10BRENDA's Reviews Page 1/15

Karafuto Islanders Memorial – Gate of Ice and Snow

Located within Wakkanai Park, the Karafuto Islanders Memorial - Gate of Ice and Snow is a monument dedicated to those who lost their lives in Karafuto (now Sakhalin), which was once part of Japan. The memorial stands on ground that historically served as a vital link between Japan and Karafuto-a place where many people once came and went.

Wakkanai and Rumoi
Tourist Attractions

9 Jun 2026 See More

In Wakkanai Park, at Japan’s northernmost point, you’ll find not only stunning views overlooking the Soya Strait and Sakhalin, but also several memorials standing quietly throughout the park.
They silently tell the heavy history of the final days of World War II and the early postwar period—a time filled with heartbreaking separations and circumstances beyond people’s control.

Wakkanai Station

Wakkanai Station is the famed, northernmost railway station in Japan, located on the JR Soya Main Line. It sits just a 20-minute drive up from Wakkanai Airport, a 2-minute drive from the ferry terminal, and a 40-minute drive to Cape Soya, Japan's northernmost point. Swing by here for a smattering of different sightseeing delights, a bus terminal just off the front doorstep for routes to get you going, intercity buses to Sapporo, and regular sightseeing buses. For an added perk, check out Roadside Station Wakkanai just next door, the northernmost roadside station in Japan.

Wakkanai and Rumoi
Stations & Roadside Stations & Tourist Information Centers

9 Jun 2026 See More

The northernmost station.
When you arrive here and walk toward the station, what greets you is definitely not the noise of a big city or crowds rushing by, but a quiet atmosphere wrapped in the sea breeze of the north and a slow, easy pace of life.

Ueno Farm

A garden unique to Hokkaido, adorned with plants centering on perennial grasses that grow in the northern climate. The flowers bloom with different colors dramatically according to season, hence the name “Dramatic Garden”.

Asahikawa and Sounkyo
Parks & Gardens

8 Jun 2026 See More

Stepping into Ueno Farm feels like falling into a European fairy tale in an instant.
The owner has brought a warm English-style garden to Hokkaido, and the biggest surprise is the many little fairies hidden among the flowers and greenery. These delicate art installations add a fun, treasure-hunt-like fairy-tale charm to a walk through the garden.
Following the path up the hill, the row of colorful rainbow chairs at the top is a photo spot you absolutely shouldn’t miss. Sitting here and looking down, you can take in the patchwork-like garden and the wide-open rural scenery all at once. When the breeze blows through, being surrounded by all those colors and nature feels so soothing that it makes you want to sit there and lose track of time.

Cape Soya

Cape Soya is the northernmost tip of mainland Japan. The monument "Northernmost Point of Japan" stands proudly at latitude 45 degrees 31 minutes 22 seconds, making it an excellent photo spot. The monument is designed as a cone that reflects the facet of the North Star, a symbol of the northern lands.

Wakkanai and Rumoi
Tourist Attractions

8 Jun 2026 See More

I finally had the chance to stand at the northernmost tip of this island—Cape Soya. For travelers who love Japan, this is a sacred place you have to visit at least once in your lifetime.

The triangular monument standing at the meeting point of sea and sky was inspired by a ray of the North Star, a symbol of the north, sharply and firmly pointing due north.

Looking out from here, there’s a real sense of being at the edge of the world. The moment I stepped onto this land, the coordinates on the map finally became real.

I truly can’t put into words how moved I felt in that moment.

Cape Noshappu

Located at the northwesternmost point of Wakkanai City, Cape Noshappu juts out into the Soya Strait, offering breathtaking views of the sea. The name is derived from the Ainu words Not-Shamu, meaning “a cape protruding like a jaw” or “a place where waves break.”

Wakkanai and Rumoi
Nature Spots

8 Jun 2026 See More

This is one of the most stunning sunset spots in Wakkanai.

When the glow of the setting sun spreads across the vast Sea of Japan and the Soya Strait, the shimmering orange-red tones on the water are genuinely moving.

The sea breeze can be pretty strong, and even in summer, it suddenly feels much colder once the sun starts to go down.

I'd definitely recommend bringing a windproof jacket or some warm clothing.

Wakkanai Fukuko Market

This waterfront complex offers a full Wakkanai experience-dining, shopping, soaking in natural hot springs, and savvy hacks for sightseeing, all in one place.

Wakkanai and Rumoi
Shopping Streets

5 Jun 2026 See More

You can shop for fresh seafood and dried seafood products here, and if you buy seafood, the shops also offer packing services.
There are also several restaurants, so you can pick whatever you like.
We happened to visit right when sea urchin season was starting, so you definitely have to try it. It was really sweet and delicious, with your mouth full of that fresh ocean flavor.

Wakkanai Park

Wakkanai Park spans approximately 45.2 hectares and sits on the hills west of Wakkanai’s city center, offering sweeping views of the cityscape and harbor. It's one of the city's top cherry blossom spots, with Ezoyamazakura (Ezo mountain cherry trees) blooming around mid-May. The park is also recognized as part of the “Japan Night View Heritage” thanks to the stunning city lights seen from its elevated vantage points.

Wakkanai and Rumoi
Parks & Gardens

4 Jun 2026 See More

From the platform inside the park, you can overlook the entire Soya Bay and get a panoramic view of Wakkanai.
The gentle sea breeze feels really cool and refreshing.
You might even spot deer walking around the park.

Shiroi Koibito

Everyone in Japan knows Hokkaido’s sweets, “Shiroi Koibito.” Ishiya Co., Ltd.was an ordinary candy maker to begin with, but utilizing quality ingredients in Hokkaido changed them into the producer of the classic dessert. More than 40 years passed since its beginning, but it is still the beloved souvenir of Hokkaido to this day.

Hokkaido
Snacks

2 Jun 2026 See More

A must-visit and must-buy spot when traveling in Hokkaido. They sell a rich and creamy Shiroi Koibito soft serve on site, and it’s fragrant and delicious.
Personally, I like the tin packaging the most since the cookies are less likely to get crushed.

Hoshino Resorts Tomamu - Unkai Terrace

The Hoshino Resorts Tomamu boasts an observation deck where you can marvel at the dynamic sea of clouds up close. It's open exclusively in the early mornings from May to October, when the sea of clouds typically appears. When the meteorological conditions align, a magnificent sea of clouds flows over the mountains, offering truly heavenly views. The deck gives you the sensation of floating amidst the clouds, making you feel as though you're embarking on a voyage across a sea of mist.

Tokachi and Obihiro
Observatories

25 May 2026 See More

The powder snow at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu in Hokkaido is truly famous for being top-notch! That light, fluffy “silk snow” feels so soft that falling over is like landing in a marshmallow. It’s absolutely a paradise for ski lovers.

Gliding and weaving through the powder really tests your core and leg muscles. By the end of the day, you’re totally exhausted, but it’s also incredibly fun and so rewarding! Since you come skiing often, I’m sure you know that smooth, immersive feeling of focusing completely as you ride through a silver-white world and losing yourself in the moment.

Omotesando Hills

Featuring an impressive architectural design suited to Omotesando’s elegant and fashionable high street image, Omotesando Hills has been a landmark in the area since its opening in 2006.

Aoyama, Omotesando, Harajuku
Commercial Buildings

21 May 2026 See More

Omotesando Hills is a symbol of Tokyo fashion. The long, narrow space designed by Tadao Ando stretches along the slope of Omotesando, and just strolling up at an easy pace is a smooth, beautifully designed experience in itself. The brands here range from major international luxury labels to high-quality Japanese designer brands, so it’s genuinely a great place to browse and shop.

Especially during the Christmas season, Omotesando Hills feels even more romantic.