Notsuke Peninsula, located in eastern Hokkaido, is Japan’s longest tombolo—a narrow strip of land formed by the accumulation of sand from waves and tidal currents. Stretching approximately 28 kilometers, its distinctive shape has earned it the nickname “The Amanohashidate of the North.” The peninsula is known for its scenic beauty and rich ecosystems.
Landmarks such as Todowara and Narawara—areas where withered trees stand silently—create otherworldly landscapes that are continually shaped by nature over time. Designated as a Ramsar Wetland, Notsuke is home to diverse wildlife and plant species and plays a vital role in environmental conservation.
Visitors can enjoy the peninsula's changing natural scenery throughout the year, from spring through winter. Popular experiences include observing rare birds such as Steller’s sea eagles and white-tailed eagles, and joining guided ice horizon walks in winter. The local community actively promotes tourism that coexists with nature. Notsuke Peninsula is a place where each visit reveals something new—come and experience its extraordinary landscape for yourself.
Notsuke Peninsula has long been intertwined with the lives of the Ainu people. The name Notsuke (or Notke) comes from the Ainu word meaning “tip of the cape,” a fitting description of the peninsula’s elongated shape.
The Ainu hunted, fished, and foraged here, living in harmony with nature and practicing sustainable lifestyles rooted in reverence for the environment. Even today, traces of Ainu heritage remain in local place names and customs, offering insights into the region’s deeper cultural identity.
From the Meiji period onward, Notsuke's rich fishing grounds gained recognition, leading to the development of commercial fisheries. Species like scallops, flounder, and herring became central to the local economy—particularly scallops, which remain a key industry today.
By the early Showa era, technological advances improved fishing efficiency, and high-quality seafood from the region earned acclaim across Japan and abroad. Local fishers formed tight-knit communities and adopted sustainable practices to preserve their fishing grounds. In recent years, tourism fishing experiences have grown in popularity, allowing visitors to take part in fishing activities and learn about the area's traditions and maritime culture.
Notsuke is known for its unusual and dynamic landscapes—such as Todowara and Narawara—and its diverse ecosystems. The land itself is constantly changing due to natural forces and climate conditions, making it, quite literally, a “living landscape.”
Residents have long coexisted with this ever-changing environment. Environmental awareness has been passed down through generations, driving sustainable fishing efforts and conservation initiatives under the Ramsar Convention. Tourism in the region emphasizes ecotourism, encouraging visitors to learn about and appreciate the importance of nature. These efforts aim to ensure that Notsuke’s natural beauty is preserved for future generations.
Located on the Notsuke Peninsula, Kiraku is a historic area where people have lived in harmony with nature for generations. Originally rooted in Ainu traditions and sustainable practices, the community evolved over time into a modern town shaped by fishing and tourism. Below is an overview of its story.
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