The Shiribetsu River, which has its source in the west side of Mt. Furedake (alt. 1,046 m) west of Lake Shikotsu, flows through Kimobetsu, Kyogoku, Kutchan and Niseko Town and into the Sea of Japan from Rankoshi Town.
The river is popular for canoeing and rafting and is visited by many anglers who enjoy mountain stream fishing for sweetfish, cherry salmon (landlocked masu salmon) and other fish.
The spring water of Fukidashi Park in Kyogoku Town has been chosen as one of the best 100 natural water sources in Japan. In recent years, it has attracted increasing international tourists as a leading resort area in Hokkaido, visited by many skiers from overseas. The landscape overlooking Mt. Yotei known as Ezofuji (Mt. Fuji of Hokkaido) is also an attraction.
River data
●Channel length
126 km
●Catchment area
1,640 km2
●Origin of the river name
The name Shiribetsu is said to come from shir-pet (mountain river) in the Ainu language.
* Reference: Hokkaido Place Names (YAMADA Hidezo)
