| population | 22,100 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 502.65 km² |
| population density | 44 peoples/km² |
Nemuro City, located at the easternmost tip of Hokkaido, is the first place in Japan to see the sunrise. Once a key center of Ainu culture and later an important port opened to foreign trade in the late Edo period, Nemuro retains a deep sense of history and tradition. Surrounded by both the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Okhotsk, the city has long prospered through its rich fishing grounds. It is famous for marine products such as Pacific saury, hanasaki crab, and surf clams, while the inland area of Atsunai is known for its dairy farms and peaceful rural scenery. The maritime climate brings cool summers and mild winters, and frequent sea fogs give Nemuro the nickname “the City of Mist.” With vast wetlands, birdwatching areas, and scenic capes, Nemuro offers breathtaking natural beauty throughout the year — a place where history, nature, and people coexist harmoniously.
Culture & Traditions
Nemuro has long been a focal point of Ainu culture. During the Edo period, the Matsumae Domain established a trading post here, and the port opened to foreign vessels during the late 19th century, blending diverse cultures. Both the fishing and agricultural industries thrive, forming a lifestyle deeply rooted in the blessings of the sea and land. The local dialect reflects influences from northeastern Japan, and many place names derive from the Ainu language. Cultural events like the Nemuro Port Festival, Kotohira Shrine Festival, Crab Festival, and Sanma Festival are central to local identity. In winter, the Nemuro Winter Festival fills the city with lights and ice sculptures, showcasing the warmth of the community. Visitors can also find memorials that recount the city’s recovery from wartime air raids, making Nemuro a place where tradition and resilience coexist.
Local Specialties
- Hanasaki Crab: The most iconic product of Nemuro, named after Hanasaki Port where it is caught. Its rich, sweet flavor and firm meat make it a delicacy, especially as boiled crab or in crab miso soup.
- Pacific Saury (Sanma): Known nationwide as “Nemuro Sanma,” this autumn delicacy is famous for its fatty, savory taste. It is enjoyed grilled, in sushi, or as sashimi. The annual Sanma Festival celebrates its harvest.
- Surf Clam (Hokkigai): Harvested along Nemuro Bay, the clam’s firm texture and mild sweetness make it a popular sushi topping and ingredient in local dishes.
- Alaska Pollock (Sukesou-dara): A white fish caught in winter, prized for its delicate flavor and used for fish cakes and cod roe.
- Scallops: Large, sweet scallops are farmed in the coastal waters of Nemuro and are enjoyed raw, grilled, or sautéed with butter.
- “Kita no Katsu” Sake: A local sake brewed by Usui Katsusaburou Shoten, the only sake brewery in Nemuro. Its crisp, refined taste reflects the region’s cool climate and pure water.
Annual Events
- Nemuro Winter Festival (February): Organized by the Nemuro Tourism Association, this winter event features illuminated ice sculptures, fireworks, and snow activities in a magical atmosphere.
- Nemuro Port Festival (July): The largest summer event, uniting the whole city with parades, a fishing boat procession, and a spectacular fireworks display.
- Kotohira Shrine Festival (August): Held at Kotohira Shrine, featuring traditional Shinto rituals, portable shrines, and bustling street stalls.
- Crab Festival (September): Celebrating the season of the Hanasaki crab at Hanasaki Port, where visitors can enjoy freshly grilled crab and seafood markets.
- Sanma Festival (September): A beloved autumn event where freshly caught saury is grilled and shared for free, accompanied by music and entertainment.
Access
- By Air: The nearest airport is Nemuro Nakashibetsu Airport, about 1 hour 30 minutes from New Chitose Airport by ANA flight. From there, buses connect to Nemuro City (approx. 90 minutes).
- By Train: Take the JR Hanasaki Line (Nemuro Main Line) from Kushiro to Nemuro Station — about 2.5 hours. The route offers scenic coastal views.
- By Bus: Intercity buses operated by Akan Bus and Nemuro Kotsu run between Kushiro and Nemuro, providing an affordable and comfortable option.
- By Car: Approximately 3 hours’ drive from Kushiro via National Route 44. Along the way, travelers can stop at scenic spots like Lake Furen and Akkeshi.
Tourist Attractions
- Cape Nosappu – The easternmost point of mainland Japan. Its observatory and lighthouse offer views of the Northern Territories, with museums such as “Hoppo-kan” and “House of Hopes.”
- Lake Furen – A sanctuary for migratory birds, especially swans. Nearby Shunkunitai is a pristine wetland ideal for birdwatching and walking trails.
- Cape Ochiishi – One of Hokkaido’s three “secret capes,” offering dramatic cliffs and seasonal wildflowers against the blue sea.
- Meiji Park – A historic park featuring 19th-century silos from the early settlement era, surrounded by cherry blossoms and lush greenery.
- Nemuro Historical and Natural Museum – Exhibits Ainu artifacts, natural history, and records of postwar reconstruction, offering deep insights into Nemuro’s heritage.
