Things To Do
in Betsukai
Betsukai is a rural town in eastern Hokkaido, Japan, perched along the Nemuro Strait and surrounded by open fields and coastline. The area is known for its dairy farms, seafood, and expansive skies, offering a calm counterpoint to Japan's bigger cities. Visitors can expect a laid-back, nature-forward experience with opportunities for wildlife viewing, coastal walks, and farm-fresh cuisine.
With easy access by road and limited crowds, Betsukai is ideal for travelers seeking authentic rural Japan and wide horizons.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Kushiro Airport and take a scenic drive to Betsukai, soaking in the picturesque landscapes along the way. Check into your accommodation and freshen up before setting out to explore the rustic charm of the town. Start with a leisurely stroll through the local streets, admiring the unique architecture and friendly atmosphere.
Visit the Betsukai Town Historical Museum to learn about the local culture, history, and the importance of agriculture in this region. Afterward, indulge in a traditional lunch at a local eatery, sampling regional delicacies. Spend your afternoon wandering through the beautiful fields that surround the town, possibly encountering some local wildlife.
As evening falls, enjoy a peaceful dinner at a local izakaya, where you can taste various Japanese dishes and enjoy the warm ambiance. Engage in conversations with locals to learn more about their way of life and traditions. Cap off the night with a stroll under the stars, appreciating the serene surroundings.
Set out early for a guided tour of the Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Enjoy a morning hike through the native forests, with opportunities to see a diverse range of flora and fauna. Breathe in the fresh air and take in breathtaking views of the coastline and mountains.
After the hike, enjoy a picnic lunch within the park, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Explore nearby waterfalls and lakes while taking photographs of the stunning landscapes. Engage in some bird watching or spotting other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Return to Betsukai and find a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can unwind with delicious seafood sourced from nearby waters. Share stories with your group about the day's adventures and share the highlights of your experiences. Consider an early night to rest for more exploration tomorrow.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥟Casual lunch or street snack | $5-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel/guesthouse per night | $60-90 |
| 🚗Car rental per day | $40-70 |
| 🐟Fresh seafood dish | $12-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and wide horizons
- Access to authentic rural Hokkaido cuisine and dairy products
- Low crowds and a relaxed pace
- Excellent nature-based activities and wildlife viewing
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities
- Rural transport can be sparse; best with a car
- Seasonal attractions vary; some services may close in off-peak months
- Weather can be severe in winter; plan accordingly
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "おはようございます" - Good morning
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません、英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "これはいくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "ベジタリアン向けの料理はありますか？" - Do you have vegetarian options?
- "トイレはどこですか？" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Betsukai
Visit one of these nice places.
Coastal cliffs and broad horizons along the Nemuro Strait offer dramatic sunrise and sunset photography.
Rolling pastures with grazing cows under expansive skies provide classic rural Japan images.
A quiet wooden bridge over a meandering river framed by trees and farmlands.
Salt marshes, reed beds, and wildlife such as herons and waterfowl during migration seasons.
Food in Betsukai
Betsukai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bowl of local fish and crab on rice, often featuring seasonal catch from the Nemuro Strait.
Must-Try!
Creamy dairy-based soups, cheeses, and soft-serve ice cream made from local milk.
A comforting, mildly spicy curry with seasonal vegetables and sometimes seafood.
A regional grilling style shared with Hokkaido, often at casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh catches daily; sample grilled fish, crab legs, and sashimi close to the harbor.
Cheeses, butter, and ice cream made on-site, best enjoyed as a snack while sightseeing.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stand in line calmly and speak softly in public spaces; avoid loud conversations on public transport.
If visiting private homes or certain inns, remove shoes and use provided slippers.
Offer money from the closed palm of your hand or from a small wallet; avoid passing bills with two hands while counting.
Do not disturb wildlife; stick to designated trails and dispose of trash properly.
Safety
Tipping in Betsukai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; polite appreciation is shown with thanks. In restaurants, even a small tip is not expected.
Cash is widely used in Betsukai; many small shops and markets accept credit cards or IC cards at larger venues; ensure you have cash for rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool to warm days with long daylight hours; occasional rain; ideal for coastal walks and wildlife watching.
Golden fields and forests; pleasant temperatures with crisp nights; great for photography of fall foliage.
Cold with snowfall; coastal fog and icy shores possible; keep warm and enjoy quiet snowy landscapes.
Snowmelt restores rivers and farms; blossoms and migratory birds return; variable weather, layering recommended.
Betsukai at Night
Hiking in Betsukai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal marsh and pine forest trails with abundant wildlife and sea views.
A sea cliff and sandy beach walk with lighthouses and panoramic ocean views.
Dramatic coastal forest trails suitable for experienced hikers; note distance from Betsukai.
Airports
How to reach Betsukai by plane.
A regional airport serving eastern Hokkaido; connect via domestic flights and car rental to Betsukai.
A larger regional airport offering more frequent flights; from Kushiro, drive or take a bus to Betsukai.
A smaller airport in eastern Hokkaido; convenient for reaching nearby towns and rural areas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Japanese with a significant rural and agricultural community.
Small presence linked to broader Hokkaido history; cultural impressions are visible in regional craft and storytelling.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in schools and local clubs; many fields near towns and villages.
Winter activities on nearby hills and fields; check local weather and snow conditions.
Common in community leagues and schools; easy to join with a local club.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Betsukai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Fish-based dashi and meat stocks are common; look for dishes that use miso soup, tofu, vegetables, and dairy. When ordering, ask for dashi-free broth and confirm no fish stock.