| population | 2,101 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 142.99 km² |
| population density | 14.7 peoples/km² |
Welcome to Okushiri Town, located on Okushiri Island in the Hiyama Subprefecture of Hokkaido. The entire island makes up the town’s area, accessible by ferry from Esashi (about 2 hours and 15 minutes) or by plane from Hakodate Airport (about 40 minutes). Surrounded by the Sea of Japan, Okushiri offers breathtaking scenery of blue ocean and lush green mountains. The town’s main industries are fishing and agriculture, particularly known for premium seafood such as purple sea urchins, surf clams, and scallops, as well as potatoes and rice. After the devastating 1993 Hokkaido Nansei-Oki Earthquake, the town rebuilt itself through resilience and unity. Today, Okushiri thrives as a destination where visitors can experience its beautiful landscapes, local food, and strong sense of community rooted in history and culture.
Culture and Traditions
Okushiri has a deep history shaped by the interaction between the indigenous Ainu people and Japanese settlers. Since the Edo period, the island prospered as a fishing base, and its traditions remain alive today. The 1993 earthquake left a lasting impact, but residents rebuilt the town with remarkable strength and compassion. Locals speak a distinct dialect known as “Okushiri-ben,” with soft and melodic tones. Many cultural events are held at local shrines, including the island’s three major festivals—the Nabetsuru Festival, Sai no Kawara Festival, and Murotsu Festival. These feature lantern floating, portable shrines, fireworks, and lively performances that attract visitors from across Japan. Okushiri’s culture, where nature and humanity coexist, reflects the heart and resilience of its people—a true expression of Hokkaido’s spirit.
Local Specialties
- Okushiri Shishamo (Smelt): Caught in the coastal waters of Okushiri, these fish are rich in flavor and fat. Grilled over charcoal, they become tender and fragrant—a beloved local delicacy.
- Okushiri Sea Salt: Handcrafted from the island’s pristine seawater. This natural salt is mineral-rich and mild, perfect for sashimi, tempura, or seasoning grilled fish.
- Okushiri Kelp: Grown in nutrient-rich waters where warm and cold currents meet, Okushiri kelp is thick, aromatic, and full of umami, ideal for making rich dashi broth.
- Okushiri Scallops: Raised in the island’s clean and cold waters, these scallops are thick, juicy, and sweet. Enjoy them raw as sashimi or seared in butter.
- Okushiri Wine: Produced at the Okushiri Winery, these wines feature a crisp acidity and delicate aroma shaped by the island’s cool climate and sea breeze.
Annual Events
- Sai no Kawara Festival (June): Held at Sai no Kawara Park, this memorial event features lantern floating and live performances in remembrance of disaster victims. The illuminated night scene is truly moving.
- Murotsu Festival (mid-July): Taking place at Aonae Fishing Port, this traditional maritime festival includes a fleet parade of fishing boats and hands-on squid fishing experiences.
- Nabetsuru Festival (late August): Held near Okushiri Port, this lively event celebrates tourism and local industry with food stalls, performances, and a fireworks finale.
- Okushiri Island Ultra Marathon (June): A challenging yet scenic marathon around the island’s 84-kilometer perimeter. Runners from all over Japan join to experience the natural beauty of Okushiri.
- Winter Illumination (December): The town and harbor areas glow with colorful lights, creating a warm and festive atmosphere despite the winter chill.
Access
- By Air: Okushiri Airport offers daily flights to Hakodate (40 minutes) and weekend flights to Sapporo’s Okadama Airport (45–50 minutes) operated by Hokkaido Air System (HAC).
- By Ferry: Esashi Port connects to Okushiri Port via Heartland Ferry (about 2 hours and 15 minutes). Vehicle transport is available.
- By Car: From Hakodate, it takes roughly 2 hours to reach Esashi Port, followed by the ferry to Okushiri Island.
- By Bicycle: The island’s 84-kilometer loop offers breathtaking views and gentle slopes, ideal for cycling enthusiasts. Bicycles can be rented locally or brought aboard the ferry.
Tourist Attractions
- Nabetsuru Rock – The symbol of Okushiri Island, a natural rock arch near Okushiri Port. Its silhouette against the sunset is mesmerizing.
- Kitaoi Cape Park – A scenic park with the “Jikushō” memorial monument honoring the 1993 earthquake victims. Offers stunning ocean and sky views.
- Kamuiwaki Hot Spring – A seaside hot spring powered by geothermal energy, featuring open-air baths with panoramic views of the Sea of Japan.
- Okushiri Island Tsunami Museum – A museum documenting the 1993 Hokkaido Nansei-Oki Earthquake and the island’s recovery efforts.
- Miyazu Benten Shrine – One of the island’s oldest shrines, dedicated to maritime safety and bountiful fishing, reflecting the deep faith of the locals.
