Things to Do

Ashan

I enjoy filming videos of my travels, whether I’m exploring with family or setting out on my own. With a camera in hand, I love discovering the character of each destination and sharing what I find—from local stories and cuisine to my own genuine impressions. Visiting Nemuro in Hokkaido and standing at Japan’s easternmost point was an especially memorable experience that left a lasting impression on me.

Enjoying the full charms of Nemuro—A Town that Invites You to Slow Down

＃photospot ＃winter ＃birdwatching

Always on the hunt for truly authentic experiences, Ashan found more than he was bargaining for in Nemuro with its vast, untouched landscapes and unmistakable local charm. Exploring Japan’s easternmost point—where time seems to slow down—he had the feeling that he had discovered a place that hasn’t been curated through a particular lens.

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Taking a Moment to Observe Truly Rare Birds in the Wild

What struck me most during my first visit to Nemuro was its authenticity and purity. It hasn’t been overly commercialized for tourism, and because of that you can take your time soaking in the breathtaking nature—from vast coastlines that open onto the sea to diverse natural ecosystems. This lush environment is also home to an incredible variety of wildlife.
Nemuro is a sanctuary for wild birds, where you can encounter species rarely seen elsewhere. Whether watching seabirds soaring above the waves or spotting wetland dwellers flitting between the trees and grasses, observing the natural ecosystem embraced by a deep silence and crystal-clear air is an incredibly healing experience.

Indulging in Unforgettable Hanasaki Crab

This pristine natural environment also brings with it remarkable culinary delights. The seafood here is unbelievably fresh. I was lucky enough to try the region’s famous Hanasaki crab. The meat is wonderfully sweet and succulent. I’ll never forget that flavor!
Beyond its delectable seafood, the region also has its own unique local cuisine, such as the distinctive esukaroppu. Impressively rich yet not overly heavy, it’s one of the best cutlet dishes I’ve had the pleasure of trying in Japan.

Exploring Local Streets with a Hint of European Charm

On this trip, I focused more on exploring the nature-rich areas like coastal suburbs and wetlands rather than the city sights. In the end, that worked in my favor. Even a short stroll through the quaint streets near my hotel turned into a wonderfully pleasant experience.
Free from crowds of tourists, I could sense the rhythms of daily life just as they are, which truly soothed my soul. The buildings were also unique, with charming exteriors that carried a hint of European flair, adding to the atmosphere. It differed slightly from the Hokkaido architecture I had imagined, even evoking a sense of foreign charm.
I was also struck by how sincerely the locals take pride in their hometown. If you come to Nemuro, I recommend slowing down your pace and truly immersing yourself in the atmosphere of this nature-rich town. Find a seaside café, gaze out at the ocean, and simply let time pass. Then in the evening, treat yourself to some of the freshest seafood imaginable!