This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Abashiri.
The city of Abashiri (Abasiri), Japan, is located on the north coast of Hokkaido. Hokkaido is the second biggest Japanese island and it is the name of the northernmost prefecture. Around thirty-nine thousand people live in Abashiri, which is known for the Abashiri Prison. There are three lakes nearby -- Lake Abashiri, Lake Notoro, and Lake Tōfutsu -- which are also attractive for locals and tourists. The easiest options to get there are either by air or by train. Memanbetsu Airport is located around twenty-one kilometres south of the city nearby Ōzora. Taxis, bus, and train services are available to get to the centre of Abashiri. The city is also on the Sekihoku Main Line, the most important railway line in Hokkaido, and a junction of the Senmo Line.
As it's located in the north of Japan, the climate in Abashiri can be rough in winter. Temperatures below zero degrees Celsius are common during this period. You can also expect frequently occurring fog. The summers are mild. In July and August maximum temperatures from twenty-one to twenty-three degrees Celsius are common.
A couple of hotels and guesthouses as well as limited options for a Abashiri (Abasiri), Japan hostel welcome guests who want to stay in Abashiri. Most places including your Abashiri (Abasiri), Japan hostel offer free Wi-Fi and free parking. Since Abashiri is not a typical tourist magnet, you should be fine to book spontaneously free beds in a Abashiri (Abasiri), Japan hostel or any other accommodation. During public holidays, the place could be busier than normal, so consider that when you plan the trip.
The infamous Abashiri Prison was opened in the late nineteenth century and it is the northernmost prison in Japan. Originally, it was built for political prisoners of the Government of Meiji. The old complex was closed in the late twentieth century, when a newer, more modern prison was opened instead. However, the original complex of the infamous prison was relocated to the base of Mount Tento and opened as Abashiri Prison Museum. It has been the only prison museum in Japan to date. Another interesting museum in Abashiri is the Okhotsk Ryūhyō Museum. If you like natural science, then it is the right place for you. The museum is devoted to pack ice, a common phenomenon in the Okhotsk Sea.
Written by local enthusiast for Abashiri hostels
Flo