Unique places of Sakhalin. Rocks "Three brothers". What to bring from Sakhalin

The Sakhalin Region is the only one in the country that does not have a mainland territory, but is located only on the islands. Its main wealth lies in unique natural complexes of great value. In order to preserve them, about 10% of the territory was given over to nature reserves and sanctuaries. The natural conditions of the region are suitable for outdoor activities - diving, skiing, climbing, fishing. Ecological tourism includes an acquaintance with the pristine nature of the islands, marine animals and birds. Worthy of attention are the numerous historical and archaeological monuments of the region. And all the exotics of the Far East can be felt during ethnic tours to places where small representatives of the indigenous population live - Nivkhs and Oroks.

Sakhalin and the Kuril Islands are the most interesting and beautiful places. Photos with names and descriptions of the main attractions

Guide - what to see and where to go? Excursions and routes. List of the best objects of tourism and active recreation!

Port of Korsakov

One of the largest ports of the Far East is located in the southern part of Sakhalin. It was founded in 1853, this is the oldest settlement Sakhalin region. Its name is associated with the name of the governor general Eastern Siberia Mikhail Korsakov. The first port facilities here were built by the Japanese at the beginning of the last century. Since 1993, the port has had international status. Ships depart from here to Vladivostok, the Kuril Islands, Japan and Korea.

Kurile Islands

The Kuriles are a chain of large and small islands between Kamchatka and Japan. These are the peaks of the mountain range, which rise above the water by only 1-2 km, and the main part is hidden at a depth. The most popular are Iturup, Shikatan, Kunashir, Paramushir. Numerous volcanoes are located on the islands, including active, thermal mineralized springs, picturesque lakes, about 900 rivers. The Kuriles are also famous for their bird colonies.

Kuril Reserve

The area of ​​the protected area is 65 thousand hectares, it was established in 1984 and includes the territory of the island of Kunashir and adjacent small islands. Volcanic landscapes, marine ecosystems, as well as the unique flora and fauna of this area are subject to protection. In addition, protected lands include dozens of valuable archaeological and ethnographic monuments, including ancient Japanese buildings and sites of ancient people.

Volcano Tyatya

The symbol of the Kuril Islands and one of the most famous and majestic volcanoes in the world. Locals call it "father-mountain", its foot has a diameter of 18 km, and an approximate height of 1800 m. The age of the ancient giant is 12,000 years, eruptions occur once every thousand years. The last was in 1973, after which people left the area. tyatya is dangerous for air transport, its top is often smoked and emits poisonous gases and vapors into the air.

Waterfall Bird

There is a natural attraction on one of the Kuril Islands - Kunashir. Bird - wide and pretty powerful waterfall, since the river of the same name, on which it is located, is the second most full-flowing on the island. Its height is about 12 m, and its width is 20 m. The river and the waterfall were named so because of the large number of birds of prey in this area, especially in the spring. The section of the river near the waterfall is a favorite spawning place for salmon, and they attract birds here.

Cape Stolbchaty

A place of unique beauty in the west of Kunashir Island has the status of a natural monument of world importance. The local rocks consist of 50-meter-high pillars of regular pentagonal or hexagonal shape, tightly adjacent to each other. These unusual geological formations arose as a result of the eruption of the Mendeleev volcano several million years ago and are nothing more than petrified columns of basalt lava.

Lakes Hot and Boiling

Two lakes are located on the island of Kunashir in the basin active volcano Golovnin. They are interconnected by an artificially dug channel. The temperature of the water in Boiling is +80°С, the sediments at its bottom are saturated with sulfur, in combination with metals, it gives black foam on the surface of the lake. The water contains arsenic, antimony, salts of heavy metals. Unlike the Boiling Lake, you can swim in the Hot Lake. The water in it is turquoise, and the depth reaches 62 m.

Moneron Island

A secluded, inaccessible island near Sakhalin is an extinct volcano several million years ago. Its nature is incredibly beautiful - green hills, grasses as high as human height, columnar rocks, rivers with waterfalls. But the main value of the island is its exotic marine fauna, some of which are found nowhere else in Russia. Since 2007, the island has received the status of the first marine natural park in the country.

Poronaysky Reserve

The protected area was created in the eastern part of Sakhalin in 1988 in order to preserve the unique wildlife of these places. On the territory of the reserve there are numerous swamps, 150 rivers and 60 lakes. The main protected objects are birds, about 170 species, including those listed in the Red Book. Here is the largest bird market on the island. Animals and birds in the reserve feel free and are not at all afraid of people.

Silent Bay

An excellent place for recreation and fishing, closed from the cold northern winds. This picturesque bay is located 130 km from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk. The entire coast is made up of huge rocks and boulders that have fallen from mountain heights, and only at the water's edge is a small strip of sand. The area is decorated with thickets of wild rose, aralia, thermopsis and other vegetation. Not far from the coast there is an impregnable rocky island Visible, which was chosen by flocks of seagulls.

Volcano Mendeleev

The top of the gigantic volcano, which the locals also call the Sleeping Beauty, is visible far from the sea, even before the appearance of coastline Kunashir Islands. Inside the giant are several pockets of boiling. Hot steam with volcanic gas escapes through cracks and ditches, and numerous springs contain water that can even burn you. The slopes of the volcano are covered with dense forests, at its foot there is a famous hospital.

Hot Beach

The village with this name is located on the island of Kunashir at the foot of the active Mendeleev volcano. Sources from hot water, scattered along the slopes of the volcano, allow you to heat houses, greenhouses, baths, and even heat food on them. Near the village there is a real hot beach with heated sand and jets of steam beating from the ground. But the main value of thermal springs is their highly mineralized composition. In the clinic built here healing water treat many diseases.

Lighthouse Aniva

lighthouse in the form round tower 9 floors high was installed by the Japanese in 1939 on the Sivuchya rock in the southern part of the Tonino-Aniva Peninsula. The need for it was caused by multiple currents and frequent fogs in this area. Until 1990, the lighthouse was served by four workers. Then, due to difficult living conditions and difficulties with the delivery of provisions, the lighthouse was transferred to an autonomous mode, it worked on a nuclear power source. Has not functioned since 2006.

Rocks Three Brothers

Three rocky giants rising directly from the water at a distance of 200 m from the shore - a symbol and faithful guards west coast Sakhalin and the city of Aleksandrovsk-Sakhalinsky located here. According to legend, these are three brothers who wished to take away the keys to happiness from the evil Deva who lives in sea ​​cave. However, their intentions failed, and the brave men were turned into petrified giant statues. Together with Cape Jonquiere, the rocks are part of the famous natural and tourist complex.

Seal Island

A small rocky island in the Sea of ​​Okhotsk near Sakhalin is famous for its large rookeries of valuable fur seals and sea lions. They come here in the spring, have offspring, and in the fall they swim south and winter in the open sea. Their neighbors on the island are numerous seabirds nesting on the tops of the rocks. The territory of the island is under protection, aircraft are prohibited from flying over it, and ships are not allowed to come close and give horns.

Vawai lakes

Two communicating lakes - Big and Small Vavaisky, are located in the Korsakov district of Sakhalin Island. The area of ​​the Bolshoi is 44 km 2, 9 rivers flow into it, and the area of ​​the Small is 0.7 km 2. Sakhalin nature in the vicinity of the lakes is presented in all its pristine beauty. Of the representatives of the animal world, there are Far Eastern frogs, lizards, brown bears, foxes, and eagles. In a swimming pool big lake created natural monument Ozersky spruce forest.

Cheremshansky waterfall

One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Sakhalin. Its height is only 13 m, and it is located on the Zheltaya River. It is a picturesque large-format panel of streams of water flying down in the middle of the luxurious greenery of a mixed forest. The waterfall is located in an inaccessible area, hidden from prying eyes, to get there, you need a powerful SUV and good weather. Be careful, there are bears in the area.

White cliffs of Iturup island

One of the islands Kuril ridge, washed on one side by the Pacific Ocean, and on the other - by the Sea of ​​Okhotsk, a place of extraordinary beauty. He has volcanic origin, and most of it is covered with black sand. But in the northern part of the island rise volcanic formations of white pumice and volcanic sand covered with dense greenery. This is the White Rocks. And on the coast White sand mixes with black and forms intricate patterns.

Waterfall Ilya Muromets

One of the most high waterfalls The country is located on the island of Iturup. Its water flows fall off a steep cliff 141 m high and fall into the Pacific Ocean. The name of the epic hero was assigned to the waterfall by the participants of the scientific expedition in 1946, they were shocked by its power and grandeur. The waterfall is located in a remote place, and you can admire it only from the sea. IN winter time frozen water cascades are no less admirable.

Lake Busse

A shallow lagoon lake on Sakhalin is popular with tourists. Its area is quite large - about 40 km 2. Despite the fact that rivers and streams flow into the lake, the water in it is salty. Busse is a real storehouse of natural gifts. Its waters are inhabited by numerous fish, mussels, sea ​​urchins, shrimps, scallops, crabs. There is even a small island of oysters, at low tide you can get to it and immediately, on the spot, enjoy the taste of the freshest delicacies.

Lake Tunaicha

One of the largest and most beautiful lakes on Sakhalin has an area of ​​​​about 170 km 2, while its depth is small - 12 m. In summer, the water warms up well, and therefore the lake is popular among beach lovers. It is also a habitat for rare species of birds and animals. In the reservoir there are about 30 species of fish, of which only salmon - 9, they spawn here. In order to preserve unique flora and fauna, the lake was given the status of a natural monument.

Cape Crillon

The southernmost outskirts of Sakhalin. Its main attraction is the lighthouse of the same name, built in 1883 and still operating. In this area, the remains of the Soviet fortified area, a network of underground passages, an old signal cannon, and a brick building from tsarist times have been preserved. On extreme point cape - a mass grave and a monument to Soviet soldiers who died during the war. There is also a frontier post and a weather station.

Cape Giant

A majestic monument of nature on the coast of Sakhalin. Transparent sea water, rocky coast with bizarre arches, grottoes, caves, boulders, lush greenery coniferous forest, waterfalls, lakes and crystal streams, numerous flocks of birds, rookeries of seals and seals - all this is Cape Velikan. Although located in a remote area, good weather easily accessible and very popular among tourists who want to admire the gigantic sculptures created by nature.

Yuri Gagarin Park in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk

One of the most picturesque parks in the Far East was founded by the Japanese at the beginning of the last century. In the post-war period, its improvement continued, a cinema, attractions, sports grounds, shops appeared. After tragic death Gagarin, the park was named after him and a monument was erected. On the territory there is a zoo, a children's railway, a stadium, tennis courts, a cafe. By the centenary of the popular holiday destination, an alley of sakura was planted.

Sakhalin Regional Museum of Local Lore

One of the oldest museums in the region is located in an original building in the style of medieval Japanese architecture, surrounded by a picturesque park. More than 200 thousand exhibits introduce the history, nature and culture of the Sakhalin Region. Of considerable interest is the paleontological exposition of the museum, which tells about the origin of life on Earth. The military collection, which presents samples of Russian and Japanese equipment, also attracts attention.

Resurrection Cathedral in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk

The opening and consecration of the temple took place in 1995. Since then, it has been the center of Orthodoxy on the island and one of its main attractions. It is made in the Old Russian style, on the territory there is a belfry with a bell made by special order in Voronezh. In the early 2000s, work was carried out to reconstruct and expand the temple. A memorial was erected near the cathedral in memory of a group of regional leaders who died in 2003, headed by Governor Farkhutdinov.

Museum of the History of the Sakhalin Railway

The museum was opened in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in 2004. Here are photographs, personal belongings, documents telling about the development of a specific Sakhalin railway with a narrow gauge. The most valuable exhibits are unique samples of railway equipment, including old steam locomotives, diesel locomotives, wagons, a two-axle platform, a tank for transporting petroleum products, Japanese snowplows, repair equipment, traffic lights, semaphores, etc.

Sakhalin Regional Art Museum

The opening of the museum took place in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in 1983. The building in which it is housed was built by the Japanese back in the 30s of the last century. Several permanent exhibitions introduce the collection of Christian art of the 11th-19th centuries, works of art by Korean masters and works of Russian artists dating back to the period of the 19th-20th centuries. It also hosts temporary exhibitions of collections from museums around the world, personal exhibitions of artists.

Devil's bridge

Unique building on railway section between Kholmsk and Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk was built by the Japanese in the late 20s of the last century. The terrain here is mountainous, and for the construction of the road, extraordinary engineering solutions were needed. After the Nikolaychuk station, a tunnel was built, at the exit from it the railway line makes a loop and rises to a height of 40 m, then the Devil's Bridge itself follows, it passes over the tunnel. Now everything is in an abandoned state.

Ski resort "Mountain air"

Paradise place for all outdoor enthusiasts, one of the best ski resorts Russia. It is located in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk on the slopes of Mount Bolshevik. The resort has 14 slopes of varying difficulty, a cable car and several lifts, a snowboard park, a paragliding club, equipment rental, and you can use the services of instructors. In summer, the resort organizes ecological tours, develops cycling and hiking routes.

Sakhalin has not always been separated from the mainland. At the dawn of civilization, the water level in the world's oceans steadily decreased, as a result of which so-called "bridges" arose in the strait. Presumably, it was along them that the first people moved here (about 300 thousand years ago). In the Middle Ages, the main inhabitants of Sakhalin were the Nivkhs and Ainu - small peoples who constantly migrated between the island and the Asian part of the mainland. Later, Tungus-speaking tribes were added to them. The very name "Sakhalin" appeared due to a geographical error. Due to an oversight, the Manchu name of the Amur River - Sakhalyan-Ulla - was correlated with the territory of the island. By the way, the literal translation of the word is “Rocks of the Black River”.

Until about the 50s of the 19th century, China ruled Sakhalin Island. At the same time, officially the territory did not belong to the Celestial Empire. In 1855, the governments of Japan and Russia signed the Treaty of Shimoda, according to which both states declared Sakhalin joint possession. However, after 20 years, Russia annexed the island, paying for it with Japan with the northern Kuriles. However, the joy of expanding possessions was short-lived. After losing in the Russian-Japanese campaign, the southern part of the island again went to the Land of the Rising Sun. It was possible to finally decide the fate of Sakhalin only after the Second World War, when Russia completely regained the island, and with it the previously lost Kuriles.

Economy and population

A little less than 500 thousand people live on Sakhalin, about 200 thousand of which are residents regional center, Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk. The vast majority of the population is Russian, although among the local inhabitants you can meet both Koreans and people from the former Soviet republics. But there are very few representatives of indigenous peoples here: only 1% of the total.

The economy of the region is unevenly developed, which is why the standard of living of the population in different parts of Sakhalin differs. For example, the northern part of the island, including Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, subsists on oil production, while the remote and western regions, in which production stopped during the collapse of the Soviet Union, are forced to literally fight for existence. Ultimately, unemployment and a low standard of living led to the fact that most of the inhabitants of the Sakhalin periphery turned to poachers. Illegal shooting of wild animals, extraction of red caviar by barbaric methods are slowly but surely causing irreparable damage to the nature of the great island...

Climate and nature

Going on a trip to Sakhalin, it is better to prepare in advance for weather surprises. Since the climate of the island is temperate monsoon, the weather here is not stable. Local snowy and frosty winters are actively "helped" by atmospheric whirlwinds, bringing strong snowstorms with them. Spring here is long and cold, but summer is relatively warm, but short and often rainy. Another weather problem on Sakhalin is frequent and unpredictable cyclones, bringing with them devastating typhoons and floods.

Sakhalin is an island with a unique ecosystem that was formed in a certain isolation. The terrain is formed by small mountains, low mountains and, to a lesser extent, low-lying plains, while 2/3 of the territory is occupied by taiga. By the way, there is no shortage of fresh water on Sakhalin: 17 rivers and over 16 thousand lakes provide abundant life-giving moisture for the flora and fauna of the island. Despite the fact that the flora and fauna of Sakhalin is somewhat poorer compared to the mainland or the nearest Japanese island of Hokkaido, it has something to surprise wildlife lovers. About 136 species of animals and almost 133 species of local plants are listed in the Red Book. In addition, here you can meet endemic (growing or living only in a specific place) representatives of the animal and plant world.

For real paradise Sakhalin has become for fans of fishing and hunting. The abundance of fish and game in local forests and reservoirs is difficult to describe in words. The Sakhalin taiga is also rich in mushrooms and berries. To collect a tasty "tribute", it is not necessary to delve into the impenetrable jungle. Lingonberries, blueberries, cranberries, redberries can be found here almost under every bush. However, it is not entirely reasonable to go to the other side of the country solely for the gifts of the forest, especially since natural resources the islands are not limited to berry fields and fishing spots. Is here and thermal springs, bathing in which can get rid of chronic diseases, and fabulous, filled with stalactite crystals, caves, and parking lots ancient man. True, it is worth noting that most of the local entertainment is suitable for those who are easy-going and ready to show at least minimal physical activity. Rafting, windsurfing, skiing and snowboarding, kayaking, climbing and paragliding, mountain caves and unforgettable bike rides - that's far from full list events that Sakhalin is ready to offer to supporters of a mobile lifestyle.

Sights of Sakhalin

The main and most valuable attraction of Sakhalin is its amazing nature. It is customary to come here not for high-quality European service and glossy sights, but for a delightful atmosphere of complete unity with nature, active recreation and an amazing feeling of complete freedom.

reserves

The most convenient and correct way to get acquainted with wildlife Sakhalin Islands are local reserves, the most interesting of which is the Vostochny State Nature Reserve. You can get here only with a special permit issued by the Department of Forests, but the red tape with a pass is more than paid off by the impressions of the visit. It is here that you can meet such a rare phenomenon for the island as dark coniferous taiga, see how pink salmon, chum salmon and coho salmon go to spawn and take pictures of vacationers on coastal rocks clumsy sea lions. To get acquainted with the Sakhalin wild grouse and reindeer, it is better to go to the "Nogliksky" reserve. In autumn, reindeer races are held here, so if your visit to the island coincided with the autumn season, do not miss the opportunity to visit this unusual event. Well, it is most interesting to watch the bird "bazaars" in the Poronaisky nature reserve, which occupied eastern part Sakhalin and the Patience Peninsula.

Volcanoes

Infernal vents filled with lava splashing in all directions are not about Sakhalin volcanoes. Here, craters spew out… land mixed with water. Pugachevsky and Yuzhno-Sakhalinsky mud volcanoes even look nontrivial. Regular circles, devoid of vegetation and dotted with miniature "pores" of craters, resemble space landscapes from a fantastic blockbuster. By the way, the last major ejection from the Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk volcano occurred in 2011, as a result of which a new mud field formed in its vicinity.

thermal springs

Sakhalin nature not only pleases the eye, but also heals the body. If you find yourself on the island, be sure to swim in the Sinegorsk mineral springs, because water with such a unique composition is found only in Sakhalin and Adler. Today, there are 4 mineral wells in the Sinegorskoye deposit, the water from which is used for drinking, as well as for the treatment of diseases of the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems.

In the north-east of Sakhalin Island, in the Nogliki district, there is another unusual place - the Dagin thermal springs, which are funnel-shaped depressions in silty soil. Healing water with a high content of alkali, as well as silicic acid and a temperature of up to +40 ... +45 ° C, helps in the treatment of infertility and joint diseases. Once on the adjacent territory there was a balneary, but then the place gradually fell into disrepair. Today, only a modest dressing house reminds of the former glory of the natural resort. However, this did not make the springs less healing, and the place is still as popular as local population as well as tourists.

lakes

One of the largest lakes on Sakhalin Island is Tunaicha. Located in the vicinity of the village of Okhotskoye, this beautiful reservoir is famous for the fact that about 29 species of fish live in it. In addition, it is in Tunaichu that the Sakhalin salmon comes to spawn. Officially, industrial fishing is prohibited here, but from August to September, amateurs are allowed to sit on the shores of the lake with a fishing rod.

Those who like more secluded places should book a tour to the South Kamyshovy Ridge, where fabulous lakes Spamberg Mountains. 18 cleanest reservoirs that were born as a result of landslides rock, have their own, partially isolated ecosystem. The plateau area is also known for the fact that numerous springs and waterfalls of the Sakhalin region originate from here. Here you can also find the main waterfall of the island - Shuisky.

caves

Sakhalin is one of the most successful places for beginner speleologists. Acquaintance with local caves should be started from Mount Wajda. Fantastic multi-level dungeons, decorated with bizarre sinter formations, abound here. The intricate network of wells, underground passages and halls of Vaida has been assigned an average level of difficulty, so during the caving tour you will hardly have to complain about the mediocrity and monotony of the excursion. Not less impressions will bring a trip to the cave "Bear tragedies". The gloomy stone hall, which has become a kind of cemetery of bear remains, will remain in your memory for a long time. Sometime during archaeological sites objects of ancient worship were found here, as well as tools of labor of the first people.

Moneron Island is located 43 km from Sakhalin, in the Tatar Strait. Today these lands are empty, although the first settlers appeared here in the first millennium BC. For some time, the island belonged to the Japanese, who seriously degraded its ecology by destroying most coniferous forests. A reminder of this era is the lighthouse, which remained here in memory of the Japanese colonization. Today Moneron has the status of a natural park and is actively visited by travelers. About 37 species of plants listed in the Red Book grow on the island, but Moneron is better known among tourists as a place of bird "bazaars", as well as rookeries of sea lions and seals.

Hunters and fishermen

At the disposal of tourists who come to Sakhalin to sit with a fishing rod and shoot local game, there are several recreation centers at once. Usually these are houses. hotel type located in especially picturesque and at the same time hard-to-reach places of the island. You often have to use special equipment to get to them, but for real adventurers this is by no means an obstacle. "Upper", "Moguchi", "Lower" - each of the bases offers a similar range of services, including fishing, hunting, a Russian bath and other "brutal" pleasures. You can also get hold of hunting trophies in special farms. For example, the hunting tribal economy "Geeva" in the village. Nogliki invites his guests to "go" for a bear or an elk. 50 km from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk is the Okhotsk farm, where anyone can shoot at hares and ducks, as well as try to catch chum salmon, pink salmon or taimen.

Skiers

On the outskirts of Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, the main ski slope of the island is located - the tourist complex "Mountain Air". You can relax here with the whole family and at any time of the year, however, the base gathers the maximum number of guests during the winter months. Skiing, snowboarding, tubing - for each sport there is its own type of equipped trails with a total length of about 10 km. On the territory of the complex there is a rental of sports equipment, in addition, all the slopes of the camp site are equipped with special lifts. In the summer it is customary to come here to paraglide or rent a bike to explore the surroundings.

Mineral springs, volcanoes, ski slopes- all this, of course, is interesting, but not entirely original. If you are one of those who crave unusual sights, welcome to the Krasnogorsk yew forest. Such a green massif, entirely consisting of century-old yews, is not found in any other corner of the planet. You can get a lot of positive emotions and as many spectacular photos on Tyuleniy Island, where the largest rookery is located marine mammals. Fans of anomalous places, covered with mystical legends, should look into the remnant of the Frog. Well, you can taste the delicious gifts of Sakhalin nature at Uspenovskie cranberries. A vast treeless space, completely covered with a berry carpet, will appear in your dreams for a long time to come.

Museums

Despite the fact that Sakhalin is considered to be the land of nature tourism, some cultural entertainment is also available here. Art connoisseurs will be interested in visiting the exhibition art museum, which is located on Lenin Street in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk. You can get acquainted with the history, as well as the flora and fauna of the island in the local history museum, located in a colorful Japanese house on Communist Avenue. If you are traveling with children, be sure to take the time to visit the zoobotanical park, where you can see rare and endangered species of local animals. An interesting and informative excursion is offered to its guests by the Museum of the History of the Sakhalin Railway, which contains the rarest examples of railway equipment.

How to get there

You can get to Sakhalin relatively quickly and comfortably by plane. The Russian company Aeroflot operates several direct flights from Moscow to Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk. A standard flight usually takes 8 to 9 hours. An option for those who are not looking for easy ways, - Vanino-Kholmsk ferry crossing. To get to the port of Vanino (Khabarovsk Territory), you must pre-purchase a train ticket on the route: Moscow-Khabarovsk or Moscow-Vladivostok (the trip lasts from 5 to 6 days). It is better to get from the Khabarovsk railway station to Vanino by taxi. The final stage of the journey is boarding the ferry and a 14-hour voyage through the Tatarsky Strait.

Unusual landscapes, unique geological monuments, thermal springs and interesting museums - all this can be seen and visited on Sakhalin! The sights of the island attract not only Russian tourists, but also travelers from other countries (primarily from Japan and China). About the most interesting tourist sites Sakhalin we will tell in our article. We wish you happy reading!

Sights of Sakhalin and a general description of the island

Sakhalin (Japanese name - Karafuto) - large island off the eastern coast of mainland Asia. It is separated from the continent by the Tatar Strait, and from the neighboring island of Hokkaido by the La Perouse Strait. Administratively, the island is part of the Sakhalin region, which also includes a chain of sparsely populated Kuril Islands. The total area of ​​Sakhalin is 76.6 thousand square meters. km. The largest city is Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk (190 thousand inhabitants).

Sakhalin Island is one of the most unusual regions in Russia. It stands out noticeably for its unique nature, and its remoteness from “ mainland” gives it even more color and mystery. Local residents have long been accustomed to the amazing landscapes here, and to the monsoon climate, and to regular tremors. But for residents of other regions and countries, all this is a curiosity.

The main natural attractions of Sakhalin include hot springs, numerous lakes, relic yew groves, unusual rocks created by lava layers. In large cities there are a number of museums with very interesting thematic expositions. And on Sakhalin, a unique and working narrow-gauge railway line has been preserved, which has no analogues in the whole world!

We have compiled for you a list of the ten most interesting sights of Sakhalin (we will describe some of them in more detail below):

• Museum of the History of the Sakhalin Railway;
• the island of Moneron;
• Kholmsky pass;
• quiet bay;
• rocks "Three brothers";
• lighthouse at Cape Jonquière;
• a monument to the "Dead Fishermen" in Nevelsk;
• local history museum in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk;
• Devil's bridge in Kholmsk;
• Nature reserve "Poronaisky".

Moneron Island

Moneron Island is located in the waters of the Tatar Strait, 50 km from the coast of Sakhalin. Its area is only 30 square kilometers. But in this small area, two rivers, a chain of hills and basalt rocks, as well as a dozen waterfalls “fit in”. However, the main highlight of the island is the rookery of spotted seals, sea lions and other mammals.

quiet bay

In the Gulf of Patience, within the Makarovsky district of the island, there is an extremely cozy and beautiful place- Quiet Bay. From three sides it is protected by the spurs of the most beautiful Zhdanko mountain range. I called this bay quiet famous navigator Ivan Krusenstern. In that beautiful place you can relax and go fishing. The perfect peace and quiet in the bay is occasionally disturbed only by seagulls, who enjoy spending time on the nearby rocks and islets.

Rocks "Three brothers"

This group of three pointed rocks protrudes from sea ​​water near Aleksandrovsk-Sakhalinsky. By the way, their silhouettes are depicted on the coat of arms of this city. The Three Brothers rocks have long been one of the symbols of the entire Sakhalin region. Together with the lighthouse on the neighboring Cape Jonquière, they form a single tourist complex. The rocks look especially impressive at sunset.

A.P. Chekhov and Sakhalin

The Chekhov Historical and Literary Museum, located in Aleksandrovsk-Sakhalinsky, tells in detail about the Sakhalin penal servitude, as well as about the stay of the famous Russian writer on the island. In 1890 Chekhov went on a long journey to the East. The main purpose of the expedition was to visit Sakhalin. On the island, he conducted a census, talked with many convicts, including political ones.

Some result of Chekhov's journey to the east was a book with the unpretentious title "Sakhalin Island". True, it is rather boring to read it, because, in addition to the writer's personal travel impressions, it is full of detailed statistical data.

It's somewhere very far away. Everyone has heard of him, but almost no one has been. Except Chekhov. And outwardly, on the map - some kind of mysterious fish head up. Let's try to figure out what to see and where to climb! After talking with locals and experienced guides, we have collected the most interesting sights of Sakhalin in a brief overview.

Lake Busse

This lake is the inner lagoon of Sakhalin Island. It is separated from the Aniva Bay of the Sea of ​​Japan by a sandy spit and is known for its amazing views, silence and tranquility of the water surface. But main feature- excellent fishing and palm-sized oysters, which are usually tasted right there. They cover almost the entire bottom of the lagoon, and as soon as the tide comes out, a real gastronomic adventure begins. Be sure: the French never dreamed of oysters of this size. You should definitely get there and try it in its freshest form! In addition to oysters, the area is also known for the ahnfeltia algae, from which agar-agar is made.

Chekhov Peak

Due to its proximity to Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, this height, quite accessible on foot in a couple of hours, has become a real place of pilgrimage for South Sakhalin residents and guests. Everyone goes to the top, from young to old. Climb up there and be rewarded great views to the city, to the Sea of ​​Okhotsk, to the Aniva Bay, to the forests of the Kamyshovy Ridge and much more. Climbers are enriched with botanical impressions from the wilds of dwarf birch mixed with bamboo, cedars and blueberry thickets.

Moneron Island

Wherever people live, they are sure to endow certain places with special power and mystery. There is such a thing on Sakhalin. Moneron Island acts as Stonehenge or Arkaim. The origin of the island is usually - dormant volcano. But what happened next is lost in the haze, like the Moneron Island park itself, regularly shrouded in fog. The most ancient mysteries date back to the end of the 1st millennium BC, when representatives of the ancient culture of sea hunters arrived here. At the beginning of the 20th century, Moneron became part of Japan, and the Empire of the Rising Sun was actively developing it: a lighthouse, a weather station, various communications and telephone communications. People gossip: either it was a submarine base, or a school for kamikaze combat swimmers, or a leper colony. Soviet times added secrets in the form of a large number of graves and rumors about the fate of the South Korean Boeing shot down over Sakhalin in 1983. Here now natural Park Moneron, where you can get as part of an organized tour.

Volcano Pugachev

On the eastern coast of Sakhalin, between the rivers Vulkanka and Pridorozhnaya, the Pugachevsky mud volcano lurks (another Ainu name is Maguntan). This geological anomaly in the form of a massive “bun”, 4 kilometers in diameter and 60 meters high, located near the coast Sea of ​​Okhotsk. Forested slopes give way to fields of geothermal activities, similar to grassy-mud swamps. Here, gases seethe and snort at different intervals, solid and liquid eruption products appear, sometimes with the appearance of oil. The purely external, unexpected transition from the spruce-larch taiga to the frozen clay desert is also shocking. The locals take dirt home from here, considering it very useful, and excursions are organized for guests of the island. The most active phase in the history of observations here occurred in 1934, when fountains of mud up to 50 meters high hit here. The last more or less noticeable activity of the volcano was noted in 2005.

Cape Giant

Perhaps this is the most picturesque section of the Sakhalin coast. Everything is quite compact here: steep shores and rocks, lagoons, caves and grottoes, columns, pedestals and arches located in the middle of seething waves. A real exhibition of creations of water and wind, guarded from the shore by the Sakhalin taiga. The exposition is concentrated along the sea from Cape Bird to, where a road accessible to all-wheel drive vehicles is laid in good weather, but much more impressions will remain when trying to walk here on foot.

Sakhalin Regional Museum of Local Lore

Tourism on Sakhalin means ecological routes, natural beauties and the wonders of Far Eastern gastronomy. But, as a rule, everything begins with the local history museum. This is the largest and most interesting museum islands. Passing through itself 70 thousand visitors annually, the museum will tell about the history of the region from primitive settlements and the culture of indigenous peoples to Japanese rule, which was replaced by the Soviet era. Particular attention here and the nature of Sakhalin, the inhabitants of its forests and coastal waters. Sakhalin Museum and in itself looks very interesting. This is a fine example of Japanese architecture and park decoration, of which there is not much left on the island.

Dagin thermal springs

Near east coast, in its northern part, right off the coast of the Nyisky Bay, thermal springs beat. Already a long time ago, their healing properties were noticed by Orochi reindeer herders. The keys are located in the bay, forming funnel-like pits. In total, there are more than six dozen sources, of which there are even special drinking ones. 9 hectares have been allocated for the natural monument, and the total output of water from the bowels reaches up to 3 liters per second. The area has both "wild" and well-maintained sources in the format of a health resort, and the place is popular with residents of the entire Far East.

Vaidinsky cave

The depth of one of the most beautiful caves in the Far East is 64 meters, and the length is 287 meters. These mean figures do not give an idea of ​​​​the magnificent decoration. Everything is here: stalagmites, stalactites, corallites, calcium baths. The Vaidinsky cave is classified as a multi-storey type: there are as many as three underground levels! At the far end of the middle one is an ornately decorated huge stone cake. In the lower one - thickets of stone grapes and giant ribs on the walls - the feeling as if visitors were swallowed by Leviathan. The underground kingdom of Vaidinsky, as well as many neighboring caves of the same ridge, was discovered and studied in detail only in the last quarter of the 20th century. In winter and autumn, Vaidinskaya is inaccessible to visitors: the entrance is blocked by a huge snow plug. During the rest of the year, you will need special equipment and experienced guides to visit.

Seal Island

This is a natural extension of the Patience Peninsula. Tyuleny is small: its length is 636 meters, and its width is 90. It does not have any fresh water, no woody vegetation. But they put eyes and bodies on him Marine life! The sandy beaches of the island are favorite haulout sites for fur seals and sea lions. The former live only in the northern part Pacific Ocean and are found in such abundance in two places: here and on the Commander Islands. And there are also huge bird colonies, their main inhabitant is the murre. Large ships are prohibited from approaching closer than 30 miles to the island, and in the sky above it is a strict taboo for aircraft and helicopters.

Lighthouse at Cape Aniva

This is the most extreme southeastern point of Sakhalin Island, where the waves of the Sea of ​​Okhotsk and the Sea of ​​Japan collide. Here, on the Sivuchya rock, in 1937-1939, the Japanese built a lighthouse. If you imagine a conditional picture with the name "Edge of the Earth", then it should look approximately the same as the Aniva lighthouse. The project of the engineer Shinobu was a 9-story round building with an outbuilding. Warehouse, radio room, diesel engine room, control room, watch room, kitchen, living quarters for 12 people. Japanese rule is in the past, it is replaced by the Soviet era, and then the Russian one. Since 1990, there have been no permanent employees, and the Aniva atomic lighthouse operates autonomously on radioisotope generators until 2006, after which it falls into complete disrepair. Now empty eye sockets of windows look at the raging elements from the 30-meter tower, and excursions to the abandoned lighthouse and the surrounding area take place in the scenery, ready for some post-apocalyptic blockbuster.

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