Country:
RussiaValue:
Duration:
Cost:
free
Founded:
Country:
RussiaRegion:
Other names:
Value:
Visit duration:
Price (adult):
free
Why Top:
The first serious strongpoint encountered by Soviet troops in August 1945; today it is an accessible remembrance site in the Poronai valley.
Description:
A fortified police outpost on the Handasa‑gawa near the 50th parallel, ringed by a high earthen rampart with loopholes, corner pillboxes, a ditch and wire obstacles; it was assaulted on 11–12 August 1945 and is now commemorated by annual reenactments near nearby Roshchino.
Facts:
The assault lasted two days, 11–12 August 1945; a battalion of the 165th Rifle Regiment supported by tanks of the 214th Separate Tank Brigade took part; Soviet losses were 64 personnel.
Significance:
Regional and national commemorative value as the site of the first battles of the South Sakhalin operation; supported by local civic and government bodies, without formal federal protection status.
Categories:
Why visit:
Interesting:
Fitness level:
Best visit time:
Do:
historical walk
attending August reenactments
visiting nearby memorials
Access:
Roads:
Emergency:
112
Info:
Safety:
Generally safe; watch for uneven terrain, possible wire remnants, ticks and occasional bear encounters; the riverbank can be hazardous during high water.
Clothing:
Waterproof jacket, sturdy walking shoes, a hat and insect repellent.
Climate:
Cool maritime with mild summers and windy snowy winters; fog and rain are common.
Tips:
Go in dry weather, avoid unstable embankments and do not dig for relics; bring water and an offline map
Connection:
Cell coverage is spotty by the river, better along the road and in Roshchino; no Wi‑Fi on site.