Reader’s Question: I have a question about traveling to Hokkaido. My family is going on a trip to Hokkaido during summer vacation with my 11-year-old and 9-year-old sons. I would like to know about recommended spots and shops along the
way from New Chitose Airport to Rausu.
From New Chitose Airport to Rausu: A Family Adventure Awaits!
Hey there, fellow travelers! I can hardly contain my excitement as I reminisce about my recent summer trip to Hokkaido with my two boys, aged 11 and 9. If you’re planning a journey from New Chitose Airport to Rausu, you’re in for a treat! Buckle up, folks, because I’m about to take you on a wild ride filled with recommendations, hidden gems, and some family-friendly fun that’ll make this trip unforgettable.
First up, let’s talk about arriving at New Chitose Airport. Oh, what a breeze it was! The airport itself is pretty impressive, with a good dose of Japanese hospitality from the moment you step inside. I can still remember my boys’ faces lighting up at the sight of the mini train that goes around the airport. You’d think they were in Disneyland or something! We hopped on for a quick ride, and it set the tone for what was to come.
Foodie Finds Right at the Airport
Before we hit the road, we decided to grab some breakfast at one of the airport’s many eateries. If you ever find yourself there, please do yourself a favor and visit the sushi restaurant on the second floor. Yes, sushi for breakfast! My boys were initially hesitant, but once they tried the salmon and avocado rolls, they were hooked! I mean, who wouldn’t want to start their morning with fresh sushi?
After filling our bellies, we picked up some supplies at the airport’s convenience store. Don’t overlook this! They have an amazing selection of drinks and snacks, including local specialties like Shiroi Koibito cookies and melon bread. Trust me, these will come in handy during your road trip!
Scenic Drive to Rausu
Now, let’s talk about the drive from New Chitose Airport to Rausu. It’s about a four-hour journey, but don’t worry; it’s super scenic! My boys loved spotting the endless fields of flowers and patchwork farms along the way. I was behind the wheel, of course, but I had to keep stopping to take pictures! Just pull over at the viewpoints when you see a sign; they are worth it!
One of our favorite stops was at the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. We couldn’t resist the urge to stretch our legs a bit. There’s a beautiful lake called Lake Shikotsu, and the views were just breathtaking. The water is this vibrant blue-green color that looks like it’s been filtered through Instagram! My sons had a blast skipping stones and searching for the perfect flat rock.
Wildlife Encounter at Kushiro Shitsugen National Park
As we continued our journey, we decided to make a detour to Kushiro Shitsugen National Park. This place is a bit off the beaten path, but let me tell you, it’s a hidden gem. It’s Japan’s largest wetland area and is teeming with wildlife. My kids were thrilled when we spotted a couple of red-crowned cranes! There’s even a nature center where you can learn more about the local flora and fauna. We spent a good hour there, soaking it all in.
Don’t miss the boardwalks that let you wander deep into the marshes. Just be warned: it can get a bit buggy! My boys had a great time trying to catch dragonflies, and I was just happy they were enjoying nature instead of their tablets. Score one for Mom!
Lunch in Abashiri
After that little adventure, we were all famished and ready for a hearty lunch. We made our way to Abashiri, a town famous for its seafood. We stumbled upon a quaint local restaurant called “Kaisendon” – it’s a must-visit for its delicious seafood rice bowls! I opted for the mixed sashimi bowl, while my boys couldn’t resist the grilled salmon. They inhaled it! I mean, you can’t go wrong with fresh fish, right?
Pro tip: If you’re a fan of soft serve ice cream, you absolutely have to try the local flavor, which is made with fresh milk. It’s creamy and dreamy, and the perfect treat to beat the summer heat!
A Few Stops Before Rausu
As we got closer to Rausu, we made a couple more stops. There’s an interesting spot called the “Abashiri Prison Museum.” Yeah, I know, a prison museum might not sound like a fun kid-friendly spot, but hear me out! It’s got a unique history of Hokkaido and the boys found the interactive exhibits fascinating. They even got to try on prison uniforms for a silly photo op. Talk about a memory!
Next up, we headed toward the scenic Shiretoko Peninsula’s entrance. If you have time, consider taking a short hike in the Shiretoko National Park. The trails are well-marked, and we chose one that was suitable for families. It led us to a stunning viewpoint where we could see the rugged coastline and feel the cool sea breeze. Honestly, I’m pretty sure my kids were more impressed by the opportunity to chase butterflies than the view, but hey, I’ll take it!
Finally Arriving in Rausu
After a day filled with exploration and excitement, we finally rolled into Rausu, a small fishing town perched on the edge of the Shiretoko Peninsula. The vibe here is relaxing, and the views are simply out of this world. I mean, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site for a reason! The mountains tower over the town, and the sunsets are absolutely magical.
We settled into our accommodation, which was a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn). I was so thrilled that I booked a room with a view of the ocean. After dropping off our bags, we headed out for a walk along the shore. My boys skipped stones and played in the sand while I marveled at how serene everything felt. It’s these moments that make travel so rewarding.
Dinner with a View
For dinner, we decided to try some local seafood, and oh boy, did we hit the jackpot! We found a cozy little restaurant called “Yumesaki.” They serve a variety of freshly caught fish, and I opted for the seafood hot pot, while my boys had fried squid (which they devoured in seconds). The warm atmosphere and the delicious food made it one of our favorite meals of the trip!
Final Thoughts on the Journey
As I sit here reminiscing about our journey from New Chitose Airport to Rausu, I can’t help but feel grateful for the memories we created as a family. The combination of scenic drives, delicious food, and spontaneous stops made this trip truly special. If you’re heading to Hokkaido, don’t rush through it! Take the time to explore, engage with the locals, and most importantly, enjoy every moment with your loved ones.
So there you have it – my experience traveling from New Chitose Airport to Rausu with my boys. I hope this guide helps you plan your own adventure. Hokkaido is bursting with beauty and charm. Now go on and make some unforgettable memories!
