Photo By: PIXTA/ hide k
Region
Hokkaido
Island
Hokkaido
Largest City
Sapporo
Population
5,682,950

Shiribetsu River

Shiribetsu River in Hokkaido transforms into a thrilling rafting experience during spring and summer.

By Abhijit Sen

Niseko, a renowned winter destination of Hokkaido, transforms into a playground of outdoor adventures during the summer months. One of the most exciting activities to experience in Niseko is river rafting. As the snow melts, the Shiribetsu River comes alive, offering a thrilling rafting experience for adventure enthusiasts of all ages.

Shiribetsu River

Shiribetsu River

Photo by: PIXTA/ 川村恵司 A prime river rafting spot in Hokkaido.

The 126 km long Shiribetsu River is a prime location for enjoying rafting tours. It features a mix of intense whitewater rapids and serene stretches ideal for families and solo travelers alike. The Shiribetsu River in Japan is famous for its clear waters. It’s a great place for a thrilling rafting adventure with its stunning surroundings.

Niseko boasts a team of highly experienced outdoor adventure guides who cater to a wide range of rafting packages for school groups, families, and individuals seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences. Whether you’re a first-time rafter or a seasoned enthusiast, there’s a rafting tour suited to your skill level and preference.

Rafting in Niseko

Shiribetsu River

Photo by: PIXTA/ apehuchi18 It’s a thrilling mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and expert guidance.

For those seeking an extra thrill, spring is the optimal time for rafting in Niseko. As the snow melts, the river swells, forming larger and more exciting rapids. Despite the icy spring waters, visitors are provided with appropriate gear to keep them warm during the adventure. In Niseko, you can try ‘Ducky’ rafting, a small, nimble raft for one or two people. It is a unique way to navigate whitewater rapids and offers an intimate and immersive experience.

The Niseko Adventure Centre (NAC) is a leading provider of rafting experiences in Niseko. Their thrilling rapid-rafting tour on the Shiribetsu River offers something for all ages. From challenging whitewater rapids in spring to leisurely swimming spots in summer and vibrant foliage views in the fall, the NAC rafting course is a must-try for anyone visiting Niseko.

The rafting experience on the Shiribetsu in Niseko is a thrilling mix of adventure, stunning scenery and expert guidance. You’ll navigate through exciting rapids and calm waters, creating lasting memories of Hokkaido’s beautiful landscapes. Niseko’s rafting scene is suitable for a diverse range of adventurers, from families with young children to thrill-seekers looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure. Taking a rafting trip in Niseko is a must-do for anyone looking for an exciting and beautiful summer adventure in Japan.

Things To Know

Hours and fees

Spring rafting season is from April to May, while summer rafting lasts from June to November.
It costs between ¥6,000- ¥7,000 for adults and ¥4,600 for primary school kids
Rafting tours run from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. and lasts for 3.5 hours.

How To Get There

Address

By train

Train services run from the airport and Sapporo to Kutchan station, the central transport hub.

By bus

You can fly into New Chitose airport and catch a bus to Niseko, which runs regularly throughout winter and summer. 

By car

It’s a quick two-hour trip from Sapporo on the highway or through the mountains via the Nakayamatoge route.

Where To Stay


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