Shakotan Peninsula


The Shakotan Peninsula in Shiribeshi, on the west coast of Hokkaido, Japan, is a mountainous peninsula which projects some into the Sea of Japan. The Shakotan Peninsula forms part of the Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park.

Geography

The peninsula has a rugged terrain with few level areas. The coastline of the peninsula suffers from extensive marine erosion, which resulted in the numerous natural stone pillars which project from the sea. Mount Shakotan forms the highest peak on the peninsula. The peninsula has numerous scenic capes and inlets, notably Cape Shakotan and Cape Kamui.

Municipalities

The Shakotan Peninsula spans seven municipalities in Hokkaido, all within Shiribeshi Subprefecture.

Economy

The area was once a thriving center of Pacific herring fishing, which was conducted from the villages of Furubira, Iwanai, and Yoichi.