Wakkanai

Introducing Wakkanai

Wakkanai, Japan’s most northern mainland city, is closest to the island’s two most northern capes, Noshappu and Sōya, and that’s the biggest tourist draw. Depart here for Rishiri-tō and Rebun-tō, islands off the coast, and, further off, Russia’s Sakhalin Island. It’s a quiet town whose economy depends on kelp fishing and tourism. The views of the water and its fishing boats are very picturesque all year round, and many brave the bitter cold to see the frozen bay in the dead of winter, a majestic (but chilly!) scene.

In late February Wakkanai hosts the Japan Cup National Dogsled Races (). As the name implies, it’s the biggest dogsled race in Japan. People come from Tokyo or Osaka to watch or compete – though where someone from Osaka practises their mushing is a bit of a mystery. For those with a plucky pooch of their own, their is the wan-wan-dash, where audience dogs can show their speed.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009