Discovering Land's End

At Japan’s northern tip, East Hokkaido – known as Land’s End – boasts lush and untamed landscapes home to fascinating animals and one of the highest concentrations of brown bears in the world. By sea and by land, immerse yourself in this lesser-visited region to see a side of Japan beyond the stereotypes.

For those looking to unearth the real Japan, beyond the cherry blossoms and bustling Tokyo streets, venture to East Hokkaido to discover some of the country’s wildest and least-explored landscapes. This isn’t like the Japan celebrated in popular culture. Instead, you will be based in Teshikaga, a beautiful town surrounded by deep forests and glistening water. Home to some of the clearest lakes in the world, historic hot springs, and the volcanic Mount Iō, you’ll experience it all from TAPKOP – a newly opened private villa. Made using salvaged larch wood, you’ll feel fully immersed in nature, setting the scene for your trip.

Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park – meaning ‘end of the world’ in the indigenous Ainu language – is the definition of untouched nature. This staggeringly beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site is so protected that it’s only accessible by foot or boat (or not at all), but the latter is the best way to take it all in.

The driving force behind any visit here is higuma – the Ussuri brown bear – as the area has one of the highest brown bear population densities in the world, with an estimated 300-500 bears living in 1000 square km of land. By boat, you’ll cruise the shores passing several waterfalls in the hopes of catching sight of a bear fishing or ambling with a cub in tow, with glimpses of the Shiretoko mountain range and the active Mount Iō volcano in the distance.

Hop off board and explore the National Park now by foot as you hike the popular Five Lakes walk. Mesmerising scenery unfolds as you traverse the landscape, with unique flora and fauna including indigenous deer that roam the park.

After a day exploring, come back to your villa and unwind in the sauna or the outdoor bath in the forest air, soaking in underground water from the Kushiro River.

Ainu Culture

Throughout your experience so far, you will have come across various Ainu translations which will lay the foundation for your introduction to their indigenous culture. About 700 years ago, the Ainu were a collection of hunters, fishermen and gatherers who were trading partners with the Japanese. But, in the 1800s when Hokkaido was formally annexed and resettled, the Ainu found themselves discriminated against and their way of life – from their language (which is nearly extinct) and traditions even to their unique tattoos – was banned. Whilst they have stubbornly preserved and protected their way of life despite these centuries of oppression, it wasn’t until 2008 that the Japanese government formally recognised the Ainu as indigenous people.

Learn about their traditions and way of life from artefacts and informational displays on hunting and gathering, housing, clothing, and religion at the Kussharo Kotan Ainu Museum, and take part in a craft workshop with members of the Ainu community.

Experience the nature and culture of Teshikaga through its distinctive food culture, with a range of dishes that can only be sampled here. The Northern seas are well stocked with salmon, uni (sea urchin) and crab, so expect seafood to feature strongly and be exceptional. There are also deliciously juicy Mashu melons and other fruit that are grown in the heat of the hot springs, as well as Mashu beef and Teshikaga pork (the soil is ideal for grazing livestock). Our top tip: remember the word oishii (it means ‘delicious’) as this is one word that we can guarantee will be well used during your stay.