Bays, cliffs, taiga and lighthouses

The edge of the world, where a magical sunrise occurs before any other region in the country. Here, ancient lighthouses rise on wave-washed headlands, hundreds of birds nest in secluded bays, and the Torii Gate, a symbolic entrance to a Shinto shrine and a legacy of the island's Japanese history, rises from the hills. Sakhalin is steeped in exoticism, filled with myths and legends, and dazzles with its contrasting and unusual nature.

A tour of the region begins in the cozy, low-rise town of Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, surrounded by hills. The city's streets are immersed in greenery, with modern buildings standing side by side with Japanese buildings from the first half of the 20th century. The island's small size makes it easy to reach key natural attractions. For example, just 17 km from the capital stands a rock formation over 70 million years old—the Frog Remnant—rising above the endless floodplain forests. In less than four hours, you can reach one of the island's main locations, Cape Velikan, famous for its whimsical stone arches. We invite you to Sakhalin, an island of wonders, where breathtaking views await around every corner!

Places of attraction

The Aniva Lighthouse
, located on the cape of the same name, is the island's jewel. This now-abandoned, gradually crumbling building rises on picturesque cliffs. It was built in 1939 by the Japanese. You can enter and ascend to the top platform, passing nine floors, to enjoy a fantastic panorama.

Klokovsky Waterfall:
Sakhalin's tallest waterfall, reaching a height of 49 meters. The water divides into three streams, flowing at a slight angle, with the upper part of the waterfall hidden behind trees. A light mist from the spray, silent forests and cliffs, and well-equipped observation platforms with gazebos make Klokovsky a peaceful, magical place.

Tikhaya Bay:
Its name best describes the bay. Protected from the elements by the Zhdanko Ridge, it is always calm and almost windless. The perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or picnic: the rustling of sea waves, the cries of birds, and the whimsical shapes of the cliffs carved by the waves.

Cape Velikan
is one of Sakhalin's most famous locations, a must-see on any tour. The action of water and wind has formed stunning stone arches on the cape. From Cape Velikan, you can hike to Cape Ptichiy, admiring stunning grottoes, cliffs, and bustling bird colonies along the way.

The Yankito Lava Plateau
is located on Iturup Island, often included in tours to Sakhalin. The landscape resembles scenes from a sci-fi film: the unusually shaped cliffs are formed by waves of solidified lava. We recommend visiting the plateau at sunset, when it takes on a truly unique reddish hue.

Lake Busse:
A visit to Sakhalin is unimaginable without seafood delicacies, for which the famous gastronomic lake is the best place to go. Here, you can literally fish mussels and shrimp, sea urchins, and giant oysters out of the water with your bare hands. You can also observe seals and fur seals on the lake.

Iturup Island
is the most famous island of the Kuril Islands, and a must-see during a visit to Sakhalin. Lava plateaus, unusually shaped cliffs, mud volcanoes, and tranquil bays—Iturup's landscapes are striking in their exoticism and diversity. You can also encounter bears on the island and enjoy excellent fishing.