Shiraoi is drawing more attention the as the opening of Upopoy (National Ainu Museum and Park) closely approaches; the park is expected to open April 24, 2020. Embraced by the sea, mountains, and natural beauty, Shiraoi is blessed with abundant blessings from the sea and land such as Shiraoi beef, which is raised amidst the this nature.
Shiraoi Beef
Shiraoi beef, among other specialty products, is regarded as the beef of Hokkaido, and was served to diplomats and VIP at the Hokkaido Toyako Summit held in 2008. Shiraoi beef is a black-haired breed of cattle raised in Shiraoi, that has passed numerous strict inspections and standards for breeding and quality determined by the Shiraoi Beef Brand Promotional Association.
Enjoy the exquisite taste and rich flavor of delicious beef that was highly appraised by VIP of the world.
Poroto Forest
The quiet and serene Lake Poroto in Shiraoi has a circumference of 4 kilometers, and covers an area of 33 hectares. The Poroto forests encircling the lake are primeval forests that border the suburbs of the city, and are designated a national natural recreational forest. Flying squirrels and colonies of skunk cabbage inhabit the quiet forests, and one can enjoy a sensory experience just walking through the groves of trees. It is a "healing forest" selected as one of "Japan's 100 Footpaths."
On April 24, 2020, Upopoy (National Ainu Museum and Park) will open, and the area will gather further national attention.
The perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors
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Lake Kuttara
One of the many caldera lakes of the nation with a high clarity. Because there are no large rivers feeding the lake, water quality is superb.A scenic road leads from Noboribetsu Hot Springs to the west shores of the lake, with a lookout point that is accessible from the road.
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Shiraoi Sendai Clan Barracks
The former barracks of the Sendai Clan who were stationed in Shiraoi was designated a National Historic Site in 1966.
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Ayoro Beach
Ayoro Beach in Kojohama, Shiraoi, a a well known view point of Shiraoi. Both the sunrise and sunset can be seen against the rough and rugged cliffs that make up the coastline on the Pacific Ocean. Each season brings with it a unique and spectacular view.
Upopoy
(National Ainu Museum and Park)(Scheduled to open April 24, 2020)
Upopoy, National Ainu Museum and Park, which will open on the shores of Lake Poroto, Shiraoi, is to be the national center for the dissemination and revitalization of Ainu culture. The facility strives to promote a further and deeper understanding of the history and culture, as well as future development of the Ainu culture and heritage. Main facilities will include the National Ainu Museum and the National Park.
Fun Scenic Spots
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Shiraoi Uyoro and Ayoro River
Shiraoi is tucked between the mountains and the ocean, and has many rivers of various size. During the fall, salmon from the Pacific Ocean can be seen swimming upriver to spawn. There are many viewpoints where one can see the salmon up close.
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Wakasagi Smelt-fishing (Lake Poroto)
Wakasagi smelt-fishing is a famous winter activity on Lake Poroto. Each winter between January and March, many visitors come to fish for the wakasagi, which is best when tossed in batter, and deep-fried.
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Sendai Clan Former Shiraoi Barracks Museum
Sendai Clan Former Shiraoi Barracks Museum is a National Historical Museum that sits on the site where the former barracks of the Sendai Clan in Shiraoi stood. The museum houses over 300 pieces of historical material such as picture graphs, ancient books and tools on the history of the Sendai Clan, which was responsible for guarding the northern territories.