Originally called "Shari," the town was renamed "Shiretoko" after the unprecedented success of the song "Shiretoko Ryojo" sung by Hisaya Morishige and Tokiko Kato, making it nationally known as the gateway to Shiretoko National Park. Even today, it remains known as the entrance to the World Natural Heritage site of Shiretoko and a strategic point facing the Sea of Okhotsk. The place name "Shari" originates from the Ainu word "sat-ri," meaning "wetland" or "reed field," while "Shiretoko" comes from the Ainu word "shiri-etok" (cape). In winter, drift ice reaches the shore, and the magnificent world of white snow can be seen from the station area, which is a major attraction. As a starting point for trails, it's a place that heightens the anticipation of the journey that begins here. From in front of the station, a panoramic view of the Shiretoko mountain range unfolds, and a rich natural environment awaits you, perfect for taking your first steps while breathing in the crisp air.

Originally called "Sarumagawa," this station was renamed "Nakashari" on September 10, 1950, due to its central location in Shari Town. Surrounded by vast farmlands, it stands right in the heart of a quintessential Hokkaido rural landscape. Since its opening in 1930, it has supported the region's development as a hub for transporting local specialties such as potatoes and wheat. Currently a quiet, unmanned station, standing on the platform, you'll be captivated by the contrast between the vast, unobstructed sky and the Shiretoko mountain range towering in the distance. Walking the trail, you can directly experience the changing colors of the fields with each season and the scent of the soil. It's a spot where you can encounter the simple yet powerful everyday life of eastern Hokkaido, a stark contrast to the flashy tourist destinations.

Located in the heart of the town, this station was formerly known as "Kami-Shari Station." Its name is said to originate from the Ainu words "Yam-o-Shari" (Shari, a village with many chestnut trees). With the establishment of the town in 1955, the station's name was changed to "Kiyosato-cho Station," incorporating one character each from the names of its parent villages, Koshimizu-cho and Shari-cho, reflecting a wish for a pure and serene village. Nestled at the foot of Mount Shari, one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains, this town is also an agricultural hub blessed by the pristine waters of the Shari River. From the area around the station, you can admire the pyramidal peak of Mount Shari up close, a great source of encouragement for trail hikers. Take a stroll through this beautiful village, nurtured by abundant water and greenery, and feel its vibrant spirit.

The place name "Satsuru" originates from the Ainu word "saku-ru" (summer road), referring to a route that followed the nearby Satsuru River in the summer, leading from Kitami to Kushiro and Nemuro. Originally written as "Satsuru," it was changed to "Satsuru" on April 10, 1956. Since its opening in 1930, this station has supported local transportation, and now, together with the adjacent "Michi-no-Eki Satsuru" (roadside station), it serves as a new resting place for travelers. This roadside station is one of the important prize exchange points for this stamp rally. It will likely become a bustling hub where many participants gather to obtain hiking passports. Surrounded by fertile farmland, it's a place where you can recharge your energy to continue your journey to your next destination while feeling the pleasant breeze blowing down from Mount Shari.

As its name suggests, this station, surrounded by deep forests and lush greenery, was established in 1954 after being upgraded from a signal station. The Hokkaido East Trail route extends from just behind the station, making it truly a gateway to a "sacred place" for hikers. Step inside, and you'll find yourself in the tranquility of a primeval forest. The only sounds are the chirping of birds and the rustling of trees, making it the perfect starting point for a journey to forget everyday life and connect with nature. This is a crucial junction on the trail, offering a quiet sense of exhilaration as you venture deeper into the forest, searching for your own special landscape.

The place name "Kawayu" originates from the Ainu words "seset-i-yu" (hot spring). As the name suggests, abundant hot springs gush forth around the station. Since its opening in 1930, it has welcomed many travelers as the northern gateway to Akan-Mashu National Park. The Kawayu Visitor Center, located next to the station, serves as a prize exchange point for the stamp rally and is also ideal for gathering information about the trails. Nearby is Mount Iwo, which still emits steam, allowing you to feel the dynamic pulse of the volcano firsthand. Hot springs to soothe tired feet and magnificent nature that stimulates all your senses will vividly color the highlights of your trip.

The small hill near the station, called Biruwa-yama, is known in the Ainu language as either "Peruke-Supuri" (split mountain) or "Beruke-Iwa" (established rocky mountain). The river flowing at its base was called "Peruke-Iwa-Nai," which evolved from Pereiwanai to Perua, and finally to the kanji characters "美留和" (Biruwa). This name suggests that there was once a difficult road crossing this area. Currently, a unique station building, utilizing a freight car, welcomes travelers amidst the quiet forest. Located midway between the two large lakes of Lake Kussharo and Lake Mashu, this station is surrounded by a deep forest of birch and oak trees. A moment spent here, while walking the trails, is sure to bring a special kind of tranquility. Enjoy birdwatching and stroll slowly through the dappled sunlight. Such luxurious moments unfold around this station.

Formerly known as "Teshikaga" Station, it bore the Ainu place name "Teshika-ka" (on the bedrock). The station's name was changed to "Mashu" in response to a request to incorporate the nationally renowned Lake Mashu. "Mashu" comes from "Mashi-wan-to" (of the seagull). In front of the station, there's a footbath that gently soothes the feet of hikers who have walked the entire distance. The Mashu Mountains, as seen from here, display a mystical appearance known as "Mashu Blue" depending on the season and weather. This place, where the rich nature of the national park and the warm hot spring culture come together, will surely be a special checkpoint that will be deeply etched in your travel memories.

The station's name originates from the Ainu word "Isopunnai," which means "River where rabbits live." It was named after the stream on the border between Shibecha and Teshikaga towns, where many rabbits once lived. Opened in 1927, the station stands alone amidst vast dairy farming, offering stunning views of Hokkaido's characteristic "pastures stretching to the horizon." To the west of the station lies Kushiro Marsh National Park, where, if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the Japanese cranes, the "ladies of the marshlands," in flight. This is one of the areas along the trail where you can feel the vastness of the sky the most. While watching the cows grazing peacefully, take in the relaxed pace of life in eastern Hokkaido.

This area, which flourished as a strategic point along the Kushiro River, derives its name from the Ainu words "shi-be-cha" (large river bank), where "shi-pet" refers to the Kushiro River and thus its bank. Since its opening in 1927, it has etched its history as a vital railway hub and as the face of a dairy farming town. Here, you can enjoy a riverside trail that follows the majestic flow of the Kushiro River. Hiking while watching canoes slowly drift downstream is a unique experience only found in this region. There is also a lively shopping street around the station, offering opportunities to discover delicious local food. This is a base that provides a relaxing and comfortable travel experience, much like the flow of the river.

Tōro, meaning "place of the swamp" in the Ainu language, is located right in front of the station, overlooking Lake Tōro, the largest lake in the Kushiro Marshland. Since its opening in 1927, it has been a leading center for marshland tourism, attracting many nature lovers. Step out of the station and you're at the entrance to the wetlands. Walking along the lakeside promenade, you'll encounter seasonal flowers and rare wild birds. This location, also a base for canoeing, is a precious place to experience the wetlands from both land and water. Enjoy the vibrant life of this "cradle of life," woven from abundant water and greenery, using all your senses.

Built in 1988, this wooden station building was constructed as a major tourist attraction in a prime location overlooking the wetlands. It's located in Kushiro, a place whose name, "Kut-Charo" (meaning "lake's mouth"), comes from the Ainu word symbolizing the wetland's topography. From the Hosooka Observatory behind the station, you can see the meandering Kushiro River and a breathtaking carpet of green stretching to the horizon. It is truly a spectacular view that is the highlight of the trail. Here, you can experience a sense of accomplishment and emotion that you can never get from a car, but can only be felt by getting off the train and climbing to the observatory on foot.

This station, whose name derives from the Ainu word "To-ya" (lakeshore), retains a remnant of a time when the Kushiro Marsh was much larger. Opened in 1927, it is a historic place that was once a bustling coal mining town. Currently, it serves as a quiet station in a secluded village at the eastern edge of the wetlands, warmly welcoming hikers. The surrounding area boasts a unique landscape where wetlands and dairy farms intertwine, and waterfowl can be seen gracefully soaring through the sky. With the bustling city of Kushiro just ahead, it's a place where you can spend a peaceful time as you walk, cherishing the last moments of nature's tranquility—a perfect way to conclude your journey.

As the largest hub station in eastern Hokkaido, it has continuously supported the economy and transportation of the region since its opening in 1917. The name Kushiro originates from the Ainu word "Kutcharo" (swamp mouth). On December 1, 1917 (Taisho 6), with the opening of the Nemuro Line between Kushiro and Akkeshi, the station, formerly the abolished "Hamakushiro Station," was rebuilt and relocated to its current location. Known as a city of fog, Kushiro enjoys cool temperatures even in summer, making it the perfect environment for walking trips. At dusk, a beautiful sunset, considered one of the world's three most beautiful sunsets, celebrates the end of your journey. Whether as the endpoint of a trail or the starting point of a new adventure, enjoy the vibrant culture and cuisine of this port town and complete your "travel memories."

*You can also earn stamps here, which can then be exchanged for rewards! Located on the Nakashibetsu side of Kiyosato Town, this inn boasts a superb location offering close-up views of the majestic Mount Shari. The inn features a natural hot spring, perfect for relaxing after a tiring hike. A wide selection of local specialties, including potatoes and Kiyosato shochu (a type of distilled spirit), are also available. For hikers before or after their ascent of Mount Shari, or for those walking long distances, this is a reassuring "travel oasis" where you can recharge both your mind and body.

*You can also earn stamps here, which can then be exchanged for rewards! Located on the northern side of Akan-Mashu National Park, this center serves as an information hub where visitors can learn in depth about the natural environment and history of the Kawayu Onsen area. The museum features exhibits where you can learn about the surrounding flora and fauna and the workings of volcanoes, as well as a relaxing lounge and cafe. The tranquil environment, surrounded by a forest of Sakhalin spruce trees, is especially ideal for a break during your trails. Checking the latest trail conditions here and deepening your knowledge for your journey to Lake Mashu and Mount Iwo will make your nature walks in eastern Hokkaido even more enjoyable.

*You can also earn stamps here, which can then be exchanged for rewards! Located at the foot of the Nusamai Bridge, a popular spot for watching the sunset, is the Nusamai Tourist Guide Station. As a central hub for sightseeing in Kushiro, it's a popular stop for many tourists. A Kushiro Tourist Guide Association is always on hand, so you can easily get advice on sightseeing. They also have Kushiro brochures available, so it's recommended when you visit Nusamai Bridge.