Shari

Shari is a coastal town on Hokkaido's northern shore that spreads across mountainous land and sits beside the Sea of Okhotsk. It serves as the gateway settlement to Shiretoko National Park and connects visitors to the park's main attractions through its Utoro village.

A submarine attack with rockets struck the town in 1945, an unprecedented military event that left a mark on the region's memory. This incident remains significant in understanding the area's recent past.

The Mizunara tree appears throughout the region and represents a connection between the community and the landscape that has shaped local identity for generations.

The easiest time to visit is from May to October when weather is more stable and roads to the national park remain clear and passable. Winter months bring heavy snow and can close access to some areas, making travel more difficult.

The town experiences an unusual climate with heavy annual rainfall and winters where temperatures drop well below freezing on a regular basis. These harsh conditions shape how residents adapt their daily routines and buildings to endure the challenging weather throughout the year.

Location: Shari district

Inception: April 1, 1915

Reference: 015458

Shares border with: Koshimizu, Kiyosato, Shibetsu, Rausu

Website: https://town.shari.hokkaido.jp

GPS coordinates: 43.91147,144.67083

Latest update: December 14, 2025 21:06