide array of food to choose from.

Seriously, the sushi was so fresh and not fishy at all – utterly delicious!

And the beer was delightful too.

What's more, given its impressive size,

you'll find a swimming pool, hot springs, a club, a bar, karaoke, an arcade, a snack bar, and even a souvenir shop!

Trust me, there's absolutely no chance of getting bored here!

출처:조잔케이뷰 호텔 홈페이지 — Source: Jozankei View Hotel Website

Souvenir Shops & Retail Area

Dishes, chopsticks

Shiroi Koibito sweets

Hokkaido cosmetics

Ramen

Ice cream

You'll find a wide variety of beers, and so much more!

Hot Springs, Grand Bath & Sauna

You'll find them on the B1 and B2 floors of the Main Building,

and up on the 16th floor of the New Wing.

There's even a sauna to complete the experience.

I soaked in the hot springs here,

and the water was wonderfully refreshing and invigorating!

출처:조잔케이뷰 호텔 — Source: Jozankei View Hotel

Weekdays

Main Bath / 5:00 AM – 9:30 AM, 2:00 PM – 12:00 AM

Open-air Bath / 5:00 AM – 9:30 AM, 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Sauna / 6:00 AM – 9:30 AM, 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Saturdays, Sundays, & Public Holidays

Main Bath / 5:00 AM – 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Open-air Bath / 5:00 AM – 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Sauna / 6:00 AM – 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Travel Course Tips!

For places like Cape Kamui,

and Shimamui Coast,

public transportation options are quite

limited if you're not renting a car.

Your best bet is to opt for a one-day

bus tour or a package deal.

Otaru is super accessible

from Sapporo via JR,

making it perfect for a relaxed

half-day to full-day excursion.

Give yourself plenty of time to soak it all in!

And here's a pro tip:

adding a stay at Jozankei Onsen to your itinerary

allows you to unwind from your travels in luxurious hot springs

before an easy journey back to

Sapporo Airport.

Day 2 of the Package Tour

On the way to Cape Kamui,

we briefly stopped for a restroom break and

ended up visiting a souvenir shop.

They sold ice cream and souvenirs,

but here's what was really unique!!!

An aquarium, inside a souvenir shop???

Full of giant oysters and scallops!!

Cape Kamui

Where you can witness the Shakotan Blue at Cape Kamui

The Shakotan Peninsula is located in Hokkaido's

northwestern region,

and it once thrived on herring fishing.

The Shakotan Peninsula is situated within a national park,

and the Shakotan Sea is designated as the only marine park

of its kind.

Today, we visited Cape Kamui, one of the Shakotan Peninsula's most spectacular scenic spots.

Cape Kamui

Following the ridge of the cape

along the walking trail,

a walk of about 30 minutes

will take you all the way to the tip of the cape.

There, you'll be greeted by sheer cliffs and

the emerald blue sea, famously known as the 'Shakotan Blue',

stretching out before your eyes.

Kamui Restaurant, Restrooms, Parking Lot

The free parking lot and restrooms are

clean, spacious,

and well-maintained.

From Sapporo Station,

since there's no longer a direct express bus,

you can come by rental car,

day tour bus,

take a bus from Otaru Station.

The path is quite narrow and steep,

and puddles can form when it rains,

so sneakers are a must!

The round trip takes about 30-40 minutes.

If strong winds blow or bears appear,

entry is prohibited.

On cloudy or rainy days,

you can't see the Shakotan Blue,

but luckily for us,

there wasn't a single breeze,

and the weather was so perfect,

that we were able to witness the stunning emerald sea!

Isn't it absolutely breathtaking!

You can also explore

on the Shakotan Underwater Observation Boat, the New Shakotan-go.

The path is quite narrow.

If someone comes from the opposite direction,

you'll have to make way for them...

Shimamui Coast

Once you step into the tunnel...

The emerald-hued sea unfolds before your eyes!

Cape Kamui

Nearby,

the Shimamui Kaihan Coast

is one of Japan's Top 100 Beautiful Coasts.

Beyond a narrow tunnel,

the turquoise sea

and impressive rock formations are truly captivating,

making it a popular course

to combine with

Cape Kamui.

Getting there

is almost the same as for Cape Kamui.

If you're using a rental car,

it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Sapporo.

You can just take a quick look and then move on.

Otaru

Lunch, Otaru Music Box Museum, Otaru Canal, Sakaimachi Street

We've arrived in Otaru!

We came for lunch,

and they had Hokke (Okhotsk Atka Mackerel) set meal, grilled Atka mackerel set meal,

and grilled scallop miso soup.

The scallops were out of this world!

They tasted even better than the Atka mackerel in the Hokke set meal.

Not fishy at all, and so tender.

The Atka mackerel was a bit chewier.

Otaru, a Canal City Full of Romance

Otaru Canal

Otaru is the most accessible

day trip destination

from Sapporo.

From JR Sapporo Station,

if you take the Rapid Airport Express,

it takes about 32 minutes.

On a local train,

it takes about 50 minutes,

and the fare is around 800 JPY one way.

By bus,

Chuo Bus operates a service

which takes about 50 minutes

to 1 hour.

850 JPY.

However, with more frequent services, the JR line is often

the more convenient option for travelers.

Otaru Canal, a prominent landmark of Otaru,

is where the warehouse district from the Taisho era

has been perfectly preserved.

As you stroll along the canal,

you'll also discover cafes and restaurants

that have been renovated from

red brick warehouses.

Music Box Museum

The Otaru Music Box Museum,

a 10-minute walk from the canal,

is considered one of Japan's largest music box specialty stores.

With a wide variety of music box designs on display,

you can even customize your own unique music box.

The steam clock in front of the building

is also a popular photo spot.

Directly connected to this,

Sakaimachi Street

is Otaru's famous shopping and sweets street.

Here you'll find not only the Music Box Museum but also

glass art shops,

cheesecake specialty stores,

like LeTAO.

This street, lined with all sorts of souvenir shops,

is perfect for strolling and enjoying snacks.

It's also the part of the Otaru travel itinerary

where you'll likely spend

the most time.

The Otaru glass workshops found on this street

have a fascinating history,

tracing their glass-making techniques

all the way back to Hokkaido's pioneering era

when they created buoys for the fishing industry.

Beyond just admiring

the finished glass products,

there are also many experiential workshops

where you can try glassblowing yourself

to make cups or accessories,

making them very popular

with couples and families alike.

There were also many restaurants

specializing in Hokkaido's local seafood bowls.

I also had a cup of Yubari melon for ~$6.

It was delicious,

but not quite as sweet as the Yubari melon

sold at Lawson.

Then, at the famous Kitakaro,

I indulged in an ice cream and a cream puff ice cream.

On our way to Jozankei,

we spotted

the 'Mini Mt. Fuji' -

a misty Mount Yotei.

For our accommodation,

we headed to Jozankei View Hotel,

nestled in the Jozankei Onsen village.

Jozankei View Hotel

Jozankei is an onsen (hot spring) village

located approximately 26 km south of Sapporo city center,

about an hour's drive away.

It sits within the Shikotsu-Toya National Park,

nestled in a nature-rich valley,

and attracts around

2.4 million visitors annually.

The hot spring waters gushing forth from Jozankei Onsen

are characterized as colorless, transparent,

and slightly salty sodium chloride springs.

They are described as neutral, hypotonic, high-temperature springs.

They are said to be beneficial for fatigue recovery,

improving sensitivity to cold,

moisturizing and soothing skin,

alleviating muscle pain, joint pain, and neuralgia,

and improving blood circulation.

・By car:

Approximately 80 minutes from New Chitose Airport

If departing from Sapporo Station or Susukino:

・By bus:

Sapporo Station → Bus (Sightseeing Express Kappa Liner 60 min, Local bus 80 min) → Jozankei Onsen

・By car:

Approximately 50 minutes from Sapporo city center

For staying guests,

a free shuttle bus service is also available by reservation,

departing from Sapporo Station's North Exit.

So even if you don't have a rental car...

Heads up, explorers!

It seems they mostly accept reservations via phone in advance!

You can make your reservations up to a week beforehand.

Imagine soaking in the grand bath on the hotel's top floor,

gazing out at the breathtaking four-season tapestry of Jozankei Valley!

Plus, with an indoor water park and a fantastic buffet restaurant,

it's a huge hit with families looking for a complete getaway...

Now, everything else was great, but I have to be honest –

there was quite a strong smell from the bathroom in the tatami room I stayed in... just a heads-up!

The Room

Tatami Room

Time to slip into a cozy yukata, grab your onsen bag, and wander around!

Dinner & Breakfast

The view? Absolutely stunning!

The sushi was definitely the highlight – so fresh and delicious!

And the beer hit just right!

Though I'm not sure if all the other dishes were equally outstanding.

Be warned though, the lines were incredibly long!

Seriously, there were so many people.

It was quite a challenge to get through the meal.

A little frustrating, to be honest...

The views are simply spectacular,

and there's a wide array of food to choose from.

Seriously, the sushi was so fresh and not fishy at all – utterly delicious!

And the beer was delightful too.

What's more, given its impressive size,

you'll find a swimming pool, hot springs, a club, a bar, karaoke, an arcade, a snack bar, and even a souvenir shop!

Trust me, there's absolutely no chance of getting bored here!

Souvenir Shops & Retail Area

Dishes, chopsticks

Shiroi Koibito sweets

Hokkaido cosmetics

Ramen

Ice cream

You'll find a wide variety of beers, and so much more!

Hot Springs, Grand Bath & Sauna

You'll find them on the B1 and B2 floors of the Main Building,

and up on the 16th floor of the New Wing.

There's even a sauna to complete the experience.

I soaked in the hot springs here,

and the water was wonderfully refreshing and invigorating!

Weekdays

Main Bath / 5:00 AM – 9:30 AM, 2:00 PM – 12:00 AM

Open-air Bath / 5:00 AM – 9:30 AM, 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Sauna / 6:00 AM – 9:30 AM, 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Saturdays, Sundays, & Public Holidays

Main Bath / 5:00 AM – 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Open-air Bath / 5:00 AM – 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Sauna / 6:00 AM – 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Travel Course Tips!

For places like Cape Kamui,

and Shimamui Coast,

public transportation options are quite

limited if you're not renting a car.

Your best bet is to opt for a one-day

bus tour or a package deal.

Otaru is super accessible

from Sapporo via JR,

making it perfect for a relaxed

half-day to full-day excursion.

Give yourself plenty of time to soak it all in!

And here's a pro tip:

adding a stay at Jozankei Onsen to your itinerary

allows you to unwind from your travels in luxurious hot springs

before an easy journey back to

Sapporo Airport.

Discovering Shakotan Blue at Hokkaido's Cape Kamui

Frequently Asked Questions

Share this article

Sapporo Shakotan & Otaru Day Trip 2026: Misaki no Yu Onsen Tour

Komeda's Coffee Otaru Review 2026: Canal-Side Cafe & Eats

Sushidokoro Saika Otaru Review 2026: Local Sushi & No-Wait Tips

Otaru Aquarium Penguin Walk 2026: Guide & Visitor Info

Otaru Furukawa Hotel Review 2026: Ryokan-Style Hot Springs by the Canal

Morinoki Guesthouse Otaru Review 2026: Authentic Japanese Charm

TRVLOGUE

Discovering Shakotan Blue at Hokkaido's Cape Kamui

Frequently Asked Questions

Share this article

Sapporo Shakotan & Otaru Day Trip 2026: Misaki no Yu Onsen Tour

Komeda's Coffee Otaru Review 2026: Canal-Side Cafe & Eats

Sushidokoro Saika Otaru Review 2026: Local Sushi & No-Wait Tips

Otaru Aquarium Penguin Walk 2026: Guide & Visitor Info

Otaru Furukawa Hotel Review 2026: Ryokan-Style Hot Springs by the Canal

Morinoki Guesthouse Otaru Review 2026: Authentic Japanese Charm

TRVLOGUE

Discovering Shakotan Blue at Hokkaido's Cape Kamui

Frequently Asked Questions

Share this article

Related Travel Stories

Sapporo Shakotan & Otaru Day Trip 2026: Misaki no Yu Onsen Tour

Komeda's Coffee Otaru Review 2026: Canal-Side Cafe & Eats

Sushidokoro Saika Otaru Review 2026: Local Sushi & No-Wait Tips

Otaru Aquarium Penguin Walk 2026: Guide & Visitor Info

Otaru Furukawa Hotel Review 2026: Ryokan-Style Hot Springs by the Canal

Morinoki Guesthouse Otaru Review 2026: Authentic Japanese Charm

TRVLOGUE

Discovering Shakotan Blue at Hokkaido's Cape Kamui

Frequently Asked Questions

Share this article

Related Travel Stories

Sapporo Shakotan & Otaru Day Trip 2026: Misaki no Yu Onsen Tour

Komeda's Coffee Otaru Review 2026: Canal-Side Cafe & Eats

Sushidokoro Saika Otaru Review 2026: Local Sushi & No-Wait Tips

Otaru Aquarium Penguin Walk 2026: Guide & Visitor Info

Otaru Furukawa Hotel Review 2026: Ryokan-Style Hot Springs by the Canal

Morinoki Guesthouse Otaru Review 2026: Authentic Japanese Charm

TRVLOGUE