The Backpack Adventures

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 :   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.   Iwanai Shrine 2. Visit Iwanai Shrine ( 岩内神社 ) , the main shrine o...

Iwanai Shrine ( 岩内神社 ) is the main shrine of the town of Iwanai. It is located at 41 Miyazono in the town of Iwanai, Iwanai District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Iwanai Shrine Iwanai Shrine Details Iwanai Shrine , also called Iwanai Jinja ,  is more than just a place of worship—it’s a cultural treasure that has stood for over two centuries, preserving traditions and stories that date back to the late 18th century. Iwanai Shrine - Iwanai town, Hokkaido Prefecture A Shrine Born from the Sea (1789) The origins of Iwanai Shrine trace back to 1789, during the first year of the Kansei era. It is believed that Matsumae Shimanokami Yoshihiro ordered local contractor Kumanoya Yozaemon to enshrine Ichikishimahime , the guardian deity of safe sea routes and prosperous fishing. This marked the beginning of a spiritual landmark deeply tied to the lives of fishermen and seafarers. Iwanai Shrine 's main torii gate 岩内神社 Crossing the small bridge to the shrine grounds Iwanai Shrine gr...

Iwanai Roadside Station ( 道の駅いわない ) is one of the roadside stations found across Hokkaido. It is located at 47-4 Mandai in the town of Iwanai, Iwanai District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Iwanai Roadside Station Iwanai Roadside Station Details If you’re exploring the Shakotan Peninsula and looking for a perfect pit stop, Iwanai Roadside Station ( Michi-no-Eki Iwanai ) is a must-visit destination. Officially registered as a roadside station on April 22, 1993 , with Registration No. 14 , this facility offers more than just a place to rest—it’s a gateway to local culture, flavors, and attractions. Iwanai Roadside Station - Iwanai town, Hokkaido Prefecture Prime Location with a Unique Design Iwanai Roadside Station sits at the junction of National Highways 229 and 276 , making it an ideal stop for travelers heading to or from Niseko, Otaru, or Shakotan. The highlight of the facility is the Taramarukan Guide Center , a building designed to look like a yacht, symbolizing Iwanai’s...