A base for exploring the Rausu area and learning about the plants and animals of Shiretoko National Park

The Shiretoko Rausu Visitor Center, located near the base of Mount Rausu, provides information on the Rausu area of Shiretoko National Park (Shiretoko Peninsula's eastern side). Visitors can access various hiking points from this hub, including a trailhead to Mount Rausu (the Rausu Onsen Route), Lake Rausu and Kumagoe-no-Taki Falls. A geyser located a short distance from the visitor center blasts about every hour. Check the geyser's eruption schedule at the center's information counter.

Inside, the visitor center provides information on enjoying Shiretoko National Park's natural environment, with a number of exhibits about the history and culture of the park and touch-screen information kiosks.

See Hokkaido's wildlife up close with the center's taxidermy mounts of a wide range of regional animals, including the brown bear, white-tailed eagle, Stellar's sea eagle, and Blakiston's fish owl. An impressive seven-meter orca skeleton hangs from the ceiling.

Visitors can experience the park's changing scenery with the video "The Four Seasons of the Shiretoko Peninsula," shown in the center's lecture room. The facility also has a picture book corner for families with small children and a notice board with seasonal information. If you're heading out to the geyser or on a longer walk, you can rent rubber boots and bear spray for a fee.