Night Time Snowshoe Hike in Shiretoko National Park

Imagine gliding through a winter wonderland, the crisp air and crunching snow beneath your feet. That’s the allure of a night-time snowshoe hike in Shiretoko National Park. As the stars twinkle overhead, you’ll explore this enchanting landscape, guided by experts who ensure your safety and comfort. What secrets might these snowy trails unveil under the moonlight? There’s only one way to find out.

Key Points

• Guided night-time snowshoe hike in Shiretoko National Park starts at 7:30 PM, with a maximum of 8 participants aged 6 and above.
• Pricing for the experience starts from $34.26 per person, with complimentary equipment rentals including ski wear, rubber boots, and winter accessories.
• Participants must request specific sizes for rental items when booking, and timeliness is essential to avoid cancellation.
• The meeting point is Roadside Rest Area Utoro-Shirietoku, with pickup available for select accommodations prior to the tour.
• The tour is not recommended for individuals with back problems, heart conditions, or serious medical issues, and pregnant women should avoid this experience.

Activity Overview

The night time snowshoe hike in Shiretoko National Park offers adventurous travelers an opportunity to explore the serene, snow-covered landscapes under the veil of darkness.

Taking place at 7:30 PM, this guided tour caters to a maximum of 8 participants aged 6 and above. Priced from $34.26 per person, the hike promises confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Guests can take advantage of complimentary equipment rentals, including ski wear, rubber boots, and winter accessories.

Meeting points and pickup locations vary, so it’s essential to arrive on time to avoid cancellation.

Equipment Rental

Travelers can borrow an array of ski wear during the night time snowshoe hike in Shiretoko National Park.

Sizing ranges from M to XXL for men and S to XL for women, ensuring a comfortable fit. Rubber boots in sizes 22cm to 30cm are also available, keeping feet dry and warm.

Woolen hats and waterproof gloves complete the outfit, protecting against the chilly temperatures. Guests simply need to request their specific sizes when booking the experience.

With these high-quality rental items, adventurers can focus on the stunning winter scenery without worrying about their attire.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Participants can either head directly to the meeting point or request a pickup, depending on their accommodation.

The meeting point is the Roadside Rest Area Utoro-Shirietoku, located at 186-8 Utoronishi, Shari, Hokkaido.

For those staying at Yuhino Ataru Ie ONSEN HOSTEL, KIKI Shiretoko Natural Resort, or Hotel Shiretoko, pickup is available 20 minutes before the start time.

Guests at Shiretoko Village, Shiretoko Hostel Hanare, and other accommodations can be picked up 15 minutes prior.

Those at Kitakobushi Shiretoko Hotel & Resort or Hotel Kifuu club Shiretoko will be picked up 10 minutes beforehand.

Punctuality is crucial to avoid cancellation.

Health and Safety Requirements

Although this night-time snowshoe hike is a thrilling adventure, it may not be suitable for everyone. The activity isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or other serious medical issues.

Pregnant women should also avoid this experience. Participants need a moderate level of physical fitness to navigate the snowy terrain safely.

Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. The tour operator, Picchio Shiretoko, prioritizes the health and safety of all guests.

Travelers should carefully consider their abilities before booking this unique excursion in Shiretoko National Park.

Pricing and Payment Options

How much does this night-time snowshoe hike in Shiretoko National Park cost? The price starts at $34.26 per person.

Considering the stunning scenery and unique experience, it’s a reasonable price. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, which provides flexibility.

Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability. And there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the hike, in case plans change.

With the lowest price guarantee, you can be confident you’re getting the best deal. The pricing and payment options make this adventure in Hokkaido accessible and convenient.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

The night-time snowshoe hike in Shiretoko National Park offers travelers the flexibility to change their plans.

With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts, it’s easy to adjust your schedule if needed.

• Travelers can rest assured knowing they won’t lose their payment if unexpected circumstances arise.

• The confirmation process is quick, with a response typically received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

This allows adventurers to book with confidence, knowing they can modify their plans without penalty.

Transportation and Accessibility

Travelers can directly head to the meeting point or request pickup service from their accommodation.

The meeting point is at the Roadside Rest Area Utoro-Shirietoku, located at 186-8 Utoronishi, Shari, Hokkaido.

Pickup times vary depending on where you’re staying – 20 minutes before for Yuhino Ataru Ie ONSEN HOSTEL, KIKI Shiretoko Natural Resort, and Hotel Shiretoko, 15 minutes before for Shiretoko Village and Shiretoko Hostel Hanare, and 10 minutes before for Kitakobushi Shiretoko Hotel & Resort and Hotel Kifuu club Shiretoko.

It’s important to arrive on time to avoid cancellation of the experience.

About Picchio Shiretoko

Picchio Shiretoko, the tour operator behind this night-time snowshoe hike, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Shiretoko National Park.

They’re passionate about showcasing the park’s natural beauty and providing unforgettable experiences.

• Their team of knowledgeable guides leads each tour, sharing insights into the park’s wildlife and geology.

• Picchio Shiretoko’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their use of eco-friendly equipment and their efforts to minimize environmental impact.

• Travelers rave about the company’s attention to detail, from the well-maintained gear to the seamless logistics that ensure a hassle-free adventure.

Since You Asked

What Kind of Terrain Will We Encounter During the Hike?

The terrain will be snowy and uneven, requiring snowshoes to navigate. Hikers can expect to traverse frozen landscapes, forests, and possibly some inclines, demanding a moderate level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the experience.

Can We See Any Wildlife During the Night Hike?

During the night hike, you might spot some of Shiretoko’s nocturnal wildlife like foxes, deer, or even bears. The park’s diverse ecosystem comes alive after dark, offering opportunities to observe these elusive creatures in their natural habitat.

How Long Is the Duration of the Entire Tour?

The tour typically lasts around 3 hours, from the 7:30 PM start time until the end around 10:30 PM. Participants can expect to spend approximately 2 hours actively hiking on snowshoes through the wintry landscape of Shiretoko National Park.

Is There an Option to Extend the Hike or Explore More?

While the standard tour lasts an evening, travelers can request to extend their snowshoe hike and explore more of Shiretoko National Park’s stunning winter landscapes. However, this would incur additional costs and require discussing with the tour operator.

Are There Any Photography Opportunities Along the Trail?

There are plenty of photography opportunities along the trail. The night-time snowscape provides stunning visuals, with the twinkling stars overhead and the peaceful winter landscape illuminated by headlamps. Guests can capture memorable shots throughout the guided hike.

The Sum Up

Set out on a magical night-time snowshoe adventure in Shiretoko National Park, where you’ll be captivated by the enchanting snowy landscapes beneath the starry sky. With complimentary equipment rentals and a focus on safety, this guided tour promises an unforgettable outdoor experience amidst Hokkaido’s stunning natural beauty. Don’t miss the chance to learn about the serene winter wonderland of Shiretoko.