10 Things to Do in Hamanaka
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| 10 Things to Do in Hamanaka |
Hamanaka (浜中町) is a laid-back town located in Hokkaido's Kushiro Subprefecture, Japan. The town is renowned for being the birthplace of Monkey Punch and also the hometown of Lupin III. The name Hamanaka originated from the area north of Kiritappu City, where the town hall now stands. It is a free translation of the Ainu word ota-noske, meaning “center of the beach.” When the railway opened, Hamanaka Station was built inland, and the name eventually came to refer to the area around the station, now known as Hamanaka.
For those planning to visit this laid-back town
to check what it has to offer, here are the 10 Things to Do in Hamanaka:
1. Take a photo of Hamanaka's manhole cover
designs. I have seen 2 unique manhole cover designs. Aside from these, I also
found 4 unique manhole designs that feature characters from the popular manga
and anime Lupin III.
Kiritappu Shrine
2. Visit Kiritappu Shrine (霧多布神社), the town's main
shrine, to pay respects and offer prayers. It is located in the heart of the
town. You can get a goshuin here for your collection.
Hamanaka Kiritappu Wetland Center
3. Bring your kids to the Hamanaka
Kiritappu Wetland Center (霧多布湿原センター). It’s not just an educational spot to learn about Hamanaka’s
unique wetlands—it also features a fun play area for children. On sunny days,
you can enjoy a scenic walk through the wetlands via the Yachibouzu Boardwalk (やちぼうず木道).
Cape Kiritappu Observation Deck
4. Enjoy the stunning view from the Cape
Kiritappu Observation Deck (霧多布岬展望台). It's a great spot to take in the sea and catch a beautiful
sunrise. If you're lucky, you might even spot sea otters in the waters below.
Biwase Observation Point
5. Enjoy the view and immerse yourself in
nature at Biwase Observation Point (琵琶瀬展望台), one of the best places to appreciate the vast beauty of the
Kiritappu Wetlands. From here, you can take in panoramic views of the sprawling
marshlands, which change colors with the seasons—lush green in summer and
golden in autumn. The area is also known for birdwatching, especially during
migration seasons. Aside from the scenic views, the observation point offers
convenience with a clean public restroom and a couple of local restaurants
nearby, making it a great rest stop for travelers exploring Hamanaka.
Cape Kiritappu Campground
6. Pitch a tent and spend a memorable night
under the stars at Cape Kiritappu Campground (きりたっぷ岬キャンプ場), a scenic and well-loved camping spot overlooking the Pacific
Ocean. Known for its breathtaking coastal views and refreshing sea breeze, this
campsite is especially popular during the summer and long holidays, so expect
to see many fellow campers enjoying the peaceful natural surroundings. The site
offers basic amenities, making it a comfortable place for both beginners and
seasoned campers. To stay here, you’ll need to register at the nearby Kiritappu
Onsen Yuyu, where you can also enjoy a relaxing hot spring bath after a day of
outdoor fun.
Kiritappu Hot Spring Yuyu
7. Take a relaxing dip at Kiritappu Hot
Spring Yuyu (霧多布温泉ゆうゆ), a local
favorite for unwinding after a day of exploring. This onsen offers a variety of
baths to suit every preference, including spacious indoor tubs, jets for
massage-like relaxation, and an open-air bath with a serene view. One of its
highlights is the mist sauna—perfect for a gentle, warming experience—paired
with a cold bath nearby to refresh and invigorate your body. The entrance fee
is an affordable ¥500, making it a great value for a soothing soak in a
peaceful setting.
Cape Azechi
8. Enjoy the breathtaking coastal scenery
from the Cape Azechi Observation Deck (アゼチの岬展望台), a peaceful viewpoint overlooking the dramatic cliffs and ocean of
Cape Azechi (アゼチの岬). This hidden
gem offers a quiet and less crowded alternative to other lookouts in the area,
making it perfect for those seeking a serene moment with nature. On clear days,
you can see the waves crashing against the rugged shoreline and seabirds flying
above. It’s an ideal spot for photography, quiet reflection, or simply taking
in the raw beauty of Hamanaka’s coastline.
Cape Kiritappu
9. Visit Cape Kiritappu (湯沸岬), one of the most scenic and dramatic capes
in all of Hokkaido. Jutting out into the Pacific Ocean, this windswept cape
offers panoramic views of the rugged coastline, rolling waves, and, on clear
days, even distant islands. The area is especially beautiful during sunrise and
sunset, casting golden light over the cliffs and sea. It’s also a great spot
for nature lovers, with seasonal wildflowers in bloom and occasional sightings
of sea birds and marine life.
Hamanaka Monkey Punch Tour
10. Go on a Monkey Punch Tour of the city. First, check out the exhibits at Monkey Punch Collection (モンキー・パンチ・コレクション). It’s on the 2nd floor of the Hamanaka Town Cultural Center (浜中町総合文化センター). Aside from that, explore the town and take photos of the Monkey Punch-themed buildings like Hamanaka Station, Club Fujiko, and Jigen’s Bar.
I hope my list of the 10 Things to Do in Hamanaka gave you an idea and inspiration to visit this laid-back town in the Kushiro Subprefecture of Hokkaido.
#Hamanaka
#HamanakaHokkaido
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