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The Short Answer — What Makes Hokkaido's Country Signs Special? Hokkaido's country signs are colorful road signs placed at municipal boundaries to welcome travelers and introduce each area's unique character. The project began in 1990, a...

Why Does Hakodate Have Red Brick Warehouses?The Short Answer Hakodate's red brick warehouses were built to store goods when the city was a busy international trading port. The famous Kanemori warehouses began operating in 1887, were dest...

Why Does Kamifurano Have “Eight Scenic Views”?The Short Answer The Kamifurano Eight Scenic Views were selected in 1999 from recommendations by local residents, rather than simply being chosen as the town’s most famous tourist attractions...

Why Does Wakkanai Have a Roman-Looking Breakwater?The Short Answer The Wakkanai Port North Breakwater Dome was built from 1931 to 1936 to protect people, railways, and cargo from the powerful wind and waves that swept over Wakkanai Port....

Why is Mikuni Pass called “Three Provinces Pass”?The Short Answer Mikuni Pass takes its name from the historical borders of Ishikari, Tokachi, and Kitami, three former provinces of Hokkaido. At 1,139 meters above sea level, it is also th...

Why Is Nakayama Pass Famous for Ageimo?The Short Answer Ageimo was created at Nakayama Pass in 1968 by a female employee looking for a simple snack for travelers. Inspired by the Japanese-style corn dog, she coated local potatoes in batt...

Why are the roads in Hokkaido so wide? Hokkaido's roads are wide because the island was developed later than much of Japan. Its vast land, agricultural needs, and heavy winter snowfall required wider roads that are easier to maintain and...

Why Is Driving the Best Way to Explore Hokkaido? Driving is the best way to explore Hokkaido because the island is vast, many beautiful places are outside major cities, and the journey itself is part of the adventure. A rental car gives ...