Introducing Hokkaido's Cutest Critters! This video "Parent and child of fox" shows the state of the ezo red fox inhabiting In Hokkaido's, lush wilderness. You can see many wild animals such as raccoons and foxes in Hokkaido's outdoors. Be sure to watch the video to follow along. The Ezo red fox mother curled up with her kit is just adorable! There are many fans of the Ezo red fox in Japan. In 1978, a documentary movie called "The Glacier Fox" was released and became quite popular at the time. In the video, you can see a picture of an Ezo red fox mother with her kit living in nature. It's very soothing scenery. Please enjoy watching it! What Are Ezo Red Foxes? Source :YouTube screenshot Ezo red foxes are an endangered species that are widely distributed throughout Hokkaido and are also calledSakhalin. They have been frequently seen in Aomori Prefecture in recent years. It is a subspecies of the red fox that inhabits various places, and it is a carnivorous mammal. It is slightly larger than the Japanese red fox inhabiting Honshu. Its life span is generally said to be around 10 years. Ezo red foxes make high-pitched calls such as “can-can” and “wan-wan” They often eat rats, birds, and insects as food. And sometimes they come to residential areas in search of food. In this video, the kit stays close to its mother for safety and to play. From 0:06 in the video, they give playful bites and cuddle each other. It is a very cute, relaxing video about 3 minutes long. Where Can I See an Ezo Red? Photo：Ezo red foxes You may want to encounter a wild ezo red fox, but be careful as wild animals can have a parasite called Echinococcus. Kitami City, Hokkaido, has a fox specialty zoo “Ezo Red Fox Ranch”, where you can observe the ecology of cute red foxes in safety. Although it is in Hokkaido, it is quite far from Sapporo City. So if you visit Kitami City, we recommend making a hotel reservation. Summary of Hokkaido's Ezo Red Foxes Photo：Red fox The family of red foxes shown in the video is very adorable. Ezo red foxes live together in the harsh natural environment of Hokkaido. There is also a crepe shop in Fukuoka Prefecture called "Northern Fox's Favorite", which is popular with locals and tourists. Please enjoy the video of Ezo red foxes in Hokkaido; the place with the highest encounter rate of Ezo red foxes, in Japan.

An Introduction to Northern Pika! This is a video on the ecology of Northern Pika, an endangered species in Hokkaido. The video, titled "Keep it up! Northern Pika - He can do his best. Pika" (頑張れ！エゾナキウサギ　He can do his best. Pika), was released by "Shinji Kawamura." The Northern Pika, is a small mammal of the ochotonidae family, and its identifying characteristic is its high pitched cry. In Japan, they only live in high lands like Mt. Daisetsu, Mt. Yubari, and Mt. Hidaka in Hokkaido. Their distinct high pitched cry can be seen in the video from 1:09. The Northern Pika is said to have arrived in Japan from the Siberian continent during the ice age. In this video, you can see the lives of cute, wild Northern Pika. Please enjoy the video showing the ecology of Northern Pika. What is the Northern Pika? Photo：Northern Pika The Northern Pika is also called the "God of Rocky Lands" due to its habit of running around the rocky land of their natural habitat. Hokkaido’s aboriginal Ainu people used to call the Northern Pika "Cicit Cu Kamuy" (チチッ・チュ・カムイ, roughly "The Cheeping God") in Ainu language. The mouse-like Northern Pika is very small, weighing only about 60-150 grams, with a length of 10-20 cm, and a lifespan of about 4-5 years, which is shorter than most pika. They are full of curiosity but very timid, so they are very rarely seen in public. Their natural habitat is the cold wind caves of the Daisetsuzan mountains located high above sea level that don't freeze during the winter. In Japan, these critters are also known to only inhabit Hokkaido. Their breeding period is once a year from spring to summer, and they give birth to 1 to 5 kittens at a time. How Northern Pika Survive Winter The Northern Pika is entirely vegetarian, feeding on every plant in the mountains and is sometimes called "the pacifist of the mountains." In the video from 0:42, there is a scene of an Northern Pika with leaves in its mouth. Northern Pika do not hibernate so they must make winter preparations before the snow piles up. This involves stocking their houses with food. They have the intelligence to dry plants such as leaves, turning it into a dry-grass-preserved food which allows them to survive up to 6 months of harsh winter. They store about a bucketful of food in each of the several locations in their territory. You can see this in the video from 1:49. Where Can I See Northern Pika? Photo：Beautiful Autumn Leaves at Daisetsuzan Northern Pika live in only limited parts of Hokkaido, so the possibility of encountering them is very low. If you do mountain climbing or participate in nature tours and go to photo points, you may have a chance to see them. Northern Pika only live in the wild, and it is said that they cannot be raised in zoos and laboratories. It is also impossible to keep them as pets. If you are attracted to the cute Northern Pika, we recommend that you buy a plush toy or photo book as a souvenir of your trip to Hokkaido. Summary of the Northern Pika In the introductory video, you can see scenes of Northern Pika running around busily searching for food. There's something soothing about looking at this little critter squeaking about. These animals are hard to find in the wild, so be sure to take the time to check out the videos and enjoy their cuteness!

Video Introduction This video, titled "Cape Erimo, a Spectacular View of Hokkaido｜Short Version｜DRONE×HOKKAIDO" (北海道の絶景・襟裳岬ショートバージョン DRONE×HOKKAIDO), was uploaded by "Shinji kawamura." The video features drone footage of Cape Erimo in Hokkaido, Japan. Be sure to check it out to see some of the amazing views that Cape Erimo has to offer! Amazing Views on Cape Erimo Photo：Hatsuhinode on Cape Erimo Many Japanese people have this idea that there's nothing to do on Cape Erimo. But, let's start with some basic information about Cape Erimo. Cape Erimo is located at the southernmost tip of the Hidaka Mountains, known as the backbone of Hokkaido, jutting out into the Pacific Ocean. A scenic tourist destination, Cape Erimo is located in Erimo, in Hokkaido's Horoizumi District. It is also known for its strong winds and the large amount of sea fog that occurs from May to August. The cape is approximately 60 meters tall, and from the tip of the cape, a reef continues for approximately 2 km, offering a magnificent view of nature's beauty. The spectacular view was designated as a national cultural asset, in August 2010, with the name "Meisho Pirikanoka" (meaning "beautiful shape" in the language of the Ainu)." Furthermore, Cape Erimo is also known as a spot for the Japanese tradition "Hatsuhinode" (the first sunrise of the year), and many tourists come to see the majestic sight. Cape Erimo is not a place with nothing, but rather, a popular spot where you can take Instagrammable photos. Cape Erimo - Now a Popular Tourist Spot! Photo：Cape Erimo, Hokkaido In Japan, there's a song called "Cape Erimo" that was sung by Chiyoko Shimakura. Later, in 1974, "Cape Erimo" composed by Takuro Yoshida and sung by Shinichi Mori became a big hit. The phrase in the lyrics, "Erimo no Haru wa nani mo nai Haru desu" (Spring in Erimo is a spring of nothing), left a lasting impression on people. This single phrase of the hit song made it famous as a place offering nothing. However, Cape Erimo is actually a place with loads of natural beauty, as mentioned above. It is now one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Hokkaido, and has become such a famous tourist attraction that people no longer say that Cape Erimo has nothing to offer. Popular Tourist Attractions on Cape Erimo! Photo：Cape Erimo, Hokkaido Let's take a look at the sightseeing spots in Cape Erimo, which has now become famous as one of Hokkaido's most scenic and beautiful sightseeing spots. Cape Erimo is famous for its strong winds, and "Kaze no Yakata," a facility where visitors can experience those winds, opened in 1997. Visitors can experience wind speeds as high as 25 meters per second. As we mentioned previously, Cape Erimo is known for its beautiful sunrises, and the panoramic view of the sunrise from the cape is truly something to marvel at! On New Year's Day, the observatory and observation decks are filled with tourists who come to see the first sunrise of the year. Furthermore, Cape Erimo is also a habitat for wild seals, so you can even try seal watching with binoculars. If you want to see them up close, we recommend joining a seal-watching tour by kayak. Seals give birth in the spring, and if you're lucky, you might be able to spot a mother and her pups. There is also a theater showing videos taken by nature photographer Eiichi Kurasawa, where visitors can learn about the ecology of the harbor seals seen at Cape Erimo. A monument of "Cape Erimo," the song that made Cape Erimo famous, stands side by side with the other monument to the song with same name. This sight of two monuments, for the song of the same name, side by side, is not often seen in other places. Dining Recommendations on Cape Erimo Photo：Whelk sashimi When it comes to dining on Cape Erimo, the fresh seafood is a must. You can enjoy seasonal seafood, such as whelks grown in the rough seas of Cape Erimo. The sushi is also highly recommended. Ginzushi (銀寿し) and Isami Sushi (いさみ寿し) are famous sushi restaurants in the area. Cape Erimo also has a hotel called Erimo Kankokan (えりも観光館) not far from the observatory. It's recommended for those looking to watch the sunrise from the sea in the morning. Summary of Cape Erimo, Hokkaido Did you enjoy this video showing aerial footage of Cape Erimo, a place of natural beauty? The image of Cape Erimo as a place with nothing to offer was generated by the lyrics of a hit song, and it turns out that it is actually a scenic sightseeing spot created by a harsh natural environment. Consider visiting Cape Erimo, a place where you can feel nature on a grand scale! 【Official Website】Cape Erimo https://www.town.erimo.lg.jp/kankou/pages/k9mfea0000000bnv.html 【TripAdvisor】Cape Erimo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1065243-d1372677-Reviews-Cape_Erimo-Erimo_cho_Horoizumi_gun_Hokkaido.html

Wild Yezo Sika Deer on the Notsuke Peninsula! In this video “Yezo Sika Deer on the Notsuke Peninsula（野付半島のエゾシカ）”, created by Shinji Kawamura, you can watch the wild Yezo sika deer, living in herds in the snow of the Notsuke Peninsula (野付半島, Notsuke Hanto), Hokkaido. The Yezo sika deer, which belong to the Cervidae family, is one of many subspecies of the sika deer (the Japanese deer), mainly living in the grasslands of Hokkaido. Its body is bigger than that of the Japanese deer; It is approximately 1.5 meters long and 1.1 meters high. As you can see in this video, the Yezo sika deer has large antlers, which are shed between April and May every year. Yezo sika deer are herbivorous animals, and they have unique high-pitched calls. The wild Yezo sika deer shown in this video are from herds living on the Notsuke Peninsula, Hokkaido. The Notsuke Peninsula is the biggest sand peninsula/sand spit in Japan; It is approximately 26 kilometers long, and located between Shiretoko Peninsula (知床半島, Shiretoko Hanto) and Nemuro Peninsula (根室半島, Nemuro Hanto). Many wild birds, animals, and insects live there. In December, when the grass dies, herds of Yezo sika deer move to their winter homes,- forests with more coniferous trees and less accumulated snow. From 0:55 in the video, you can see the Yezo sika deer living in herds in the snow. The Population of Wild Yezo Sika Deer Photo：Yezo Sika Deer The population of the Yezo sika deer once decreased dramatically due to hunting and deforestation in the early Meiji Period around 1868. However, after implementing measures to prohibit overhunting, the population has been increasing. Each deer eats a large amount of grass every day, so currently there are some problems regarding the damage of crops and forests, and the destruction of the environment. In addition, as its population has increased, more Yezo sika deer have been appearing in urban areas, which leads to problems of disruptive animals. From 1:33 in the video, you can hear sounds of cars driving in the background near a herd of Yezo sika deer. From the video, you can see that the Yezo sika deer lives very closely to humans. The "Yezo Deer Association" was founded in order to maintain a symbiotic relationship with the Yezo sika deer. Currently people take some measures to control the population of the Yezo sika deer, such as controlled hunting. The captured Yezo sika deer are used in venison dishes, for leather-working, deer fur products, antler products, and so on. Wild game meat dishes are very expensive in Europe, and venison is said to be healthy and has a unique flavor, so venison dishes are very popular. Venison is heated thoroughly and cooked into roasted meat or steak to avoid zoonotic diseases and food intoxication. Where to See the Wild Yezo Sika Deer Photo：Yezo Sika Deer on the Notsuke Peninsula The Notsuke Peninsula is an area where many wild animals have lived for a long time, even since the era of the Ainu (the native tribes of Hokkaido). It has multiple national forests and the Nationally Designated Special Wildlife Reserve. On the Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center, a hub for sightseeing, you can learn about the natural surroundings and the history of the Notsuke Peninsula. It also provides a wide range of tours, so you can join one of them and go around the Notsuke Peninsula. (The tours are a paid attraction and you must book ahead of time). We cannot guarantee that you can always see the Yezo sika deer as they are wild, but even if you cannot see the deer during the tour, you can still enjoy the wild of Hokkaido to your hearts content. Overview of the Yezo Sika Deer Introductory Video Source :YouTube screenshot The video we introduced this time showed Yezo sika deer living in herds in Hokkaido's wilderness. The video has many fun facts about the Yezo sika deer, such as characteristics of its antlers, the white furs of their hips, and its general habits, so be sure to take a look if you haven't yet! If you're looking to enjoy Japan's wilderness, look no further than Hokkaido! 【Official Website】Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center Hokkaido Betsukai http://notsuke.jp/ 【Official Website】Yezo Deer Association http://yezodeer.org/

Introducing the Wild Brown Bears of Hokkaido This video, titled “Encountering Wild Brown Bears that are Catching Salmon @ Shiretoko Hokkaido 20131010（野生のヒグマと遭遇 サケを捕食＠北海道 知床 20131010）” films two wild brown bears catching salmon that were swimming in the river. A brown bear is terrestrial mammal of the Ursidae family and their size is about the same as polar bears. Sub-species of foreign brown bears include Kodiak bears, Grizzly bears and Himalayan bears. The main sub-spices of brown bears which inhabit Hokkaido are called Ezo brown bears. This video is of wild Ezo brown bears catching salmon at the river, and it is a very rare sight. We hope you enjoy their fishing skills! What Kind of Animal Is the Ezo Brown Bear? Photo：Ezo brown bear One of the most well-known bears in Japan is the Asian black bear. These black bears actually inhabit the main island of japan. Ezo brown bears, on the other hand, inhabit forests in Hokkaido where the climate is generally colder. Ussuri brown bears are another bear that is a subspecies of brown bears. The Ussuri brown bear is also known as the Ezo brown bear. The size differs depending on the gender, with male bears being about 1.9 to 2.3 meters tall and weighing 120 kg to 250 kg. Female bears are about 1.6 to 1.8 meters tall, and are actually heavier than than males, weighing between 150 to 160 kg. Some of them are gigantic, weighing in at 450 kg. The Ezo brown bears inhabiting Japan are the largest kind of terrestrial animal in Japan. The number of Ezo brown bears is around 2,244 to 6,476 (as of 2013). The bears are known as omnivorous, and they like to eat fish, meat, and plants as well. The life span of a wild Ezo brown bear is about 30 years. They tend to live longer than different mammals. Highlights of Ezo Brown Bears Source :YouTube screenshot The video shows the viewers two Ezo brown bears hunting salmon at a river. It was filmed in October when the bears were getting ready for hibernation. From 4:21 in the video, we can see bears using both of their paws to catch salmon. At 0:18, one bear carries a salmon to the side of the river. At 4:54, the bears bring salmon ashore and comfortably enjoy their meals in peace. You'll be surprised by what happens at the end. Be sure to watch the full video so you don't miss out! The bears were so focused on their hunting that they didn't show any fear of the people filming them. Its incredibly rare that we see footage of Hokkaido's wild brown bears hunting. Be Aware of Wild Bears When Traveling to Hokkaido! Photo： Beware of Bears In Hokkaido, A study has been conducted to work on how to handle wild Ezo brown bears and ways of coexisting with them. There are several cases of humans being attacked by wild bears in Hokkaido. If you visit Hokkaido, please be aware that there are wild bears and research the areas in advance. Before your travels, please make sure that there are no wild bear alerts in the area you are traveling to. In order to keep bears away, have bells or turn on a radio to show them that humans are around. If you do encounter a wild bear, just think that bears are also afraid of humans. Screaming makes the bear scared, and it will enter into a defensive mode, and might try to attack you. Avoid running away from bears because bears tend to chase what’s running away from them. They can run up to 60km/h so the chance that they will catch you is extremely high . Instead of running away or screaming, try standing up on top of a rock or a log to make you look bigger and be intimidating. The most effective way to keep the bears away is to use a bear spray. Some people think bears are cute animals, and while this may be true, they are also dangerous as well. Please keep this in mind. Summary of Hokkaido's Wild Brown Bears If you are interested in learning more about brown bears, please visit a zoo, such as the Noboribetsu bear park, or the Showa Shinzan bear ranch. “Higuma Doughnuts” is a cafe in Meguro, Tokyo which uses selected ingredients from Hokkaido where brown bears live. If you visit Hokkaido, please visit a gift store to purchase some Hokkaido souvenirs. Be sure to check out the Ezo brown bears, the video is too adorable to miss!

Introducing Susukino Oiran Dochu at the Susukino Festival in Sapporo, Hokkaido This video, titled "Sapporo, Susukino Festival 2018 – Oiran Dochu" (札幌 すすきの祭り2018「すすきの花魁道中」 susukino oiran douchu), was uploaded by "Kita no Kuni Kamo" (北の国かも). It introduces Susukino Oiran Dochu, a popular sightseeing attraction and event in Hokkaido. Susukino Oiran Dochu is an annual event that takes place during the Susukino Festival held for three days in early August in Sapporo, Hokkaido. The history of the Susukino Festival dates back more than 55 years, to August 1965, when the first Susukino Festival was held. It is said to have originated from the Susukino Festival held in 1951. More About Susukino Oiran Dochu Photo：An oiran One of the historical events of the Susukino Festival in Sapporo, Hokkaido, is Susukino Oiran Dochu, a procession of courtesans that can be seen in the video. Susukino Oiran Dochu began in 1984 when nine courtesans from Asakusa, Tokyo were invited to perform in a commemorative event, and has since become a regular part of the Susukino Festival. The roles of the courtesans in the procession are chosen by the public, with each role having its own name. In addition to the servants and the proprietress, new courtesans also appear in the procession, recreating the red-light districts of the past. The child in the kimono walking behind the new courtesan is called a Kamuro. The courtesan procession can be seen from 0:57 in the video. The participants in the procession wear special costumes and geta to recreate the way people walked in the past. The Oiran of Susukino Oiran Dochu An oiran is a member of the upper class of courtesans in a red-light district. During the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.), there were more than 2,000 courtesans, including those who served as sancha-joro (fairly high-ranking courtesans), zashiki-mochi, or yobidashi. Oiran Dochu is a procession of courtesans between the hikite-jaya (a guide to brothels) and the brothels themselves, and has been attracting attention since that time. During the courtesan procession, the courtesans slowly parade down the middle of the street in a very specific style, creating a captivating atmosphere. 70 Years of the Susukino Festival Photo：The Yosakoi Soran Festival in front of the Hokkaido Government Office, Sapporo The Susukino Festival started around 1965, when the Sapporo Tourist Association proposed a large-scale summer festival combining the Kappa Festival and the Susukino Festival in Jozankei, because they felt that a normal summer festival wasn't interesting enough. The Susukino Festival is a lively festival where many events have been held, such as the Miss Susukino contest, singing contests, and even beer drinking competitions. In addition, "Susukino Kota" (すすきの小唄) and "Susukino Ondo" (すすきの音頭) were performed, and the participants enjoyed singing and dancing at the festival. During the Susukino Festival, the central part of Susukino is turned into a pedestrian paradise. There are more than 100 food stalls and other vendors, and visitors you can enjoy eating and drinking local specialties from Hokkaido. In 1985, the Hokkai Festival Taiko Session was held, and taiko teams from all over Hokkaido performed a combined taiko drum performance. In addition, many other events are held, such as the Susukino Music Festival, a mikoshi (portable shrine) procession, Susukino Night Fever, Susukino Samba Carnival, women's mikoshi, hayashi performances, lion dances, Yosakoi Soran Festival, and even live concerts. [Susukino Festival Venue Information] Place: Sapporo Ekimae-dori Date: Three days in early August every year Main event: Oiran Dochu (courtesan procession) Organizer: Susukino Tourist Association Other Festivals in Sapporo, Hokkaido Photo：Mikoshi at the Hokkaido Shrine Festival In addition to the Susukino Festival, Sapporo City also holds the Hokkaido Shrine Festival (Sapporo Festival). The Hokkaido Shrine Festival (Sapporo Festival) has a history of more than 100 years and is held around Hokkaido Shrine and Nakajima Park. In addition, the Sapporo Summer Festival is lit up at night and attracts many visitors. There are also other festivals such as the Odori Fireworks Festival, making it a place where you can enjoy many festivals. The Sapporo Snow Festival, held in early February every year, is a festival of snow and ice, with several snow sculptures displayed in Odori Park and other venues, and is the largest festival in Hokkaido, attracting approximately 2 million visitors from all over Japan and overseas. Summary of Susukino's Oiran Dochu Oiran Dochu (courtesan procession) is the main event of the Susukino Festival held every summer in Sapporo, Hokkaido. As you can see in the video, the courtesans dressed in beautiful kimono walk through the streets of Sapporo with a variety of different assistants. The spectacle of the courtesan parading through the streets creates a fascinating atmosphere and is reminiscent of Japan's Edo Period. Be sure to check out the four-and-a-half-minute video to get an idea of what Oiran Dochu, the main event of Sapporo, Hokkaido's Susukino Festival, is all about.

The White-Tailed Eagle of Hokkaido! The video "White-tailed eagle Akan Japanese Crane Center" introduced in this article, shows some white-tailed eagles living around Akan Lake (阿寒湖, Akan ko) in Kushiro, Hokkaido. The white-tailed eagle circling leisurely in the sky with its glistening white tail feathers outstretched is truly a majestic sight. Let's take a closer look at the white-tailed eagle, which, along with the Steller's sea eagle, is known as one of the largest eagles in the world, and learn more about its biology. The video also shows white-tailed eagles catching fish at the Akan International Crane Center. The White-Tailed Eagle Photo：A white tailed eagle from the side The white-tailed eagle is a member of accipitriformes order, accipitridae family, and Haliaeetus genus, and can be found in the northeastern part of Hokkaido, Japan. It is a protected species and is currently listed as a rare wildlife species in Japan, and is listed as an endangered species on the Red List of the Ministry of the Environment. White-tailed eagles are 70 to 98 centimeters in length, with a wing span of 180 to 240 centimeters, and weigh 3 to 7 kilograms. They have white plumage and a slightly muffled call. Young birds are covered entirely with brown feathers and have white spots, but the spots disappear with age. They are carnivorous and have an average lifespan of about 20 years. More About the White-Tailed Eagle Photo：White-tailed eagle There are approximately 1,700 white-tailed eagles wintering in Hokkaido. As shown in the video, white-tailed eagles can be seen living not only in the Akan area, but also in Sapporo City. In rare cases, they also fly from northern Honshu to the Chubu and Kyushu regions. The Akan International Crane Center Gloss, introduced in the video, is a facility that provides information on a variety of wild birds, including the Japanese crane, which is shown at 0:44 in the video, and we definitely recommend giving it a visit. It's also well known among aviation fans that the JASDF's Phantom aircraft had a white-tailed eagle pattern painted on its vertical stabilizer. In the video, the white-tailed eagle is seen flying in a circle over the heads of the Japanese cranes, but it's actually aiming at its prey, and at 2:00 in the video, it finally goes after it. This is the highlight of the video, so be sure to check it out! Another white-tailed eagle appears with the white-tailed eagle that the camera had been following, and in a moment, grabs the catch of the first one with its feet and flies away. This can be seen in slow-mo at 2:25 in the video. Summary of Hokkaido's White-Tailed Eagle Photo：A Steller's sea eagle and a white-tailed eagle In this article, we introduced a fascinating bird you can find in Hokkaido, the white-tailed eagle. If you want to see the beautiful white-tailed eagles shown in this video, why not plan a bird-watching trip to Hokkaido? If your trip to Hokkaido is for white-tailed eagles, you can also purchase white-tailed eagle caramel cookies made by Nemuro cafe as a souvenir. ◆Akan International Crane Center General Information◆ 【Address】40 Akancho Kamiakan, Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0245 【Access】25 minutes by bus from Kushiro Airport 【Admission fee】Adults (high school students and older) 480 yen, elementary and junior high school students 250 yen (*as of December 2019) 【Hours] 】9:00～17:00 【Closures】None 【Parking】Available 【Telephone】0154-66-4011 【Official Website】Akan International Crane Center-Wix.com https://aiccgrus.wixsite.com/aiccgrus/english-page

Pacific Herring Spawning and Swarms: Video Introduction This video, titled "The Sea Turned White?! Drone Footage of a Pacific Herring Swarm!" (海が白くなる!? ニシン群来のドローン撮影に成功！), was uploaded by "Hidemi Imai" (今井秀美). In Obira, Hokkaido, the blue sea is dyed white as if milk has been spilled in it. This phenomenon is caused by herring swarms, which occurs when herring (in this case pacific herring), a fish heralding the arrival of spring in Hokkaido, spawn and fertilize eggs. A video shot from the sky captures the phenomenon that looks like a white sash on the blue sea. Large schools of pacific herring come to Obira to spawn, and you can see the beauty of life as they flop about the surface of the water. Check out the video to see the pacific herring swarm up close! What Kind of Place is Obira? Obira is a small town in western Hokkaido with a population of just a few thousand. It's located a few hours north of Sapporo via train, making it a bit of an out-of-the-way destination, but it's home to many tourist attractions. There are golf courses and surf spots, as well as facilities for learning about the local culture. In addition, there are ski resorts that can be enjoyed during the winter months, and campsites that can be visited during the summer. Obira is a nice destination to check out if you're looking for things to do in Hokkaido that are a bit more off the beaten path. Information about the Pacific Herring and the Causes and Conditions for Swarms in Hokkaido, Japan Photo：Pacific herring spawning The pacific herring (scientific name: clupea pallasii) is a silvery-white fish found mostly in the Pacific Ocean. Pacific herring are generally 30-35 cm (12-13 inches) long but can grow as large as 45 cm (~17.5 inches). Pacific herring feed on phytoplankton and zooplankton, and their natural predators are salmon, whales, seabirds, etc. Every year from February to March, the coast of the Sea of Japan in Hokkaido turns a milky white color. The pacific herring come to the coast in large numbers during spring, so much so, that they are said to herald the arrival of spring in Hokkaido. In the world of haiku, a type of Japanese poetry, the word "Nishin Kuki" (鰊群来, herring coming in large schools) is a seasonal word to symbolize spring. Herring swarms occur when herring come to the coast to spawn and fertilize eggs. The white colors are a phenomenon that occurs when males simultaneously fertilize eggs that have been laid on seaweed. In 1954, after being observed along the coast from Yoichi to Oshoro, a 20km stretch on the peninsula northwest of Sapporo, the pacific herring swarms were not observed again for many years. It wasn't until 1999 that the pacific herring swarms were observed in the area, for the first time in 45 years. In order for the herring swarms to occur, two conditions must be met: the sea must be calm during the herring spawning season, and the water temperature must be relatively high, around 5 degrees Celsius. In addition, the herring swarms seem more likely to occur on cloudy days from February to April. When and Where to See the Pacific Herring Swarms Source :YouTube screenshot The herring swarms are a phenomenon seen during the spawning season, which, for the pacific herring in Japan, is from late January to early May, and February to March is said to be the most active season. In addition, since spawning often takes place at night, the ocean can be seen turning milky white around dawn, disappearing around noon. This means that you have a higher chance of seeing the phenomenon during the morning. The places where herring swarms can be seen are the coasts of Hokkaido along the Sea of Japan and within Ishikari Bay. In Otaru, herring is synonymous with spring. If you want to see the herring swarms, we recommend visiting the Otaru coast from February to March! However, because it's a natural phenomenon, it's not always possible to see the pacific herring swarms, even if you visit at the right time and place. That being said, it's still worth a try to see the incredible sight. Delicious, Seasonal Pacific Herring Recipes! Photo：Nishin soba In Hokkaido, which is famous for herring production, there are various ways to eat delicious seasonal herring. Pacific herring are considered to be in season only in spring, but it's said that they are also in season in autumn. In Japan, pacific herring are processed in many different ways. Some of these are herring roe, kombu-maki (kelp rolls), nuka nishin (herring in rice-bran paste), and migaki nishin (dried and sliced herring). One of the rarest products is frozen herring stuffed with mentaiko (spicy cod roe). Migaki nishin is famous for its use in nishin soba (a bowl of soba topped with a dried herring), a specialty of Kyoto. In addition, we also recommend carpaccio, which is made by cutting the fish into three pieces and pouring a seasoning mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper over the meat. The herring and pumpkin pie from Ghibli's "Kiki's Delivery Service" is another dish that tastes even better when made with pacific herring caught during season in Hokkaido. If you like cooking, we recommend trying a simple recipe, which requires just some cooked herring, vegetable paste, white sauce, and cheese inside a pie topping, and then baking. Seaweed With Roe From the Pacific Herring Photo：Komochi kombu When herring come to the shallows to spawn in large schools, they lay their eggs on seaweed. Because the eggs are sticky, they tend to adhere to seaweed, such as kombu (edible kelp) and wakame seaweed. Originally, natural seaweeds on which the eggs were laid naturally were harvested, but due to a decrease in catches, there are fewer and fewer of them. Therefore, seaweed is now hung where the pacific herring will pass by to encourage spawning. The result of pickling these seaweeds in salt creates 2 delicious types of seaweed called komochi kombu and komochi wakame. They are often used in festive New Year's dishes in Japan to bring good luck. Summary of Herring Swarms and Spawning in Hokkaido The pacific herring swarms resemble a milky white sash fluttering in the blue sea. The contrast between the blue and white colors allows for some vivid photography as well. It's fascinating to think that this phenomenon occurs when large schools of herring gather to spawn and release their sperm in order to procreate. If you're traveling to Hokkaido in February and March during spring, consider visiting the coast of Otaru. If you're lucky, you may be able to see the herring swarms, a mysterious phenomenon of life.

Introducing Hokkaido’s "Hamanasu"! This video, titled "Debut of the New Limited Express Sightseeing Train "Hamanasu": JR Hokkaido" (観光用にも使える新型特急車両「はまなす編成」がデビュー：JR北海道), was released by "nippon.com." It's a news video introducing JR Hokkaido's new limited express sightseeing train "Hamanasu." From October 2020, the Hamanasu finally began its journey to Abashiri, Kushiro, Hakodate and Wakkanai as a regular limited express train. The Hamanasu is expected to support many people as a new means of travel to Hokkaido. What is the Hamanasu? Photo：The Hamanasu, Hokkaido The KiHa 261-5000 series of the Hamanasu is a multi-purpose diesel locomotive based on the KiHa 261 express locomotive. This train features a cute pink coloring that evokes the image of the Japanese rose (Rosa rugosa, beach rose), called "Hamanasu" (ハマナス) in Japanese. Two 5-car trains were produced and named "Hamanasu" and "Lavender." Commemorating the 140th anniversary of Hokkaido's railroads, the Hamanasu began trial operations in July 2020, and made its commercial debut on Saturday, October 17, 2020, as the "140th Anniversary of Hokkaido's Railways" dedicated day-trip sightseeing train. Starting October 24, the Hamanasu is scheduled to operate with the limited expresses "Okhotsk," "Taisetsu," "Ozora," "Hokuto," "Soya," and "Sarobetsu" operated regularly by JR Hokkaido. The Hamanasu looks like a green car, but there are no plans to add a green car to the train for a while. Enjoy a Wonderful Time Sightseeing on the Hamanasu Source :YouTube screenshot The interior of the Hamanasu is introduced at 0:22 in the video. Car No. 1 is a free space called the "Hamanasu Lounge" and is a multi-purpose room. Car No. 1 also has private rooms with sunken kotatsu-style tables and a counter selling local specialties, and is a great space to enjoy conversing with friends and family during your sightseeing trip. Cars 2 to 5 are equipped with general seating, and each seat is equipped with an electrical outlet and an arm table, and there is also free WiFi available. You can also use your computer or smartphone on the train, making it convenient for business purposes. Summary of Hokkaido’s Newest Sightseeing Train, Hamanasu Photo：The Hamanasu, Hokkaido This article introduced the Hamanasu, a newly launched train that debuted in 2020. The Hamanasu is planned to be very active in the future as a new means of transportation for travelers to Hokkaido. If you're planning a trip to Hokkaido, we recommend taking the popular Hamanasu for an amazing journey!

Video Introduction This video, titled "Cape Kiritappu, Hokkaido｜Wild Sea Otters Floating in the Sea｜2020" (北海道霧多布岬 ぷかぷか浮かぶ 野生のラッコ 2020), was uploaded by "Shinji kawamura." The video captures endangered sea otters playfully swimming and relaxing at Cape Kiritappu, a place where you can encounter otters, foxes, and other wildlife of Japan. It's a great place for taking Instagram photos as well, so be sure to check it out. Don't forget to follow along with the video! Sea Otters – An Endangered Species on the Decline in Japan Photo：A raft of sea otters The main habitat of wild sea otters is the area from the California coast through Alaska and the Aleutian Islands to the coast of the Kamchatka Peninsula. Overfishing has led to a decline in the wild population, and it's estimated that more than 3,000 sea otters perished when an oil tanker ran aground in Alaska. Although the number of sea otters in the wild temporarily declined to less than 2,000, active conservation efforts have helped the population recover to more than 100,000. On the other hand, the number of sea otters kept in aquariums in Japan has continued to decline from 122 in 1994, and by 2021 there will be only 4 in Japan. Sea otters, which are designated as an endangered species, are prohibited from being imported from outside of Japan. Currently, because of declining reproductive capabilities and aging populations, further breeding of sea otters kept in Japan becoming more and more difficult. Because of this, it's not unlikely that there will come a day when sea otters can no longer be seen in aquariums in Japan. Where to See Sea Otters in the Wild in Japan Photo：Cape Kiritappu, Hokkaido There was a time when wild sea otters were no longer seen in the waters around Japan due to overfishing, but since 1980, there has been a string of sightings along the eastern coast of Hokkaido. In recent years, wild sea otters have been seen in Japan mainly in three areas along the eastern coast of Hokkaido. One is Cape Kiritappu, which is introduced in the video, and the others are Cape Nosappu in Nemuro, which is located on the northeast side of the cape, and Moyururi Island, an uninhabited island off the Kombumori fishing port between Cape Kiritappu and Cape Nosappu. Breeding has been confirmed on both Cape Kiritappu and Moyururi Island. Of these three locations, the highest probability of observing wild sea otters from land is at Cape Kiritappu. The sight of wild sea otters, both parents and offspring, floating in the sea, is both funny and cute. [Video] 0:19 - Wild Sea Otters Swimming With Their Offspring in Their Arms Sea Otters at Cape Kiritappu - The Best Times and Where to See Them Photo：An otter Wild sea otters can be seen throughout the year around Cape Kiritappu. However, your chances are low during bad weather, such as fog or high waves. It's said that the chance of seeing sea otters on a clear day is only a 1 in 3 chance, so weather is also an important factor. The best place to see them is where the waves are most calm. The probability of seeing them is higher on the north side of the cape and around reefs. If you're lucky, you can see wild sea otters up close, but we recommend bringing a telescope or binoculars in order to clearly see their appearance, behavior, and facial expressions. You can check out the sea otters napping and eating in the video. [Video] 1:50 - Sea Otters Relaxing and Taking Naps [Video] 4:28 - Sea Otters Eating Shellfish off Their Stomachs Summary of Otters at Cape Kiritappu The number of sea otters kept in aquariums has drastically decreased due to difficulties in breeding in Japan. Wild sea otters, on the other hand, a species that once vanished due to overhunting, can now be seen in the waters around Japan. The eastern coast of Hokkaido, where sightings are particularly common, is now quite popular. Cape Kiritappu is a popular spot to see rare wild sea otters from land. If you happen to see them during a visit to the area, consider yourself lucky! 【TripAdvisor】Cape Kiritappu https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1120924-d1553698-Reviews-Kiritappu_Cape-Hamanaka_cho_Akkeshi_gun_Hokkaido.html

Makomanai Takino Cemetery’s "Hill of the Buddha" in Sapporo, Hokkaido "Introduction to the Hill of the Buddha" (頭大仏の紹介), is a video about the Hill of the Buddha, a symbol of Makomanai Takino Cemetery where you can see the head of the Great Buddha. At Makomanai Takino Cemetery, you can also see a vast landscape of lavender hills with more than 15 thousand lavenders. This dramatic Hill of the Buddha, standing at the top of a dome-shaped slope, was designed by Ando Tadao, a famous architect, in 2016 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Makomanai Takino Cemetery. It is made up of 57 parts, which were selected and processed from 4,000 tons of unpolished stones. It is 13.5 meters high and weighs 1,500 tons. Initially, it was called “Mitama Kuyo Daibutsu.” You can see the Great Buddha in its entirety from 0:08 in the video. The construction of the Hill of the Buddha began in October 2013 and finished in 2016. As you can see from 0:56 in the video, the hardest part of this project was growing the 15 thousand lavenders. With the advice of lavender farmers and the help of volunteers, they succeeded in growing the lavenders from seed. It took about three years to build the Hill of the Buddha, and the construction process can be seen from 1:31 in the video. Makomanai Takino Cemetery's Hill of the Buddha Source :YouTube screenshot The Hill of the Buddha at Makomanai Takino Cemetery, Sapporo, Hokkaido, features the Great Buddha poking his head out from the lavender hill. According to the architect Ando Tadao, the purpose of this is to emphasize the gratitude of the Great Buddha as “that which you cannot see stimulates the imagination.” As you can see from 4:07 in the video, there is an approach with lavenders when entering Makomanai Takino Cemetery. There is also a water garden, which is a bypass of the pathway behind the approach. The water is a boundary to purify mind and to awaken the extraordinary. After going through the water garden, there is a tunnel that goes through the hill, which is shown at 4:25 in the video. The tunnel represents the womb and is lined with concrete folds. You can see the Great Buddha as you pass through the tunnel, and the panoramic view of the Buddha, which you can see along the 135-meter walk, is even more impressive. The light from the sky lights up the Buddha and surrounds you with artistic scenery. Learn About the Construction Process at the Gallery and Café Source :YouTube screenshot Next to the water-basin, there is a gallery where you can see the construction process of the Hill of the Buddha. Here, you can find out what the famous architect Ando Tadao had in mind when he designed the project. Across the gallery, lays the “Rotunda Café and Store.” You can enjoy snacks and tea and buy original merchandise and souvenirs here. It was opened in 2018 as a rest station, due to the increase of foreign tourists. Also, there are replicas of Easter Island’s Moai statues, which carry the meaning of “living into the future,” as well as a replica of Stonehenge. Information About Makomanai Takino Cemetery Photo：The Great Buddha Access to Makomanai Takino Cemetery in Sapporo City, Hokkaido is 20-30 minutes from Makomanai Station by bus from the Namboku Subway Line. Times may vary by season, so check out the homepage for more details. If you are driving, you can use the free parking areas in the south and north. The lots have a capacity of 245 cars, so be sure to check the map if you're planning on driving. There is a 300 yen (~$3 USD) "lavender maintenance fee" you must pay if you want to see the Hill of the Buddha. It is open from 7 am to 7 pm during summer, and 7 am to 6 pm during winter. Enjoy Art at Sapporo's Newest Spiritual Site! Source :YouTube screenshot Are you interested in visiting the Hill of the Buddha? The Hill of the Buddha is a new sightseeing spot in Sapporo, Hokkaido, not only for its powerful atmosphere, but also for its refreshing and beautiful scenery. If you're thinking about visiting Hokkaido, be sure to stop by! ◆Information◆ 【Address】2-3 Takino, Minami, Sapporo, Hokkaido 005-0862 【Access】20 to 30 minutes by bus from Metro Namboku Line, Makomanai Station 【Admission Fee】~300 yen lavender maintenance fee 【Hours】 7 am to 7 pm during summer. 7 am to 6 pm during winter 【Parking】Available 【Phone number】 011-592-1223 【Official Website】Makomanai Takino Cemetery https://www.takinoreien.com/ 【Tripadvisor】Makomanai Takino Cemetery https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298560-d12597229-Reviews-Makomanai_Takino_Cemetery-Sapporo_Hokkaido.html

Goryokaku in Hakodate! This video, titled "Goryokaku, Hakodate" (函館　「五稜郭」 Goryokaku, Hakodate), introduces the historical location, Goryokaku in Hakodate. Shown at the beginning of the video, Goryokaku in Hakodate is a fortress characterized by its beautiful star-shape. If you go up to the observation deck of Goryokaku Tower, as shown at 1:34 in the video, you can see the beautiful star-shaped moat that surrounds Goryokaku Park. Don't forget to bring your camera, it'll look great on Instagram! About Goryokaku Photo：Goryokaku Goryokaku was built by the Tokugawa Shogunate to protect the Hakodate magistrates office, at the end of the Edo period. (1853 – 1868) The star-shaped Goryokaku is also called Ryohoshiki and it was designed by Takeda Ayasaburo. This is shown at 1:54 in the video. Goryokaku was called Kameda yakushodorui and Hakodate Onyakusho during its construction. It is also known as Yanagino Castle (柳野城, Yanagino-jyo) since there were a lot of willow trees in the area (柳, "yanagi," means willow in Japanese). The History of Goryokaku Photo：Goryokaku's stone walls Completed around the time of the Meiji Restoration, Goryokaku was occupied by the former shogunate's forces during the Battle of Hakodate, the final battle of the Boshin War, and became its headquarters. As you can see from 1:22 in the video, the earthwork, stone walls, and stone monuments still remain. Goryokaku was also used as parade ground for the army during the Meiji period (1868 to 1912). Highlights of Goryokaku Photo：Goryokaku, Winter Illumination Goryokaku has been the setting for many historical events since the end of the Edo period. In 1988, a TV drama titled "Goryokaku" was also produced. Goryokaku is a special national historic site, and has been designated a Hokkaido Heritage Site as the "Remains of Goryokaku and the Battle of Hakodate." It is currently managed by the city of Hakodate as a government-owned property. The magistrate’s office, which can be seen at 1:47 in the video, was reconstructed in 2010. You can see the inside, including the main hall, courtyard, and historical records, at 2:33 in the video. Goryokaku park also hosts a limited time illumination event, so we recommend lining up your visit with it if possible. Summary of Goryokaku ©Goryokaku-Tower Modifying Goryokaku, shown in the video, is a great place to enjoy seasonal scenery, including cherry blossoms in the spring, autumn colors in the fall, and snowy scenery in winter. In addition to Goryokaku, Hakodate also offers other pleasures such as the night view from Mt. Hakodate and eating Hakodate ramen, a specialty of the city. Incidentally, Tsuruoka Castle (龍岡城) in Saku City, Nagano is also designed in the shape of a star, so be sure to check it out as well! ◆Goryokaku Information◆ 【Address】44-2 Goryokakucho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0001 【Access】15 minutes by a car, taxi, and bus from JR Hakodate Station 【Parking】None 【Tripadvisor】Goryokaku Park https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g298151-d1439713-r68353674-Goryokaku_Park-Hakodate_Hokkaido.html

Otaru Art Base and its Stained Glass Museum in Otaru, Hokkaido: Video introduction This video, titled "OTARU – Otaru Art Base and its Stained Glass Museum" (【小樽】小樽芸術村 ステンドグラス美術館), was uploaded by "Nichimen Auto System" (日免オートシステム). The Otaru Canal, one of the best tourist destinations in Hokkaido, has a nostalgic atmosphere. Otaru Art Base, composed of retro buildings on the banks of the canal, exhibits various arts and crafts from around the world. The Stained Glass Museum, formerly the Takahashi Warehouse, is one of the retro buildings along the canal. The video clip shows the priceless stained glass art that was actually used in old chapels in England from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. Enjoy the beautiful and solemn space of lights in the video, while pondering these historical artworks. Otaru Art Base – Utilizing Historical Buildings Photo：The Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch, Otaru Art Base, Otaru, Hokkaido Otaru, Hokkaido has been prospering as a gateway to Hokkaido thanks to its surrounding waters. Many financial and trading companies have been stationed here since around 1930, and developed the area as an economic center. Otaru Art Base was established in July 2016 in Otaru, Hokkaido by Nitori Group, a popular Japanese furniture retail company that originated in Hokkaido. Its operation has been managed by the Nitori Cultural Foundation since October 2020. Otaru Art Base has five historic buildings that were built in the early 20th century that include the former Arata Firm, the former Takahashi Warehouse, the former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch, the former Hokkaido Takushoku Bank Otaru Branch, and the former Naniwa Warehouse. They display excellent pieces of art from both Japan and around the world. Because it utilizes historically valuable buildings in Otaru, both the exhibits and the architecture have outstanding value as a cultural heritages from the past. Highlights of Stained Glass Museum in Otaru Art Base Source :Yuzuki Mio's post: Image of God and the Glory of Great Britain The Stained Glass Museum is in the former Takahashi Warehouse, one of the buildings of the Otaru Art Base, displays stained glass that actually used to decorate chapel windows. The stained glass was crafted in England in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Unfortunately, many chapels in England have been demolished in recent years, but these works managed to survive and ended up in Japan by chance. Among many valuable works, it exhibits the stained-glass version of the famous artwork "The Last Supper" and "God and the Glory of Great Britain," which was produced to commemorate the victory and victims of World War I. [Video] 1:38 - God and the Glory of Great Britain [Video] 6:06 - The Last Supper The museum is full of the history of England. You can feel the flow of time up close through the figures and lettering on the stained glass artworks. [Video] 5:33 - God and the Glory of Great Britain Viewed From the 2nd Floor [Video] 6:00 - The Sower Highlights of the House of Western Art, Nitori Museum, and Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch in Otaru Art Base Photo：Nitori Museum, Otaru, Hokkaido In addition to the Stained Glass Museum, the Otaru Art Base also has House of Western Art, Nitori Museum, and the former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch. Be careful as photography is prohibited is some of these buildings. Here, we'll introduce the highlights of each facility at Otaru Art Base and specific locations where photography is prohibited. ● House of Western Art The House of Western Art, which is the fourth museum in the Otaru Art Base, was just recently opened on April 28, 2022. The highlights are the stained glass produced in Europe and the United States from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, as well as Art Nouveau and Art Deco glass crafts. Photography is permitted here, but the flash photography, selfie sticks, and video recording are prohibited. ● Nitori Museum The Nitori Museum is in an old bank building. It has become a popular tourist spot with a large number of outstanding works, such as modern Japanese paintings and Western paintings. A must-see is the powerful stained glass by stained glass artist Louis C. Tiffany. You can take pictures of the stained glass exhibited at the entrance, but no other photography is permitted inside the building due to the presence of copyrighted works. ● Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch From the end of the Meiji Period to the beginning of the Showa Period, Otaru was called Northern Wall Street because it was extremely prosperous as an economic center. The building that symbolizes this prosperity is the Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch. This building has been designated as an Important Cultural Property. Highlights include the Renaissance-style masonry exterior, a beautiful plaster ceiling, and a safety deposit box and drawing room that give you a sense of the atmosphere of a bank at the time. Furthermore, be sure to check out the projection mapping that takes place every hour on the 1st floor. Photography is allowed in this building, but video recordings are prohibited. Admission Fees, Required Time for Otaru Art Base, and Reviews Photo：A woman looking at her phone Next, we'll go over admission fees, the time required to visit Otaru Art Base, and reviews. First, the Admission fee. We recommend the discount "Four Combined Museum Pass" ticket when visiting Otaru Art Base: 2,900 yen for adults, 2,000 yen for university students, 1,500 yen for high school students, 1,000 yen for junior high school students, and 500 yen for elementary school students. This ticket is cheaper than buying individual tickets for two museums. It's a great deal! Individual fees for the Stained Glass Museum are 1,000 yen for adults, 800 yen for university students, 600 yen for high school students, 500 yen for junior high school students, and 300 yen for elementary school students. Individual fees for the former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch are 700 yen for adults, 500 yen for university students, 400 yen for high school students, 300 yen for junior high school students, and 200 yen for elementary school students. Individual fees for either the Nitori Museum or the House of Western Art are 1,500 yen for adults, 1,000 yen for university students, 700 yen for high school students, 500 yen for junior high school students, and 300 yen for elementary school students. University/high school/junior high school students are required to present their student ID at the reception. Elementary and junior high school students in Otaru can get in free with the Otaru Resident Special Discount. Those with documentation of a physical disability, rehabilitation, or mental disability can receive free admission, plus one designated caregiver. Please check the official website for more details. The estimated time required for Otaru Art Base is about 3 hours in total if the museum is not crowded. The estimated time required for each museum is as follows: ● Stained Glass Museum: Approximately 30 minutes ● Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch: Approximately 30 minutes ● Nitori Museum: Approximately 60 minutes ● House of Western Art: Approximately 60 minutes Many reviews for Otaru Art Base talk about the beauty of the exhibits and praise their harmony with the historical buildings. People also praise the number of exhibits, and are often surprised at the quality, saying that it's worth more than what you pay! Other Things to Do in Otaru Below is a short list of other things to do in Otaru, Hokkaido. Otaru Museum Otaru Museum is a museum that displays exhibits related to the history, nature, transportation, and science of Hokkaido. The museum is actually made up of 2 separate buildings: the main building, and the canal pavilion. They are a 20-minute walk from one another but you can purchase a ticket to visit both. Hours: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm Admission Fee: General admission: 400 yen (winter 300 yen), high school students and senior citizens living in the area: 200 yen (winter 150 yen), Junior high school students and younger: free Otaru Music Box Museum The Otaru Music Box Museum is located in a historical building that was built in 1915. It's home to 80,000 music boxes of 5,000 different varieties, making it one of the largest music box stores in Japan. It's a great place to go if you like music boxes, art, or are looking for souvenirs. The museum is a 15-minute walk from Otaru Art Base. Hours: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Admission Fee: Free Sankaku Market Otaru Market began around 1948 when a group of street vendors opened near Otaru Station. Eventually it developed into a morning market, attracting people from various regions in Japan. It's a great place to eat some delicious seafood and buy some local specialties to commemorate your trip to Otaru. Sankaku Market is located right next to Otaru Station and is a 12-minute walk from Otaru Art Base. Hours: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm (restaurants 7:00 am - 5:00 pm) All of these locations are within close proximity to one another, so if you're visiting Otaru, you can easily visit a number of different places in a single day, making for a really efficient trip. Summary of Otaru Art Base, in Otaru, Hokkaido Otaru is a port town with a beautiful retro townscape that evokes a sense of history. It's a popular tourist spot where you can enjoy nature, shopping, and delicious food, but also breathtaking works of art. Otaru Art Base is also home to buildings that themselves are works of art, and you can appreciate precious art pieces inside them while exploring their history. If you're in Otaru, Hokkaido, or are planning on visiting, be sure to stop by Otaru Art Base! 【Official Website】Stained Glass Museum (Former Takahashi Warehouse) | Otaru Art Base 【TripAdvisor】Otaru Art Base, Stained Glass Museum

The Ice Chapel of Hokkaido's Hoshino Resorts Tomamu! This video, titled "氷の教会 (ICE CHAPEL)" was produced by "Hoshino Resorts Tomamu (Official)." It introduces the beautiful ice chapel at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu. A chapel made of ice sounds probably sounds like something you'd find in a fairy tale, but this chapel is very real. The ice chapel,introduced in the video, can be found at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu in Hokkaido. The dreamy chapel, utilizing Hokkaido’s harsh climate, is gaining popularity among couples looking to have a unique wedding. Enjoy the beauty of the chapel shown in the video. About Hoshino Resorts Tomamu's Ice Chapel Source :YouTube screenshot The ice chapel at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu is available for just one month when Hokkaido is blanketed in pure white snow and the temperature drops to -30 degrees celsius (~-22 Fahrenheit). The ice chapel has a distinct, dome-shaped exterior. You can see the exterior at 1:19 in the video. As shown in the introduction at1:07 the aisle, altar, crosses, and even the candles are all made of ice and snow. The chapel is illuminated by a beautiful light called "ice blue," creating a magical atmosphere. Having a wedding, said to be one of the most important days of one's life, at this beautiful chapel, will make for an unforgettable experience. What to Do at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu Source :【Official Homepage】Hoshino Resorts Tomamu The ice chapel is located in the Ice Village, which appears only in winter at Hokkaido Hoshino Resorts Tomamu. In addition to the Ice Village, there is an ice hotel, an ice sweets shop, an ice slide, an ice bath, an ice bar, an ice atelier, and an ice general store. In winter, you can also enjoy a dog sledding experience at Hokkaido Hoshino Resorts Tomamu. Passing through the Ice Village's mysterious ice gates will take you to another world. Facilities at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu Photo：Hoshino Resorts Tomamu Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, built in the great outdoors of Hokkaido, has many attractive buildings besides the ice chapelshown in the video. "The Tower," which is the hotel in the central area, is a lodging facility where you can stay the night. There are also numerous restaurants, hot springs, and activity facilities on site. The water chapel, designed by the world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, is another facility used for weddings and has a very romantic atmosphere. Summary of Hoshino Resorts Tomamu's Ice Chapel Source :YouTube screenshot This video shows scenes of magical weddings held at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu's ice chapel. The bride's winter-themed wedding dress is also very beautiful. If you're thinking of having a resort wedding at the ice chapel, be sure to visit the website and look into what they have to offer. ◆Hoshino Resorts Tomamu｜Ice Village, Facility Overview◆ 【Address】Naka-Tomamu Shimukappu Yufutsu Hokkaido 〒079-2204 【Access】5 minutes from Doto Expressway Tomamu I.C. 【2020 Open Period】January 20th -February 14th 2020 【Hours】17:45〜、19:45〜、21:45〜、About 10 minutes per session 【Parking】Available 【Telephone Number】0167-58-1111 【Official Website】ICE VILLAGE｜Hoshino Resorts Tomamu【Official】 https://www.snowtomamu.jp/special/icevillage/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Hoshino Resorts Tomamu https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g1120868-d1384236-r562576645-Hoshino_Resort_Tomamu-Shimukappu_mura_Yufutsu_gun_Hokkaido.html

Noboribetsu Tourism: Video Introduction This video, titled "Noboribetsu City Sightseeing PR Video" (登別市観光PR動画), was uploaded by "[Official] General Incorporated Association｜Noboribetsu International Tourism and Convention Association" (【公式】一般社団法人 登別国際観光コンベンション協会). This video introduces things to do in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido. You can see the magnificent nature of Noboribetsu, popular tourist attractions in Noboribetsu, and events in which many people participate. Enjoy the beautiful, 10-minute video of Noboribetsu! An Introduction to Noboribetsu and Its Connection to Oni Photo：Oni Hanabi fireworks at Jigokudani (Hell Valley), Noboribetsu, Hokkaido Noboribetsu is located in the Iburi subprefecture of southwestern Hokkaido and is known for its natural hot springs. Facing the Pacific Ocean to the south, it's a tourist city with rich natural surroundings that sits at the heart of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, a mountainous area with continuous volcanic activity. Noboribetsu is located approximately 1hr 30m from Sapporo by train. Statues of oni (Japanese ogre demons) and spiked clubs are scattered throughout Noboribetsu. Since it's said that oni protect the medicinal hot springs in Jigokudani, oni have become the symbol of Noboribetsu. During the "Oni Hanabi" (鬼花火, 'Demon Fireworks') event held in Jigokudani (Hell Valley), oni beat drums and shoot handheld fireworks to drive away people's misfortune! At Noboribetsu Jigoku Matsuri, red and blue oni accompanied by the Great Demon King Enma perform the "Oni Odori" dance to liven up the festival. [Video] 6:00 - Oni Hanabi Fireworks, Noboribetsu Jigoku Matsuri Recommended Things to Do in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido Photo：Noboribetsu Onsen, Hokkaido Here are some popular tourist spots and recommended things to do when sightseeing in Noboribetsu. Noboribetsu Onsen Noboribetsu Onsen is one of the most famous hot springs in Japan, with nine different types of spring water, making it one of the most unique hot springs in the world. Jigokudani (Hell Valley) Noboribetsu Onsen is the largest hot springs in Japan. The steam spewing from the crater created by the eruptive activity of Mt. Hiyori and the boiling spring water are reminiscent of a "hell where demons dwell." Jigokudani can be reached in about 15 minutes by bus from Noboribetsu Station. [Video] 0:43 - Hell Valley Karurusu Onsen A small hot spring village located 8 km from Noboribetsu Onsen. It has been used as a medicinal hot spring since ancient times, and is designated as a National Health Onsen Resort. Oyunuma River Natural Footbath The Oyunuma River, a river of hot spring water flowing out of Oyunuma Pond, spews out 130°C sulfur spring water, and visitors can enjoy a natural footbath here. [Video] 2:03 - Natural Footbath Photo：Lake Kuttara, Hokkaido Lake Kuttara Lake Kuttara is a caldera lake measuring approximately 2.5 kilometers in diameter. There is no river leading to the lake, and its beauty is something of mystery. Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe The aquarium "Nixe Castle" inside the park has a fantastic display of some 400 species of sea creatures. There are also penguin parades and dolphin and sea lion shows that are popular with guests. [Video] 4:28 - Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura A cultural park that recreates the streets of Edo-period Japan (1603-1868 A.D.). Visitors can experience the culture of the Edo period with ninja shows and oiran (traditional Japanese courtesan) shows, and also enjoy dressing up in historical costumes. [Video] 5:00 - Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura Photo：Noboribetsu Bear Park, Hokkaido Noboribetsu Bear Park Noboribetsu Bear Park is a zoo where approximately 140 bears are kept. Visitors can observe the bears from up close. The feeding experience and cute bear shows are also popular amongst guests. Enmado Karakuri is performed six times a day at Enmado, a shrine dedicated to the Great Demon King Enma located on the Gokuraku-dori shopping street. During the "Hell Sentence," in which Enma passes judgment on people, the gentle face of Enma turns angry and his complexion turns red. Sengen Park Geyser At Sengen Park, located in the center of Noboribetsu Onsen, you can see a geyser that shoots up eight meters into the air every three hours or so. Noboribetsu has a ton of things to see and do. The Noboribetsu International Tourism and Convention Association recommends model courses for visitors who want to explore the area efficiently based on the length of their stay, with 30, 60, 120, and 180-minute courses, etc. Enjoy Canyoning in Summer + Skiing & Other Activities in Winter in Noboribetsu! Photo：Canyoning Noboribetsu is home to deep green forests, majestic mountains, and beautiful clear streams. Because of this, there are a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy in Noboribetsu. In the summer, river trekking and canyoning allow visitors to physically enjoy the great outdoors while immersing themselves in nature! You can also observe endangered plants and wild birds in the Kiushito Wetlands. [Video] 2:33 - Canyoning Winter in Noboribetsu brings a world of silvery white snow. Throw on some snowshoes and go out for a walk in the snow, see the unique ice trees, or enjoy skiing at the ski resort! Where to Eat & Where to Buy Souvenirs in Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido Photo：Seafood being grilled If you visit Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, we recommend trying the fresh seafood from Noboribetsu Fishing Port. At Onsen Ichiba (温泉市場), you can enjoy the seasonal seafood flavors, including sashimi and charbroiled fish. Be sure to check out the rich soft-serve ice cream made from Noboribetsu milk at the Noboribetsu Dairy Farm or at one of the cafes in town. If you're wondering where to buy souvenirs in Noboribetsu, we recommend cheese and pudding made with Noboribetsu milk from Noboribetsu Dairy Farm, "Wakasaimo" (わかさいも), a famous confectionery from the Iburi subprefecture of Hokkaido, and "Oni Densetsu," a beer brewed locally in Noboribetsu. Hotels and Ryokan in Noboribetsu Photo：Noboribetsu Onsen, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido There's no shortage of hotels and hot spring inns in Noboribetsu. Unfortunately, the onsen ryokan (hot spring inns) can end up costing a decent chunk of change to stay at. If you're simply looking to enjoy the area and aren't interested in spending extra for the hot spring inn experience, we recommend staying at a hotel. That being said, if you don't mind spending a bit more to get the full experience, we highly recommend staying at a hot spring inn. Here are our 3 recommendations for lodging in Noboribetsu: Takimotokan A large inn with both Japanese- and Western-style rooms. The history of the inn dates back nearly 150 years, and it's equipped with a wide range of facilities, including swimming pools, hot springs, shops, bars, karaoke, and more. Oyado Kiyomizuya A hot spring inn that serves traditional Japanese cuisine and features Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring. The public baths are open 24-hours a day, split into two time slots for men and women. Noboribetsu Grand Hotel This hotel in Noboribetsu features Japanese-style room with tatami floors, standard Western-style rooms, and semi-western-style rooms with both Japanese and western influences. The hotel offers buffet-style dining, but visitors can also enjoy full-course meals from the comfort of their own rooms. All of these inns and hotels are within walking distance to popular attractions like Jigokudani as well, making them great choices for places to stay. Noboribetsu, Hokkaido Sightseeing Summary Noboribetsu offers a host of things to do if you're planning on sightseeing in the area. You can enjoy the spectacular seasonal scenery and appreciate the magnificent nature unique to the area. Enjoy the magnificent nature and delicious local flavors by staying at Noboribetsu Onsen, and enjoy sightseeing in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido to your heart's content! 【Official Website】Noboribetsu, Hokkaido｜City Hall Website 【TripAdvisor】Noboribetsu, Hokkaido

Video Introduction of the Eurasian Red Squirrel of Hokkaido This video, titled "The Eurasian Red Squirrel Playing in a Field of Pink and Blue Flowers [2020]" (エゾリス駆ける、ブルーとピンクのお花畑は そのまんまメルヘンの世界だった 2020), was uploaded by "Shinji kawamura." The video shows footage of the Eurasian red squirrel eating nuts and running around cutely. What the Cute Eurasian Red Squirrels of Hokkaido Look Like Photo：A Eurasian Red Squirrel, Hokkaido The Eurasian red squirrel weighs approximately 300 to 410 grams and is approximately 22 to 27 cm in length, which is about the size of a kitten. A baby squirrel is about 6 to 8 centimeters long, making it very small and cute looking. The tail of the Eurasian red squirrel is covered with hair that is roughly 5 cm long, which makes the body of the squirrel itself appear larger. The hair itself is very fine, so you can see in the video how it fluffs up whenever the squirrel moves around. [Video] 4:04 - The cute tail of the Eurasian red squirrel Lifespan of the Eurasian Red Squirrel Photo：A Eurasian Red Squirrel, Hokkaido Natural predators of the Eurasian red squirrel include birds, such as crows, owls, and hawks, as well as cats and foxes. They live in nests in trees to protect themselves from their natural predators. The life span of the Eurasian red squirrel is said to be 2 to 4 years, but in some cases, they may live as long as 6 years. In Japan, they have to endure the harsh cold of Hokkaido, but they do not hibernate. Before winter is in full swing, they gather nuts and bury them in the ground to prepare for winter. Starting from around December, Hokkaido is covered with snow, so it's difficult for humans to tell where the squirrels have hidden their nuts. However, the Eurasian red squirrel can pinpoint the location of buried nuts and eat them. And while the winter coat of the Eurasian red squirrel is characterized by its fluffiness, it changes into a summer coat during the spring and summer months, giving them a slender appearance. Where to Spot the Eurasian Red Squirrel Photo：A wooden path at Maruyama Park, Sapporo The cute and cuddly Eurasian red squirrel lives in places where it's very cold, such as the northern part of Eurasia. In Japan, they can only be seen in Hokkaido. They inhabit the plains and subalpine forests of Hokkaido. It's difficult to go to a natural forest to see Eurasian red squirrels, even if you would like to see them in person after watching a video. We recommend Maruyama Park in Sapporo, Hokkaido. You may be lucky enough to see wild Eurasian red squirrels in Maruyama Park, a park surrounded by nature in Sapporo, Japan. In addition, an albino Eurasian red squirrel was spotted on the campus of Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine and blew up on the internet for a while. Incidentally, the Birds and Wildlife Protection Law prohibits the breeding of Eurasian red squirrels. Therefore, you have to go to Hokkaido to see them in Japan. If you want to see these cute little creatures, consider making a trip to Hokkaido! Summary of the Eurasian Red Squirrel Japan offers beautiful natural scenery in each of its four seasons. In this article, we introduced the cute Eurasian red squirrels of Hokkaido. They look like something out of a fairy tale. The sight of them running around energetically in a field of flowers is quite relaxing. Hokkaido is the only place in Japan where you can see Eurasian red squirrels in the wild. In Maruyama Park in Sapporo, there is a possibility to see Eurasian red squirrels in their natural habitat. If you're planning a trip to Hokkaido, consider checking them out? [Video] 1:13 - Eurasian red squirrels eating nuts Until you actually get to see them in person, please enjoy the lovely footage introduced in this article.

Sunflower Sapporo: Video Introduction This video, titled "Japan's Overnight Capsule Ferry 24 Hour Travel from Tokyo to Hokkaido｜Mitsui MOL Ferry Co.｜Sunflower｜Boat Journey｜Oarai to Tomakomai" (Japan's Overnight Capsule Ferry｜24 Hour Travel from Tokyo to Hokkaido 商船三井フェリー さんふらわあ 船旅 大洗→苫小牧), was uploaded by "Travel Alone Idea." On the very same commercial route, MOL Ferry's Sunflower Sapporo has attracted attention for its success in unmanned operation. This article/video will guide you through the ferry trip as if you were on a tour. If you're looking for different ways to travel in Japan knowing what each type of transportation offers is important. The video will also take a look at the accommodations and restaurants on board, so be sure to check it out. Sunflower Sapporo – A Ferry for Travelers Photo：Tomakomai Ferry Terminal, Tomakomai, Hokkaido The Sunflower Sapporo ferry runs between Oarai Port in Ibaraki Prefecture and Tomakomai Port in Hokkaido. Fares vary from 9,800 yen to 63,200 yen depending on the accommodation type you choose. Fares also vary by season. If you're planning on bringing a car with you on the ferry, you'll need to check those rates as well. The Sunflower Furano is a ferry of the same type as the Sunflower Sapporo, and both ferries operate at night. Guest Rooms on the Sunflower Sapporo Source :YouTube screenshot The Sunflower Sapporo offers several types of accommodations. The large "Tourist" accommodations with only a curtain partition are recommended for seasoned travelers and those who wish to enjoy a cruise that doesn't break the bank. The "Comfort Type" accommodations shown in the video are casual rooms that are set up as private rooms and offer more privacy. Each room is equipped with a TV so you can relax during your trip. [Video] 3:18 - Comfort Type Guest Room Other accommodations include the "premium" type, which features deluxe rooms with private balconies, as well as the "suite" type, and even Japanese-style accommodations. Breakfast and Services on the Sunflower Sapporo Source :YouTube screenshot The Sunflower Sapporo has a buffet-style restaurant where passengers can enjoy a meal with a lovely view of the sea, for an additional fee. The ship also has a store where you can buy souvenirs, a large public bath, a sauna, coin-operated laundry machines, a game center, and other services to help you enjoy your trip. Free Wi-Fi is also available on board, although the connection might be a bit slow for video streaming. [Video] 5:40 - Restaurants Onboard the Ferry Sunflower Sapporo's Pet Policy Pets are allowed on the Sunflower Sapporo. Pet rooms are available for pets, and the ferry also offers rooms for those who wish to stay with their pets during their voyage. Both require advance reservations and filling out a confirmation form, so please keep this in mind when making reservations. There is also a free dog run so your pet can enjoy the cruise as well. It's quite accommodating for those looking to travel with their pets! Tokyo-Sapporo Pacific Story: An Affordable Way to Explore Japan Pacific Story is a connecting ticket that offers special discount rates for express buses and ferries from Tokyo Station to Sapporo Station. It eliminates the hassle of purchasing a ticket when transferring between buses and ferries, allowing you to enjoy a hassle-free journey. You can also arrange your trip so that you can stay overnight in Mito or Oarai, or in Tomakomai or Sapporo. To use Pacific Story, reservations must be made at the Passenger Booking Centers. Summary of the Sunflower Sapporo Photo：Sunset from a ferry The Sunflower Sapporo and Sunflower Furano are overnight ferries and are favorites among boat travelers. The best part of traveling by boat is that you can spend time relaxing and enjoying the view of the sea, something you cannot experience when traveling by plane or train. Consider trying this means of transportation as a way to enjoy the sea as you travel between Tokyo and Sapporo! 【Official Website】Mitsui O.S.K. Ferry Co.｜If You're Traveling by Sea, MOL Ferry https://www.sunflower.co.jp/en/

Video Introduction This video, titled "Lake Nukabira in Hokkaido, a Treasure Trove of Ice Bubbles in Winter...." (北海道糠平湖、この冬アイスバブルの宝庫に...。), was uploaded by "Shinji Kawamura." Lake Nukabira's Ice Bubbles Photo：Ice bubbles at Lake Nukabira, Hokkaido Lake Nukabira, located in Kamishihoro, Hokkaido, a town with great natural beauty in Northern Japan, is a man-made dammed lake completed in 1956. Around Lake Nukabira are the hot springs and ski slopes of Nukabira Gensenkyo. These facilities, as well as smelt fishing on Lake Nukabira are also popular during the winter months, when the Lake Nukabira Ice Bubbles can be enjoyed. The Lake Nukabira Ice Bubbles refer to the phenomenon in which gases generated by microorganisms decomposing plants, etc. that have sunk to the bottom of the lake are trapped in ice as the lake freezes. The sight of countless bubbles freezing like white jellyfish in the ice at various depths is nothing short of magical! It's an exceptional sight created by nature that looks great on Instagram. You can enjoy a fantastic sight of the Lake Nukabira Ice Bubbles throughout the video. [Video] 0:25 - Lake Nukabira Ice Bubbles When to See the Lake Nukabira Ice Bubbles Photo：Ice bubbles at Lake Nukabira, Hokkaido The ice bubbles can be seen from early January to late February, provided that snow is not covering the ice. Since the ice bubbles are often seen in years with little snowfall, if you want to see the ice bubbles at Lake Nukabira, we recommend checking the weather conditions and snowfall. Since there are few places in Japan where you can see ice bubbles, seeing them at Lake Nukabira can be considered lucky. For safer viewing, it's recommended that you join a tour organized by Higashitaisetsu Nature Guide Centre, which will take you to places where you can see the ice bubbles. Sightseeing and Attractions at Lake Nukabira Photo：Taushubetsu Bridge, Hokkaido The video only shows beautiful images of Lake Nukabira's ice bubbles, but there are also various leisure and sightseeing spots around Lake Nukabira. One of the most famous sights of Lake Nukabira is Taushubetsu Bridge. Taushubetsu Bridge is an arch-shaped bridge over which the old Japan National Railways Shihoro Line ran. The reflection of Taushubetsu Bridge on the lake is fantastic, and there are tours where visitors can see the bridge in all seasons. In the video, you can see a series of arch bridges on a frozen Lake Nukabira. [Video] 0:00 - Taushubetsu Bridge In winter, you can enjoy Lake Nukabira's ice bubbles as well as the aforementioned smelt fishing, and in summer, you can enjoy fishing for different varieties of trout. From the end of June to the end of September, the Lake Nukabira Campground, a place rich in nature, can be used! From the campground, visitors can also take a day trip to the Nukabira Gensenkyo. The foot-pedaled trolley train, modeled after the tracks of the old Japanese National Railways, is also popular! Mori no Torokko Ecorail allows parents and children to enjoy a train trip in the great outdoors, which is approximately 1 km round trip. It also doesn't require any reservations! Access to Lake Nukabira ・From Obihiro Station, 100 minutes by bus (20 minutes walking from Nukabira Gensenkyo Office) ・Approximately 77 minutes by car from Obihiro Station Summary of Lake Nukabira's Ice Bubbles Lake Nukabira, located near the center of Hokkaido, is a popular tourist spot where you can enjoy the magnificent nature of Japan throughout the year. This article introduced information about when and under what conditions you can see the Lake Nukabira ice bubbles, as well as information about leisure and sightseeing activities to enjoy at Lake Nukabira. Seeing the fantastic ice bubble of Lake Nukabira in winter will surely have you wanting to see it in person. Be sure to check weather conditions in advance so that you can visit and experience the natural beauty of Japan during winter. 【TripAdvisor】Lake Nukabira https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1120379-d8734770-Reviews-Lake_Nukabira-Kamishihoro_cho_Kato_gun_Hokkaido.html

Sapporo Clock Tower! This time, we'll introduce the video "Sapporo 'Sapporo Clock Tower,'" a video tour of Sapporo City Clock Tower, a popular tourist attraction in Sapporo City (札幌市, Sapporo-Shi), Hokkaido (北海道, Hokkaido)! The Sapporo Clock Tower is a distinctive building with a large clock on a triangular roof in Sapporo City, Hokkaido. The Sapporo Clock Tower is the oldest existing clock tower in Japan and has been designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. In this article, we introduce the Sapporo Clock Tower alongside the video. What Is the Sapporo Clock Tower? Photo：Hokkaido・Sapporo Clock Tower The Sapporo Clock Tower is a historical building built in 1876 as the former Sapporo Agricultural College's (currently Hokkaido University) martial arts dojo (enbujo). As you can see from 1:50 in the video, the signboard that says "enbujo" is still there. This mechanical clock tower was installed in the building in 1881. The clock is a pendulum-type tower clock made in the United States. The clock tower was purchased by the Sapporo City Government in 1896, and the building was used as a library and public hall before being used as an exhibition hall. More About the Sapporo Clock Tower Source :YouTube screenshot The area where the Sapporo Clock Tower is located is also known as the birthplace of Hokkaido University. Many documents from the Hokkaido University Library are displayed at the Sapporo Clock Tower as well. As you can see from 2:41 in the video, a photo of "Bell of Clock Tower," a song written by Tetsuo Takashina in 1922, played on the violin, is displayed in the exhibition room on the first floor. Additionally, from 4:11 in the video, you can see a reproduction of the auditorium on the second floor of the Sapporo Clock Tower and the inner workings of the clock. Sightseeing Around Sapporo Clock Tower Photo：Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill・Clark Statue In the vicinity of the Clock Tower in Sapporo City, you can see the Former Hokkaido Government Office Building (Red Brick Office Building), and also Hokkaido University, known for the famous words of Dr. Clark, the first vice principal of the university, who said "Boys, be ambitious!" The former Sapporo Agricultural College's dojo was constructed based on the concept that Dr. Clark produced, and in 2017, a statue of Dr. Clark was installed in the Sapporo Clock Tower. You can also enjoy other local delicacies in Sapporo, such as ramen and seafood bowls. There are also many places where you can buy souvenirs nearby. The Sapporo Clock Tower also hosts concerts and events, so be sure to check out their schedule when visiting. Summary of the Sapporo Clock Tower Photo：Hokkaido・Sapporo Clock Tower This video captures the charm of the Sapporo Clock Tower in Hokkaido. The Sapporo Clock Tower underwent a renovation in 2018 and now looks refreshed and beautiful. Unfortunately, the Sapporo Clock Tower is surrounded by buildings and is unfortunately one of the "three most disappointing spots in Japan" due to its less-than-ideal view. However, if you actually visit and tour the museum, you'll be able to enjoy a facility that gives you a sense of Japan's history and culture. If you're looking for places in Hokkaido that are perfect for your Instagram, Sapporo Clock Tower is the place to go! ◆Sapporo Clock Tower Facility Information◆ 【Address】Kita 1-jo Nishi 2-chome, Chuo-Ward, Sapporo 【Access】A 10-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station, a 5-minute walk from Odori Subway Station 【Hours】8:45～17:10 【Admission Fee】Adults: 200 JPY, Free for high school students and younger 【Parking】None 【Telephone】011-231-0838 【Official Website】Sapporo Clock Tower：HOME http://sapporoshi-tokeidai.jp/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Sapporo Clock Tower https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298560-d319830-Reviews-Clock_Tower_Tokei_dai-Sapporo_Hokkaido.html

About Esashi, a "Japan Heritage" "Esashi, Sightseeing Promotional Video, Japan Heritage" (北海道江差町　観光ＰＲ動画（日本遺産)), is a video created by the "Esashi Municipal Department of Tourism." Esashi, in the Hiyama District of Hokkaido, is the first place to be registered as a Japan Heritage in Hokkaido, and is also a place of scenic beauty. It sits on the coast of the Sea of Japan, with a population of 7,561. (2019, May). It's said that Esashi is the origin of Hokkaido's culture and thrived thanks to it's herring fishing during the Edo Period. In 2014, the mayor of Esashi became the youngest mayor in Japan at just 29 years of age. In this video, the attractions of Esashi are packed into just 3 minutes of footage. Enjoy the nature and history of Esashi, Hokkaido. What Are "Esashi Herring"? Source :YouTube screenshot Esashi is surrounded by the ocean, and in the Edo period (1603-1867) it was a place where herring fishing was going through a boom. This is explained at 0:26 in the video. At the time, herring was a good fertilizer. Esashi was busy, especially in May, because herring was a seasonal fish in May and many ships from Edo (Tokyo) and Osaka, came to fish for them. Because of this, the popular phrase "Even Edo is not as busy as Esashi in May" was coined. Many of the leftover goods remain in the storehouses of merchants from the time, demonstrating their prosperity and showing just how successful the business was. Even now, herring soba is popular as a local dish in Esashi. Check out the video at 0:51 to see the merchant's warehouses. Tourist Attractions in Esashi! Source :YouTube screenshot There's Kamamome Island where ships called "Kitamaebune" docked during the herring fishing season, Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社, Itsukushima jinjya), where sailors prayed for safety at sea, and the strangely shaped Heishi Rock (瓶子岩, Heishiiwa). There's a legend of Heishi Rock, that says when the sailors couldn’t catch any herring and were facing starvation, they poured divine water into the sea causing a swarm of herring to appear. Since then, every July a ceremony is held where they replace the "Shimenawa" (a rope used to cordon off consecrated areas or as a talisman against evil​) at Heishi Rock. This can be seen at 1:27 in the video. The Ubagami Grand Shrine (姥神大神宮, Ubagami Daijingu) which overlooks the port of Esashi, is famous for its summer festival, the Ubagami Grand Shrine Togyo Festival, which is said to be the oldest festival in Hokkaido. From 2:01, the festival song "Esashi Oiwake," which has been passed down since the Edo Period, can be seen being performed. It has a nostalgic melody reminiscent of Edo and because of that, it's said that "Esashi Oiwake" is the king of folk songs. The herring fishing song "Soran Bushi" and "Hokkai Bonuta" also represent the culture of Hokkaido. We recommend visiting Esashi during the summer festival where you can check out the big floats and the Ohayashi band. Recommended Tourist Attractions Photo：Esashi Inishie Kaido Street There are many historic places and buildings that remain in Esashi, such as shrines, temples and houses. Walking down Inishie Kaido Street, next to the ocean, will take you to those historic places. For example, The Former Nakamura Family Merchant House, Yokoyama House, and the Esashi Town Historical Museum are all attractive spots that retain a good old-fashioned Japanese atmosphere. Visiting Esashicho Bunka Hall, Esashi Town Meeting Hall, Esashi Oiwake/Yama Museum, and the Esashi Town Historical Museum to learn about the history is another great way to enjoy oneself. The Kaiyo Maru from Netherlands can be seen near Kamome Island. It was a battleship of the Shogunate's navy at the end of the Edo Period. (About 1860) You also get a great view, surrounded by the ocean waves, when the weather is nice. Don't forget your camera! Summary of Esashi Photo：A school of fish As you can see in the video, Esashi, Hokkaido is a fishing town with many and festivals and historic places left over from the old days of Japan. Enjoy seeing the attractions of Hokkaido through the video. At 2:36, we learn that, in 2017, a school of herring were seen for the first time in 104 years in Esashi, and a new light began to shine on Esashi once again. Esashi is a sort of hole-in-the-wall destination in Hokkaido, but has easy access from Hakodate by train or bus. If you're headed this way, we recommend checking out Hakodate as well! Also, if Esashi interests you, check out the local products of Hometown Tax Donation Program. There are attractive local products like queen crab and gasa shrimp. 【Official website】Esashi Town hall homepage https://www.hokkaido-esashi.jp/ 【Trip Advisor】Esashi https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1120309-Esashi_cho_Hiyama_gun_Hokkaido-Vacations.html

A Look at Kofuku Station! This video, released by "Shinji kawamura," introduces Kofuku Station on the former Japanese National Railways' Hiroo Line that used to run in Hokkaido. The video is titled "Kofuku Station, a Holy Space for Lovers" (幸福の駅　恋人の聖地　Happy station A sweetheart's holy place). Aikoku Station (愛国駅) and Kofuku Station (幸福駅) on the former Japan National Railways' Hiroo Line are popular stations that have become nationwide trends. As you can see from 0:19 in the video, the inside of Kofuku Station is covered with copies of tickets, business cards, photos, and message cards A tourist once stuck his business card on the wall in the station wishing for happiness and that's how the tradition of stickying lucky cards on the walls was established. More About Kofuku Station, a Holy Space for Lovers in Hokkaido! Photo：Kokufuki Station - station nameplate, Hokkaido Kofuku Station is a station on the Hiroo Line of the Japan National Railways that used to exist in the town of Kofuku (幸福町, Kofuku-Cho), Obihiro City (帯広市, Obihiro-Shi), Hokkaido. The popularity of this station has exploded since 1973, when it was featured in NHK TV program "Shin-Nihon-Kiko" (A Travelogue for New Japan) and used as a filming location for a TV drama with the catchphrase "From the Land of Love to Kofuku." It's said that buying a ticket at this station would bring love and happiness and because of this the station sold 13 million tickets. Unfortunately, Kofuku station closed on February 2, 1987, when the Hiroo Line was discontinued. Since the Hiroo Line was discontinued, Kofuku Station has become a railroad park and Aikoku Station was turned into a transportation memorial hall. Both have become popular tourist destinations. Things To Do Near Kofuku Station, a Holy Space for Lovers in Hokkaido! Photo：Kofuku Station & a diesel train, Hokkaido In 2013, with the concept of "old but new," the station building was renovated to reinforce its earthquake resistance. A fountain called "Ai-no-Izumi" (The Fountain of Love), and a symbol tree called "Kofuku-no-Ki" were newly installed and the station was reborn as a more attractive site. The diesel trains, platforms, and abandoned railroad cars are still in their original state, allowing you to glimpse back in time. At Kofuku Station, known as a holy space for lovers, you can enjoy the "Kofuku Station Happy Ceremony," a wedding experience that includes a commemorative photo shoot while wearing a wedding dress. At the gift shop in the station building, you can buy souvenirs, such as key chains and tickets. Summary of "Kofuku Station," a Holy Space for Lovers in Hokkaido! Photo：Kofuku Station & a diesel train, Hokkaido The signboard and the Happiness Bell at Kofuku Station are just perfect for Instagram. There is a Kofuku Shrine near Kofuku Station and an Aikoku Shrine near Aikoku Station. These are also worth a visit. Sapporo (札幌, Sapporo) and Hakodate (函館, Hakodate) are the most popular tourist destinations in Hokkaido, but now you might want to believe in the sign of good luck and visit Kofuku Station. 【Tripadvisor】Kofuku Station https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g608507-d1882914-Reviews-Kofuku_Station-Obihiro_Hokkaido.html

Otsu Beach, Toyokoro, Hokkaido: Video Introduction This video, titled "[Jewelry Ice] Toyokoro, Otsu Beach, Near the Mouth of the Tokachi River｜Mavic Pro 4K｜Aerial Photography" ([ジュエリーアイス] 豊頃町 大津海岸 十勝川河口付近 Mavic Pro 4K 空撮), was uploaded by "Koichi Katayama" (片山昇一). Otsu Beach is located in Toyokoro, on Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island and is a vast expanse of land overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It's known as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hokkaido in recent years for its "Jewelry Ice," natural artwork created by nature. Among Hokkaido's many exciting tourist destinations, people are especially interested in seeing the jewelry ice. Enjoy the beautiful views of winter in Japan along with some relaxing music. [Video] 0:16 - A Fantastic Sunrise Over the Foggy Sea Where to See the Jewelry Ice – Otsu Beach in Toyokoro, Hokkaido Photo：Harunire Tree, Toyokoro, Hokkaido Toyokoro is located in Tokachi, Hokkaido. It takes about 40 minutes to reach from Obihiro by car. This city is near the mouth of the Tokachi River. It's called "The Birthplace of Tokachi" due to its history as the starting place where the Tokachi region expanded upstream from the mouth of the Tokachi River. This city's name came from the word "Toekoro." The name, meaning "The place where giant butterburs grow," comes from the Ainu language. From oceans and mountains to vast plains… Toyokoro is full of natural beauty. In addition to the sightseeing spots with beautiful waterside scenery such as Lake Choboshi (長節湖, Choboshiko) and Lake Yudo (湧洞湖, Yudoko), the town's symbol, the "Harunire Tree," is estimated to be 150 years old and is a popular photo spot where visitors can enjoy different expressions in each of Japan's four seasons. A short car ride will take you to the rich ocean, Otsu Beach, and Otsu Fishing Port (大津漁港, Otsugyoko), where you can see "jewelry ice." It's a relatively new, but popular, tourist attraction thanks to its beautiful scenery. Of course, the seafood here is delicious as well, so be sure to try some after sightseeing in the area. [Video] 0:59 - Mist Over the Tokachi River How Does the Jewelry Ice Form? When Can I see the Jewelry Ice? Photo：Jewlery ice, Toyokoro, Hokkaido "Jewelry ice" is a group of ice blocks that have washed up on the shore. This ice comes from the Tokachi River and flows to the Pacific Ocean. As the ice is battered by waves, the edges are removed and the ice becomes smooth, clear and crystal-like. The resulting product of this natural phenomenon is the beautiful jewelry ice. Jewelry ice, created by the severe cold of Tokachi and the Tokachi River, shines like a beautiful jewel in the sunlight. The jewelry ice changes its color beautifully from yellow, gold, orange, red, purple, and blue depending on the time of day, making it a popular destination for tourists and photographers alike. The best time to see the jewelry ice is usually from mid-January to late February on the sandy beach near the mouth of the Tokachi River in Otsu, Toyokoro. Photographing the Jewelry Ice at Sunset: Tips for Photographers Photo：Jewelry ice shining brightly at sunrise It's recommended that you take photos when the sun rises. By doing so, you can really capture the beauty of the natural phenomenon. Sunrise is from 6:40 - 7:00 a.m. in January and February. You should visit there around 30 to 60 minutes before the sunrise to take photos and prepare. Look for jewel-like clear ice or ice with mysterious holes created by nature, and take pictures by arranging the ice in a composition that takes into account the direction of the morning sunrise and the waves. It'll make for some amazing Instagram photos as well! Suffice it to say, you can easily take some amazing photos here. There's even a special page on Toyokoro's official website where information about the "jewelry ice" is updated daily. Be sure to check it out if you're visiting! Things to Be Careful of When Viewing the Jewelry Ice – Respect the Local Residents Please remember to be considerate of local residents around the area where jewelry ice can be seen, as there are residential areas in close proximity. If you're coming by car, please use the free parking lots, as cars are not allowed on the beach. Parking on the street is strictly prohibited, as it can inconvenience the local residents and obstruct access for emergency vehicles. Please remember to observe good manners, especially when visiting the site at night or early in the morning, particularly with regards to parking, noise, and disposing of trash. Summary of Jewelry Ice at Otsu Beach Photo：Jewelry ice and stars at Otsu Beach, Hokkaido Temperatures during this time of year, when thew jewelry ice can be seen, can drop below -20°C! The lowest temperatures are often recorded early in the morning, between 6:30 and 7:30 a.m., and taking into account windchill, etc., it can feel like it's -25°C to -30°C outside. Therefore, it's important to dress warm to protect yourself from the cold. Body temperature varies greatly depending on the strength of the wind and humidity, so please check the weather forecast and temperature in advance to be well prepared for your trip. It's also said that electronic devices (cell phones, cameras, etc.) should be kept warm with body warmers, as extremely low temperatures may temporarily cause batteries to drain faster. Be sure to fill a water bottle with a hot drink and drink it to stay warm while you admire the clear sparkling ice. If you end up visiting and taking some photos, we'd love to see them in our photo contests as well! [TripAdvisor] Otsu Beach

Hokkaido's Asahiyama Zoo The video "JG 4K Asahiyama Zoo, Hokkaido" (JG 4K 北海道 旭山動物園 Asahiyama Zoo, Hokkaido), introduces Asahiyama Zoo, a popular tourist spot in Hokkaido. Asahiyama Zoo is 15 hectares. It's the size of about 3 Tokyo Domes. There are over 650 animals (100 species) bred in the park. The 20-minute video contains plenty of cute animals, so be sure to check it out! About Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo Photo：Asahiyama Zoo Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo, known as the northernmost zoo in Japan, is a historical zoo that opened in 1951. The special feature of Asahiyama Zoo is the "Behavior Exhibit" where you can see the behavior and life of the animals. The facility is designed to allow visitors to get up close and personal with animals that move around freely. To achieve this goal, penguins roam the park freely, and they hold an event to display meal time called "Munching Time." Another characteristic of Asahiyama Zoo's exhibition is the "mixed exhibition" in which different animals are raised in the same place. The Asahiyama Zoo was in danger of closing in 1994 (Heisei 6), but by incorporating these exhibits, the Asahiyama Zoo has recovered brilliantly. During its big boom, it became the nation's top zoo, attracting 3 million visitors annually. Currently, you can see behavior exhibits at zoos around the country. The Animals of Asahiyama Zoo Photo：Asahiyama Zoo From 0:25 in the video, you can see the popular penguins, and from 2:04, you can see the awesome appearance of the polar bears at the Polar Bear Hall. In the video, you can see the tiger at the "Fierce Animal House" (もうじゅう館) (15:29-), a snow leopard (15:38), an Ussuri brown bear (15:48), elephants, seals (9:41), red pandas (18:08), snowy owls (18:46), cranes (19:10), and eagles (19:27). The park is quite large, and visitors can enjoy a variety of facilities, such as the 360-degree underwater tunnel, a hippopotamus building, a wolf forest, flamingo house, monkey house, giraffe house, a suspension bridge, and a marine way. Although not shown in the video, you can see reindeer, hippos, giraffes, chimpanzees, ostriches, Japanese macaques, foxes, raccoons, capybaras and other animals as well. One of the attractions of the Asahiyama Zoo is its various events that are held throughout the year. During the Obon season, they extend their hours of operation to allow you to observe nocturnal animals in a different way than you do during the day. There is also a restaurant where you can enjoy lunch and a souvenir shop where you can purchase limited edition animal merchandise. Take your time and enjoy the sights along the tour. Summary of Hokkaido's Asahiyama Zoo Photo：A King Penguin Hokkaido has a variety of sightseeing spots, including Sapporo City, Furano, and Hakodate, so be sure to visit Asahiyama Zoo if you're headed that way. There are a number of sightseeing tours offered, but since your time at the zoo is limited to 2-3 hours, it may not be enough to enjoy all that the zoo has to offer. In winter, business hours are shorter, so please check the weather and other information before visiting. There are restaurants and hotels in the surrounding area, so it's a good idea to stay in Asahikawa and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city. As of March 31, 2018, the Asahiyama Zoo Live Camera was discontinued, so please take the time to enjoy the animals' ecology through this video. ◆Asahiyama Zoo◆ 【Address】 Kuranuma, Higashi Asahikawa Town, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido 【Director】Gen Bando 【Access】About 40 minutes by bus from Asahikawa Station (2 hours from Sapporo). There is also the "Asahiyama Zoo Train" that runs between Sapporo and Asahikawa. 【Hours】Summer 9: 30-17: 15, Winter 10: 30-15: 30 【Admission Fee】Free for junior high school students and younger, 820 yen for high school students and older (special discount coupon available for senior citizens) 【Parking】Available (free) 【Phone number】0166-36-1104 【Official Website】Home | Asahikawa City Asahiyama Zoo https://honyaku.j-server.com/LUCAKC/ns/tl.cgi/https://www.city.asahikawa.hokkaido.jp/asahiyamazoo/index.html?SLANG=ja&TLANG=en&XMODE=0&XCHARSET=utf-8&XJSID=0 【Tripadvisor】 Asahiyama Zoo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g319103-d780529-Reviews-Asahiyama_Zoo-Asahikawa_Hokkaido.html

Introduction of Obihiro Zoo’s Japanese Raccoon Dogs! This video, “しぐさが可愛い！おびひろ動物園のタヌキが人気に” (Too cute! The Popular Raccon Dogs of Obihiro Zoo!), is an interview-style video first televised on HTB News. In the video, “buried raccoon dogs”, the adorable sight of raccoon dogs playing in the pool of fallen leaves prepared by the zoo’s staff, is shown. But just why are the raccoon dogs of Obihiro Zoo (おびひろ動物園, Obihiro dobutsuen) burying into the fallen leaves? In this article, we will introduce these animals along with a video of the adorable raccoon dogs peeking out from the fallen leaves. Obihiro Zoo's Raccoon Dogs Source :YouTube screenshot The raccoon dogs shown in the video are named An and Shiro. Originally, the zoo staff had hidden food in the fallen leaves. However, the raccoon dogs continued to bury themselves comfortably in the pool of leaves, as shown in the video, due to the warmth provided by it. The adorable sight of their faces peeking out from amongst the leaves can be seen from 0:25 in the video. This video of the raccoon dogs playing in the pool of leaves was posted on Twitter by zoo staff, and began to trend on social media sites. What Are Japanese Raccoon Dogs? Source :YouTube screenshot Japanese raccoon dogs are a member of the Canidae family, and are a Japanese subspecies of the Asian raccoon dog. They can be found in certain areas of Hokkaido. Japanese raccoon dogs grow to a length of about 50 centimeters and weight about 4 to 8 kilograms. Those living in the wild have a lifespan of 6 to 8 years. They are mostly nocturnal, and subsist on an omnivorous diet of fruits, insects, and meat. The ezo tanuki species of Hokkaido is said to be different from the hondo tanuki species found in other areas of Japan. Japanese raccoon dogs come under the Wildlife Protection and Hunting Act of Japan, and cannot be raised as pets without special permission. Let’s Visit the Zoo to See the Japanese Raccoon Dogs! Source :YouTube screenshot The raccoon dogs can be seen in Obihiro Zoo, as introduced in the video. However, as mentioned at 0:44 in the video, the zoo closes for a certain period of time during the winter season, so do make sure to confirm the opening days before visiting. In recent years, the “natural behavior display”, where visitors can observe the behavior of animals in their natural habitat, has become a popular display method in zoos. In Hokkaido, besides Obihiro Zoo, zoos such as the popular Asahiyama Zoo (旭山動物園, Asahiyama dobutsuen) and Sapporo City Maruyama Zoo (札幌市円山動物園, Sappro-shi maruyama dobutsuen) also make use of such displays. In the souvenir shop of the zoo, you can purchase adorable raccoon dog plush toys as well. Summary of Japanese Raccoon Dogs at Obihiro Zoo In this one-minute video, you can get a sense of just how adorable and charming the Japanese raccoon dogs are. As seen from 0:50 in the video, as the season begins to change to winter, the raccoon dogs’ fur grows out rapidly and becomes soft and fluffy. For those who want to view this adorable sight, definitely pay a visit to Obihiro Zoo in the winter. 【Official Website】Obihiro Zoo | Obihiro City Homepage Tokachi https://www.city.obihiro.hokkaido.jp/zoo/