Enjoy a Guided Tour of the Frozen Furepe Falls, a Hidden Hokkaido Winter Wonderland Nestled in Shiretoko National Park
Just a 20-minute walk from the Shiretoko National Park Nature Center, a frozen hidden gem is waiting to be explored — Furepe Falls. Although remote, it is easily accessible by well-maintained hiking trails that lead to a stunning cliffside view of the Falls cascading toward the Sea of Okhotsk.
Known for its gentle flow resembling teardrops, Furepe Falls is dubbed ‘Maiden’s Tears’. Every winter, Furepe Falls freezes over, creating a gorgeous spectacle of white crystalline ice against the dark cliffs.
Explore Furepe Falls on Snowshoe
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During winter in Japan, generally between early December to late March, families can explore Furepe Falls on snowshoes! Those willing to brave the chilly weather can expect snow-covered trails and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of city crowds.
Snowshoeing is a beginner-friendly activity perfect for parents and children with a basic level of fitness. While the deep snow adds a bit of challenge, it’s still suitable for adventurous families looking to bond over an active outdoor experience. Sometimes, strong winds and the endless white blanket of snow can make navigation difficult, so it is strongly recommended that travellers go on a guided snowshoe walk. Expert guides can ensure safety, suggest the best photo spots, and offer fascinating insights into Shiretoko National Park.
Wildlife & Scenic Views Around Furepe Falls
In addition to snowshoeing and marvelling at the frozen waterfall, guided tours will often venture through Shiretoko’s natural landscape, offering travellers the chance to spot winter-active wildlife. Shiretoko is known for its rich biodiversity and many have had the chance to see Steller's sea eagles, Ezo red foxes, and Sika deer, to name a few.
From the vantage point of snow-covered cliffs at Furepe Falls, visitors can soak in the coastline views and may even witness drift ice (ryuhyo) floating on the Sea of Okhotsk. This rare natural phenomenon — ice that travels from Russia’s shores to this isolated peninsula — is a spectacle that will mesmerize the whole family.
The ice and the soft winter light create the perfect photographic opportunity at this scenic spot in Japan.
3 Tips to Plan a Fun and Safe Snowshoeing Experience
1. Book Family-Friendly Tours in Advance
Tours can fill up quickly during peak travel periods, so it’s a good idea to book in advance.
Be mindful of the tour restrictions—some providers may have age limits for safety reasons. However, families with younger children can still explore Shiretoko National Park’s gentler hiking trails, which offer scenic views and wildlife sightings.
2. Plan Accommodation and Transport Carefully
For easy access to Shiretoko National Park, it is recommended to stay at a hotel in the Utoro area. Many tour providers provide pickup services from nearby hotels, which simplifies logistics for families.
Utoro is the gateway to the Shiretoko Peninsula in Hokkaido, Japan. Most travellers fly into Hokkaido and continue their journey to Utoro by bus or the Japan Rail (JR) Line. However, in winter, be sure to check schedules and weather conditions, as transport may be delayed or cancelled due to snow. If you plan on driving, be mindful that winter roads require advanced driving skills and is only recommended for experienced drivers!
3. Dress Warmly for Japan’s Winter
Winter temperature in Shiretoko can often drop below 0-degree Celsius. It’s essential to wear multiple insulated layers and waterproof clothing. Strong coastal winds can make it feel even colder, so cover any exposed skin with windproof accessories like gloves and scarves.
Sunglasses or goggles can also help protect sensitive eyes from wind and glare.
Snowshoes are typically provided by tour operators, so check if any additional gear is needed when booking!
Furepe Falls
Address: 〒099-4356 Shari-gun, Shari-cho, Onnebetsu Village, Japan
as of 8 November 2024