10 Things to Do in Iwanai
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| 10 Things to Do in Iwanai |
Iwanai (岩内町) is a historic fishing town located in Hokkaido’s Shiribeshi Subprefecture, Japan. Considered one of the oldest settlements in the region, it dates back to 1450 when it served as a seasonal fishing site before gradually evolving into a permanent village. It was officially recognized as a town in 1751, long before the Meiji Restoration. The town’s name is believed to have originated from the Ainu language, either from Iwaunai (iwaw nay), meaning “sulfur river,” or Iwanai (iwa nay), meaning “mountain river.”
For those planning to visit this historic
fishing town to check what it has to offer, here are the 10 Things to Do in Iwanai:
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| Iwanai's manhole cover |
1. Take a photo of Iwanai's manhole cover
design. I have seen 1 unique manhole cover design. It is commonly found in the
town. The colored version of this is displayed near the roadside station.
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| Iwanai Shrine |
2. Visit Iwanai Shrine (岩内神社), the main shrine of the town, where
visitors can pay their respects and offer prayers in a serene setting. The
shrine is also known for its beautiful approach lined with torii gates, making
the walk to the main hall an experience in itself. You can get a goshuin from
this shrine.
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| 43 Degrees North Fisherman’s Diner |
3. Enjoy a meal at 43 Degrees North Fisherman’s Diner (北緯43度), where the set menu and grilled salmon are highly
recommended. Although this seafood restaurant is small, parking is convenient,
thanks to its location near the roadside station.
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| Arai Memorial Museum |
4. Visit the Arai Memorial Museum (荒井記念美術館), an art museum showcasing a wide array
of fascinating exhibits that art enthusiasts will surely appreciate. For three
months each year, the museum features a special Picasso collection open to the
public. Admission is 1,000 yen per person, offering a rich cultural experience
well worth the visit.
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| Maruyama Observatory |
5. Head up to the Maruyama Observatory (円山展望台) for a breathtaking panoramic view. After
parking your car, it’s just a short 1-minute walk to the viewing platform,
where you’ll be rewarded with stunning sights of Cape Kamui stretching into the
sea and the charming town of Iwanai nestled along the coast. On clear days, you
can also catch a glimpse of the surrounding mountains and the vast expanse of
the Sea of Japan, making it a perfect spot for photography and quiet
reflection.
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| Sansan no Yu |
6. Unwind with a soothing soak at Sansan no Yu (サンサンの湯). This day-use onsen doesn’t offer overnight stays, but its mineral-rich waters are highly effective for relieving fatigue and stress. Admission is 600 yen per adult, making it a perfect spot for a refreshing break.
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| Marine View Auto Campground |
7. Set up camp and spend the night at
Marine View Auto Campground (オートキャンプ場マリンビュー), a popular camping spot in Iwanai Town. Just a 10-minute drive
from the national highway, it’s conveniently close to town and shopping. The
campground features three auto sites, a bungalow area, a free camping area, and
a campervan section. Among these, Site D and the free camping area are the most
sought-after, perched on elevated ground to offer stunning views of both the
ocean and the city lights at night.
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| Kida Kinjiro Museum of Art |
8. Explore the Kida Kinjiro Museum of Art (木田金次郎美術館), dedicated to the works of one of
Hokkaido’s foremost painters, Kida Kinjiro. The museum features a wide range of
his artwork, offering a fascinating glimpse into his artistic legacy.
Interestingly, the museum also served as the inspiration for Arishima Takeo’s
novel Born Worries.
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| Narukami Falls |
9. Hike to Narukami Falls (鳴神の滝) and take in its breathtaking beauty. As
of September 2024, the trail from the forest road down to the waterfall is
roped off, and the directional sign has been removed. While there is no
official prohibition, entering the area is at your own risk.
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| Iwanai Roadside Station |
10. Make a stop at the Iwanai Roadside Station (道の駅いわない), one of Hokkaido’s many charming roadside stations. Housed in a nautical-themed building, it offers tourist information and a gift shop where you can find local specialties. If you’re a roadside station stamp collector, be sure to grab the Iwanai Roadside Station stamp before the roadside station closes for the day!
I hope my list of the 10 Things to Do in Iwanai gave you an idea and inspiration to visit this historic fishing town in the Shiribeshi Subprefecture of Hokkaido.
#Iwanai
#IwanaiHokkaido
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